As Valentine's Day nears, you may be looking for the perfect spot to take your partner of many years, a new love interest, a platonic friend, or you might just want to treat yourself to a tasty meal alone somewhere nice! I support you on all of these amazing options! I have comprised a list of some places that I think are worth of a Hallmark holiday like the day of love! Check them out, but know that if you want to get in at a premium time, make that reservation now!!!
1. Barolo Grill
- Location: 3030 E 6th Ave, Denver, CO 80206
- Cuisine: Northern Italian
- Ambiance: Sophisticated and romantic, featuring warm lighting and elegant décor that creates an upscale yet welcoming environment.
- Signature Dish: Pappardelle with Wild Boar Ragu – This dish highlights their commitment to traditional Italian flavors with tender, slow-cooked wild boar over hand-cut pasta. Perfectly paired with one of their many Italian wines.
2. Bistro Vendôme
- Location: 2267 Kearney St, Denver, CO 80207
- Cuisine: French
- Ambiance: Tucked in the heart of Park Hill, this cozy bistro exudes Parisian charm with soft lighting, vintage décor, and a serene atmosphere perfect for a romantic evening.
- Signature Dish: Duck Confit – A traditional French dish with a crispy, golden-brown duck leg served with rich, flavorful accompaniments like lentils or potatoes.
3. Beckon
- Location: 2843 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
- Cuisine: New American (Tasting Menu)
- Ambiance: Intimate and exclusive, Beckon offers a unique dining experience with limited seating around a chef’s counter, creating an up-close-and-personal connection with the culinary artistry.
- Signature Dish: Seasonal Tasting Menu – Beckon doesn’t offer à la carte dining but instead curates a multi-course seasonal menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Dishes vary but often include exquisite creations like dry-aged duck, handmade pasta, or decadent chocolate desserts.
4. Wildflower
- Location: 1515 Madison St, Denver, CO 80206
- Cuisine: Italian/Mediterranean fusion
- Ambiance: Modern and chic, with a warm color palette and floral-themed décor that enhances the romantic vibe.
- Signature Dish: Saffron Risotto – A creamy and aromatic dish made with saffron-infused rice, perfectly complemented by fresh seafood or seasonal vegetables.
5. Guard and Grace
- Location: 1801 California St, Denver, CO 80202
- Cuisine: Modern Steakhouse
- Ambiance: A chic and spacious dining room with high ceilings, a polished aesthetic, and an open kitchen that adds a touch of drama to the experience.
- Signature Dish: Wood-Fired Filet Mignon – This premium cut of steak is expertly cooked over a wood fire, ensuring smoky, tender, and flavorful perfection.
6. Odyssey Italian Restaurant
- Location: 603 E 6th Ave, Denver, CO 80203
- Cuisine: Italian
- Ambiance: A cozy, family-run restaurant with a charming and unpretentious vibe, complete with candles and old-world Italian décor.
- Signature Dish: Traditional Lasagna – Layers of homemade pasta, rich béchamel, and savory meat sauce, baked to golden perfection.
7. Nocturne
- Location: 1330 27th St, Denver, CO 80205
- Cuisine: Supper Club
- Ambiance: A glamorous, art-deco-inspired space featuring live jazz music and candlelit tables, creating an unforgettable and sultry atmosphere.
- Signature Dish: Chef’s Tasting Menu – A curated multi-course experience featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, perfectly paired with craft cocktails or wines.
8. Potager
- Location: 1109 Ogden St, Denver, CO 80218
- Cuisine: Farm-to-Table
- Ambiance: Rustic and inviting, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a cozy dining space that feels like home.
- Signature Dish: Roasted Half-Chicken – Served with seasonal root vegetables and a rich jus, this dish is a perfect representation of Potager’s commitment to simple yet elegant farm-to-table cuisine.
9. Alma Fonda Fina
- Location: 2556 15th St, Denver, CO 80211
- Cuisine: Modern Mexican
- Ambiance: A stylish and colorful interior with intimate seating and artistic touches, offering a warm and festive vibe.
-*Signature Dish: Taco de Suadero – This taco features melt-in-your-mouth Colorado brisket, slow-cooked for 12 hours, paired with a vibrant salsa de arbol.
10. Bruno’s Italian Bistro
- Location: 560 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80209
- Cuisine: Italian
- Ambiance: A quaint and intimate dining room with a cozy, rustic charm, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a little Italian trattoria.
- Signature Dish: Risotto ai Funghi – A creamy and aromatic risotto made with a medley of wild mushrooms, showcasing their culinary craftsmanship.
11. EDGE Restaurant & Bar
- Location: 1111 14th St, Denver, CO 80202
- Cuisine: Progressive Steakhouse
- Ambiance: Sleek, modern, and luxurious, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a sophisticated bar area.
- Signature Dish: Dry-Aged Ribeye – A rich and flavorful steak aged to perfection, served with your choice of gourmet sides.
12. Mizuna
- Location: 225 E 7th Ave, Denver, CO 80203
- Cuisine: Innovative American
- Ambiance: Elegant and understated, with soft lighting and a tranquil atmosphere that sets the stage for an intimate dinner.
- Signature Dish: Lobster Mac and Cheese – This indulgent dish combines tender lobster meat with creamy cheese sauce and pasta, delivering ultimate comfort and sophistication.
Tips for the Perfect Valentine's Day
- Make it Extra Special: Consider ordering wine pairings, specialty cocktails, or dessert samplers to add a touch of indulgence to your meal. A thoughtful outfit or a small, meaningful gift can also elevate the evening.
- Book Early: Valentine's Day is one of the busiest dining nights of the year. Reservations fill up quickly, so plan ahead to secure your spot at your preferred restaurant.