Since forming, the Washington Park neighborhood has been a residential haven, complete with an actual green space and plenty of restaurants.
In fact, on any sunny day in Denver, you’ll find Washington Park packed with runners logging miles around the lakes, volleyball games in full swing, and dogs happily leading their humans down tree-lined paths. The area blends historic homes, walkable streets, and boasts a wonderful local dining scene, including restaurants on Gaylord Street perfect for a great start and/or end spot for a park day. Plus, some Italian restaurant newcomers and red sauce standbys make a solid case that the Washington Park area is Denver’s answer to Little Italy.
Spanning from Speer Boulevard and East Alameda Avenue in the north to I-25 in the south, and from South Broadway in the west to South University Boulevard in the east, it’s a big space. Whether you live in the area or want to visit, here’s the best way to take advantage of what this popular neighborhood has to offer.
A Bit of History
The neighborhood, of course, revolves around its namesake: Washington Park, which often gets shortened to Wash Park. While the neighborhood boasts historic houses, the actual park offers plenty of history as well.
In fact, the beloved green space was designed in part by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., the son of the landscape architect behind New York City’s Central Park. Named after George Washington, Denver’s park features a flower garden that’s a scaled replica of Martha Washington’s Mount Vernon estate garden.
The area surrounding Wash Park has deep roots, too. The west side grew as Denver expanded south in the 1880s, attracting small farms and gardens thanks to plentiful artesian wells. The residents had a strong say in how the neighborhood evolved, and in one memorable example, locals imposed a steep $2,500 liquor license in 1886 in an effort to keep roadhouses and saloons at bay.
Fret not, these days, there’s plenty of places for a good tipple in the neighborhood, from dives to a Michelin-recommended Italian spot with an incredible wine list. With that in mind, here’s where to eat, drink, and enjoy coffee or a sweet treat in the neighborhood.
Explore Denver’s Version of Little Italy
Restaurant Olivia
Handmade pasta takes center stage at Michelin-recommended Restaurant Olivia, and diners can experience the kitchen’s creativity through a four-course tasting menu for $85 per person. Signature dishes include the restaurant’s much-talked-about French onion ravioli with caramelized onion, Gruyère fondue and crispy parmesan, alongside favorites like tagliatelle alla Bolognese with prosciutto and pancetta ragù.
The beverage program is equally strong, with an acclaimed wine list and cocktails like a peach negron and tiny tinis. As one of Denver’s most romantic restaurants, guests can also go beyond dinner with private pasta-making classes that offer a behind-the-scenes look at the techniques driving the restaurant’s menu. 290 S. Downing St., Denver, oliviadenver.com
Johnny Bechamel’s
Johnny Bechamel’s is a pizza and pasta spot with a menu that goes well beyond the basics. Start with housemade focaccia, a hoagie salad, or stuffed piquillo peppers filled with spinach and artichoke, then move on to squid ink fettuccine with shrimp, ricotta ravioli, or pizzas that range from simple tomato pies to a spicy alla vodka-inspired pizza.
The restaurant also revives the classic steak Diane, made with New York strip in a rich pan sauce with creamy potatoes. End on a sweet note with seasonal gelato or housemade limoncello. 81 S. Pennsylvania St., Denver, johnnybechamels.com
Carmine’s on Penn
Since 1994, Carmine’s on Penn has been serving Italian-American family-style fare inspired by the large, lively meals shared by immigrant families who settled in the United States in the late 1800s. The restaurant is known for generous portions of pasta, with all the classics covered, from lemon shrimp, carbonara, bolognese, and seafood fra diavolo.
Everything is made with care, from slow-simmered sauces and fresh-baked bread to housemade dressings and desserts. The extensive dessert menu includes Italian favorites, too, with sorbetto and cannolis, and gelato available in an ice cream sandwich form. 92 S. Pennsylvania St., Denver, carminesonpenn.net
Florence Supper Club
Wash Park’s fantastic Italian dining scene is worth taking note of, with everything from Michelin-recognized restaurant Olivia to neighborhood newbie Johnny Bechamel’s. Florence Supper Club joins the neighborhood, too, by leaning fully into nostalgia with its unapologetically old-school East Coast red sauce restaurant vibe.
