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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Denver

Cool Japanese food

You want a Japanese meal that feels current and intentional. You are looking for a space that matches the quality of the food with a sharp aesthetic.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated May 2026
01
Kin Nori Bar image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant features U-shaped bar seating wrapping around chefs, creating an intimate and calm atmosphere. The space feels cozy and sophisticated, with an open kitchen that invites watching chefs craft dishes. High-quality sake and cocktails complement the exceptional sushi experience.

Sushi here stands out for its exceptional quality and unmatched freshness. The menu offers a variety of expertly crafted sushi that consistently impresses.

Kin Nori Bar has a cool atmosphere that stands out. The overall vibe feels laid-back and stylish.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is insanely good, especially the sushi."

"This is a perfect spot for date nights with insanely good sushi."

"The sushi here is really fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special occasions to ensure seating.

2

Happy hour features discounted temaki options from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Dinner for three typically costs around $170, including drinks.

02
Origami Den image 1
Japanese restaurant

Speakeasy-style Japanese restaurant with intimate, moody atmosphere and origami crane decor covering ceilings and walls. Offers thoughtfully crafted cocktails and fresh, beautifully presented sushi in a cozy, relaxed setting. Space includes private rooms and a vibe suited for dates or small gatherings.

Sushi here features impossibly fresh fish with perfect presentation in a cozy, speakeasy setting lit by warm fairy lights and over 1,000 hand-folded paper cranes. The menu includes gluten-free sushi rolls and desserts from the neighboring spot.

Speakeasy vibe creates an intimate and moody atmosphere. The place feels effortlessly cool throughout.

People are saying

"The food here is so elevated and delicious."

"The Japanese food here has an amazing, immersive atmosphere with lots of origami cranes."

"I found the vibe here to be effortlessly cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at this spot.

2

Parking can be tricky in the area, so plan ahead.

3

They only open on Saturdays for now.

03
Tasty Pot image 1
Asian restaurant

Dining room centers on a cherry blossom tree with adjustable flame hot pot bowls adding interactive fun. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, suited for mid-size parties with on-point music enhancing the vibe. Cocktails stand out with creative options like Wake Up in Saigon and Melona Dream.

Soups stand out with black garlic tonkatsu ramen featuring house-made black garlic oil and a seafood soup with Thai influences. Dumplings, shrimp tempura bowl, and dishes like the short rib skillet with udon noodles and beef stir fry with udon offer solid variety.

A cool self-cooking bowl serves the hot pot, adding a unique touch. The interior features a cool tree and a nicely decorated vibe that feels both beautiful and inviting.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and served in an unexpected way."

"The short rib skillet with udon noodles is one of the best Japanese Food dishes I ever had."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu offers discounted items from 4-6pm daily.

2

Lunch deals provide great value with mini hotpots starting at $10.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

04
Noodles by Nina image 1
Noodle shop

Open kitchen showcases chefs hand-pulling noodles live, creating an engaging and lively vibe. Interior features dark wood floors, spacious layout, and a glassed-in bar area that adds to a cozy, modern atmosphere. Crowds gather frequently, drawn by the unique noodle-making craft and calming ambiance.

Strawberry mochi stands out as a phenomenal dessert, often sent as a complimentary treat. Several appetizers and udon noodles feature as main dishes, rounding out the Japanese food offerings.

Watching the chefs pull noodles is a really cool and tasty experience. You can see the noodle-making process right there.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was the best I ever had."

"The Japanese food here is fantastic, especially the flavorful pork buns."

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation or calling ahead is recommended due to high demand.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours as the restaurant is very popular.

3

Parking is available in their own lot, but it can fill up quickly.

05
Com Nha Kitchen & Bar image 1

Mid-century Modern design shapes a clean, warm space with big windows and an open bar seating. Music bumps lively, creating an inviting, relaxed vibe where vintage arcade machines and TVs add unique touches. Guests enjoy creative hand-washing displays and a mix of exotic cocktails alongside rich Vietnamese dishes.

Rich broth and fresh ingredients define the Seafood Ramen, served steaming hot in a large bowl. The menu offers pho tacos with pho broth, oxtail fries with a runny egg, and skewers of chicken, pork belly, and beef, all flavorful and hot.

Cozy yet modern atmosphere with a younger staff creates a clean and comfortable vibe. A cool variety of alcohol drinks complements the overall setting.

People are saying

"The food here is genuinely surprising and incredibly tasty."

"The Japanese food here is delicious, hot, and flavorful."

"The vibe and atmosphere here are really cool and cozy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with fantastic deals.

2

Karaoke happens on Fridays and Saturdays, making it a lively night.

3

The restaurant has a parking lot available for guests.

06
Malinche Audiobar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant blends Japanese fusion with authentic Mexican atmosphere and vinyl DJ spinning Spanish rock. Intimate space features special sound system and clever soundproofing, creating a warm, nostalgic vibe. Unique mezcal selection and inventive dishes like Tempura de Hoja Santa and chilmole octopus define the experience.

Tempura de Hoja Santa stands out with its magical and unique flavor. The tempura appetizer offers a fun and special start, paired well with a custard dessert featuring distinct tastes.

