Combining artsy and industrial with an elevated restaurant scene isn’t easy, but the RiNo neighborhood (short for River North Art District) is Denver’s creative core. Here old warehouses now hum with coffee roasters, Michelin-recognized restaurants, bars, and charming cafes.
Founded as an arts district in 2005, the one-mile stretch has transformed from a gritty line of factories and rail yards and into a vibrant hub of murals, music, and makers. By day, wander through colorful alleyways, grab a wood-fired pizza or local beer, and browse galleries and design-forward boutiques. You may even catch an artist painting a new large-scale mural right on the street.
At night, the district transforms into a culinary playground with inventive restaurants, craft cocktails, live music, and a handful of very hip hotels, making it easy to linger well past sundown. While the Larimer Street portion of the neighborhood is distinctly walkable, some of RiNo’s greatest hits are best driven to, especially if you plan to go from the north end to the south end, or across the tracks.
No matter which way you go, the area pops with options. That said, here are some of our top choices for a day and night of food, visual pleasures, and comfort in the RiNo Arts District.
Coffee and Bakeries
Whether you’re going for breakfast, to work on your laptop, or meeting up with a friend, there’s nothing like a fresh cup of coffee and tasty pastry. In RiNo bakeries reign, and there’s plenty of options.
Reunion Bread
Tucked into a small brick side room inside The Source, Reunion Bread is a cult favorite for good reason. The kitchen isn’t gleaming, it’s flour-dusted, compact, and alive with motion as a small but mighty team turns out loaves and pastries that are nothing short of extraordinary. A prep list taped to the wall reads “feed mother,” a nod to the bakery’s naturally leavened, yeast-free sourdough.
Led by chef Ismael de Sousa, born in Madeira and raised in Venezuela, this unassuming bakery consistently delivers some of the best bites in the city. The pastéis de nata emerge from the oven every 30 minutes, a flaky, caramelized, and impossibly creamy delight. At the same time, the sticky, caramel-glazed golfeados are worth a detour on their own. Order a still-warm pastry and grab a loaf before the bakery sells out. Reunion hums with quiet brilliance, proof that perfection doesn’t need polish. 3350 Brighton Blvd. #140, Denver, reunionbread.square.site
Stowaway Kitchen
The light-filled space, complete with whitewashed walls, aged wood, and rotating local art, sets the tone for a menu that blends global inspiration with seasonal Colorado ingredients. Expect beautifully composed dishes with a Japanese influence, from the karaage chicken sandwich to a comforting donburi bowl, alongside sustainably-raised salmon and locally sourced stonefruit.
Pair Stowaway’s excellent matcha with the plum cardamom waffle, made with Einkhorn sourdough, and take in the welcoming energy and quietly stunning food presentation. Come early for a sunlit table and a slow brunch that’s worth lingering over. 2528 Walnut St., Denver, stowawaydenver.com
Improper City
As the name implies, Improper City is colorful, quirky, and impossible to define. Part coffee bar, part taproom, and part community hub, it’s the kind of place that can take you from a morning meeting to a late-night trivia game without missing a beat. The graffiti-adjacent patio is dog-friendly, filled with firepits, communal tables, and a rotating lineup of food trucks, which gets listed on the venue’s calendar and includes everything from arepas to Mexican sushi fusion.
Inside, the espresso bar runs weekdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. with breakfast burritos, bagels, and strong Wi-Fi for co-working. Whether you’re posting up with your laptop or catching a DJ set under the string lights, Improper City makes hanging out in RiNo feel easy. 3201 Walnut St. #107, Denver, impropercity.com
Crema Coffee House
A RiNo classic since 2009, Crema Coffee House feels equal parts creative studio and neighborhood hangout. Take in the murals and exposed brick along the walls as plants spill from corners and local artwork fills the space with creative inspiration. It’s casual, friendly, and always buzzing, with a small patio, communal tables, and that unmistakable hum of a true coffeehouse.
Everything on the menu is made in-house, from the killer breakfast burrito (order early before it sells out) to the daily quiche served warm with a bright mixed green salad. On weekends, an ever-changing breakfast sandwich keeps regulars guessing, while rotating draft kombucha, seasonal specials, and house-made syrups round out the offerings. 2862 Larimer St., Denver, cremacoffeehouse.net
Port Side
Tucked along the Larimer corridor, Port Side blends coffeehouse ease with all-day café energy. The counter-service spot serves breakfast and lunch favorites with care, think avocado toast, the Duke sandwich, and a green chili smothered burrito that’s beloved and a little spicy. Weekend specials like green chili grits and buttermilk biscuits make Sundays worth visiting.
