Looking for where to eat in LoHi Denver? This guide covers nine standout restaurants in the Lower Highlands—from rooftop tapas and ramen shops to wine cafés and food halls—based on thousands of local reviews.
So many choices… where to eat in LoHi Denver?
LoHi, short for the Lower Highlands, has become one of Denver’s most dynamic dining neighborhoods. Its hillside blocks are packed with trendy rooftops, modern ramen joints, sleek cocktail bars, and longtime local favorites. If you’re asking yourself where to eat in LoHi Denver, the answer depends on your mood: do you want skyline views with small plates, a neighborhood pizza spot, or a polished tasting menu?
In this guide, we’ve pulled together nine crowd-approved restaurants that locals consistently recommend. Each pick is rooted in public consensus from thousands of reviews, restaurant websites, and cultural signals—so you can feel confident you’re getting an authentic snapshot of the neighborhood.
Whether you’re planning brunch, happy hour, or a late-night bite, these LoHi restaurants showcase why the neighborhood continues to be one of the most buzzed-about places in Denver dining.
Table of Contents
Linger
- Address: 2030 W 30th Ave, Denver, CO 80211
- Phone: (303) 993-3120
- Yelp Rating: 4.5 ★ (≈4.3k reviews)
- Operating Hours: Dinner nightly; Lunch Wed–Fri; Brunch Sat–Sun (confirm exact times on website)
- Service Type: Full-service restaurant; rooftop patio; reservations available
- Atmosphere: Bustling, rooftop views, global street-food theme; housed in a former mortuary
- Yelp Profile: Linger Yelp
- Website: ediblebeats.com/restaurants/linger
- Menu: ediblebeats.com/menus/linger-menu
Linger is perhaps the most iconic spot in LoHi, perched just above the Highland Bridge with a rooftop patio that frames Denver’s skyline. Operated by the Edible Beats group, the restaurant leans into a playful concept: global street food served in a space that was once a mortuary. Despite the quirky history, the energy here is upbeat—locals pack the rooftop at happy hour, and wait times are common on warm evenings.
The menu is designed for sharing, with influences spanning Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Reviews consistently highlight the Mongolian BBQ duck bao, the soft and pillowy bao buns, and the Korean fried chicken. Vegetarian dishes like the masala dosa or uttapam earn frequent praise for being flavorful and filling. For groups, the shareable street plates and taco variations are an easy win.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Mongolian BBQ duck bao
- Korean fried chicken
- Masala dosa and uttapam
- Assorted tacos and bao buns
With more than 4,000 reviews and a strong 4.5-star rating, Linger continues to define the LoHi dining scene.
El Five
- Address: 2930 Umatilla St, 5th Floor, Denver, CO 80211
- Yelp Rating: 4.5 ★ (≈1.1k reviews)
- Operating Hours: Dinner nightly; Happy Hour Thu–Sat 4–5pm (confirm online)
- Service Type: Full-service; tapas; reservations available on OpenTable
- Atmosphere: Penthouse skyline views; sultry mid-century cinema meets souk vibe
- Yelp Profile: El Five Yelp
- Website: ediblebeats.com/restaurants/el-five
- Menu: ediblebeats.com/menus/el-five-menu
If Linger is lively and eclectic, its sibling restaurant El Five is polished and glamorous. Located on the fifth floor of a LoHi tower, the restaurant is known for panoramic city views and a stylish atmosphere that feels equally suited to date nights or group celebrations.
The menu is rooted in tapas, drawing inspiration from Spain, the Eastern Mediterranean, and North Africa. Diners on Yelp frequently point to the goat cheese croquetas as a must-order starter, along with patatas bravas that come crisp and spiced. Larger dishes include the paella, often cited as a table favorite, and lamb preparations that rotate seasonally. Cocktails like the Femme Fatale and Juniper Jones are frequently highlighted for balancing the rich, savory plates.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Goat cheese croquetas
- Patatas bravas
- Paella
- Specialty cocktails such as Femme Fatale and Juniper Jones
El Five’s atmosphere is what sets it apart: sultry lighting, cinematic décor, and a rooftop terrace that captures LoHi’s skyline at sunset. It’s a restaurant built for lingering, and locals advise booking ahead to secure the best tables.