A visionary concept shapes the space, creating a cool and cozy vibe. The setting feels both beautiful and inviting.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, with unique flavors."

"The vibe here is cool, authentic, and reminiscent of Mexican audio bars."

"The Japanese Food tempura here is magical and unique."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with solid drink options.

2

Reservations are recommended due to the small and cozy space.

3

You can order tacos from the taco truck outside to enjoy inside.

07
Tao Boba. A Modern Coffee + Boba Tea Bar image 1

Modern bubble tea bar with bright natural light and comfortable seating creates a calm, inviting atmosphere. Board games and charging ports encourage lingering and socializing. Decor and art add a gorgeous, thoughtful touch to the space.

Taiyaki stands out with its crispy outside and lava-like red bean paste filling. Cheese and Nutella options offer fresh, warm, and fluffy waffles with just the right sweetness.

Atmosphere feels cool and chill with a clean and inviting interior. It offers a relaxed vibe perfect for hanging out and enjoying drinks.

People are saying

"The mango soft serve ice cream is like biting into a cloud."

"The crรจme brรปlรฉe topping is rich and perfectly caramelized."

"You have to try the Japanese food here; the cheese taiyaki is amazing."

Good to know

1

Tao Boba offers a variety of drinks, including non-dairy options.

2

Expect higher prices for drinks compared to other local boba spots.

3

The location is convenient, situated near major transit stations.

08
Mecha Noodle Bar image 1
Noodle shop

Noodle shop features unique wood ceiling designs and a vinyl record collection that sets a cool vibe. Music plays a key role, with anime visuals adding to the atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a relaxed space away from the street, while seating includes backless stools and varied options.

Menu includes munchies, noodle bowls, and mochi for dessert. Poutine fries blend Japanese curry with Canadian cheese bites and fries. Service features warm, friendly interaction enhancing the meal.

Inviting atmosphere with cool music that stays at a comfortable volume. Staff create a welcoming vibe that fits well for groups including those with a baby.

People are saying

"The pork belly bao was spot on."

"The Happy Hour appetizers were so amazing, I was stuffed."

"I loved the ramen and pho here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 50% off appetizers and sake from 4-6pm daily.

2

Expect small portion sizes; consider ordering multiple dishes.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred for tips.

09
Ukiyo image 1
Restaurant

Basement setting with intimate 12-seat layout creates a calm, elegant atmosphere. Minimalist dรฉcor and subtle lighting highlight the fresh sushi and precise sake pairings. Personal chef interaction and custom cocktails add a unique, thoughtful touch.

Multi-course omakase features 18 courses blending sushi with dishes inspired by Lao heritage. The menu shows seasonal ingredients and creative craftsmanship beyond typical sushi.

The space has a cool vibe with an intimate atmosphere. It feels like a great location to hang out.

People are saying

"This Omakase felt like a culinary journey with unique, playful flavors."

"The Japanese food's sake pairings elevated the entire experience."

"I got a unique and delicious cocktail upon arrival."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating with only 12 seats available.

2

Expect a high price point, with Valentine's Day costing around $460 prepaid.

3

Ukiyo offers a new seasonal menu, providing fresh and creative dishes.

10
Broadway 10 Bar & Chophouse image 1
Chophouse restaurant

Open kitchen and modern design create a warm, elegant atmosphere with beautiful lighting and spacious seating. The space balances lively energy with comfortable quiet, attracting diners for special occasions and social evenings. An impressive wine room and patio add to the upscale, inviting vibe.

Freshness stands out with the yellowtail crudo served alongside a yuzu ponzu sauce that is flavorful enough to drink. The surf & turf sushi offers a notable combination that highlights the menu.

Beautiful space with floor-to-ceiling windows creates a chic atmosphere. Tables are spaced well, keeping the vibe cool and comfortable.

People are saying

"The service here is fantastic and truly amazing."

"The Japanese Food here is amazing, and the service is so attentive."

"It's the new cool spot with a beautiful, chic atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is a great time for gathering and runs on weekdays.

2

Mahjong events are hosted in the back room, providing a unique experience.

3

Brunch is popular on weekends, attracting many visitors.

11
Kumoya - Denver image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant combines elegant decor with fun jazz music and a vibrant cocktail lounge in the back. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with attentive staff and a lively bar area. Unique sushi offerings and rare sake selections set it apart from typical spots.

Sushi stands out with unique rolls like yellow tail and spicy tuna, plus fresh sashimi. The menu also includes dishes like pork and miso, all served in a welcoming atmosphere.

A cool bar sits in the back, serving delightful drinks crafted by Thao and Vickers. The inside has a very cool vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The Japanese food omakase here is impressive."

"They automatically added a 20% service fee to the Sushi bill."

"The food here is incredible and so tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7 PM, but only at the bar.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups, with wait times up to 2 hours.

3

Kumoya adds a 20% gratuity to all bills automatically.

12
Odell's Bagel image 1
Bagel shop

Open kitchen reveals food preparation in a tiny, beautifully designed space with limited seating mostly at a bar counter. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful mornings to a fun, charming vibe with lively music and a friendly pace. Quality ingredients and unique bagels create a distinctive culinary experience.

