This West Denver neighborhood has long been a favorite among locals and visitors thanks to gorgeous sunsets, outdoor recreation, and a great dining scene. When the weather is warm, many stroll the path around Sloan Lake, then while away the afternoon on shady restaurant patios.
Oh, yes. There’s much confusion around the name of this area which, from east to west, spans between Federal and Sheridan Boulevards. Its north edge is formed by 29th Avenue, and 17th Avenue creates the southernmost border. All this to surround a 177-acre lake, the largest in Denver.
Though the lake is the biggest in town, the neighborhood of Sloan Lake remains relatively small. Despite the size, the neighborhood is full of attractions including fantastic places to eat and drink. Not to mention, West Colfax Avenue and Edgewater are each just a couple of blocks away, so this guide includes a few of those area’s can’t-miss spots, too. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, here’s how to make the most of your experience.
Some Brief History on Sloan Lake
One cannot fully appreciate the neighborhood without a visit to its namesake: Sloan Lake. As the legend goes, the lake miraculously appeared overnight in 1861 when Thomas M. Sloan was digging a well and tapped into an aquifer on his farmland.
Quickly, the lake became a popular destination for boating, swimming, and ice skating. An amusement park called Manhattan Beach debuted in 1891, attracting even more tourism to the lakeshore. Around the same time, St. Anthony’s Central Hospital was established.
While many historic structures were short-lived, the hospital complex grew to nearly twenty acres and continued to operate until it relocated to Lakewood in 2012. The following year, the neighborhood began to see major changes as local real estate firm EnviroFinance Group initiated construction plans on Sloans.
Completed in 2020, this seven-block redevelopment extends from the southeast edge of Sloan’s Lake Park down to West Colfax Avenue. It’s become the heart of the neighborhood with over a thousand housing units, extensive office and retail space, and a number of great restaurants.
The Renovated Sloans Complex
Odell Brewhouse
Few brewery patios offer a better view than this taproom’s rooftop, which is less than a block from the southeast lakeshore. Plan to linger at this popular hub which serves homemade pizzas and 16 house beers on tap. Many are familiar classics, like the 90 Shilling Amber Ale and its signature American IPA. But with experimental brewing on-site, several rotating options are exclusive to this Odell outpost. 1625 Perry St., Denver, odellbrewing.com
The Patio at Sloans
Take an afternoon walk, then admire park views from one of the best dog-friendly patios in town. Outdoor tables fill up fast when the weather is nice, but worry not, even inside the rolled up garage doors let in a cool lake breeze. Enjoy the ambiance alongside craft cocktails and casual fare including shareable bar bites, taco plates, and hearty handhelds. Four-legged guests recommend the Bark Bowl loaded with ground beef and rice. 4032 W. 17th Ave., Denver, thepatioatsloans.com
Bowls by KO
Fuel up on fresh, whole foods at Bowls by KO, a health-conscious quick-serve spot in the Sloans development. Here, guests can build their own meals from a variety of flavorful sauces, sides, grains, and proteins. Alternatively, choose one of its signatures like the Buffalo Chicken Bowl combined with white rice, roasted sweet potatoes, garlic kale salad, and dairy-free ranch. Everything on the menu is soy- and gluten-free. 1611 N. Raleigh St., Denver, bowlsbyko.com
ChoLon
Savor a fusion of Southeast Asian and European flavors at this longstanding concept from chef Lon Symensma. Compared to the downtown location, this restaurant offers a smaller, dinner-only menu with a dim sum focus. Share the signature French Onion Soup Dumplings, Grilled Wagyu Beef Satays, and crispy Scallion Pancakes with hoisin butter. A sleek interior and lake-facing patio add to ChoLon’s appeal. 1691 N. Raleigh St., Denver, cholonconcepts.com
Gusto Italia
Having trained in restaurants around the world, chef Symensma is an expert at more than Asian cuisine. This neighboring sister concept to ChoLon takes inspiration from several Italian regions. Start with a glass of wine, the Rosemary-Thyme Focaccia, and a couple of antipasti selections, followed by a comforting bowl of housemade rigatoni with tomato-cream bolognese. Tiramisu is an obvious and delicious choice for dessert. 1691 N. Raleigh St., Denver, cholonconcepts.com
