It’s almost February, and love is in the air! With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s time to start making plans for a date night with your sweetie. But if you’re a foodie like me, you don’t just want a mediocre spot – you want romantic ambiance and an amazing culinary experience.
Well, this year, I’ve done all the work for you! Here I’ve shared my favorite Denver restaurants for a romantic date night, all tried and tested by yours truly – many of them multiple times because I love them oh-so-much!
Perdida Kitchen – Mexican, $$-$$$
I love the decor in this beautiful restaurant – hues of turquoise and tan make you feel like you are ‘en la playa’. I only discovered it this winter, so I can’t wait to try it when we can sit out on the open patio!
North Italia – Italian, $$-$$$
A regular go to of ours for delicious Italian in Cherry Creek. I can’t get enough of the Braised Short Rib Lumache, and the Barbarini Smash is one of the best cocktails I’ve had.
Il Posto – Italian, $$$$
UPDATE: Sadly, this spot closed as of March 2024. I am mega bummed about this, however you can still have some authentic, delicious pizza cooked by Chef Andrea Frizzi down the block at Vero Pizza, inside The Denver Central Market.
So there’s Italian, and then there’s Italian. Chef Andrea Frizzi is a master and hailing right from Milano and it shows in his food. You can’t go wrong with his grandmother’s recipe of Pappardelle – one of the only items on the menu he never changes. It’s what my husband orders every.single.time.
Bittersweet – Artisanal Cuisine, $$$$
Bittersweet is truly an experience in fine dining. The menu is on the smaller side, but what it lacks in quantity, it makes up for in quality and creativity. I once was served a dessert that looked like a miniature forest scene in a fairytale, set for a gnome, complete with a toadstool, fog, and greenery. It was almost too good to eat. Almost. But I ate it, and it was divine. Head here if for no other reason than to just see how pretty everything is plated. (And then be blown away by the taste, too!)
El Five – Tapas, $$-$$$
I always start a tapas experience with a meat and cheese plate, an order of patatas bravas, and a cocktail of course! El Five has a delicious tapas menu and a super cool vibe with Denver skyline views!
Safta – Mediterranean, $$-$$$
Safta is a delightful array of Israeli and Mediterranean food in an upscale yet relaxed environment. Start with the best hummus and wood fired pita, but don’t stop there!
Chez Maggy – French, $$-$$$
Well-known Ludo Lefebvre serves traditional French cuisine while ‘paying homage to the naturally abundant ingredients of the Mountain West’. Just like bistro on the streets of Paris or Lyon, you’ll find Fois Gras and Duck Confit on the menu, but you’ll also find BBQ Eggplant and Colorado Lamb Chops and refreshing options like a Belgian Endive Salad or a Julienne Carrot Salad. Personally, I’m always a fan of Steak au Poivre and Chez Maggy doesn’t disappoint!
ChoLon – Asian Fusion, $$$$
You must start with the soup dumplings! But don’t stop there – ChoLon is a great restaurant to order several small plates to share and sample. I have too many favorite dishes to list but have dined here many times and have never left here anything other than happy and full! I usually go to the downtown location, however you can enjoy this deliciousness in Central Park too!
Q House – Chinese, $$-$$$
The most amazing take on Chinese food, this is not the greasy carton takeout you are used to! Totally unfussy, served family style, and yet so delicious. Dishes as simple as Stir-Fried Bok Choy to the spicy, crispy and delicious Chong Qing Chicken (my personal favorite), everything on the menu is a must-try.
On My ‘Next to Try That Everyone Raves About’ List
an upscale, buzzy Italian hot spot from an acclaimed team with an open kitchen & a fireplace lounge
a pre-paid, ticketed dining experience with ever-changing, seasonal menus & chef’s counter seating
a rustic dining room whose organic New American menu changes monthly to reflect what’s market-fresh
an innovative restaurant serving wild game, seasonal food & tasting menus amid industrial surrounds
creative pastas & Italian small plates offered at a casual, modern counter serve with a full bar
a small yet sunny spot for seasonal, modern American plates plus craft cocktails, in stylish digs
As you plan your next date night…
I hope you find this list of romantic restaurants useful! No matter how you’re celebrating love this year, these restaurants are all serving up some of the best food in the Denver area, and I can’t wait to hear which spots you decide to try! And if you have a favorite spot you don’t see here, get in touch and let me know!
And if you’re looking for another way to celebrate love with your person, consider a couples session! Reach out to me to chat about all the details, and when you’re ready to book a date and time for some photos, head to my schedule to view my availability or make it official. I’m looking forward to it!