The Bindery
- Address: 1817 Central St, Denver, CO 80211
- Yelp Profile: The Bindery Yelp
- Website: thebinderydenver.com
- Menu: thebinderydenver.com (rotating menus)
- Operating Notes: Chef’s Table monthly (Third Thursday)
- Service Type: New American, bakery & market; reservations recommended
- Atmosphere: Sleek, modern, chef-driven
The Bindery brings a chef-driven New American style to Central Street, combining restaurant service with a bakery and market. Its sleek, modern design reflects its approach: a neighborhood spot with elevated sensibilities.
While Yelp’s star rating was not visible in our pulled data, recurring mentions emphasize seasonal tasting menus and European-influenced entrees. Dishes like coq au cava and lamb osso buco are frequently praised for their execution and creativity. The restaurant also runs monthly Chef’s Table events that highlight seasonal themes, making it a go-to for diners looking for an intimate and curated experience.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Coq au cava
- Lamb osso buco
- Rotating tasting menu items
The Bindery stands out in LoHi for pairing refined cooking with a neighborhood ethos—making it equally suitable for a casual pastry run or a celebratory dinner.
Cart-Driver LoHi
- Address: 2239 W 30th Ave, Denver, CO 80211
- Yelp Profile: Cart-Driver LoHi Yelp
- Service Type: Wood-fired pizza & oysters; counter/fast-casual style
- Atmosphere: Cozy, modern pizzeria
A smaller offshoot of the Cart-Driver brand, the LoHi location focuses on wood-fired pizzas and oysters in a modern, counter-style setup. The vibe is casual and neighborhood-oriented, making it a popular choice for locals looking for quick but quality pizza.
Diners frequently call out the seasonal toppings that rotate throughout the year, along with staples like the clam pizza. The addition of fresh oysters alongside pizzas makes Cart-Driver a unique hybrid of pizzeria and seafood bar within the LoHi scene.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Wood-fired pizzas with seasonal toppings
- Clam pizza
- Fresh oysters
It’s the kind of spot that works for both a casual weeknight meal and as a prelude to a night out in LoHi.
Mizu Izakaya
- Address: 1560 Boulder St, Denver, CO 80211
- Yelp Rating: 4.2 ★ (≈836–842 reviews)
- Operating Hours: Opens daily at 4:30pm (confirm times on Yelp)
- Service Type: Full-service izakaya & sushi bar
- Atmosphere: Lively, neon-accented, clubby at night
- Yelp Profile: Mizu Izakaya Yelp
For sushi and Japanese small plates in LoHi, Mizu Izakaya is a go-to. The space mixes modern izakaya style with a clubby nighttime energy—neon accents, upbeat music, and a lively bar scene. It feels both casual enough for a weekday dinner and stylish enough for a night out.
The menu balances approachable rolls with traditional preparations. Yelp reviewers often highlight the spicy tuna roll and various nigiri flights as reliable choices. The veggie roll gets nods for its freshness, while the ramen bowls are frequently cited as hearty comfort food. Happy-hour specials draw crowds looking for smaller bites and drink deals.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Spicy tuna roll
- Nigiri flights
- Ramen
- Veggie roll
- Happy-hour sushi and snacks
With over 800 reviews and steady popularity, Mizu Izakaya remains a neighborhood staple for Japanese dining.
Señor Bear
- Address: 3301 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211
- Yelp Rating: 4.2 ★ (≈485 reviews)
- Operating Hours: See official site; reservations available
- Service Type: Full-service; Pan-Latin small plates & cocktails
- Atmosphere: Trendy, upbeat; patio seating available
- Yelp Profile: Señor Bear Yelp
- Website: senorbeardenver.com
- Menu: senorbeardenver.com
Señor Bear captures the energy of LoHi with bold flavors and a social vibe. The Pan-Latin concept brings together influences from Venezuela, Mexico, Peru, and beyond. Its playful patio and upbeat dining room make it a reliable pick for both weekend nights and group outings.
