Denver's Top Restaurant Openings of 2026 (So Far)
- Feb 5
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
It’s early, but Denver’s 2026 restaurant openings are already giving us plenty to look forward to. From a new downtown Thai hotspot, to Spanish tapas from a Michelin-starred chef, to high-end Italian dining with fresh-made pastas, to hearth-fired dishes by a famous name in sushi, to the best BBQ chicken in town, to a casual downtown Korean spot — there's so much happening in Denver right now. This is a running list that I’ll keep updating as doors open and I work my way through them, so check back as new spots debut and I try them out!
January 2026, Downtown
Le Do Thai brings a fresh, modern take on Thai cuisine to downtown Denver, balancing traditional flavors with a more polished, contemporary presentation. The menu highlights classic dishes like Tom Yum, Papaya Salad, and a whole range of curries — alongside more refined plates, modern plates and upscale ingredients like duck or lobster. It’s an easy downtown go-to for both casual lunches or slightly more refined dinners, with the friendliest staff around!
January 2026, Cherry Creek North
From the famed team behind Michelin-star Alma Fonda Fina and Mezcaleria Alma, this new spot inside the Clayot in Cherry Creek is a bit of a departure from Chef Johnny Curiel's other Mexican concept in that it brings Spanish tapas to the table. There is à la carte dining available, as well as a fantastic pre-fixe chef's counter option. Some of my favorite dishes include the crab croquettes topped with tuna/toro, the oxtail-stuffed little piquillo peppers, and the sous vide steak filet topped with fois gras.
January 2026, RiNo
From the team behind the beloved Denver restaurant Olivia, Dear Emilia just opened and is already booked out for months (although the 6-seat chef's counter takes walk-ins at 4pm). In their own words, Emilia "represents a heartfelt ode to Italy, drawing inspiration from the diverse regions of the country with a special emphasis on Emilia-Romagna." These are upscale takes on hyper-regional Italian cuisine, with the parmigiano soufflé being a favorite of mine — but I question the pricing on the $110 ribeye.
February 2026, Cherry Creek North
Chef Tyson Cole's buzz-worthy RiNo sushi restaurant, Uchi, packs its doors every night with fans of the non-traditional sushi concept that originated in Austin. Uchiko is its sister concept, serving up many of the same sushi favorites popularized by Uchi, but with the addition of fire-driven, smokey, charred elements in its "from the hearth" dishes. It's open for lunch and dinner, and there is a great happy hour with an option for an omakase (9-course tasting) for two for $120.
March 2026, E 6th St
From Riot BBQ’s Chef Manny Barella and Pitmaster Patrick Klaiber, Chicken Riot shifts the spotlight from smoked meats to Mexico’s pollo asado traditions — inspired by Barella’s childhood in Monterrey. Expect the juiciest fire-grilled chicken, bold marinades, and a tight menu of wraps, plates, and sides that feel both nostalgic and dialed-in. This place will make you realize how good chicken can really be and keep you coming back!
March 2026, E Colfax
Located inside the newly-renovated All Inn Hotel, FiNO is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and wine garden built around the relaxed ritual of aperitivo. The menu leans into fun summer cocktails and shareable coastal dishes — from crudo, to grilled artichokes, to mediterranean salads, to meatballs & pasta. It’s a welcome addition to East Colfax’s ongoing revival, with an emphasis on connection over rushed dining.