Just east of downtown, Denver’s Restaurant Row stretches down East 17th Street from Broadway to City Park through the Uptown and City Park West neighborhoods. As the name suggests, Restaurant Row is full of eclectic restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.
The area has changed throughout the years, but preservationists have been working to maintain the historic feel of the area. Long-time residents were overjoyed to hear that Tavern Uptown would be saved from being demolished by developers, continue to support classic establishments like Steuben’s, and were sad to say goodbye to some iconic restaurants that closed during the pandemic. Fortunately, most restaurants were able to welcome guests back while several brand new establishments are greeting guests for the first time.
Below is the complete guide of the must-try restaurants on Restaurant Row in 2021.
Can’t Miss Restaurants on Denver’s Restaurant Row – 2021
Asian Inspired Restaurants on Denver’s Restaurant Row
Pho and Bar – 1600 E. 17th Avenue
Established in 2020, Pho and Bar is one of Restaurant Row’s newer restaurants. Locals who have been longing for pho after P17 closed in 2016 are in luck!
Ace Eat Serve – 501 E. 17th Avenue
Ace Eat Serve features Asian-inspired shared plates, a ping-pong hall, and one of Denver’s biggest and best patios.
Sushi Bay 17 – 1728 E. 17th Avenue
Sushi Bay is something of a hidden gem, as it sits on a portion of Restaurant Row with very few restaurants. Within this hidden gem is a private karaoke room – currently closed due to COVID – so stay tuned for its reopening!
Pizza on Denver’s Restaurant Row
Paxti’s Pizza – 1598 E. 17th Avenue
First things first. It’s pronounced “pah-cheese” not “pax-tees” – you will get corrected! Second, come with an appetite. Paxti’s Chicago-style deep dish pizza is so thick, one piece is more than enough. Recently re-opened under new management – you can finally start getting “just” a slice at lunchtime.
White Pie – 1702 Humboldt Steet
Technically, White Pie isn’t on Restaurant Row. But since it’s one building away, we figured we can squeeze it in. White Pie is inspired by New Haven, Connecticut pizza parlors and is about as different from Paxti’s as you can get. If adventurous, charred, crispy pizza is your thing – head to White Pie now!
Breweries and Sports Bars on Denver’s Restaurant Row
Vine Street Pub – 1700 Vine Street
Vine Street is the flagship brewery for the Mountain Sun restaurant group. Vine Street has been closed due to Covid-19 since March of 2020 but is expected to open any day now! Four things to know:
- There will be a wait. Head to the bar, grab a beer, then head outside to play some cornhole.
- Get the fries (they usually have some hot and ready for people waiting).
- Vegetarian options abound!
- They don’t take credit cards. An ATM is onsite, but if it’s broken they’ll take a check or give you a pre-addressed envelope and trust you’ll mail them a check.
Stoney’s Uptown Joint
Stoney’s Uptown Joint (not to be confused with the Original Stoney’s on Lincoln) is the only sports bar on Restaurant Row. If you’re looking for a great atmosphere and a neighborhood feel – this is your spot.
Breakfast / Brunch on Denver’s Restaurant Row
Olive and Finch – 1552 E. 17th Avenue
Olive and Finch serves all your favorites, but with a twist. Maple Bacon Moon Pies – need we say more?
Waffle Brothers – 1707 Lafayette Street
Waffle Brothers has managed to turn the simple concept of a waffle into an art form. Savory, sweet, breakfast, lunch – you name it, Waffle Brothers does it – with a waffle.
Unique Restaurants on Denver’s Restaurant Row
Hamburger Mary’s – 1336 E. 17th Avenue
Hamburger Mary’s is known for 3 things – eating, drinking, and being Mary. Plus it’s LGBTQ friendly and has the biggest, best patio in Denver in the area. Drag Queen Bingo is every Wednesday, reservations are strongly recommended!
Watercourse Foods – 837 E. 17th Avenue
Watercourse Foods is Denver’s original vegan comfort food restaurant. Watercourse focuses on utilizing local vendors, sustainable business practices, and use ingredients free from artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors. Do note that EVERY menu item is vegan friendly.
Cocktails on Denver’s Restaurant Row
Dew Drop Inn – 1033 E. 17th Avenue
Dew Drop Inn is another one of Restaurant Row’s newest additions. Stop in between 3-6 or 10-close for $6 cocktails, or an $8 beer + shot anytime!
Humboldt Kitchen and Bar – 1700 E. 17th Avenue
Humboldt Kitchen and Bar is all about bringing the community together for craft cocktails, a bite to eat, and authentic hospitality. Check out their site for the latest community events like fundraisers benefiting Metro Care Ring, or a whiskey pairing dinner.
Dos Santos – 1475 E. 17th Avenue
Dos Santos is well known for their street tacos, but make no mistake – their cocktails are some of the best in town. Short on time? Order from their extensive cocktails-to-go menu. Hibiscus margarita anyone?
Don’t Live in Denver’s Uptown Neighborhood?
What are you waiting for? Uptown and North Capitol Hill are some of Denver’s most exciting, historic neighborhoods, just steps from the excitement on Denver’s Restaurant Row. Learn more about attainable housing options in The Nightingale, right in the heart of Uptown, or explore some of the many other exceptional new build communities throughout Denver.