Elevate your Mile High experience by diving into the city’s thriving, independent culinary scene.

For travelers ready to book a table or order takeout, Denver’s non-chain eateries offer an authentic taste of the Rockies that generic franchises simply cannot replicate.

Whether you want to reserve a seat for a Michelin-recognized tasting menu or buy a round of craft cocktails at a historic LoHi bistro, Denver is a destination for true flavor seekers.

From wood-fired seasonal dishes to exotic global street food, the city’s local chefs are waiting to serve you.

Check the menu at these 30 top-rated local spots and secure your reservation to discover why Denver has become a world-class gourmet hub.

  1. Barolo Grill: 3030 E 6th Ave, Denver, CO 80206

  2. Sushi: 1487 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210

  3. Annette: 2501 Dallas St, Aurora, CO 80010

  4. MAKfam: 39 W 1st Ave, Denver, CO 80223

  5. Restaurant Olivia: 290 S Downing St, Denver, CO 80209

  6. Potager: 1109 Ogden St, Denver, CO 80218

  7. Work & Class: 2500 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205

  8. Safta: 3330 Brighton Blvd, Denver, CO 80216

  9. El Five: 2930 Umatilla St, Denver, CO 80211

  10. Rioja: 1431 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202

  11. Spuntino: 2639 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211

  12. Somebody People: 1165 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80210

  13. Hop Alley: 3500 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205

  14. Beatrice & Woodsley: 38 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80209

  15. Nozomi: 4100 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211

  16. Steuben’s Uptown: 523 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80203

  17. Adobo: 3109 N Federal Blvd, Denver, CO 80211

  18. Biker Jim’s Gourmet: 2148 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205

  19. Cherry: 2641 E 2nd Ave, Denver, CO 80206

  20. Blue Pan Pizza: 3934 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80212

  21. Sera’s Ramen 3472 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211

  22. Suvipa Thai Food: 1015 S Federal Blvd, Denver, CO 80219

  23. Leven Deli Co.: 123 W 12th Ave, Denver, CO 80204

  24. African Grill: 955 S Kipling Pkwy, Lakewood, CO 80226

  25. Mister Oso: 3163 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205.

Exploring Denver’s independent culinary scene provides high-value dining and genuine local flavor.

Order from these community favorites or visit in person to experience the creativity and passion that make Denver a premier destination for travelers.