Built into an old shipping container, the space leans industrial modern, with warm wood accents. It’s the kind of place where the coffee’s strong, the cocktails are thoughtful, and the hospitality shines. 2500 Larimer St. #103, Denver, portsidedenver.com
Lunch and Daytime Bites
Grab a quick lunch or book a longer midday meal in one of Denver’s hottest neighborhoods. With so many options, it may quickly become your favorite destination.
Smōk BBQ
Also inside The Source on the market hall side, Smōk BBQ brings Kansas City–style barbecue to RiNo. Chef Bill Espiricueta, raised in Austin and formerly of Nobu, traveled across the country to hone his hybrid approach to smoked meats and sides. The Nashville hot chicken gets plenty of buzz, but the brisket, burnt ends, and smoked jalapeño cheddar sausage are just as worthy of attention.
Order smoked meats by the pound and pair it with traditional sides like pit beans, fried okra, and creamed corn. Smōk also serves up tacos, quesadillas, and share platters made for group grazing. With its Michelin recommendation and laid-back energy, Smōk proves that elevated technique and backyard comfort can coexist beautifully. 3330 Brighton Blvd. #202, Denver, denversmok.com
Redeemer Pizza
With its brick walls, red bench seating, and covered patio, Redeemer Pizza delivers New York–style nostalgia with a Denver twist. The naturally leavened, high-hydration dough ferments for at least 72 hours, producing light, crispy slices that won’t weigh you down. Order by the slice or go for a full pie and a side of dilly ranch or chili honey for dipping. Don’t miss the garlic knots and check out the weekly pizza and sandwich specials featuring house-made sausage from the restaurant’s sister spot down the street, Dio Mio.
For true NY-meets-Denver flair, find the neon pizza sign in the alley, open the red door, and grab a slice served on a paper plate. Pair it all with a Negroni or a glass of natural wine, and you’ll see why this spot hits all the right notes day or night. 2705 Larimer St., Denver, redeemerpizza.com
Denver Central Market
Housed in the historic H.H. Tammen building, a beautifully revamped 1928 brick warehouse, Denver Central Market is a culinary playground for locals and visitors alike. The airy space features soaring ceilings, exposed beams, and a full bar, and brings together 11 standout vendors under one roof.
Grab a pastry from Izzio, a donburi rice bowl from Lunch Boxx, or hand rolls from Tammen’s Fish Market. Call Your Mother’s latkes and Green Seed’s fresh salads and smoothies round out the mix, alongside coffee from Crema and pizzas from Vero. Whether you’re nibbling your way through the stalls or grabbing a seat to linger, it’s the perfect stop between gallery visits and shopping in RiNo. 2669 Larimer St., Denver, denvercentralmarket.com
Rye Society
A true New York–style deli tucked into RiNo, Rye Society brings East Coast nostalgia to Denver’s dining scene. Family-owned and rooted in generations of Jewish deli tradition, it serves up classics including pastrami on rye, lox and bagels, and matzo ball soup, along with thoughtful vegan options like a portobello Reuben with housemade vegan Russian dressing.
Breakfast lovers should go for the Rye Egg Sandwich, layered with pastrami, Swiss, and Russian dressing on a bagel or brioche. It’s messy, satisfying, and dangerously habit-forming. Set in a brick corner building with a long, narrow interior and a portrait of Larry David presiding over diners, the space feels delightfully no-frills. On warm days, grab a seat at the picnic tables out front and let the taste of pastrami and rye take you straight to NYC’s Lower East Side. 3090 Larimer St., Denver, ryesociety.com
Mister Oso
Vibrant, colorful, and full of tropical energy, Mister Oso offers a mini escape from the bustle of RiNo. The bright, plant-filled space sets the mood for a playful menu that’s both flavorful and fun. For example, birria tacos with consommé, flaky empanadas, and inventive daily specials.
The cocktail program leans agave-forward, with standouts like the 400 Petals mezcal drink, while the house-made agua frescas and zero-proof cocktails ensure everyone can join the party. Happy hour is a must too, so grab a seat by the window and let the jungle vibes roll in. 3163 Larimer St., Denver, misterosodenver.com
Odie B’s
On the northern edge of RiNo, Odie B’s brings serious flavor and bodega-style attitude to the lunch scene. The counter-service spot is lively and a little rowdy, in the best way. With graffiti art, loud music, and smatterings of pop-culture memorabilia, the space feels instantly familiar.