Hamachi and fresh wasabi appear on bagels, creating an elevated and intentional Japanese-inspired flavor. This combination redefines the typical bagel experience with a delicious twist.

Open kitchen lets you watch the bagel-making magic live. The idea of tasting different open-face sandwiches on bagel slices adds a unique twist.

People are saying

"I thought Odell's Bagel had the best bagels in Denver."

"This Japanese food experience was thoughtful, seasonal, and balanced."

"These bagels are the best I've had in Denver."

Good to know

1

Expect a line before opening at 7:45am; reservations are not accepted.

2

Limited seating makes it best to get bagels to go.

3

Bagels with lox cost $18, which is on the expensive side.

13
Salt Water Social image 1
Seafood restaurant

Bright coastal dรฉcor creates a chic seaside escape with a lively yet elegant vibe. Live music features a violinist and DJ booth, adding to the fun atmosphere. Small tables and private event spaces shape the dining experience.

Seafood shines with Otoro Sashimi and Spicy Yellowtail Crispy Rice offering bold flavors and crisp textures. The Seafood Tower combines oysters and sashimi with flavorful sauces for a balanced taste.

Atmosphere feels cool and upscale with a vibe that screams ocean wonder. The Watermelon Wave drink adds a sweet, refreshing touch to the experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"The Japanese food, especially the seafood tower, is fresh and beautifully presented."

"The vibe here is so cool and feels like a mini vacation."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $3, $6, and $9 specials on select items.

2

The happy hour menu includes calamari, fish and chips, burgers, tuna tacos, and salmon cones.

3

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

14
Adrift image 1
Cocktail bar

Black velvet curtains open into an authentic tiki lounge with understated tiki decor and lively surf rock music. The atmosphere balances beautiful theming without kitsch, creating a vibrant yet relaxed vibe. Strong, well-crafted tropical rum drinks and a back patio with abundant seating complete the experience.

Edamame hummus stands out as a popular appetizer with a creamy texture. Other dishes like fried wontons, spam musubi, and tuna poke nachos offer good flavors and decent portions.

Atmosphere feels cool and immersive with a strong tiki bar vibe. The back patio adds a very cool outdoor spot.

People are saying

"Their no-alcohol cocktails are complex, balanced, and visually appealing."

"This tiki bar is so cool with its festive atmosphere and tropical drinks."

"The Japanese food's edamame hummus is beyond amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during busy nights.

2

There is a two-hour limit on tables, clearly noted on the table card.

3

Happy hour runs all day on Tuesdays with special cocktail and snack deals.

15
Peaks Lounge image 1

Lounge offers breathtaking mountain views and a relaxed, welcoming vibe with cozy seating and warm blankets for comfort. It attracts people looking for evening drinks and sunset watching in a chic, atmospheric setting. The space balances fun energy with a calm, scenic experience.

Sushi stands out with fresh spicy tuna rolls and quality selections that rival authentic spots. Edamame comes in generous portions and pairs well with newer menu items like avocado guacamole.

A very cool ambience sets the tone here. The atmosphere feels relaxed and inviting.

People are saying

"The view here is amazing, especially at sunset."

"The Japanese food here has amazing views."

"The views here are awesome and nice."

Good to know

1

The drone show happens every night at 7 PM until the end of December.

2

Peaks Lounge is open until midnight for special pop-up events.

3

Peaks Lounge does not accept cash payments.

16
Mizu Izakaya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a beautiful outdoor patio and vibey decor with flowers throughout. Atmosphere feels like an upscale club at night with DJ music creating a lively vibe, especially on weekends. Space suits celebrations and casual gatherings alike.

Sushi and sashimi stand out with great quality and a varied menu including rainbow sushi and wagyu beef skewers. Friendly, efficient service complements the hybrid patio seating and a solid ramen option.

Atmosphere blends Colorado rustic with Japanese contemporary styles. Decor and flowers add a cool vibe throughout.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be rich and full of flavor."

"The Japanese food here is great, and the staff are really friendly."

"The atmosphere here is cool with lots of decor and a DJ."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and food options.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can be challenging to find.

17
Stellar Jay image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop dining offers breathtaking city views and a stylish, cozy atmosphere that suits romantic dinners and special occasions. An outdoor patio provides ample seating for drinks with friends, while live music adds to the sophisticated vibe. Cocktails and desserts stand out as incredible highlights of the experience.

Tempura mushrooms and maitake tempura stand out, especially with the squash aioli. Dishes like fall squash katsu, bison and venison skewers, and Medai Crudo offer a strong variety of flavors.

Jeanne Gang's studio delivers a cool design with striking color choices and lighting. The space offers outside views that add to its cool vibe.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing and thoughtfully prepared."

"You have to try the tempura mushrooms; they were truly something special."

"The building's modern architecture, inspired by local trees, is really cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available on Thursdays, making it a great time to visit.

2

Food cannot be ordered or served on the patio during colder weather.

3

Valet parking costs $64, as there is no self-parking option.

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