Reviews consistently call out the cachapa (a Venezuelan corn pancake) and tequeños (fried cheese sticks) as favorites for the table. Seafood plates and birria-style tacos are also frequently praised. On the beverage side, cocktails earn just as much attention, with locals recommending them as an essential part of the experience.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Cachapa
- Tequeños
- Seafood plates
- Birria-style tacos
- Signature cocktails
Señor Bear has built a reputation for fun dining in LoHi—balancing creative food with a lively atmosphere that keeps people coming back.
Ash’Kara
- Address: 2005 W 33rd Ave, Denver, CO 80211
- Phone: (303) 537-4407
- Yelp Rating: ~4.2 ★ (≈425 reviews)
- Operating Hours: See website; reservations available
- Service Type: Full-service; Mediterranean, North African, and Middle Eastern influences
- Atmosphere: Stylish, lively; indoor/outdoor seating
- Yelp Profile: Ash’Kara Yelp
- Website: ashkaradenver.com
- Menu: ashkaradenver.com
Ash’Kara stands out in LoHi for its stylish atmosphere and layered flavors from across the Mediterranean, North Africa, and the Middle East. It’s been recognized with the Michelin Bib Gourmand award twice—an impressive nod to its consistency and quality.
The menu emphasizes shareable plates, and diners often recommend starting with hummus and pita or falafel. Hearty mains like chicken tagine and various kebabs provide more substantial options. Many reviews highlight the spread of vegetable mezze as a perfect way to graze and share.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Hummus with pita
- Falafel
- Chicken tagine
- Kebabs
- Vegetable mezze spreads
With a lively crowd, modern design, and award recognition, Ash’Kara is one of LoHi’s most talked-about restaurants.
Avanti Food & Beverage
- Address: 3200 N Pecos St, Denver, CO 80211
- Operating Hours: Open daily; hours vary by vendor
- Service Type: Multi-vendor food hall; counter service; communal seating
- Atmosphere: Casual, lively, rooftop patio with skyline views
- Yelp Profile: Avanti Yelp
Avanti Food & Beverage isn’t just one restaurant—it’s a rotating lineup of food stalls under one roof. The concept works like a curated culinary incubator, where up-and-coming chefs test menus alongside established names. With its rooftop patio and wide mix of cuisines, it has become one of LoHi’s most popular gathering spots.
Among the stalls, the Venezuelan-inspired Quiero Arepas is consistently mentioned as a standout. Past tenants like Pho King Rapidos brought noodle bowls and late-night energy, while burgers, pizzas, and rotating global concepts keep the lineup fresh. The rooftop patio, with its panoramic views, makes Avanti as much about the scene as the food.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Quiero Arepas arepas
- Rotating noodle vendors (e.g., Pho King Rapidos)
- Burgers and pizzas
- Rooftop drinks with views
Avanti epitomizes LoHi’s role as a food destination—offering variety, energy, and a casual setting that works for groups of any size.
Postino LoHi
- Address: 2715 17th St, Denver, CO 80211
- Phone: (303) 433-6363
- Yelp Rating: 4.5 ★ (≈983–1k reviews)
- Operating Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–11pm; Fri 11am–12am; Sat 10am–12am; Sun 10am–10pm
- Service Type: Full-service wine café; daily happy hour until 5pm
- Atmosphere: Social, indoor/outdoor, group-friendly
- Yelp Profile: Postino Yelp
- Website: postinowinecafe.com
- Menu: postinowinecafe.com
Few LoHi restaurants capture the neighborhood’s social spirit like Postino LoHi. The wine café thrives on a laid-back yet polished atmosphere, with big group tables, cozy indoor booths, and a bustling patio that stays busy on warm afternoons. Its daily happy hour, offering deals on bottles of wine and food boards, makes it a neighborhood magnet.
