Discover the Best Deals During Denver Restaurant Week

Denver’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with innovation, tradition, and global influences. For food lovers and explorers alike, one event stands out as a prime opportunity to delve into this rich landscape without breaking the bank: Denver Restaurant Week. As a passionate traveler and connoisseur of culture, history, and, of course, food, I find this annual celebration an unmissable highlight, offering a unique chance to experience the city’s diverse gastronomic offerings at exceptional value. It’s more than just dining; it’s a city-wide culinary festival that connects diners with the heart and soul of Denver through its kitchens.

If you’re planning a visit or are lucky enough to live here, timing your trip with events like this can truly enhance your experience. Finding cheap flights and hotels to denver colorado opens up the possibility of indulging in multiple dining adventures throughout the week, making the trip both memorable and affordable.

What is Denver Restaurant Week?

Annually, denver restaurant week transforms the city into a diner’s paradise. Hundreds of restaurants across the metro area participate, offering multi-course meals at set price points. This structured approach makes it easy for diners to explore new venues or revisit favorites, knowing exactly what to expect regarding cost while being delighted by special menus crafted specifically for the event. The price tiers allow access to a wide range of establishments, from cozy neighborhood bistros to upscale fine dining rooms, democratizing the city’s impressive food scene for ten delicious days. It’s a fantastic initiative that supports local businesses and invites everyone to the table.

Unlocking Value: Top Restaurant Picks During Denver Restaurant Week

Navigating the sheer volume of participating restaurants can be daunting. My approach is to look for places offering menus that provide significant savings compared to their regular pricing, or those that feature special, must-try dishes. Based on past experiences and a close look at the offerings, here are some standouts that promise great value during denver restaurant week.

High-End Dining for Less: Deals Around $55

This tier is perfect for experiencing some of Denver’s most acclaimed and buzzworthy restaurants. The value here often lies in the chance to enjoy a multi-course meal that would typically cost significantly more.

• Point Easy: Recognized for its excellence, Point Easy presents a three-course $55 menu that offers substantial savings. Expect creative dishes like bison with persimmon barbecue sauce or mushroom risotto, providing a taste of their innovative approach. Adding a wine pairing for an extra cost can elevate this already luxurious experience.
• Church and Union: Helmed by a “Top Chef” alum, this spot offers a $45 three-course deal where choices like beef tartare followed by the butcher’s filet (with a supplement) and buttermilk cake can amount to a meal well over $100 on a regular night. It’s a prime example of the value denver restaurant week provides.
• Stellar Jay: Located atop the stunning Populus hotel, Stellar Jay offers not just a meal but an experience with its three-course $55 menu. Dishes like hamachi crudo or quail promise an elevated dining experience with breathtaking views.
• Pasque: Also within the Populus hotel but on the ground floor, Pasque features a $55 three-course meal that is hard to find outside of this event. Options like rainbow trout or beef loin showcase their refined culinary style.
  The curved dining room at Pasque RestaurantElegant dining room at Pasque Restaurant, a participant in Denver Restaurant Week.
• Wildflower: This restaurant inside the boutique Life House hotel presents a unique four-course, shareable plate menu for $55, focusing on farm-fresh, local ingredients. The format encourages sharing and tasting multiple creations.
• Ajax Downtown: A sibling to a renowned Aspen establishment, Ajax Downtown’s $55 three-course menu features dishes from its live-fire kitchen, like wagyu bolognese or mesquite-grilled New York strip. Adding dessert is an optional extra, still keeping the total cost well below the typical à la carte price.
  Chef in black chef coat with apron chopping cabbage in restaurant kitchenChef preparing food in the kitchen at Ajax Downtown, a featured Denver Restaurant Week location.
• Urban Farmer: Known as one of Denver’s top steakhouses, Urban Farmer’s $55 three-course deal is a fantastic opportunity to sample their farm-fresh approach to steak and seafood. Upgrading to premium cuts is available but even the base offering is a significant value.
• Palace Arms: Located in the historic Brown Palace, dining here is an institution. Their $55 three-course meal is a steal for the ambiance and quality, featuring classic dishes like shepherd’s pie with wagyu tenderloin. Note that this particular deal might be available only on select dates during denver restaurant week.

