DineSpin

Best Fine Dining in Denver

Find the best fine dining restaurants in Denver, CO. Scored on what actually matters.

By DineSpin Team·Updated February 2026·10 spots

Denver's fine dining scene has matured past the steakhouse-or-nothing playbook. You'll find Peruvian tasting menus that ambition outpaces execution, French bistros that can't decide if they're polished or casual, and Italian restaurants obsessed with handmade pasta—some nailing it consistently, others wildly inconsistent depending on the night. The good news: when Denver gets it right, it rivals coastal cities. The catch: you're paying for the potential as much as the execution.

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Best Fine Dining in Denver

1.

Mezcaleria Alma

95/100

Mezcaleria Alma is a well-regarded Denver restaurant celebrated for its excellent, creative Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Well-regarded for the bold flavors, high-quality ingredients, and the attentive, knowledgeable service, making it a top choice for special occasions and memorable dining experiences.

Pro tip: Outstanding food, service, and atmosphere make this a top Denver dining destination.

🍽️Food98

The food is well-regarded for its creativity, bold flavors, and high-quality ingredients, with many dishes described as first-rate and memorable.

Every dish is incredibly complex, and flavorful.

👋Service96

Service is frequently highlighted as top-notch, with staff being attentive, knowledgeable, friendly, and enthusiastic, contributing significantly to the overall positive experience.

Engaging & attentive staff

Vibe90

The atmosphere is described as intimate, lively, vibrant, and upscale yet comfortable, creating a sophisticated and enjoyable dining environment.

Upscale but chill Mexico City vibes

💰Value85

Diners generally find the restaurant to be worth the price, with many noting that the quality of food and experience justifies the cost.

Worth every penny!

📍 2550 15th St, Denver, CO 80211
4.9$$$DenverMexican
Ideal for
Special occasions and celebrationsDiners seeking creative, high-end Mexican cuisineThose who appreciate attentive and engaging service
2.

Wildflower

92/100

This is the closest thing Denver has to a no-brainer special-occasion restaurant. The tasting menu—called the Bouquet—arrives thoughtfully paced with fresh ingredients and flavor combinations that feel intentional rather than showy. Service is the kind of attentive that doesn't announce itself, and the vibe is moody and intimate without trying too hard. It's tucked in a hotel location that requires you to actually know where you're going, which weeds out the randos and keeps the room feeling like a secret.

Pro tip: Book two weeks out during peak times; this place doesn't do walk-ins and they don't have a massive dining room.

🍽️Food98

The food is consistently described as excellent, creative, and flavorful, with many diners calling it the best they've ever had. Dishes are known for their unique pairings, beautiful presentation, and high-quality, fresh ingredients.

Absolutely breathtaking dishes, one right after another.

👋Service95

Service is frequently highlighted as warm, friendly, attentive, knowledgeable, and personable, with staff often going above and beyond to make occasions special.

The service was fantastic.

Vibe90

The atmosphere is well-regarded as warm, intimate, romantic, and beautifully designed, creating a special ambiance for various occasions.

The atmosphere was awesome

💰Value85

While acknowledged as expensive, many diners feel the tasting menus and overall experience offer outstanding value for the quality and creativity provided.

Worth every penny.

📍 3638 Navajo St, Denver, CO 80211
4.7$$$$DenverMixed/Fusion
Ideal for
Special occasions and celebrationsRomantic datesFood enthusiasts seeking unique flavors
3.

Sushi by Scratch Restaurants: Denver

92/100

Sushi by Scratch offers an excellent, intimate omakase experience in a speakeasy-style setting, frequently lauded as the best sushi in Denver. While pricey, the creative dishes, fresh ingredients, and engaging service create a memorable event that diners highly recommend.

Pro tip: No doubt, one for the best sushi and omakase experience I’ve ever had!

🍽️Food98

The food is consistently described as outstanding, with diners frequently calling it the best sushi or omakase experience they've ever had. Ingredients are noted as fresh and unique, with creative preparations.

Best sushi and omakase experience

👋Service88

Service is overwhelmingly known for being knowledgeable, attentive, and friendly, contributing significantly to the overall experience. However, one diner reported a rude and judgmental host.

Staff and chefs were amazing

Vibe95

The speakeasy, intimate, and exclusive atmosphere is a significant draw, contributing to a memorable and unique dining experience.

Speakeasy vibe makes the experience

💰Value75

While the experience is well-regarded, several diners note that it is expensive, with some questioning the value of add-ons like caviar or sake pairings, though most agree it is worth the cost for the experience.

Very expensive, but you should think

📍 1441 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
4.8$$$$DenverJapanese
Ideal for
Special occasions and celebrationsSushi connoisseurs seeking unique experiencesDiners who appreciate intimate, speakeasy-style ambiance
4.

