The 16th Street Mall in Denver is not just a shopping and entertainment hub; it’s also a fantastic destination for food lovers. Whether you’re craving international flavors, classic American fare, or just a refreshing craft beer, the restaurants near the 16th Street Mall offer something for everyone. Explore this guide to discover some of the best dining experiences in the heart of Denver.
International Cuisine Around the 16th Street Mall
For those seeking global tastes, the 16th Street Mall area boasts a diverse selection of international restaurants:
Tavernetta: Immerse yourself in the flavors of Italy at Tavernetta. Inspired by Italian culture, food, and wine, this restaurant, brought to you by the James Beard Award-winning Frasca Hospitality Group, offers a taste of la dolce vita in Denver’s Union Station neighborhood. Enjoy fresh, handmade pastas and an extensive Italian wine and spirits list, all within a welcoming atmosphere.
ChoLon Bistro: Experience the culinary journey of Chef Lon Symensma at ChoLon Bistro. A James Beard Finalist for Best New Restaurant in America, ChoLon blends Asian flavors with French cooking techniques. Named after the large Chinese-influenced market in Saigon, Vietnam, this bistro offers a unique and innovative dining experience.
Maggiano’s Little Italy: For classic Italian-American comfort food, Maggiano’s Little Italy is a perfect choice. Enjoy scratch-made meals based on traditional recipes, featuring a menu filled with delicious pastas, steaks, seafood, salads, sandwiches, and desserts. The inviting and classic atmosphere adds to the charm of this Italian dining spot.
Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant: Spice things up at Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant. Originating in Fort Collins and now with multiple Colorado locations, including this LoDo outpost, Rio Grande is the place to unwind and savor authentic Mexican dishes. Famous for its margaritas, it’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or a weekend brunch with a Mexican twist.
Hapa Sushi Grill and Sake Bar: Discover a fusion of cultures at Hapa Sushi Grill and Sake Bar. “Hapa,” a Hawaiian term for blended Asian and American cultures, perfectly describes this eatery. Chefs combine traditional Japanese techniques with diverse culinary styles, offering a unique sushi experience. Don’t miss their early bird and night-owl specials for great deals.
Menya Ramen Noodle Bar: Dive into authentic Japanese cuisine at Menya Ramen Noodle Bar. Founded by local Colorado chef JW Lee, Menya is known for serving some of the best ramen, poke, and Japanese tapas in Denver. Experience genuine Japanese flavors right in The Mile High City.
Bistro LeRoux: Transport yourself to Europe at Bistro LeRoux. With its elegant décor featuring crystal chandeliers, blue-leather booths, and a marble bar, Bistro LeRoux offers a sophisticated dining experience. Enjoy contemporary European bistro fare and an expansive wine list in an unforgettable setting.
Taverns and Breweries near 16th Street Mall
If you’re in search of a more casual setting with great drinks and food, explore these taverns and breweries:
Henry’s Tavern: Elevate your tavern experience at Henry’s Tavern. This spot takes the local watering hole concept to a new level with a menu that highlights regional ingredients and inspirations. With over 100 beers on tap, plus ciders, and live music during the summer months, Henry’s Tavern is a lively place to unwind.
Rock Bottom Brewery: Enjoy handcrafted beers brewed on-site at Rock Bottom Brewery. While the fresh beers are a highlight, the menu also features beer-inspired entrees, steak, ale dough pizza, tacos, burgers, and sandwiches. During summer, enjoy Friday night music on the patio for a relaxed brewery experience.
Dining Just Off the 16th Street Mall
Venture slightly off the mall to discover these additional dining gems:
Juice Kitchen: For a healthy and refreshing option, visit Juice Kitchen. Family-owned and operated for over 20 years, Denver’s original Juice Kitchen offers fresh juices, smoothies, vegan options, and breakfast burritos available all day. Find them just off the mall on 17th Street.
801 Fish: Indulge in the freshest seafood at 801 Fish. Located on 17th Street, this seafood-centric eatery sources the finest fish and crustaceans from pristine coastal waters worldwide. Experience a vibrant atmosphere and a menu inspired by ocean flavors, bringing a coastal dining experience to Denver.
Harry’s at Magnolia Hotel: Discover a historic local restaurant at Harry’s, located in the Magnolia Denver lobby on the corner of 17th and Stout. Harry’s offers casual dining in a sophisticated setting with a seasonal menu of small plates and entrees, perfect for a relaxed yet refined meal.
Exploring the restaurants around the 16th Street Mall in Denver is a culinary adventure. From Italian elegance to Asian fusion and classic American taverns, there’s a diverse range of dining options waiting to be discovered. Make sure to explore these spots and enjoy the vibrant food scene that Denver has to offer right in the heart of the city.
