Denver is not only a bustling metropolis of businesses and universities, but it is also a major dining destination in the western United States. Denver has a lot of great restaurants, including places for a romantic night out. But where do the savviest, most astute diners go to eat?
We combed through data from thousands of restaurants to identify the top spots among the most knowledgeable, seasoned diners and best romantic restaurants in Denver. This piece covers some of the best date night restaurants in Denver for couples looking for a great night out on the town or for those planning a celebration with a loved one. Enjoy!
7 Best Romantic Date Night Restaurants In Denver
From intimate enclaves basking in the ambient glow of a fireplace to sensual cocktail bars and splurge-worthy dinner destinations, Denver has a date spot for every romantic situation. Here’s a Cupid-approved list of some of our favorite places to thrill you and yours.
El Five;
One of the striking features of one of the most romantic restaurants in the world is the spectacular views. Head to El Five, a restaurant high above the LoHi neighborhood at 2930 Umatilla, for an unforgettable view. Tapas-style Mediterranean cuisine is served at this restaurant. Choose a variety of dishes to share, then order wine to complement them. El Five is Linger’s sister restaurant, and both promise a romantic night out. Like the port, El Five is a melting pot of all the Mediterranean regions, creating dishes without a home country that taste like favorites from each one.
Jazz & Supper Club Nocturne;
Your date will be set to a smooth—or perhaps lively—jazz soundtrack at RiNo’s Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club. Make dinner and a show reservation at this restored, brick-walled warehouse, and you’ll enjoy a full live set alongside a three-course meal, with optional wine or cocktail pairings. The dishes are sumptuous without being too heavy. From cider-braised pork belly to sweet potato pilaf to goat cheesecake. And the performances, which feature Nocturne’s artists in residence, provide plenty to talk about, as well as an excuse to pause the conversation if necessary.
Retrograde;
Surprise your date by going to Retrograde. The futuristic cocktail lounge at Frozen Matter/Sweet Action ice cream parlor is hidden behind a freezer door. Neon lighting creates a mood in the small space, only available on a first-come, first-served basis. Not only will you appear well-informed, but you’ll also be enjoying some of the city’s most inventive cocktails; we recommend choosing your drink based on the name rather than the ingredients. Alternatively, tell the bartender what spirit you want and let them work their magic.
The Alamo Drafthouse Theatre;
Going to the movies is always a good idea for a date, but what about when it includes dinner and drinks? The Alamo Drafthouse in Sloan’s Lake (there’s also a location in Littleton) shows all of the new movies and hosts cool events like Macaulay Caulkin or Neil Patrick Harris stopping by to chat — or a Clueless screening/costume party. It has eight theaters, a bar, and an extensive food menu, and of course, they have your standard movie popcorn. Appetizers include a variety of wings, chips and queso, burrata bruschetta, and more. Salads, pizza, and brunch are available until 2 p.m. daily, along with hot dogs, sandwiches, and entrees such as fish and chips are also available.
Watching Bohemian Rhapsody while eating mac and cheese and drinking wine? That sounds like an out-of-the-house date affair that can’t possibly go wrong.
Jovanina’s Broken Italian;
The term “broken” refers to the owners, Jennifer and Jake Linzinmeir, who have a distinct take on Italian cuisine. The minds behind Jovanina’s are consistent in delivering extraordinary food and experience by combining traditional recipes with modern—and sometimes Western and Midwestern—twists.
For a truly unforgettable evening, reserve a table for two in the restaurant’s underground speakeasy dining area, which is part of a former Prohibition-era tunnel. Descending the candle-lit stairs at Jovanina’s Broken Italian feels like you’re on your way to a private dining experience. While you’re unlikely to dine alone, Sotto Voce, the downtown eatery’s Prohibition-style lounge has an intimate vibe, especially if you can snag a two-top in a restored nook of one of the space’s original tunnels.
The libations are served from a roving cart, and many of the dishes, including the oysters and pizzas, are kissed by the wood-fired oven upstairs. You also can’t go wrong with any of the handmade pasta. If you aren’t quite ready to call it a night, head over to the nearby Cruise Room or Cooper Lounge for a nightcap.
Elway’s Downtown;
Elway’s Steakhouses in Denver are well-known for being upscale destinations for upscale dining or special occasion meals. The Downtown location, within the Ritz Carlton, provides a particularly opulent atmosphere, as well as an unrivaled wine selection (thanks largely to sommelier Monica Dubar). Choose the sommelier’s flight and savor some of the most epic cuts of meat and perfectly seasoned steaks you’ve ever had.
Elway’s Downtown is the ideal location for any event. Celebrate a loved one’s birthday or anniversary, or meet for cocktails with friends. In a uniquely Colorado setting, you can always enjoy an outstanding meal served with genuine hospitality. Make sure to explore the lounge and outdoor patio.
Izakaya Den;
Calling all sushi fans! One of the best sushi restaurants in town also has one of the coolest interiors and rooftop patios. Izakaya Den, located on the same block as Sushi Den, is a Japanese oasis surrounded by bamboo and modern light fixtures and décor. This is a good option if you want to impress someone or provide them with a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s the epitome of sleek and luxurious, and the sushi simply adds to the alluring experience. The selection of sashimi and rolls is extensive, including items you may have never tried before, such as truffle sashimi with kanpachi or uni sea urchin, among others.
If you and your companions aren’t fans of raw fish, other options include pan-fried dumplings, shrimp and lobster wontons, and more. So prepare yourself to sip some sake while gazing at the stars.
Wanting some additional explorative date night ideas in Denver, we have the goods for you!
Well…there you go! We hope this list of restaurants makes it on your itinerary. There’s so much to explore for you and yours in the euphoric city surrounded by mountainous views! We hope you do nothing more than have a splendid time, and as always, feel free to reference this list anytime.
Cheers!
