Here’s the 10 most exciting new and up and coming restaurants in Denver for 2023.
With a new year always comes exciting news in the hospitality and arts and culture scene here in Denver, and 2023 is already shaping up to be a fantastic year. We’ve seen a crop of new and exciting restaurants at the tail end of 2022, and we believe that hype has carried over in 2023. Plus, there’s some up and coming places we’re dying to try (one of which is Casa Bonita, which is probably the MOST exciting re-opening of the year). Get ready for some innovative concepts, elevated classics, and laidback eateries in all different types of flavors and cuisines. We’ve rounded up 10 of the ones we’re most excited about, from Costa Rican to Ukrainian, from some of our favorite chefs and newcomers.
1. Molotov Kitschen
One of our favorite chefs, Bo Porytko of Rebel Restaurant and Misfit Snack Bar fame, is teaming up with Jareb Parker (Middleman) to bring a new restaurant to the Mile High City, and knowing what we know about these two chefs, we are extremely excited. Labeled as “mischievous takes” on traditional Eastern European Food, Molotov opened in the former To The Wind space, with food that nods to Porytko’s heritage, Ukrainian, alongside well-crafted cocktails. Their signature, the Molotov, is one we’re anxious to try. Pierogi and Borscht will be on the menu, traditional but with Porytko’s signature playfulness and twists. Herring, Rabbit in a Clay Pot, and Rutibaga Latke will take you on a trip to Eastern Europe, teach you about a new culture, and give you a new reason to head out on a dinner date. Molotov just opened with lots of hype so head to their website to make a reservation.
Where: 3333 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206
2. Cretans
A Mediterranean restaurant meets wine bar has just opened up in Cherry Creek if you haven’t heard yet, and it’s the perfect swanky Friday night out. The place boasts lush velvet seating, dim lighting, natural wines and wine-forward cocktails, plus small plates to share. If we had to choose one, we’d highly recommend trying out the dip tower that comes with warm pita and three dips: hummus, whipped goat cheese, and avocado dill.
Where: 233 Clayton St, Denver, CO 80206
3. Tom’s Starlight
Built in 1967 and listed on the 2019 National Register Historic Places, no doubt for its place on Colfax and it’s futuristic design, we’re happy to see that instead of dying out, Tom’s Diner has revamped into Tom’s Starlight. The new tropically-themed restaurant has a beautiful interior and patio, and is serving cocktails and breakfast on a, for now, limited menu, plus a happy hour that serves $5 glasses of wine with a cheese board. Don’t miss out on this little piece of Colfax history which acts as one of the best new cocktail bars that also serves breakfast and brunch.
Where: 601 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80203
4. Casa Bonita
I think it’s safe to say that the reopening of Casa Bonita is the most anticipated restaurant opening of the year, and in December, Matt, Trey, and Dana announced the grand reopening would be happening in 2023. An exact date wasn’t given, but we are excited to hear that they’ll be opening in March. From a new and improved menu created by executive chef, Dana “Loca” Rodriguez who is also the chef behind Cantina Loca in Highlands, to the same, nostalgic, but revamped decor, we can only imagine how big of an opening this is going to be. Get ready, Denver.
Where: 6715 W Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO 80214
5. Tofu Story
An increasing appetite for South Korean food has been exploding in the last few years thanks to America’s obsession with KPOP and K-Dramas. Which means, there’s always buzz about a new Korean restaurant whenever it opens. This one’s opening on Havana St. in Aurora and it’s called Tofu Story. A fun atmosphere and fresh ingredients come together to create a laid back experience where you can dine on Korean hot pot, and Soon Tofu which is an extra soft tofu used in a variety of different Korean dishes like bubbling, spicy soups with tofu and veggies or alongside a sizzling plate of marinated beef short ribs.
Where: 2060 S Havana St, Aurora, CO 80014
6. Kiké’s Red Tacos
Kiké’s Red Tacos, pronounced (kee-kay) has been a go-to food truck stop for birria since it first launched on the scene in 2020. Famous for its birria tacos, consomé, and ramen, all the buzz and quality food means that Kiké’s will finally be getting a brick-and-mortar, although an exact time and details have yet to be revealed. Until then, the truck is permanently parked in West Highland at 3640 West 38th Avenue, so stop by, and don’t let the long wait intimidate you.
7. Pollo Tico
Boulder’s first Costa Rican food stall, Pollo Tico, is definitely a can’t miss. Run by Top Chef alum, Byron Gomez, and located inside the Avanti Boulder location, they opened in late October with a premiere of a chicken-heavy menu with special Costa Rican ingredients, flavors, and sides. From their star dish, the rotisserie chicken, to pollo con arroz and a delectable chicken sandwich on a brioche bun with chimichurri sauce and choice of a side, to fried sweet plaintains and yuca fries. We especially love Pollo Tico for their low bar approach to introducing Costa Rican cuisine to Boulder.
Where: 1401 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302
8. Hey Kiddo & Ok Yeah
Kelly Whitaker, who was just nominated for a James Beard Semifinalist, is the mind behind Hey Kiddo, The Wolf’s Tailor, and Basta so with that kind of established reputation, we’re already excited. Hey Kiddo is located on Tennyson Street and the concept of Ok Yeah is Asian American dining, with a walk-in only system. K-Town Fried Chicken, Oysters, Half Lobster and Pork Belly are some of their offerings, with plenty of vegetable dishes as well.
In the back of the space is Ok Yeah, a cocktail bar that’s a small, intimate space of only 16 seats. All hand crafted and signature at a reasonable price point, with an entire menu of spirits, wines, and more.
Where: 4337 Tennyson St Suite 300, Denver, CO 80212
9. Kini’s
A Greek restaurant with a name that calls back to the small coastal beach town in Greece, Kini’s serves Mediterranean food and cocktails, and has quickly became a favorite in Denver. Lush and green, with wood and light blue accent to call back to summer evenings tucked away on the streets of Europe, but without the expensive price point of a ticket. Dishes can be a bit pricy here, but the votes are in and the quality of the food has stood up to the price. Don’t skip out on the Flaming Kasseri Cheese that literally comes on fire, and you can’t miss trying their delicious fish, as this type of food is typical of beach towns in Greece.
Where: 233 Clayton St, Denver, CO 80206
10. El Chingon Bistro
Some may say that Tex Mex or Mexican cuisine in Colorado is on the decline, but with the return of El Chingon Bistro, we’d beg to differ. The return of this upscale Mexican restaurant is something fans of the place are happy about, since it’s been in 2 spaces since it’s opening in 2012 and has yet to find its forever home, until now (we’re hoping.) The spot is now in LoHi at 1691 Central St, with an exciting Taco Tuesday special, Chingon Style, at 3:30pm for Happy Hour and 5:30pm for Dining Service, starting on January 31st. Expect cocktails inspired by Mexican spirits and ingredients, meats crafted in delicious Mexican spices, and seafood.
Where: 1691 Central St, Denver, CO 80211