As the holiday season approaches, Denver transforms into a city brimming with festive spirit, offering an array of venues perfect for celebrations.
From exquisite dining experiences to vibrant gathering spaces, many of these locations showcase not just culinary excellence but also a commitment to innovative design and intentional community engagement.
**Alteño: A Taste of Jalisco**
For those looking to impress out-of-town visitors, Alteño stands out as a MICHELIN Recommended restaurant located within the Clayton Hotel and Members Club.
With a private dining room accommodating up to 14 guests, Alteño provides an intimate setting to experience Chef Johnny Curiel’s authentic dishes from the Jaliscan Highlands.
Guests can indulge in a specially crafted prix fixe menu that highlights the richness of Mexican cuisine, complemented by an exclusive beverage program featuring a selection of premium agave spirits and wines curated by the in-house sommelier.
Designed by Agatha Jane Interior Design, the restaurant’s moody ambiance is accentuated by displays of framed Mexican dollies, making it a visually captivating space.
A raw bar at the heart of the restaurant invites guests to engage directly with the kitchen, further enhancing the dining experience.
**Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver: Ideal for Corporate Events**
If you’re planning a corporate gathering, the Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver offers the Colorado Ballroom, which spans 2,500 square feet and can host up to 300 attendees.
This versatile space can be partitioned into three separate meeting rooms, making it suitable for a variety of events.
Guests will appreciate the seamless connection to hospitality suites and on-site catering by the hotel’s farm-to-table restaurant, Apple Blossom.
Designed by JNS Architecture + Interior Design, the hotel’s design emphasizes modernity while respecting the historic context of the Denver block it occupies.
Incorporating extensive research of the surrounding districts, the Hyatt Centric features two distinct facades that enhance the architectural character of the neighborhood, resulting in a harmonious blend of the modern and the historic.
**BearLeek: For the Communal Experience**
New to the RiNo district, BearLeek offers a lively atmosphere perfect for groups looking to share both food and conversation.
With a standout 14-seat community table at its center, the restaurant invites diners to gather around for spirited holiday dinners filled with storytelling.
Those desiring a more intimate setting can reserve the eight-seat chef’s counter, providing a front-row view of the culinary creations taking place.
In collaboration with Kevin Nguyen of Regular Architecture, BearLeek’s design reflects the vibrant energy of RiNo, celebrated for its dynamic street art.
Beneath the glow of electric blue neon, guests enter a space alive with artistic influences, evoking the creative spirit that permeates the surrounding neighborhood.
**Barolo Grill: Wine and Fine Dining**
For date nights or celebratory milestones, Barolo Grill is a perfect choice, offering an exceptional dining experience paired with a focus on wine.
As a MICHELIN Recommended establishment, Barolo Grill features exclusive private dining spaces where sommeliers create personalized tableside pairings from a Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning collection.
Throughout December, guests can request a stunning tableside Parmigiano Reggiano risotto wheel for an extra touch of elegance.
The restaurant boasts three unique venues: the Wine Room, accommodating 14 guests; the Red Room, an intimate space for 10-20; and the Garden Room, which accommodates 15-32 guests amidst rustic brick and vintage Italian architecture.
With a focus on creating memorable wine-centric events since its founding in 1992, Barolo Grill strikes a balance between refined dining and neighborhood charm, shaped by staff trips to Italy that inspire its culinary offerings.
**The Family Jones Spirit House: A Cocktail Ambiance**
Lastly, for craft cocktail enthusiasts, The Family Jones Spirit House presents an extraordinary venue for holiday gatherings of up to 65 guests.
This modern space features an on-site team dedicated to crafting innovative cocktails using sustainably sourced ingredients and their own small-batch spirits.
Complemented by customizable catering menus, the venue exudes a contemporary charm, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to toast to the festive season with unique libations.
As Denver’s venues continue to evolve, these spaces not only provide exceptional settings for holiday celebrations but also reflect the city’s commitment to quality and community, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.
image source from:milehighcre