My Guide to: Denver’s LoHi Neighborhood
WE MOVED. Actually, we moved in July but it still feels like news that deserves capital letters. Brian and I picked up from Atlanta, where we were both raised, and drove across the country to Denver, Colorado. The journey, both mentally and physically, to get here was a roller coaster of emotions and you can read my post all about it here.
The great news is that we LOVE our new (ish?) neighborhood. We say to each other almost daily how lucky we feel to have ended up where we did. Because of the pandemic, we weren’t able to travel out here prior to moving so we chose a neighborhood solely based on advice from friends and family (and the internet.. which can be hit or miss to say the least).
We currently live in Denver’s LoHi (Lower Highlands) neighborhood, which is nestled just West of I-25 South and LoDo (Lower Downtown). This city is full of acronyms and I still feel myself cringe with imposter syndrome when I use any of them. I’ll let you know if I ever get over it.
We have gotten to know the neighborhood in a way that is different than we would have just two years ago: through takeout, sitting on patios, and going on long masked walks. All things considered, we’ve had a great time finding our way around. Below is a list of the favorites: Restaurants, Breweries, Coffee Shops, and my favorite Ice Cream Place (obviously).
Please comment or email me if you’ve been anywhere on this list! I would love to know your favorite thing on the menu. Also, if you are planning to visit Denver, let me know if you are looking for additional recommendations. I would love to help you plan your trip!
Without further adieu, in NO particular order:
Coffee Shops:
Coffee for People- Has unique and yummy syrups, DELISH breakfast sandwiches, and is conveniently right across the street from a Core Power Yoga. It has limited outdoor seating but it also has a pick up window on the side of the building so you don’t have to go inside to order.
Metropolis Coffee- Highly recommend whatever their seasonal latte is or the cold brew. A few indoor and outdoor tables. Vibes are immaculate.
Starbucks - I know, I know. But it’s right on the river with TONS of outdoor tables.
Restaurants:
Happy Camper- A trendy, made-for-Instagramming version of (don’t hate me) Mellow Mushroom. Lots of twinkly lights. If you like Spicy, get the Dime Piece or the Josh pizza.
Senor Bear- A Latin restaurant with delicious cocktails and shareable plates. A bit more expensive than the others on this list, but the food is incredible. They also have a great happy hour menu.
My Neighbor Felix- A new Mexican place that recently moved in. They have fire pits on the patio and tons of outdoor tented seating. Their empanadas and skillet queso are perfect appetizers. Be aware that if you get the Megarita, it isn’t a pitcher... It’s a giant margarita in one of those glasses you buy someone for their 21st birthday and it comes with extra long straws. I can’t say I hated it.
Lola Coastal Mexican- Who would I be if there wasn’t more than one Mexican place on my list? This was actually the first restaurant we went to for dinner after moving in. The margaritas are SO GOOD. I would also recommend the palomas. This is definitely the “trendy” variety of Mexican food (read: deconstructed tacos).
Brider- Rotisserie chicken. Mac & cheese. Crispy brussels. Also right across the street from Denver Beer Co (see below). Thank me later.
Ale House- Yummy pub food and a bunch of patio space. This place also has a pretty good view of downtown and in the summer they have ~misters~ which in a place that is extremely dry and hot, are much appreciated.
Cho 77- This is where Brian and I went for his birthday. It has great Asian street-food style dishes and a really cool vibe on the inside (read: small with dark walls, modern bar, photography on the walls). This one is technically over in LoDo off 16th St. Mall but it’s worth the short walk.
Avanti Food & Beverage- Hello food hall. I’ve had the bao buns and pizza here and both were delicious. A perfect spot if you are looking for a place to feed people with different tastes. However, there is usually a line and it’s tricky to get a table, so I would recommend ordering online and picking up.
Linger- Eclectic restaurant in an old mortuary. Yep. They also have a rooftop and their menu has sections for each part of the world. They book up with reservations WEEKS in advance (on the weekends) so think ahead for this one. They also have a great brunch.
Bar Dough- If you were wondering HOW I hadn’t mentioned pasta yet, you have arrived. The portions are small but very rich and the garlic bread is *chef’s kiss*.
Cafes & Ice Cream:
Maci Cafe- Bagels, breakfast sandwiches, coffee, and a very homey vibe. They sell art from a local artist inside where you wait to pick up. There are a few tables outside and we’ve never had a problem getting a spot.
Little Man Ice Cream- I don’t have the words to express my love. Just go. And get the Salted Oreo flavor. It also feels important for you to know that at Halloween they decorate with hundreds, literally, of pumpkins and it will give you MAJOR Halloweentown vibes.
Breweries:
Zuni Street Brewing Co- When it comes to breweries, these two have stolen my heart. Zuni always has tables, heaters, and the beer is GOOD. They also have a very wide variety so it’s a good bet for anyone.
Denver Beer Co- They have the coolest names for their beers and there is always a 10/10 food truck outside. They also have a sister brewery next door which means they have 2x their normal seating (you can order from either regardless of where you’re sitting). Also! Try a flight. It’s not on the menu but you can order one.
There you go! A guide to eat and drink your way through LoHi. Let me know if you try anywhere on this list and look out for more of my Guide To posts on the way. Where else do you want to see a Guide for? Let me know on Instagram!