Think Tiffany-style stained-glass lamps, red-checkered tablecloths, and a cozy atmosphere. The menu hits all the classics, from Negronis and Gibson martinis to spicy rigatoni alla vodka, housemade focaccia, chicken parm, saucy meatballs, cheesecake, plus specialities like dry-aged ribeye. 375 S. Pearl St., Denver, florencesupperclub.com
More Washington Park Restaurants
Leven Supply
Before heading out for a day in Wash Park, swing by Leven Supply for a hearty sandwich, whether that’s the Italian piled high on a housemade baguette or a chicken Caesar wrap with a crispy Parmesan frico tucked inside. The Aperol-glazed nuts make an ideal snack, and the supply store’s shelves are stocked with picnic-ready provisions, including cured meats, cheeses, canned beverages, and treats from local makers.
If you’re sticking around, settle in for one of the restaurant’s sourdough pizzas or shareable snacks like charcuterie nachos, smoked trout dip, and sourdough mozzarella sticks that deliver the kind of dramatic cheese pull made for Instagram. 300 E. Alameda Ave. Unit D, Denver, eatleven.com
Homegrown Tap & Dough
Homegrown Tap & Dough makes a compelling case for Colorado-style pizza with its Colorado Supreme pie, a red-sauce pizza loaded with pepperoni, Polidori sausage, ham, candied bacon, olives, mushrooms, onions and — in true Centennial State fashion — green chiles. It’s one of several standout pizzas on the menu.
But this neighborhood favorite, which has locations throughout Colorado including Wash Park, also delivers on hearty salads, like a roasted beet version with goat cheese, grapefruit, arugula, toasted hazelnuts and citrus honey vinaigrette. A thoughtful NA menu features nonalcoholic spritzes alongside boozy cocktails and local beers. Weekday lunch specials pair an individual pizza with a salad for under $15. 1001 S. Gaylord St., Denver, homegrowntapanddough.com
Fire on the Mountain
For wing lovers, Fire on the Mountain (one of the best wing spots in Denver) brings the heat with rotating sauces and dry rubs that keep regulars coming back, joining a lineup of standout flavors that ranges from classic Buffalo to lime cilantro Jamaican jerk and beyond.
Spice seekers can test their limits with El Jefe, a painfully hot sauce that’s loaded with peppers and capsicum extract (we challenged chef Manny Barella of Riot BBQ to try it and he did). The menu also caters to plant-based diners with vegan seitan wings, plus comfort-food sides like fries, tots and truffle fries. Tame the fire with one of the Mellow Munchies, the kitchen’s gooey oversized cereal treat bar made with the chef’s choice of cereal. 300 S. Logan St. #102, Denver, fotmdenver.com
Perdida
Perdida brings a convivial energy to the neighborhood with colorful, cheerful interiors that feel built for meeting up with friends over margaritas (or perhaps one of the city’s best frozen cocktails) and shared plates. Table-friendly starters include snapper ceviche and loaded birria fries topped with queso.
For heartier fare, sizzling fajitas arrive piled high with choices ranging from chicken, steak or vegetables, or options like bacon-wrapped shrimp, while tacos round out the menu with plenty of choices. Save room for dessert: The housemade churros, served with chocolate sauce and dulce de leche, are worth ending on a sweet note. 1066 S. Gaylord St., Denver, perdidakitchen.com
Uncle
Chef Tommy Lee’s acclaimed ramen spot in West Wash Park has earned a loyal following for bowls that deliver comfort in every slurp. Standouts include the spicy chicken ramen, a deeply flavorful bowl filled with seared confit chicken, bean sprouts, a soft-poached egg, sesame seeds and scallions.
