After almost seven years in Denver, I have marked off a good bit of my “restaurant to-try” list. I posted about my favorites, broken down by neighborhood, in my Denver Eating Guide and a post of my favorite pizzas and branches is in the lineup, but there are some meals that need a little extra attention in the meantime. These are the best damn means I have had in Denver.
These restaurants have the best in class food, best in class vibes and ambiance, and of course, best in class service. Of course, this is my opinion and I’m sure I have not been to your favorite spot so tell me!
Updated 1/19/2019
Acorn
The Source, RiNo
The first food hall of Denver, The Source, opened in 2013 and has remained a must visit for locals and out-of-towners alike. Consistently named one of the best restaurants in the city, Acorn is The Source’s shining star. I have been twice and it’s still one of my favorite meals. Clay and I spent a beautiful night after Thanksgiving here in 2017 and I had one fun night out with girlfriends here too. Nothing stuffy here. Just good food and great service. Acorn serves up large plates perfect for sharing, which if my fave cause you get to try a bit of everything. Acorn will soon undergo a remodel and expansion. I don’t have any pictures of my meal at Acorn so I need to go back soon!
Safta
The Source, RiNo
Safta is hands-down the most buzzed about restaurant in Denver. As soon as it opened, everyone and their mother had been and it was all I heard about. Clay and I’s first meal there knocked our socks off. We ordered way more than we could eat and ate delicious leftovers for days. We went back during Passover for a special set menu that again rocked our socks off. I seriously dream of the blue crab humus and I don’t even like hummus. Not only is the food and service fabulous, the decor is on point. Floor to ceiling windows with peachy-pink walls, that gives Safta this fun cozy millennial vibe.
Vesta
Downtown
If you have been in Denver for a while you may hear the name Vesta and think Vesta Dipping Grill – same spot, just a different name, and a more upscale menu now. Vesta is a Denver staple, opened by the owners of Steuben’s and Ace Eat Serve in 1997. Our dining experience at Vesta was the best service I have ever had at a restaurant. Next time my parents are in town, we are taking them here. For the level of food, you expect white table clothes and tuxes but it’s relaxed, casual and fun. Go early to sit at the bar and chat with the awesome bartenders too! The Pork Belly is a must!
Am I missing your favorite spot – TELL ME! Slide into my DM’s on insta, tweet me or leave a comment!
For more Denver Restaurants check out my full guide here