The bruschetta board is the star here, allowing diners to mix and match toppings across a variety of breads. Paired with panini-and-salad combos or the wine specials, it’s the kind of spread designed for lingering. Yelp reviewers frequently highlight the wine bottle + board deal as one of the best values in LoHi dining.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Bruschetta board (mix & match)
- Panini and salad combos
- Wine bottle + board deal
Postino is a natural fit for casual date nights, friend meetups, and any occasion where conversation is just as important as the food.
Uncle (LoHi)
- Address: 2215 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211
- Yelp Rating: ~4.2 ★ (≈365 reviews)
- Operating Hours: Dinner only; check site/Yelp for daily hours
- Service Type: Full-service ramen shop
- Atmosphere: Cozy, counter/bar seating; often crowded with wait times
- Yelp Profile: Uncle Yelp
Uncle has built a loyal following with its focus on ramen and Japanese-inspired small plates. The LoHi location mirrors the original’s intimate, counter-heavy setup. It’s not uncommon to encounter a wait—proof of its enduring popularity with locals.
The spicy chicken ramen and chashu ramen appear repeatedly in reviews as the dishes people come back for. Diners also highlight extras like the duck confit add-on for a richer bowl, or smaller items such as hamachi crudo, especially during happy hour.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Spicy chicken ramen
- Chashu ramen
- Hamachi crudo (happy hour)
- Duck confit ramen add-on
Uncle’s charm lies in its consistency: cozy, craveable, and built for ramen enthusiasts.
Wildflower (Life House, LoHi)
- Address: 3638 Navajo St, Denver, CO 80211
- Service Type: Full-service Italian-influenced seasonal restaurant & cocktail bar, inside boutique hotel
- Atmosphere: Intimate, design-forward
- Yelp Profile: Wildflower Yelp
Tucked inside the Life House boutique hotel, Wildflower is equal parts restaurant and mood piece. The décor is design-forward and intimate, creating the kind of atmosphere locals describe as “transportive.” It’s a place where cocktails and ambiance carry as much weight as the food.
Dishes lean Italian-influenced and seasonal, with reviews and local food forums highlighting the branzino, corn agnolotti, and lamb tartare as standout plates. The cocktail program also earns frequent mention, making Wildflower a date-night favorite.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Branzino
- Corn agnolotti
- Lamb tartare
Wildflower delivers a boutique experience that feels unique within the LoHi scene—suited for special occasions or anyone chasing Denver’s design-driven dining trends.
Highland Tap & Burger
- Address: 2219 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211
- Phone: (720) 287-4493
- Yelp Rating: 3.8 ★ (≈1.1k reviews)
- Operating Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–10pm; Fri 11am–11pm; Sat 11am–12am; Sun 11am–11pm
- Service Type: Full-service sports bar & restaurant; family-friendly
- Atmosphere: Casual neighborhood spot; TVs with games
- Yelp Profile: Highland Tap & Burger Yelp
- Website: tapandburger.com
- Menu: tapandburger.com/menu/menu-highland
As one of LoHi’s longstanding staples, Highland Tap & Burger brings a different energy than the sleek rooftops or tasting menus—it’s straightforward, sports-friendly, and family-oriented. TVs line the walls, making it a go-to for game days, but it also maintains a reputation for above-average bar food.
Yelp reviewers consistently point to the burgers as the main draw, but sides like the baked mac & cheese, wings, and loaded nachos also win praise. With more than 1,000 reviews, the Tap remains a dependable choice for casual gatherings and sports-watching nights.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Burgers
- Baked mac & cheese
- Wings
- Nachos
For a no-frills, neighborhood-style option, Highland Tap & Burger keeps its appeal steady.