On the menu try crowd-favorites like the Chicken Biscuit or the Chopped Cheese, which also comes in a vegan version. In fact, Odie B’s has a full plant-based menu available for anyone interested. Also expect rotating pickles, house-made horchata, and a Green Chile Bloody Mary worth lingering over. 1350 40th St. Suite 180, Denver, odie-bs.com
The Walnut Room
A longtime RiNo staple, for 20 years The Walnut Room has kept things easy and welcoming with pizza, wings, and plenty of ways to unwind. Tee off at the golf simulator in The Back 9, play darts, or grab a seat on the dog-friendly patio warmed by heat lamps.
The menu covers all the cravings including build-your-own or specialty pizzas, sandwiches, wraps, and hearty salads, plus local beer and cocktails from the full bar. Lunch specials and themed nights like Mini Dog Mondays keep it fun and affordable, and even pups get their own house-made bowl featuring brown rice, veggies, beef broth, and your choice of chicken or ground beef. Pull into the free parking lot and settle into one of RiNo’s most easygoing hangouts. 3131 Walnut St., Denver, thewalnutroom.com
Stay For Dinner In RiNo
The nightlife in RiNo sparkles just as much as the daytime activities. From high-end, innovative restaurants to cozy Italian joints with a great wine list to a hip steakhouse, find your groove and stay in the neighborhood awhile.
BearLeek
Opened in summer 2025 by chefs Harrison Porter and Rema Maaliki, with cocktails by Carlos Meza, BearLeek brings playful sophistication to RiNo’s dining scene. The industrial space glows under blue neon and a soft red hue, hip-hop pulsing as the open kitchen hums with quiet confidence. The menu thrives on contrasts, think creamy-meets-spicy and rich-meets-bright in standout plates like imported burrata with chili crunch and sesame lavash, hamachi crudo in almond-grape aji blanco with pickled peaches, and wagyu tartare topped with foamy coconut leche de oso.
The El Oso cocktail is dangerously drinkable, while the Levant rewards the adventurous. Linger in the glow and let the inventive comfort carry you somewhere new. Stop by on a Saturday and you might catch the chefs wearing glitter, a tongue-in-cheek ritual honoring their hard-won exhaustion. Can’t get a reservation? Come for all-day happy hour Mondays or 4:30 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. 2611 Walnut St., Denver, bearleek.com
Beckon
Michelin-starred Beckon stands as one of Denver’s most celebrated restaurants, and offers a serene counterpoint to RiNo’s funky, industrial energy. Set in a beautifully restored bungalow on Larimer Street, it offers an ethereal 12-course tasting menu that changes with the seasons, often featuring ingredients from the restaurant’s own small farm. Every plate is a study in precision and presentation, with staff who guide guests through each course, thoughtfully explaining the ingredients and inspiration behind every dish.
The minimalist, Scandinavian-inspired space mirrors the food’s quiet elegance as refined, balanced, and deeply intentional. For a more relaxed experience, chef Duncan Holmes’ neighboring concept Major Tom next door offers a casual yet equally considerate take on modern dining. 2843 Larimer St., Denver, beckon-denver.com
Safta
Found inside The Source Hotel, Safta brings modern Israeli flavors to Denver with wood-fired pita, bright spreads, and elegant mezze. Owned by two-time James Beard Award–winning chef Alon Shaya, the restaurant has earned multiple accolades, including a spot on the Michelin Guide’s 2025 Recommended Restaurants list for Colorado.
The experience begins at the coffee stand in front, then unfolds past the bar into a bright, plant-filled dining room lined with floor-to-ceiling windows and light wood accents. Now offering lunch, along with dinner and a beloved Israeli brunch buffet on weekends, Safta highlights locally sourced ingredients, Colorado spirits, and organic wines. Don’t miss the Brussels sprout hummus, harissa chicken, whipped feta, or fattoush salad. These dishes pair beautifully with a crisp Albariño and capture Safta’s balance of comfort and vibrancy. 3330 Brighton Blvd. #201, Denver, eatwithsafta.com
The Greenwich
Tucked into the first floor of a brick building on Larimer Street, The Greenwich feels like an Italian dinner party where you don’t have to do the dishes. Inspired by the creative parallels between New York’s Greenwich Village and Denver’s RiNo District, it’s a place where approachable meets elevated. For example, homestyle meatballs, sourdough-crusted pizzas, and handmade pastas served alongside Italian-inspired cocktails and Old World wines.