Beyond ramen, the menu branches out with pillowy bao buns stuffed with everything from soft-shell crab to seared pork belly or a Chinese eggplant bun with miso mayo and pickled plum mustard seed dressing. There’s also a solid selection of sushi rolls and sashimi prepared behind a sleek counter that runs through the heart of the restaurant.
It’s no surprise that Uncle fills up on rainy days and brisk evenings, but don’t overlook it in the summer. Seasonal specials bring a lighter touch, with temaki hand rolls, sake pours and piña colada daiquiris made with fat-washed rum adding warm-weather appeal to one of Denver’s most beloved noodle destinations. 95 S. Pennsylvania St., Denver, uncleramen.com
Max Gill & Grill
With its “5 o’clock somewhere” atmosphere, Max Gill & Grill brings a laid-back tropical vibe to South Gaylord Street. Seafood takes center stage, from oysters on the half shell or charbroiled to peel-and-eat Old Bay shrimp.
The lobster rolls are a standout, whether you opt for the classic Maine version served on a toasted King’s Hawaiian roll or the tropical twist topped with mango salsa, avocado and pickled jalapeños. Sandwiches continue the coastal theme with crab cakes, po’boys, and fried red snapper, though landlubbers will find plenty to love, too, including baby back ribs, burgers and a French dip with caramelized onions. 1052 S. Gaylord St., Denver, maxgillandgrill.com
Fortune Nong Jia Le
A sister restaurant to Fortune Wok to Table, Fortune Nong Jia Le celebrates traditional Shanghainese cuisine with a menu that ranges from soup dumplings and street noodles to fried rice. From there, enjoy a family-style feast with shareable dishes like the lightly crisped half duck in a soy reduction or the dover sole with garlic. Enjoy your meal al fresco on the patio. 500 E. Alameda Ave., Denver, fortunenongjiale.com
Washington Park Bars
Broderick
Inspired by San Francisco’s cocktail culture, Broderick is a polished neighborhood bar where you can sample a flight of classic cocktails, sip a seasonal creation, or take advantage of all-day happy hour specials, including $10 Vespers and Paper Planes. Opened by the founder of Uncle Tim’s Cocktails, The menu also features an impressive selection of zero-proof and low-ABV drinks, plus snackable bites like tinned fish, charcuterie, and pressed paninis. Check the events calendar for live music, comedy shows, and other happenings. 1080 S. Gaylord St., broderickand.co
Campus Lounge
A neighborhood institution since 1976, Campus Lounge has long been a go-to gathering spot for Wash Park and Bonnie Brae residents. The self-described upscale dive bar serves brunch daily until 3 p.m., including a hangover skillet loaded with scrambled eggs, tater tots, pork green chile, cheddar-jack cheese, avocado, and your choice of bacon or sausage.
The menu also covers all the bar-food classics, from wings and nachos to burgers and a chopped cheese sandwich. Stop by for happy hour Monday through Friday from 2 to 6 p.m. for deals like a $10 Spaghett special (a Miller High Life and an Aperol shot). With plenty of TVs for game days, a spacious patio, and a game room, Campus Lounge remains a neighborhood staple for casual drinks and comfort food. 701 S. University Blvd., Denver, campusdenver.com
Candlelight Tavern
With its glowing neon signs, no-frills atmosphere, and decades-long neighborhood roots, Candlelight Tavern is the kind of dive bar every city hopes to have. Open since 1957, the South Pearl Street favorite serves up recession-proof deals, including a jalapeño cream cheese burger with chips for just $10.
