Here are six of Denver’s best new restaurants that opened in 2023 that I recommend to people anytime they ask about a great new place to dine. I’ve personally dined at each and every one (paying for my own meal) and can vouch for the quality of the service and food.
There were a number of exciting new spots I didn’t make it to by Dec 31st, so apologies to those places that opened that I couldn’t add include them in year’s rundown.
Sắp Sửa
Jun 2023. City Park
Since opening, this modern Vietnamese gem has shone bright, earning national attention along the way. Reservations are tough to snag, but the roomy bar welcomes walk-ins. Don’t miss the signature ‘Bắp Cải Luộc’ (boiled cabbage) or the seasonal “Cà Ri Gà,” (chicken katsu) a blend of Vietnamese, Southern American, and Japanese flavors.
Yuan Wonton
Sep 2023. Park Hill
Shef/owner Penelope Wong and team moved into their permanent location, now showcasing their full culinary range nightly. OG Chili Oil Wontons and Eggplant Dumplings still hit the spot, and dishes like “Dad’s Egg Rolls” are fast becoming new fan favorites.
Hey Kiddo
Jan 2023. Berkeley
With a primary menu developed by Kelly Whitaker and Deuki Hong, this lively spot flaunts memorable dishes like addictive K-Town Fried Chicken (popcorn version) and Shaken Rice. High on fun with a late-night vibe.
MAKfam
Nov 2023. Baker
Husband-and-wife team Chef Kenneth Wan and Doris Yuen opened a Cantonese restaurant just off of South Broadway, blending traditional recipes with an American Born Chinese twist. Try the Fancy Wonton Tong and Sizzling Spicy Noodles.
Molotov Kitschen + Cocktails
Jan 2023. City Park
Bo Porytko expanded his E. Colfax dominon with this year’s Molotov Kitschen, a full-service ode to Ukrainian and Eastern European cooking. A full embrace of boldly flavored dishes that still leave room for nuance and subtlety, such as the Foraged Mushroom Holubtsi.
Chopstickers
Jun 2023. Central Business District
Denver gets its outpost of the Fort Collins dumpling house, featuring the best traditional xiao long bao in the city. Also try the Wood Ear Mushroom appetizer and Dan Dan Noodles.
What were some restaurants you’ve been blown away with in two thousand twenty-three that your excited to try out this year? Leave your picks in the comments.