Coming back for its 22nd year, Denver Restaurant Week has been serving up a much-anticipated experience for locals and visitors alike to celebrate the city’s thriving culinary scene with restaurants now helmed by Michelin-starred and James Bear Award-winning chefs.
Running March 6-15, the 10-day, two-weekend format is the perfect chance to try out new spots where restaurants are offering special menus serving every type of cuisine – Colorado grass-fed beef and lamb, international fusions, fresh seafood flown in daily, and innovative vegetarian options, spiced up with local ingredients like the famous green chile.
These 270 restaurants are offering multi-course menus at four price points: $25, $35, $45, and $55. These prices exclude tax, tip, and sometimes, beverages. However, they can represent significant value compared to standard dining prices. Most of the restaurants offer three-course menus featuring appetizer, entree, and dessert selections that showcase their culinary style and signature dishes.
Making the Most of the Week
Reserve Early: With over 270 participating restaurants and thousands of diners eager to take advantage of the special menus, reservations tend to fill quickly, no matter the day of the week. Popular restaurants and prime dining times often book within the first few days of the announcement. So plan ahead!
Explore Different Neighborhoods: This is the perfect excuse to venture beyond your comfortability and usual dining spots. Explore different corners of the city, from the walkable blocks of Cherry Creek North to the historic charm of Larimer Square to the energy of Union Station and neighborhood gems, each area offers its own unique character.
Consider Multiple Price Points: The tiered pricing structure allows you to experience multiple types of restaurants throughout the week without really breaking the budget. Maybe mix a $55 splurge at a fine dining experience with a $25 neighborhood favorite. Or gather friends and sample different options.
Check Menus in Advance: All participating restaurants post their speciality menus on the official website. Reviewing menus ahead of time can help you choose restaurants that align with your preferences and dietary needs as well.
Planning Your Experience
Start with the official denverrestaurantweek.com website. The search and filter functions will allow you to narrow options based on your preferences.
By Price Point: Filter to show only restaurants in your budget
By Cuisine: Filter for Italian, Japanese, American, Mexican, French, or any other type of cuisine
By Neighborhood: Focus on areas convenient to your home or choose to explore new parts of the city
By Dietary Needs: Find restaurants offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary options
Once you’ve chosen restaurants of interest, review their full menus. Look for dishes that excite and consider reading reviews or checking the restaurant’s regular menu online to get a fuller sense of their style and quality.
And lastly, have fun! Whether you’re bringing the family for some pizza and burgers, or venturing out solo to broaden the tastebuds, this week is meant for enjoyment and good food.