More Sloan Lake Restaurants
CôNu’s Corner
The city’s Asian restaurant scene continues to thrive with standout spots like CôNu’s Corner. Tucked in the back of a convenience store, this restaurant counter serves steaming bowls of phở and the best bánh mì sandwiches around. Crisp, airy baguettes are baked fresh in-house every morning, then stacked with tangy pickled veg and marinated proteins. Complete your lunch with an order of Vietnamese iced coffee. 4400 W. 29th Ave., Denver, conuscorner.com
Los Mesones Restaurant
While many Sloan Lake restaurants are relatively new, Los Mesones has been welcoming regulars on West Colfax for 20 years. Prices have remained reasonable through that time, despite the neighborhood’s changes. Here, $20 is well spent on chips and salsa, a generous chile relleno plate, and tres leches for dessert. The multi-page menu ensures there’s always something new to try on return visits. 3643 W. Colfax Ave., Denver, losmesonesdenver.com
Frank’s Bar-B-Que
Denver has lots of great barbecue joints, but not many have been around as long as Frank’s. Serving the city since 1980, this third-generation family business is loved for its Texas-style meats and sides. Order mesquite-smoked sausage and tender brisket by the pound, along with potato salad and pinto beans. There are a few tables inside, though plates travel well. Just be sure to grab a stack of napkins on your way out. 4700 W. Colfax Ave., Denver, franksbbq.com
Nearby in Edgewater
Konjo Ethiopian Food
Edgewater Public Market lies just a couple of blocks west of Sloan’s Lake, and inside, guests can order from 19 different concepts. Konjo is a top pick for its flavorful Ethiopian food. The fast-casual counter offers combo plates featuring berbere-spiced beef, lamb, and chicken, as well as several vegan sides like curried cabbage and a traditional red lentil stew. Soak up every aromatic bite with spongy rolls of injera. 5505 W. 20th Ave., Edgewater, konjoethiopianfood.com
Gladys Restaurant
After a recent renovation, Gladys boasts its own beautiful dining space inside Edgewater Public Market. Take a seat and order from a plant-based menu starring whole, seasonal foods. While vegetable-forward, dishes are comforting and layered with flavor. Favorites include the Charred Caesar, the Root Vegetable Reuben, and the Spring Carbonara tossed in a rich cashew cream sauce. Mocktails make up the drink list. 5505 W. 20th Ave., Edgewater, gladysrestaurant.com
Adelitas Cocina Y Cantina
Sample a variety of Michoacán dishes at Adelitas. Like its South Broadway outpost, this newer location in Edgewater serves all the house favorites: chicken tamales smothered in savory mole, bubbling molcajete bowls brimming with seafood, and carnitas tacos topped with pico de gallo, cotija cheese, and roasted tomatillo salsa. Get them for just $2 per on Taco Tuesdays, and don’t overlook the agave spirits list when visiting. 5495 W. 20th Ave., Edgewater, adelitasco.com
US Thai Cafe
For two decades, this compact neighborhood fixture has dished out some of the best Thai food around. But be warned: The upper end of the heat scale will have you sweating. Chili peppers, lemongrass, galangal, and other traditional herbs and spices come together to form bold curries, creamy bowls of tom kha, chewy drunken noodles, and more. For dessert, soothe your palate with an order of sweet mango sticky rice. 5228 W. 25th Ave., Edgewater, usthaicafeco.com
Bars and Breweries
Joyride Brewing Company
Perched on the northwest corner of Sloan’s Lake, the rooftop patio at Joyride offers prime views. Take in the scenery while sipping its signature Ice Cutter Kölsch or another option on tap. This 10-barrel brewhouse has something for every preference, plus a rotating selection of food trucks. Broncos and Chicago Bears football game screenings draw quite the crowd, as does its weekly Monday night Euchre tournament. 2501 Sheridan Blvd., Edgewater, joyridebrewing.com
Hogshead Brewery
