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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Central

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50 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Stellar Jay restaurant
4.5
Awesome(122)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Denver
Booked 27 times today
Stellar Jay is a standout gem for Dining Bar cuisine in Denver, offering a vibrant rooftop experience that combines breathtaking views with exceptional live-fire cooking. Located in the heart of Denver's Civic Center, this restaurant is recognized for its nature-inspired menu that highlights seasonal ingredients cooked over an open flame. Diners rave about the "bold and smoky flavors" that perfectly capture the essence of fire-grilled perfection. The ambiance is described as "warm and modern," creating an upscale campfire feel right in the city. With dishes like the Centennial Cut steak and sweet potatoes, Stellar Jay is a must-visit for any culinary enthusiast!
A photo of Pasque restaurant
4.5
Awesome(85)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Denver
Booked 17 times today
Pasque in Downtown Civic Center, Denver, is redefining Farm-to-table cuisine with its seasonal bounty and luxurious dining experience. This fresh gem on the ground floor of Populus masterfully combines plant-based ingredients with proteins from both land and sea, ensuring each dish is a "magical" journey. Diners rave about the "freshness" of the food and the "unique" menu items that consistently deliver on taste and creativity. With a "stunning" interior that echoes the elegance of Gaudi's works in Barcelona, Pasque offers not just a meal, but an unforgettable experience. It's truly a "wonderful newcomer" to Denver's dining scene.
A photo of The Wolf's Tailor restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(62)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Sunnyside
Booked 16 times today
The Wolf's Tailor in Sunnyside, Denver, redefines American cuisine through its imaginative use of locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. This Michelin-starred gem offers an unforgettable dining journey, where each dish is a "mind-blowing phenomenal experience" that expertly combines intricate flavors and stunning presentations. Guests rave about the "exceptional meal" and the "over the top service," noting the impeccable attention to detail in both food and ambiance. The restaurant's innovative approach, featuring a nine-course tasting menu with creative cocktail pairings, truly sets it apart, ensuring that every visit is not just a meal, but a memorable culinary adventure.
A photo of BRUTØ restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(32)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / LoDo
Booked 18 times today
The heart of BRUTØ lies in our hearth, a live fire sustained by oak wood and manned by our chefs from open to close each and every day. You’ll find that our menu is centered around brutalist ideas, curated thoughtfully and carefully in a way that encourages little to no waste between our tasting counter and our bar program. Our efforts in sustainable practices are showcased through our vast fermentation program and our commitment to locality by way of partnerships with our local farmers and ranchers. BRUTØ's intimate setting offers the opportunity to witness each and every step in the culinary process up close.BRUTØ is located inside of Free Market on the Dairy Block of downtown Denver. The dining room consists of an intimate chef's counter that faces into our open kitchen. Make a reservation to join us for our Chef's Tasting Menu Tuesday-Sunday evenings.
A photo of Ellyngton's restaurant
3.7
Very Good(1603)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / LoDo
Booked 8 times today
Ellyngton's in Downtown Denver is a beacon of American culinary excellence, offering a brunch experience that marries tradition with innovation. Guests rave about the "amazing Eggs Benedict," a testament to the restaurant's commitment to authenticity and quality. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by live jazz music, creating a "phenomenal" setting that elevates every visit. The service is consistently praised as "exceptional," with staff going above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience. From its signature caviar waffle bites to the interactive Bloody Mary cart, Ellyngton's redefines American brunch with creative flair, making it a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Former Saint Craft Kitchen and Taps restaurant
4.0
Excellent(177)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / LoDo
Booked 11 times today
Discover the true essence of American cuisine at Former Saint Craft Kitchen and Taps in Downtown Denver. Celebrating the adventurous spirit of Colorado, this restaurant offers an authentic taste of American flavors with dishes crafted from locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients. Guests rave about the bison Philly cheesesteak, describing it as "terrific," and the delectable salmon, which is praised for its perfect preparation. The atmosphere is both inviting and upscale, with an attentive staff that enhances the dining experience. Located in the Hyatt Regency, Former Saint delights diners with its creative menu and commitment to quality, making it a must-visit destination.
A photo of Satchel's on 6th restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1586)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Cherry Creek
Booked 46 times today
Satchel's on 6th in Cherry Creek, Denver, stands out as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, offering an eclectic and refined menu that delights every palate. With a focus on seasonal ingredients, each dish is crafted with authenticity and a touch of innovation, earning rave reviews for its "flavorful, appealing, and attractively presented food." Guests are particularly enamored with the duck fat fries and squash blossoms, which are often described as "must-dos." The ambiance, described as cozy and inviting with warm wood tones and exposed brick, perfectly complements the exceptional service and vibrant atmosphere, making it a go-to neighborhood gem for diners.
A photo of FIRE - The ART Hotel Denver, Curio Collection by Hilton restaurant
4.3
Awesome(1031)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / LoDo
Booked 9 times today
FIRE at The ART Hotel in Downtown Denver offers an extraordinary French dining experience, boasting "phenomenal" dishes that leave guests raving. With a menu that creatively blends traditional French flavors with modern American twists, diners are treated to an exquisite culinary journey. The ambiance is described as "elegant and festive," providing a perfect backdrop for any occasion, whether it's a special celebration or a casual meal. Guests consistently praise the "excellent service" and the attention to detail, from the artfully presented dishes to the attentive staff. For those seeking authentic French cuisine with a modern flair, FIRE is a must-visit destination.