Bar Dough
- Address: 2227 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211
- Yelp Rating: 4.0 ★ (≈731 reviews)
- Operating Hours: Mon–Wed 3–10pm; Thu–Sun hours vary (see site)
- Service Type: Full-service modern Italian; handmade pastas + wood-fired pizza
- Atmosphere: Warm, modern neighborhood spot
- Yelp Profile: Bar Dough Yelp
- Website: bardoughdenver.com
- Menu: bardoughdenver.com
Bar Dough is LoHi’s Italian neighborhood anchor. Known for its handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas, the restaurant blends rustic cooking with a modern vibe. The warm, welcoming dining room makes it an easy choice for both weeknight dinners and special evenings.
Diners often recommend the chicken parmesan as a hearty entrée, while the pastas rotate seasonally but consistently earn high marks. Pizzas are another crowd favorite, balancing crisp crusts with inventive toppings.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Handmade pastas
- Chicken parmesan
- Wood-fired pizzas
Bar Dough delivers Italian comfort food with chef-driven finesse—keeping it in the neighborhood dining rotation year after year.
Happy Camper
- Address: 3211 N Pecos St, Denver, CO 80211
- Service Type: Full-service pizza spot with brunch and a huge patio
- Atmosphere: Loud, neon, party vibe; 360° bar and expansive outdoor seating
- Yelp Profile: Happy Camper Yelp
- Website: happycamper.pizza/denver
- Menu: Happy Camper Yelp Menu
Happy Camper brings the party to LoHi. The space is massive, neon-lit, and designed for social energy, with a 360° bar and one of the neighborhood’s largest patios. It’s particularly popular for weekend brunch, where reservations are strongly recommended.
Menu highlights include playful pizzas such as the “Gettin’ Figgy With It” pie, the birria pizza, and shareables like burrata. Brunch brings dishes like chicken & waffles and jalapeño homies, both mentioned frequently in reviews.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- “Gettin’ Figgy With It” pizza
- Birria pizza
- Burrata
- Chicken & waffles (brunch)
- Jalapeño homies
Happy Camper is unapologetically loud, festive, and built for groups—making it a LoHi staple for lively nights out.
My Neighbor Felix (LoHi)
- Address: 1801 Central St, Denver, CO 80211
- Phone: (720) 826-4880
- Yelp Rating: 3.9 ★ (≈526 reviews)
- Service Type: Full-service modern Mexican; large patio
- Atmosphere: Hip, colorful, lively
- Yelp Profile: My Neighbor Felix Yelp
- Website: myneighborfelix.com
- Menu: myneighborfelix.com
My Neighbor Felix adds a vibrant splash of modern Mexican dining to Central Street. With a large patio, bright design, and upbeat crowd, it’s a popular pick for groups and festive meals.
Menu standouts include arabe tacos, the sizzling hot iron-seared burrito, and shareable fajitas. Margaritas are also a recurring favorite, rounding out the experience with classic cocktails in a colorful setting.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Arabe tacos
- Hot iron-seared burrito
- Fajitas
- House margaritas
Felix balances approachable flavors with a playful vibe—perfect for patio season in LoHi.
Nana’s Dim Sum & Dumplings
- Address: 3316 Tejon St, Ste 102, Denver, CO 80211
- Phone: (720) 769-4051
- Yelp Rating: 4.2 ★ (≈546 reviews)
- Service Type: Casual full-service Chinese dim sum & dumplings
- Atmosphere: Cozy, modern neighborhood spot
- Yelp Profile: Nana’s Dim Sum Yelp
- Website: nanasdimsumanddumplings.com
Nana’s Dim Sum & Dumplings brings hand-crafted dumplings and Chinese comfort dishes to LoHi. The space is small and cozy, but the menu is packed with crowd favorites that draw regulars.
The xiao long bao (soup dumplings) are the clear headliner, frequently praised for their delicate skins and rich broth. Diners also recommend the pan-fried pork buns and a variety of noodle dishes.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Xiao long bao (soup dumplings)
- Pan-fried pork buns
- Noodles
Nana’s fills a unique niche in LoHi: a casual, authentic-feeling dim sum spot perfect for comfort cravings.