Chef Luke Miller delivers a seasonal menu with dishes that shift alongside Colorado’s harvests. Don’t miss the housemade stracciatella, ricotta dumplings, or mushroom pizza, and if you’re feeling nostalgic, start with the fried mozzarella. The amaro list is exceptional, from Amaro Nonino to Braulio, and if you love limoncello, the housemade tipples come in lemon, lime, and orange. 3258 Larimer St., Denver, thegreenwichdenver.com
Super Mega Bien
Located inside The Ramble Hotel, Super Mega Bien reimagines Latin American dining with a playful, pan-Latin dim sum–style service where small plates roll straight from the kitchen on roving carts. A collaboration between chefs Dana Rodriguez and Victor Mena, the restaurant channels a colorful, high-energy spirit with walls lined in posters of Mexican wrestlers and musicians.
The menu is bold and vibrant, with favorites like Cholula BBQ Pork Wings, Ropa Vieja, and Patatas Bravas, alongside fresh new additions such as Ceviche al Aji Chile, Ensalada de Calabaza, and Croquetas de Queso. Drinks are just as inventive. Order the Chicha Morada or try new creations like the Abejas de Ruibarbo (reposado tequila, lemon, honey, and rhubarb bitters) and Higo de Invierno (Mexican whiskey, overproof rum, fig, and allspice dram). 1701 25th St., Denver, supermegabien.com
Fish N Beer
A great oyster bar vibe anchors Fish N Beer, where Denver gets a taste of both coasts without leaving RiNo. The focus is on sustainably sourced seafood, with a rotating lineup of bold, briny, and mineral-rich East Coast oysters, and sweet, creamy, and delicately textured West Coast oysters.
The menu moves from raw to wood-fired, featuring grilled oysters, smoked fish dip, seafood tacos, peel-and-eat shrimp, and rotating seafood specials. Behind the bar, you’ll find a lineup of local beers and house cocktails, including a shareable rum fishbowl for four. With its lively happy hour, open kitchen, and easygoing staff, get comfortable and grab a bar seat, watch the shuckers in action, and linger over a key lime pie piled high with toasted meringue. 3510 Larimer St., Denver, fishnbeerdenver.com
Hop Alley
Named after Denver’s original 19th-century Chinatown, chef Tommy Lee’s Hop Alley channels the pulse of modern Chinese dining through a Sichuan, Cantonese, and Singaporean lens. Dark wood walls, ambient lighting, and splashes of black paint set the tone for a moody, high-energy space soundtracked by hip-hop and filled with the scent of spice and smoke.
Dishes are flavorful and shareable without being massive, drawing inspiration from across the Chinese diaspora. Think duck rolls wrapped in scallion pancakes, Sichuan fish clay pot, and gai lan charred over an open flame. The wine list leans toward crisp whites, the cocktails are creative and balanced, and the staff is warm and attentive. For something special, reserve the Chef’s Counter, a six-seat tasting bar with a nine-course prix fixe that deviates from the main dining room menu. 3500 Larimer St., Denver, hopalleydenver.com
Carne RiNo
From chef Dana “Loca” Rodriguez, the creative force behind Work & Class, Super Mega Bien, and the reimaged Casa Bonita, comes Carne RiNo. The global steakhouse brings the neighborhood a certain swagger and a touch of Saturday Night Fever energy. The two-story space leans retro and glamorous, with velvet, mirrors, and just the right amount of decadence, without taking itself too seriously.
The menu celebrates global cuts of meat, from Argentine Bife de Chorizo and Brazilian Picanha with chimichurri to the dramatic 32-ounce Tomahawk and playful Can Can Pork, al pastor–style with shaved pineapple, salsa verde, and fresh tortillas. Don’t miss the tableside martini, which comes with your choice of Tito’s vodka or Tanqueray gin, poured and garnished with house fixins right at your table. It’s classic, bold, and just a little theatrical, much like Carne itself. 2601 Larimer St., Denver, carnerino.com
Dio Mio
At Dio Mio diners get high-quality eats in a fast-casual setting that feels both relaxed and refined. This counter-service pasta spot turns out handmade noodles and creative share plates into an everyday indulgence. The classic spaghetti and meatballs is a crowd favorite, but rotating seasonal dishes keep things exciting.