Incredible Value: $35 and Under Steals

This category is all about discovering delicious food at incredibly accessible prices. It’s perfect for trying multiple spots or enjoying a fantastic meal without a significant financial commitment.

• Ultreia: This Union Station gem offers a four-course Spanish tapas and Portuguese petiscos experience for just $45. While slightly above the $35 mark, the four courses (two small plates, one entree, dessert) represent outstanding value for the quality and location. Moorish ribs and Basque cheesecake are highlights.
• Magna Kainan: Experience Filipino cuisine at this highly-regarded spot. Their $45 multi-course menu allows diners to sample various starters, choose a substantial main like crispy lamb neck or lechon, and enjoy a traditional dessert. Another excellent value proposition just over the $35 threshold.
• Denver Milk Market: This food hall concept offers a customizable three-course meal for just $25, letting you pick from different vendors. It’s a great way to sample different concepts under one roof during denver restaurant week.
• Steuben’s Uptown: Famous for its comfort food classics, Steuben’s $35 deal featuring a real Maine or Connecticut lobster roll, soup/salad, and banana pudding is a dream for seafood lovers seeking value.
• Dumplin’: Chef Frank Bonanno’s Italian-Asian fusion spot offers a $35 three-course meal featuring unique combinations like cacio e pepe ramen or shrimp scampi dumplings. A chance to taste innovative flavors.
• ViewHouse Eatery: Both the Ballpark and Centennial locations offer a $35 three-course special that notably includes a 12-ounce ribeye, which alone costs more than the entire Restaurant Week menu price. The value here is undeniable.
• Wonderyard Garden & Table: Known for one of Denver’s best patios, Wonderyard offers a $35 three-course meal with appealing options like chicken shawarma or black tiger shrimp pasta. The ambiance adds extra value to the deal.
  Wide shot of the patio at Wonderyard Garden & Table.Unique patio seating at Wonderyard Garden & Table in Denver, perfect for Restaurant Week dining.
• Now Pho: This spot on South Federal provides a generous $35 deal with multiple courses, including their deluxe pho and traditional Asian beverages and desserts. A fantastic way to enjoy comforting and flavorful Vietnamese and Asian cuisine.
• Federales: In Five Points, Federales offers a $25 Mexican feast. Guacamole or queso to start, a choice of entree with sides, and churros or a sundae to finish. Excellent value for a fun, casual dining experience.
• Slaters 50/50: Burger enthusiasts rejoice! Slaters offers a $25 deal with a unique starter like bacon mac-and-cheese balls, any burger, and funnel cake fries. A hearty and fun meal at a great price.

Sip & Savor: Best Drink-Focused Deals

For those who appreciate a good beverage pairing or simply want to explore Denver’s drink scene alongside some bites, these deals offer unique liquid opportunities during denver restaurant week.

• Little India: Arguably one of the most generous deals, Little India’s $25 special includes multiple food courses plus a bottle of Chilean wine to enjoy there and one to take home. They also throw in a gift card for future use. Available at multiple locations.
  Exterior view of a Little India Restaurant location in DenverExterior view of a Little India Restaurant location in Denver.
• Fortissimo Dueling Pianos: Get dinner, drinks, and entertainment for just $45. This deal includes food courses and a flight of four distinct cocktails, plus waived cover for their dueling piano show. A unique experience package.
• Lil Coffea Shop: Another deal for wine lovers, offering a $25 special with an appetizer, main dish (pizza or burger), and two bottles of house wine (one for here, one for later) at both locations.
• The Patio at Sloan’s: Their $35 special includes food courses and your choice of funnel cake fries or an espresso martini flight for dessert. If you’re keen on trying different martini flavors, this is your spot.
• Blanchard Family Wines: This local winery offers a $35 special focusing on wine and complementary bites, including a custom flight of four wines, a charcuterie board, and handmade chocolates. Perfect for wine aficionados.
• McDevitt Taco Supply: Located on a RiNo rooftop, their $25 deal includes a starter, three tacos, and your choice of margarita. A great casual option with a view and a classic pairing.
• Prost Brewing Company: Enjoy German-style beers and food with their $25 deal, which includes an appetizer, a main dish like bratwurst, and your choice of any beverage priced $10 or less. Prost!
  German food and beer special offered at Prost Brewing Company during Denver Restaurant WeekGerman food and beer special offered at Prost Brewing Company during Denver Restaurant Week.
• Atomic Cowboy: Offering a $25 deal at multiple locations featuring comfort food like wings or fries followed by pizza or burgers, with optional dessert or espresso martini. Great for a laid-back, hearty meal.
• Bigsby’s Folly: This craft winery offers a $35 wine-and-food pairing experience, guiding you through a curated selection of their wines paired with small bites designed to complement the flavors.

