Denver
By R. Phillips
|Updated on January 22, 2023(Originally published January 17, 2023)
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R. Phillips
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Exploring the wilds of Denver, Colorado, and beyond.
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When you think of Denver, you don’t necessarily think of it as having an exceptionally eclectic food scene, but it most certainly does. In fact, it happens to be home to many of the best restaurants in Colorado and the country. But with so many options to consider, you may find yourself wondering where to start in your restaurant search. If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary for a bite to eat, we’re here to help. These 10 unique restaurants in Denver not only have adventurous menus but also give you a unique dining experience you won’t soon forget.
Buckhorn Exchange, 1000 Osage St, Denver, CO 80204, USA
Established in 1893, this taxidermized wildlife-filled landmark is considered Denver's original steakhouse. The Buckhorn Exchange serves up buffalo, quail, elk, rattlesnake, alligator, and the infamous Rocky Mountain oyster...if you dare!
The Fort, 19192 CO-8, Morrison, CO 80465, USA
Chow down on juicy buffalo steaks, BBQed duck quesadillas, crispy lamb riblets, and other new twists on "authentic" pioneer classics. This frontier-themed replica of historic Bent's Fort in Southeastern Colorado offers an extensive wine list and selection of microbrews, as well as great views of the red rocks and surrounding areas. Snag a seat on The Fort's patio and grab a bite before a show!
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Casa Bonita, 6715 W Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO 80214, USA
Somewhat of an urban legend, Casa Bonita is like stepping into an alternate world. As you dine, you’ll find yourself witness to a spectacle of fire jugglers, magicians, pirate caves, mariachi bands, and cliff divers plunging from 30-foot waterfalls. You truly have to experience Casa Bonita for yourself to believe it.
Editor's Note: This business is temporarily closed, but is expected to re-open in May of 2023.
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Hamburger Mary's Denver, 1336 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80218, USA
This is the place for you if you’re looking for fun, inviting atmosphere and colorful characters. Hamburger Mary’s boasts "kitchen, co*cktails, cabaret," and serves up tasty burgers with an unforgettable side of drag queen bingo. This is not your mama's burger joint!
Station 26 Brewing Co., 7045 38th Ave, Denver, CO 80207, USA
This former firehouse-turned-taproom and brewery has some of the best beer and patio space in town! Grab food from a local food truck (there's a different one every day), or better yet, stop by on the second Sunday of every month and revel in their holy trinity of beer, bluegrass, and brunch. Station 26 Brewing Co. is as lively as it is delicious.
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Ophelia's Electric Soapbox, 1215 20th St, Denver, CO 80202, USA
Ophelia's Electric Soapbox is one of my personal favorites, and not just because of its name. This bordello turned "gastrobrothel" has just about anything that tickles your fancy. They've got stellar co*cktails, live music, an outdoor patio, and throwback peep shows. If that weren’t enough reason to visit, they also offer killer brunches and dinners featuring globally inspired dishes with local, sustainably sourced, and organic products.
Lola Mexican Fish House 1575 Boulder St, Denver, CO 80211
With over 200 tequilas, fresh table-side guac, a raw bar, BBQed octopus, scrumptious tacos, and house-infused liquors, Lola's is sure to sweep you off your feet. Go for brunch and try their chicken and waffles with chorizo gravy or horchata pancakes smothered in sweet cream syrup. Stay for happy hour and live music (every Sunday from 2:30 to 5 pm).
Editor's Note: This business is permanently closed.
Vesta 1822 Blake St, Denver, CO 80202
Meats. Cheeses. Breads. Sauces. Sold.
Editor's Note: This business is permanently closed.
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The Cherry Cricket, 2641 E 2nd Ave, Denver, CO 80206, USA
Duffy's Cherry Cricket has been a Mile High burger institution since 1945. One of their most charming features is their wide range of toppings which includes items like green chiles and smoked cheddar, as well as the less traditional peanut butter and grape jelly. Wonder if Elvis ever ate a PB & J banana-bacon-cheeseburger? It's likely.
Steuben's Uptown, 523 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80203, USA
Steuben's Uptown is a classy, hip retro diner that creates some serious comfort food! Try their meatloaf and mashed potatoes, crawfish etouffee, Memphis-style ribs, or gravy cheese fries, then wash it all down with a root beer float or a boozy shake. When it comes to cool restaurants in Denver, Steuben’s gives diners a true taste of Denver’s eclectic vibe.
That sure is a lot of goodness…and we haven’t even scratched the surface! What are your favorite unique restaurants in Denver? Tell us in the comments.
If you’re searching for even more restaurant options, this Ninja Turtle-themed restaurant is one of the most unique dining experiences in Denver.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
Best Restaurants In Colorado
Jessica Moore|January 21, 2023
What are the best restaurants in Colorado?
The best restaurants in Colorado are plentiful, and the following is a listing of some of the best restaurants in the state:
- Chef Zorba's, Denver
- Debbie's Drive In, Granby
- Mountain View Restaurant, Monte Vista
- Pelican Lakes Restaurant And Bar, Windsor
- Comida, Aurora
- Blocky's, Loveland
- , Westminster
- , Denver
- Restaurant 1858, Colorado Springs
If you're visiting the Denver area and looking for more restaurant options to give you the lay of the land of Denver's foodie scene, you're sure to find something to love on this list of 15 Denver restaurants with breathtaking views.
What are the most unique restaurants in Colorado?
The most unique restaurants in Colorado are found across the state, from roadside diners to eclectic eateries and more. Below are some of the most unique restaurants in the state:
- Italian Underground, Glenwood Springs
- The Keg Lounge, Manitou Springs
- Edelweiss, Colorado Springs
- The Inventing Room, Denver
- The Aquarium Restaurant, Denver
- , Colorado Springs
- Millers And Rossi, Denver
- Grow + Gather, Englewood
- The Roadhouse, Boulder
- The Rabbit Hole, Colorado Springs
For even more unique dining options in Colorado, these 9 unique restaurants in Colorado each offer an unforgettable dining experience.
What are the best fine dining restaurants in Colorado?
The best fine dining restaurants in Colorado are found in nearly every town if you know where to look. We've done the hard work for you and narrowed down some of the best fine dining restaurants in the state:
- The Hearthstone, Breckenridge
- Peppertree Restaurant, Colorado Springs
- Plato's Restaurant, Aspen
- The Perfect Landing, Denver
- Ragnar's, Steamboat Springs
- Ski Tip Lodge, Keystone
- 740 Front, Louisville
- Farm Bistro, Cortez
- Hazie's, Steamboat Springs
- Golden Bee, Colorado Springs
If you're visiting Colorado in the summertime and in search of outdoor dining options that still have a touch of refinement, these 14 Colorado restaurants offer a magical outdoor dining experience.
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