The 10 Best Restaurants in Denver's Highland Neighborhood

Located in the heart of Denver, the Highland neighborhood features a swath of downtown vibrant with Elitch Gardens in the background. From cocktail bars to the trendiest of restaurants, you'll find gorgeous homes nestled between apartment complexes and more. With three distinct districts within the main one, you're going to find a culinary paradise just walking down these streets. If you're looking for some of the best eats, venture to Highlands and dine.

01 of 10

Highland Tap & Burger

Address

2219 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211, USA

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Phone +1 720-287-4493

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This is a Highland staple that's been in the neighborhood for years. If you're expecting a greasy, messy burger, you'll be pleasantly surprised as Tap & Burger is so much more than that. With a fun and trendy Colorado atmosphere and burgers to match that spirit, you'll find something for everybody to enjoy. The menu includes burgers made from black beans, lamb, turkey, and more, as well as Colorado brews on tap and inspired dishes like cheesecake tempura and butter-grilled artichokes.

02 of 10

Spuntino

Address

2639 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211-3380, USA

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Phone +1 303-433-0949

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Spuntino is another classic Highland restaurant. If you're a fan of Italian, this is the place in the area to sit down for a meal with family or friends. Everything is homemade from pasta to bread to gelati. The small staff led by husband-and-wife owners bring you everything you'd find in an Italian eatery and then some. Don't miss the zeppole, served with wild blueberry compote.

03 of 10

LoHi Steakbar

Address

3200 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211, USA

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Phone +1 303-927-6334

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This is one of LoHi's favorite hotspots, remodeled in 2017. From hand-cut steaks to ricotta agnolotti and unique steak sauces, you'll find much more than you thought at this steakhouse. The relaxed, small space is perfect for date night or a special occasion.

04 of 10

Linger

Address

2030 W 30th Ave, Denver, CO 80211, USA

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Phone +1 303-993-3120

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Have you ever dined in a former mortuary? Linger is your way to check this off your bucket list. With a plant-based cuisine from renowned chef Justin Cucci, you'll find a plethora of vegetarian and vegan meals to choose from. Don't fear though—meat is on the menu, too, with dishes like pork belly bao and honey-sriracha duck wings. With incredible views on the rooftop of downtown Denver, this is a must-see for those looking for a unique way to have dinner and drinks in Highland.

Continue to 5 of 10 below.

05 of 10

Old Major

Address

3316 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211-3433, USA

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Phone +1 720-420-0622

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Opened in 2013, owner Justin Brunson wanted to bring something different to the Highland neighborhood—and he's done so with Old Major, set in a former roller rink. Cocktails and beers are seasonal and creative, as is the food from the in-house butchery. You'll find American staples here, created from sustainable seafood and humanely-raised cattle and animals. Reservations are recommended as Old Major fills up fast, especially during dinner.

06 of 10

Bacon Social House

Address

2434 W 44th Ave, Denver, CO 80211, USA

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Phone +1 720-550-7065

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If you live for breakfast or brunch, Bacon Social House is the place. From boozy cocktails to different takes on breakfast classics, you'll leave here ready for your afternoon nap. Chicken and waffles are a popular staple here. Red velvet pancakes and carrot cake pancakes are to die for. Are you looking for unique eggs benny? This is the place! Bacon Social House has you covered, and don't forget to add a bacon flight. From applewood to habanero, you're in for a treat.

07 of 10

Uncle

Address

2215 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211, USA

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Phone +1 303-433-3263

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Regulars line up—weather be damned—to enjoy what is touted as Denver's best ramen. The broth is the standout here, made from both shoyu and sesame bases, then loaded up with everything from kimchi and chicken to duck or pork belly. Wash your ramen down with sake for a perfect meal, and don't forget to get there early! Uncle doesn't take reservations, so some people line up as soon as 4 p.m. to get a seat during the dinner rush.

08 of 10

Root Down

Address

1600 W 33rd Ave, Denver, CO 80211, USA

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Phone +1 303-993-4200

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Root Down is a Denver institution, known mostly for its location at the Denver International Airport. Its Highland location brings people together over the same fresh food., from curry to sliders. Save room for dessert: the Chocolate Bombs are to die for! Edible Eats, the concept behind Root Down, has several other restaurants throughout Denver, including Linger and El Five.

Continue to 9 of 10 below.

09 of 10

Gaetano's

Address

3760 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211, USA

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Phone +1 303-455-9852

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Gaetano's is a hidden old-school Italian gem in the heart of Highland. You'll find a menu filled with Italian-American dishes like the Ravioli Fritta, and even great pizza. You'll need to come back time and time again to get a taste of everything on the menu.

10 of 10

Little Man Ice Cream

Address

2620 16th St, Denver, CO 80211, USA

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Phone +1 303-455-3811

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Little Man Ice Cream makes everything from hand made ice cream to micro-batch frozen treats in all shapes and sizes. Malts, shakes, banana splits, sorbets, and more can be found by visiting this creamery. Live bands visit the shop from time to time, so get ready to step back into time for a sweet treat from one of Denver's most incredible dessert stops.