Located on 29th Avenue, this neighborhood mainstay stands out among local breweries for its traditional British beers. Flagship options like its Lake Lightning pale ale, Gilpin Black Gold porter, and Chin Wag extra special bitter are cask-conditioned and served from hand pumps, which produce a creamy head and full flavor. Drink a couple down in Hogshead’s casual taproom or out on its covered patio. 4460 W. 29th Ave., Denver, hogshead54.com
Lot 46 Music Bar
When it comes to dinner and a show, few spots deliver like Lot 46. Arrive early to enjoy its patio, then claim a seat indoors to watch live musicians perform most nights of the week. A pool table, ping pong, and cornhole add to the entertainment. Head to the bar for classic and signature cocktails, local beer on draft, and wines by the glass. Neighboring sister restaurant Edgewater Inn Pizza serves slices starting at just $4. 5302 W. 25th Ave., Edgewater, lot46bar.com
The Cure
This delightful oddity in Edgewater admits that it’s not for everyone. But those who can get behind offbeat decor, a little edge, and delicious cocktails will love this satanic tiki bar. Not long after settling in, you’re likely to see at least one drink lit on fire. The rum-centric menu offers seasonal creations and house favorites, like the Passion of the Christ featuring coco cream, pineapple, citrus, and passion fruit whip. 5350 W. 25th Ave., Edgewater, thecureedgewater.com
Side Pony
Coffee meets cocktails at this West Colfax hub, which features a stylish interior and shaded side street patio. When the clock strikes five, head here for craft cocktails like its signature espresso martini or visit on Wednesday evenings for half-off bottles of wine. Alternatively, guests can start their day at Side Pony, which also serves espresso beverages and protein shakes, as well as quick, healthy breakfast bites. Bonus, the cups are currently sporting stickers of adorable dogs you can adopt. 4635 W. Colfax Ave., Denver, sideponydenver.com
Coffee Shops and Dessert Spots
Moonflower Coffee
With a line sprawling out onto the patio most mornings, it’s no secret that Moonflower Coffee is a local staple. Though often bustling, plush seating and vintage decor give the space a cozy feel. Weekly community events like a crochet club and writing workshop also draw in regulars, as does the menu. Order a seasonal latte made with espresso or ceremonial-grade matcha, plus a pastry from Black Box Bakery. 4200 W. Colfax Ave., Denver, moonflowercoffee.co
Black Box Bakery
Along with wholesaling to local businesses, this bakery has a walk-up counter inside Edgewater Public Market and newly-opened cafe. Breads and traditional goods appear next to unique laminated creations, like the popular strawberry milk croissant and flaky cubes loaded with tiramisu cream, blackberry yuzu filling, and other tasty flavors. 5505 W. 20th Ave., Edgewater; and 5901 W. 25th Ave., Edgewater, blackboxbakery.com
Little Man Ice Cream Factory
Last but certainly not least, there’s one of the city’s favorite ice cream shops: Little Man. This homegrown chain has 10 locations across the Front Range, but none compare to this factory on West Colfax. Peer into the active production kitchen and sample its fresh creations including sundaes, shakes, and creamy scoops. Get the flight to sample up to five flavors, like Banana Pudding and Salted Oreo. Plus, there’s an epic indoor slide, perfect for kid zoomies and adults who want a cheap thrill. 4411 W. Colfax Ave., Denver, littlemanicecreamfactory.com
Things to Do in Sloan Lake
Before or after you dine, plan to enjoy Sloan Lake, the second-largest park in the city. Its big body of water is open to fishing, paddle boarding, and kayaking, and there’s a 2.6-mile paved path surrounding the shore. Walk your dog, go for a jog, or bike your way around the lake. Tennis courts, playgrounds, and grassy picnic areas are dotted throughout its 260 acres.
For even more exercise, visit one of the area’s many workout studios. Take a HIIT class at Duality or head to Row House, Yoga Six, and Sundrop Pilates. The latter three are right outside Edgewater Public Market which, in addition to dining, features several local boutiques selling apparel, books, gifts, and other great finds.
Looking for even more entertainment? Catch the latest box office hit at Alamo Drafthouse, a modern cinema at Sloans that serves booze, bottomless popcorn, and casual pub fare. Or drive less than two miles up West Colfax Avenue to experience the joy and pageantry of Casa Bonita in Lakewood.