Fox & The Hen
- Address: 2257 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211
- Phone: (303) 862-6795
- Yelp Rating: 4.4 ★ (≈324 reviews)
- Operating Hours: Daily 7:00am–3:00pm; no reservations, join waitlist
- Service Type: Full-service daytime breakfast & brunch
- Atmosphere: Bright, cheeky, crowded at peak hours
- Yelp Profile: Fox & The Hen Yelp
- Website: foxandthehen.com
- Menu: foxandthehen.com
For breakfast lovers, Fox & The Hen is a LoHi gem. Open only during the day, it focuses on cheeky, elevated comfort food in a bright and playful space. Weekend waits are common, but many locals say it’s worth it.
Signature dishes include the “Flay-vos” huevos rancheros, creative takes on fancy toast, and breakfast tacos. Interestingly, the menu also includes a popular smashburger, making it a hit for brunchers seeking something heartier. Cocktails round out the offerings.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- “Flay-vos” huevos rancheros
- Fancy toast
- Breakfast tacos
- Smashburger
- Brunch cocktails
Fox & The Hen leans into personality and comfort, making it a must for early-day dining in LoHi.
Alma Fonda Fina
- Address: 2556 15th St, Denver, CO 80211
- Phone: (303) 455-9463
- Service Type: Full-service contemporary Mexican; tasting menu + à la carte
- Atmosphere: Upscale, intimate, service-driven
- Yelp Profile: Alma Yelp
- Website: almalohidenver.com
- Menu: almalohidenver.com
- Awards: Michelin Star (2024); James Beard 2025 semifinalist for Best New Restaurant
Alma Fonda Fina is LoHi’s most decorated newcomer, bringing upscale Mexican dining to the neighborhood. With a Michelin star and James Beard recognition, it has quickly become one of Denver’s most important restaurants.
Dishes are rooted in traditional Mexican flavors but presented with contemporary finesse. Local coverage and reviews highlight plates such as camote asado (roasted sweet potato), remolachas ahumadas (smoked beets), and house-made tortillas with salsas.
Based on our research, locals love the following:
- Camote asado
- Remolachas ahumadas
- Fresh tortillas and salsas
Alma combines fine dining with soulful flavors—cementing LoHi’s status as a hub for ambitious cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of food can you find in LoHi?
LoHi offers a mix of global cuisines: ramen, dim sum, tapas, Mexican fine dining, Mediterranean mezze, sushi, burgers, pizza, and more. It’s one of Denver’s most eclectic dining neighborhoods.
Which LoHi restaurants have the best rooftops?
Linger, El Five, and Avanti Food & Beverage are especially known for rooftop patios and skyline views.
Are there Michelin-recognized restaurants in LoHi?
Yes — Ash’Kara holds a Bib Gourmand, and Alma Fonda Fina earned a Michelin star in 2024.
Where should I go in LoHi for brunch?
Fox & The Hen, Postino LoHi, and Happy Camper are top brunch destinations, while Linger also serves a popular weekend brunch.
What’s a good casual spot in LoHi?
Highland Tap & Burger, Nana’s Dim Sum, and Cart-Driver are all laid-back options without the fine-dining polish.
Conclusion
If you’re wondering where to eat in LoHi Denver, the answer lies in the neighborhood’s diversity. Rooftop hotspots like El Five and Linger deliver skyline views, while hidden gems like Nana’s Dim Sum and Fox & The Hen focus on comfort and authenticity. For celebratory nights, Alma Fonda Fina sets a new fine-dining standard, while Avanti offers casual variety under one roof.
LoHi continues to be one of Denver’s most exciting dining districts because it balances innovation with approachability. From morning brunch to late-night cocktails, the neighborhood has something for every appetite—and every occasion.
About the Author
Written by the editorial team at Colorado Food Reviews, who curate dining guides based on verified public consensus across thousands of online reviews.
About Colorado Food Reviews
Colorado Food Reviews is a regional dining publisher focused on showcasing the state’s most compelling restaurants. Our guides are built from real customer consensus, local food culture, and trusted data sources.
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