Rioja

92/100

Rioja is a well-regarded Denver restaurant celebrated for its excellent Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, outstanding service, and elegant atmosphere. It is a consistent favorite for special occasions and diners seeking a memorable culinary experience.

Pro tip: Outstanding food and service, a truly memorable dining experience.

🍽️Food95

The food is well-regarded for its first-rate quality, creative preparation, and fresh ingredients, with many dishes receiving specific recognition, particularly the artichoke tortellini.

Food was top-notch

👋Service93

Service is frequently described as outstanding, attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly, with numerous staff members highlighted for their top-notch contributions.

Service was outstanding

Vibe90

The atmosphere is consistently described as elegant, upscale, cozy, and romantic, making it suitable for special occasions.

Elegant atmosphere

💰Value80

While considered expensive, the quality of food and overall experience are generally seen as justifying the price point.

Expensive but fair

📍 1431 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
4.6$$$DenverMediterranean
Ideal for
Special occasions and celebrationsDate nightsFood enthusiasts seeking creative cuisine
5.

Alma Fonda Fina

92/100

Alma Fonda Fina is a well-regarded Denver restaurant offering an excellent, soulful take on Mexican cuisine. It is celebrated for its creative, flavorful dishes, outstanding service, and vibrant atmosphere, making it a top dining destination.

Pro tip: Absolutely incredible all around. The restaurant itself is very cute. The food is vibrant and exciting.

🍽️Food95

The food is well-regarded for its thoughtful, soulful, and elevated preparation, with a focus on fresh ingredients and balanced, complex flavors. Many dishes are highlighted as outstanding.

Every dish feels thoughtful and soulful

👋Service93

Service is frequently described as first-rate, attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly, with staff often going above and beyond to enhance the dining experience.

Service was top-notch, too!

Vibe90

The atmosphere is consistently described as lively, warm, cozy, and special, with a refined yet comfortable ambiance that enhances the dining experience.

Bright, lively vibe

💰Value88

Diners find the prices reasonable and the quality of food and experience to be top-notch for the cost, especially considering the Michelin star.

Extremely reasonably priced for what you’re getting

📍 2556 15th St, Denver, CO 80211, United States
4.8$$$DenverMexican
Ideal for
Special occasions and celebrationsFood enthusiasts seeking elevated Mexican cuisineIntimate dinners and date nights
6.

Luca

92/100

Luca is a highly-regarded Italian restaurant in Denver known for its excellent food, outstanding service, and cozy atmosphere. It is frequently recommended for special occasions and dates, though some find it pricey and note potential noise levels.

Pro tip: Outstanding food and service in a cozy atmosphere, though it can be pricey.

🍽️Food95

The food is well-regarded for its first-rate quality, fresh ingredients, and masterful preparation, with many dishes described as the best diners have ever had.

Every dish was top-notch

👋Service94

Service is frequently highlighted as outstanding, with staff described as attentive, knowledgeable, kind, and professional, often going above and beyond.

Service was immaculate

Vibe90

The atmosphere is consistently described as cozy, intimate, warm, and sophisticated, making it ideal for special occasions and dates.

Cozy vibe

💰Value75

While generally considered worth the price, some diners note it is pricey or that certain appetizer portions are small for the cost.

Worth every penny (it’s pricey.)

📍 711 Grant St, Denver, CO 80203, United States
4.4$$$DenverItalian
Ideal for
Special occasions and celebrationsRomantic date nightsDiners seeking authentic Italian cuisine
7.

Guard and Grace

92/100

Denver's premier steakhouse doesn't pretend to be anything other than what it is: a place to eat excellent beef in an upscale room with people who know what they're doing. Filet and wagyu arrive melt-in-your-mouth tender and properly seasoned—which sounds basic until you've had a $70 steak that tastes like a salt lick. Service is impeccable for celebrations, and the room feels inviting rather than stuffy. One warning: noise level climbs on busy nights, and a few recent diners flagged prices creeping upward.

Pro tip: Go for a special occasion if you can; staff will handwrite cards signed by the entire team for birthdays and anniversaries.

🍽️Food95

The food is well-regarded for its high quality, with many dishes, particularly steaks and seafood, described as outstanding. The use of fresh ingredients is noted, and specific items like the gnocchi, octopus, and various steak cuts receive frequent commendation.

Absolutely incredible experience

👋Service88

Service is overwhelmingly described as first-rate, attentive, and friendly, with many servers well-regarded. However, a few instances of condescending or rude service, coupled with sarcastic management responses, slightly temper the overall score.

Service was beyond being very attentive

Vibe90

The atmosphere is consistently described as beautiful, upscale, inviting, and lively, contributing positively to the overall dining experience.

Polished, lively atmosphere

💰Value80

While generally considered worth the price for the quality, a few signs suggest that some dishes may be overpriced or that prices have increased significantly, impacting perceived value.