Tips for Navigating Denver Restaurant Week

To make the most of denver restaurant week, a little planning goes a long way.

1. Make Reservations: Many popular spots book up fast, especially during peak dining hours. Check the restaurant’s website or platforms like OpenTable well in advance.
2. Check the Menu: While the price points are fixed, the specific menus vary greatly. Always view the restaurant’s official Restaurant Week menu online to ensure the offerings appeal to you.
3. Be Adventurous: This is the perfect time to try a cuisine or restaurant you’ve never experienced before. The set menus offer a curated taste of what they do best.
4. Consider Timing: Lunch menus (if offered) can sometimes provide even greater value or be less crowded than dinner. Dining on weeknights might also be easier than weekends.
5. Factor in Extras: Remember the listed price is per person and typically does not include tax, tip, or additional drinks unless explicitly stated.

Choosing the best time to go to colorado often involves considering events like this that add unique cultural and culinary dimensions to your trip. denver restaurant week is definitely a factor to consider if you’re a food enthusiast.

Beyond the Plate: Experiencing Denver

While denver restaurant week focuses on the culinary, Denver is a city rich in experiences that complement your dining adventures. Explore the street art in the RiNo (River North) Art District before your dinner there, or walk off a hearty meal with a stroll through one of Denver’s many parks. Discover the city’s history at the Molly Brown House Museum or dive into the vibrant arts scene. The juxtaposition of a sophisticated dining experience with the city’s accessible, outdoor-loving culture is what makes Denver truly special. Whether you’re interested in history, art, outdoor activities in the nearby Rockies, or exploring unique neighborhoods, Denver offers a full spectrum of experiences that enrich your culinary journey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Denver Restaurant Week

Q: When does Denver Restaurant Week usually take place?
A: denver restaurant week is an annual event, typically held in the late winter or early spring, often in March. The specific dates vary each year.

Q: How do the price points work?
A: Participating restaurants offer multi-course meals at set price points, historically $25, $35, $45, and $55 per person, depending on the restaurant and menu offered.

Q: Are the menus different from the regular restaurant menus?
A: Yes, restaurants create special, limited menus specifically for denver restaurant week. These menus usually feature popular dishes or showcase the chef’s specials.

Q: Are drinks included in the price?
A: Generally, the set price does not include beverages, tax, or gratuity, unless the Restaurant Week menu explicitly states otherwise (like some of the drink-focused deals mentioned).

Q: Can I get the Denver Restaurant Week deal for takeout?
A: In recent years, many restaurants have offered takeout or to-go options for their denver restaurant week menus, but this varies by restaurant. Check the official website and individual restaurant listings for details.

Conclusion

denver restaurant week is a remarkable opportunity to explore the depth and breadth of Denver’s culinary landscape. From high-end experiences made accessible to incredible value deals in every neighborhood, there’s something for every palate and budget. As a content creator passionate about connecting people with global cultures through food and travel, I believe events like this are invaluable. They not only offer delicious experiences but also provide insight into the city’s character and community. Don’t miss your chance to dine your way through the Mile High City during this fantastic event. Visit the official Denver Restaurant Week website to see the full list of participating restaurants and their menus and start planning your delicious adventure!