The menu leans into classic bar fare with wings, burgers, onion rings, and hearty bowls of chili during football season. Happy hour keeps the deals flowing, while pool tables, darts, and foosball provide plenty of entertainment between rounds. Friendly bartenders and loyal regulars give the place its welcoming feel. It’s also Denver’s go-to gathering spot for fans of the Detroit Lions, and great place to perch when waiting for a table at Florence Supper Club. 383 S. Pearl St., Denver, candlelighttavern.com
Wash Park Social
Neighborhood newcomer Wash Park Social took over the former home of Wash Park Grille this spring, transforming the space into a wine-focused gathering spot. It channels the charm of a vintage European wine bar while keeping its menu rooted in Colorado.
Expect meat and cheese boards featuring goods from local producers, alongside dishes like Colorado mushroom crudo, seasonal burrata served with Rebel Bakery bread, green chile cauliflower steak, and Colorado lamb chops finished with a raspberry demi-glace. Behind the bar, cocktails spotlight spirits from Laws Whiskey House. 1096 S. Gaylord St., Denver, thewashparksocial.com
Reivers Bar & Grill
A fixture on South Gaylord Street since 1977, Reivers Bar & Grill has long been a go-to gathering spot for Washington Park locals. The neighborhood favorite serves up all the classics, from juicy burgers and crispy wings to comfort-food starters like short rib nachos, baked brie, and deviled eggs.
If you’re visiting midweek, plan your stop for Wednesday when the restaurant offers bottomless wings for $20. Reivers also has front and back patios that are perfect for people-watching and catching Colorado sunshine, plus a weekend brunch menu that makes for an easy post-park meal. 1085 S. Gaylord St., Denver, reiversbarandgrill.com
Washington Park Coffee, Tea Shops, and Ice Cream
Bonnie Brae Ice Cream
Just southeast of Wash Park, Bonnie Brae Ice Cream is a Denver institution that has been satisfying sweet tooths for decades. On warm afternoons, it’s common to find a line stretching out the door of the nostalgic shop, marked by its iconic red-and-white striped awning.
The homemade ice cream comes in a long list of flavors, from longtime favorites like Triple Death Chocolate, Amaretto Peach, Snickers Delight, and Cappuccino Crunch to seasonal specialties. Order a scoop in a cup, a hand-spun shake or malt, or go all in with a chocolate-dipped waffle cone. 799 S. University Blvd., Denver, bonniebraeicecream.com
Wash Perk
Whether you’re meeting friends for a morning coffee or grabbing provisions before a stroll through Wash Park, Wash Perk is a neighborhood favorite. The locally owned coffee shop has been fueling residents since 2008, welcoming regulars and first-time visitors alike with friendly baristas and a laid-back atmosphere. Stop in for a latte or tea, then pair it with a breakfast sandwich, breakfast burrito, or fresh pastry before heading to the park. 853 E. Ohio Ave., Denver, washperk.com
Neon Cowboy
Part coffee shop, part cocktail bar, Neon Cowboy effortlessly shifts from morning hangout to an evening hangout spot perfect for winding down. Serving locally roasted coffee, pastries, and breakfast items like burritos and egg sandwiches in the morning. At night, the menu shifts to cocktails like spritzes and a tequila twist on an espresso martini. 300 S. Logan St., Denver, neoncowboydenver.com
Things To Do in Washington Park
The neighborhood’s main attraction is Washington Park, and there’s plenty of ways to enjoy this green space.
A fun idea for an outing with kids or a whimsical date? Rent pedal boats to take out on Smith Lake. You can choose from swans, pink flamingos, dragons, and other playful vessels for a leisurely cruise on the water.
Wide-open lawns and tree-lined paths at Wash Park also beckon. Go for a jog or rollerblading on the park’s 2.6-mile loop, play tennis, join in on a volleyball game, or unfurl your mat on the grass for a yoga session.
When you’re ready to venture beyond the park, Historic South Gaylord Street is always worth a stroll, with its charming collection of local shops, galleries and neighborhood eateries. Wash Park is also close to nearby South Pearl Street, a lively district in its own rite that hosts a Sunday Farmers market, galleries, and lots of independent restaurants. Be on the lookout for cute artist-designed fairy doors that adorn local businesses.