Uneven and overpriced

📍 1801 California St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
4.7$$$$DenverSteakhouse
Ideal for
Special occasion celebrationsSteak and seafood enthusiastsUpscale dining experiences
8.

Restaurant Olivia

92/100

This is the best Italian in Denver—genuinely. The handmade pasta melts in your mouth, the sommelier knows the wine list like it's his own collection, and they'll rework the entire menu if you have dietary restrictions. The room is intimate and upscale without feeling stuffy. What trips people up is the portions: $38 pasta plates are small, and the tasting menu runs $500-plus. Go in expecting fine dining pricing, and you'll leave satisfied; go in expecting generous Italian, and you'll feel robbed.

Pro tip: Sit at the bar if you want atmosphere without a two-week wait; service is the same quality, and you'll actually see the kitchen work.

🍽️Food95

The food is well-regarded for its excellent quality, fresh ingredients, and expertly prepared Italian dishes, particularly the handmade pastas and focaccia. Many consider it among the best in Denver.

Food was easily the best Italian

👋Service96

Service is frequently highlighted as outstanding, with staff described as attentive, knowledgeable, friendly, and professional, significantly enhancing the dining experience.

Service was outstanding—attentive, friendly

Vibe90

The atmosphere is consistently described as intimate, romantic, cozy, and elegant, creating a pleasant and special dining environment.

Atmosphere are all top-tier

💰Value75

While the food and service are highly regarded, some diners find the prices high, particularly for pasta dishes, and question the value, especially for smaller portions.

$38 for a plate of pasta

📍 290 S Downing St, Denver, CO 80209, United States
4.7$$$DenverItalian
Ideal for
Special occasions and celebrationsDiners seeking high-quality Italian cuisineRomantic date nights
9.

Pig and Tiger

88/100

Pig and Tiger is a well-regarded Taiwanese fusion restaurant in Denver, celebrated for its excellent and creative dishes, generous portions, and vibrant atmosphere. While food and service generally receive enthusiastic celebrate, management's defensive responses to criticism and one instance of perceived discrimination detract from an otherwise stellar experience.

Pro tip: Outstanding food, creative fusion, and great service make this a standout Denver dining experience.

🍽️Food95

The food is well-regarded for its first-rate flavor, creative fusion of Taiwanese and local influences, and high-quality ingredients. Many dishes are highlighted as standouts, with particular recognition for the fried chicken, various dumplings, and salads.

Loved everything we had!

👋Service85

Service is generally described as top-notch, friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, with staff often engaging guests and chefs visiting tables. However, noted a rude and patronizing hostess.

The service is top-notch.

Vibe90

The atmosphere is well-regarded as hip, upscale, cute, and lively, with beautiful interior design and appropriate lighting for a date night or special occasion.

Atmosphere is great

💰Value80

Portions are frequently described as generous, and while prices are noted, diners generally feel the quality and quantity justify the cost.

The portions were big

📍 2200 California St, Denver, CO 80205, United States
4.7$$$DenverMixed/Fusion
Ideal for
Date nights and special occasionsDiners seeking creative fusion cuisineGroups looking to share dishes
10.

The Guest

88/100

The chef has the kind of ambition that deserves respect—inventive Peruvian-influenced cuisine with careful plating and flavor work that lands when it lands. When it's on, you taste the passion. But recent visits have exposed real problems: 45-minute delays past reservation times, understaffed nights, slow drink service, and an oddly rigid stance on dietary accommodations that's led to cancellations rather than menu work. At $500-850 per person, that operational fragility stings. One diner paid $1,000 for a lackluster meal. Go if you're adventurous and can tolerate variability; skip it if consistency matters.

Pro tip: Call ahead about any dietary restrictions and confirm they'll work with you before booking; the restaurant has cancelled reservations for accommodations they deemed unworkable.

🍽️Food95

The food is well-regarded for its excellent flavors, creative presentation, and unique, well-balanced tasting menus, often described as a culinary art form.

The flavors delicious, and the overall menu unique

👋Service75

Service is generally described as professional, attentive, and friendly, though a few instances of rudeness and ignored requests have been noted.

The staff was professional and attentive

Vibe85

The restaurant is consistently lauded for its beautiful, intimate, and thoughtfully designed atmosphere, creating a special ambiance for diners.

The space is stunning, intimate, and beautifully designed

💰Value65

While the food and experience are highly regarded, several diners felt the high price point did not always align with the overall value, particularly concerning portion size or earlier courses.

Nothing was up to par for the price

📍 1432 Market St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
4.4$$$$DenverMixed/Fusion
Ideal for
Special occasions — outstanding food and intimate settingFood enthusiasts — unique culinary journeyDate nights — romantic ambiance

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