A small but thoughtful wine list includes a few bottles in every category, including orange, still a rarity in Colorado. A classic Aperol Spritz also makes for a perfect pre-pasta sip. A glass garage door opens wide in warmer months and filters soft light inside when it’s cool, creating a space that feels effortlessly inviting and comfortable. Plus, it has a killer happy hour. 3264 Larimer St., Denver, diomiopasta.com
Temaki Den
Inside The Source, chef Kenta Kamo’s Temaki Den delivers some of the best sushi around, at least numerous chefs have said so. The Michelin-recommended restaurant embodies kodawari, Japan’s philosophy of relentless pursuit of excellence. Dishes emerge from four specialized kitchens in perfect rhythm, featuring the highest-quality ingredients including California short-grain rice, nori from Japan’s Ariake Sea, and a globally sourced selection of neta, or the rice toppings that range from pristine seafood to wagyu and seasonal vegetables. Temaki-zushi (hand rolls) arrive crisp and cylindrical, while flame-seared Salmon Oshizushi melts into the rice for a near-transcendent finish.
A wide sake selection, Japanese whiskey flights, and globally inspired cocktails make the perfect pairing, especially with the celebrated omakase. With tall ceilings, open rafters, and a minimalist glow, Temaki Den offers a sushi experience unlike any other place in Denver. Reservations recommended. 3350 Brighton Blvd., Denver, temakiden.com
Bars & Cocktail Spots
Happy hour, dinner, post dinner, brunch, and meetups, no matter what the occasion, there’s plenty of places to perch in RiNo. Whether grabbing a quick drink or settling in, these bars offer something unique for all imbibers.
Death & Co Denver
An offshoot of New York’s famed cocktail institution, Death & Co Denver brings polished sophistication to the lobby of The Ramble Hotel. The space feels luxurious yet inviting, with soaring ceilings, elegant chandeliers, dim lighting, and plush seating that set the tone for a refined evening. Guests can settle into the main bar, the intimate Suite 6A just off the lobby, or head upstairs to The Garden, a bright and playful rooftop bar perfect for afternoon cocktails.
The extensive spirits list and expertly crafted drinks are organized by personality, from Light & Playful to Bright & Confident to Elegant & Timeless. Service is consistently exceptional, and every detail feels intentional, from the glassware to the garnish. Equal parts cocktail laboratory and lounge, Death & Co is where Denverites drink in style. 1280 25th St., Denver, deathandcompany.com
Honey Elixir Bar
Tucked behind Denver Central Market and surrounded by colorful alleyway murals, Honey Elixir Bar is a cozy, witchy retreat where every drink feels a little bit like a spell. The intimate space glows with velvet sofas, warm light, and herbal aromas, offering a menu that blurs the line between bar and apothecary. Each house-made elixir is crafted with raw honey for its medicinal properties, and the drinks, both zero-proof tonics and botanical cocktails, are built around intention and connection.
Try the Golden Hour, made with mezcal, tequila, ginger, orange, and serrano honey, or sip on house cacao or the Pickled Pepper for something unexpected. The Ceremonious menu features Jun, an ancient green tea and honey brew infused with medicinal herbs and superfoods that’s lightly effervescent and around 3% to 4% ABV. Equal parts magical and mindful, Honey Elixir Bar is where Denver goes to drink with purpose. 2636 Walnut St., Denver, honeyelixirbar.com
Corsica Wine Bar
Housed in a lofty brick space with high ceilings, globe lighting, and dim, flattering ambiance, Corsica Wine Bar brings European sophistication to RiNo. From the team behind Barcelona Wine Bar, it offers a sense of global escapism through a French- and Italian-influenced small-plate menu and an award-winning wine list that spans France, Italy, Spain, Slovenia, Portugal, Greece, and Germany.
Expect a strong lineup of skin-contact wines, many of them organic, biodynamic, or low-sulfite, plus an impressive collection of ports and sherries. Dishes like the broccoli Caesar, tuna carpaccio, and stuffed dates pair beautifully with the extensive wine and European-inspired cocktail list. Elegant yet approachable, Corsica is a warm, moody space where conversation flows easily and the night lingers. The affogato and amaretti cookies add the perfect sweet ending to a very good evening. 2801 Walnut St. Suite 100, Denver, corsicawinebar.com
Sorry Gorgeous
Perched atop the NOVEL RiNo building on the north end of the neighborhood, Sorry Gorgeous is a sleek rooftop cocktail bar that blends modern design with a touch of glam. The space feels textural and inviting with soft lighting, plush seating, and polished finishes set against stunning panoramic views of the Denver skyline.