A photo of The Corner Office Restaurant and Martini Bar Denver restaurant
4.2
Awesome(3698)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / LoDo
Booked 33 times today
The Corner Office Restaurant and Martini Bar in downtown Denver truly sets the standard for exceptional Bar, Lounge, and Bottle Service. Renowned for its "amazing cocktails" and vibrant atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy expertly crafted drinks. Guests rave about the inventive cocktails, with each sip offering a delightful surprise. The bar staff, described as "fun and knowledgeable," ensure an unforgettable experience with their engaging service. This retro-chic venue, ideally located near cultural hotspots, offers a perfect blend of ambiance and flair, making it a top choice for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable night out.
A photo of Guard & Grace - Denver restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(6231)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / LoDo
Booked 142 times today
Guard & Grace, situated in the heart of downtown Denver, is a beacon of exceptional Contemporary American cuisine. Chef Troy Guard's modern steakhouse offers a vibrant dining experience with dishes that are both "bold and beautifully balanced." The menu boasts a wide range of exquisite options, from the "melt-in-your-mouth tender" steaks to delightful sides like duck fat fries. Guests rave about the "phenomenal" food and "impeccable" service, making it a top choice for special occasions or a memorable night out. The sophisticated ambiance, coupled with an extensive wine selection, solidifies Guard & Grace as a true gem in Denver's culinary scene.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • HelenaVIP
    Denver / Colorado •58 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Absolutely stunning restaurant and building. The cocktails were fantastic and there were some truly stellar menu items such as the beignets (more like fritters), carrots, and desserts (especially the sunchoke brulee). Some of the other items were not as strong (the crab soup was too salty and the squash had a bitter herb component that was odd). Overall, definitely recommend! An elegant night out!
    More info
    PasquePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Denver
    4.5
  • Ildiko
    Denver / Colorado •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The service was amazing, everyone there was just wonderful. The staff makes one feel warmly welcomed and special. The food was high quality, excellently prepared and presented. Having an adventurous palette is a must though because the menu is very unique combining things one never dreamed could be combined in a dish or in a drink for that matter. The drink pairings were as much fun as the food and that's for both the alcoholic and non-alcoholic pairings. Really an excellent place and worth the money.
    More info
    The Wolf's TailorPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Sunnyside
    4.9
  • Steve
    Chicago / Illinois •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Just reserve and go. It’s only a hidden gem if you don’t go looking. Get curious out of the car entering this most magical property taking its aspen roots revitalizing a long withered pocket of Denver’s beautiful downtown capital hill area.
    More info
    Stellar JayPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Denver
    4.5
  • Amanda
    New York City •3 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Wonderful service and great food at the jazz brunch! They treated us like royalty.
    More info
    Ellyngton'sPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown / LoDo
    3.7
  • Lauren
    Portland / Oregon •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 2 Jan 2025
    Brutø is next-level dining—seriously, what a ride! From the second you walk in, it’s clear this place isn’t messing around. The vibe? Modern, cozy, and a little edgy, like it knows it’s cool but doesn’t need to try too hard. Even the plates, bowls, and cutlery were so on point that I caught myself thinking, “I need to step up my dinnerware game.” We went big with the 11-course tasting menu, and wow—just wow. Each course was like opening a little gift, perfectly wrapped and full of surprises. Every single dish had a story, a purpose, and a whole lot of heart behind it. You could feel the thought and care that went into not just the food, but the entire experience. The flavors were bold and inventive but somehow still comforting. Oh, and everything? Sustainable in some way, which made me love this place even more. And Lauren, our expert in literally everything…absolute rockstar! She didn’t just bring us food; she brought us into the food. The way she described each dish and wine pairing—like she was giving us the inside scoop on a masterpiece—made the whole night feel like a VIP event. Plus, her energy was infectious. You could tell she loved what she was doing, and it made all the difference. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a full-on experience. Brutø is the kind of place that makes you want to tell everyone you know about it and then book your next visit before you’ve even left. I’m counting the days until I can go back and hopefully see Lauren again. If you’re on the fence—go. Just go. You’ll thank me later.
    More info
    BRUTØPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown / LoDo
    4.8

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Central

Explore the vibrant dining scene of Central Denver, where contemporary American cuisine takes center stage, offering a delightful mix of innovation and tradition. In this bustling locale, diners can indulge in a variety of culinary experiences that highlight expertly crafted dishes using locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. The restaurants in this area are renowned for their creative menus that blend classic American flavors with modern culinary techniques, ensuring a unique dining experience for every palate. Each establishment prides itself on exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere, making them perfect spots for both casual lunches and upscale dinners. As a culinary hub in Colorado, Denver's Central district serves as a gastronomic destination that catially satisfies food lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these eateries provide not just meals but memorable culinary journeys that reflect the dynamic spirit of contemporary American cooking.

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