The cocktail list delivers inventive twists on the classics, like the Queen B, topped with egg white and bee pollen, and the Journeyman, a refreshing mix of blanco tequila, green tea, lemongrass, pineapple, and Thai basil. Light bar bites accompany the drinks, making it the perfect spot to dress up a little, sip something elegant, and watch the city glow. 3655 Brighton Blvd., Denver, sorrygorgeousrino.com
Mockingbird
Set along walkable Larimer Street, Mockingbird encompasses a bar, art installation, and late-night hideaway. The space is a feast for the senses, with books hanging open from the ceiling and walls, velvet drapery forming cozy nooks, and a vibrant entryway and dance area that feels part nightclub, part dreamscape.
There’s no menu here, you simply order what you’d like at the bar and let the atmosphere do the rest. With its layered textures, shifting moods, and sense of discovery, Mockingbird is more about the vibe than the pour, a magical, immersive escape tucked into the heart of RiNo. 3401 Larimer St., Denver, mockingbirdrino.com
Breweries, Wineries, and More
Our Mutual Friend Brewing (OMF)
A RiNo original turning 13 this December, Our Mutual Friend Brewing has grown from a homebrew passion project into one of Denver’s most beloved neighborhood breweries. Co-owner and head brewer Jan Chodkowski brings creativity and heart to every pour, with a lineup that balances approachability and experimentation.
The Time’s Arrow West Coast IPA, named after a Star Trek: The Next Generation episode, earned a silver medal at the Great American Beer Festival, while the crisp, reliable Fizz Pilsner remains a local go-to. The taproom itself radiates good vibes with colorful and quirky memorabilia and sci-fi nods. Grab a pint, pair it with barbecue from Pit Fiend next door, and enjoy one of RiNo’s most genuine, community-rooted spots for great beer and better company. 2810 Larimer St., Denver, omfbeer.com
Black Shirt Brewing Co.
At the north end of RiNo, Black Shirt Brewing Co. keeps things simple, and that’s exactly what makes it great. Founded in 1999 and opened to the public in 2012, the brewery remains a locals’ favorite for house-brewed beers, seltzers, and creative, wood-fired pizzas.
Now owned by longtime homebrewers Karen and Jimmy Dodson, BSB stays true to its roots with a renegade attitude and strong sense of community. Grab a seat in the back beer garden, where there’s often live music on the handmade stage, and pair the award-winning Space Jockey IPA with the War Pig pizza, a spicy-sweet combo loaded with pepperoni, prosciutto, bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, and a chipotle-maple glaze. 3719 Walnut St., Denver, blackshirtbrewingco.com
Bigsby’s Folly Craft Winery & Cellar Door
Nestled beside the railroad tracks on the north end of RiNo, Bigsby’s Folly is a full-production urban winery that pairs industrial character with easy elegance. The large brick building is surrounded by greenery and inside, the space opens into a warm, inviting tasting room that feels both polished and approachable.
Wines are made on-site using grapes sourced from top vineyards across the West. Try the signature wine and food pairing, which features five current-release wines served with sweet and savory bites for $39 per person. Or, settle in with cheese and charcuterie boards, rotating flatbreads, or a cocktail. With weekend brunch, a four-course prix fixe dinner with pairings, and plenty of brick-and-vine charm, Bigsby’s Folly delivers a touch of wine country in the heart of RiNo. 3563 Wazee St,, Denver, bigsbysfolly.com
The Block Distilling Co.
Founded by Kraig and Michelle Weaver and Kraig’s brother Kameron Weaver, The Block Distilling Co. began with a humble batch of moonshine and has grown into one of RiNo’s most inventive distilleries. Every spirit and liqueur is crafted in-house, from vodka and whiskey to herbal amari and seasonal infusions, using grains grown without chemical sprays and nourished by natural manure and rotating cover crops.
The cocktail menu changes seasonally, featuring eight to ten inventive drinks alongside a few house staples. This season, try the Grasshopper, a creation by bartender Danny Woods, which reimagines the classic with matcha crème de menthe, housemade herbal amaro, and dark chocolate chartreuse bitters. With its elevated tasting-room vibe and perfect blend of science, creativity, and care, The Block is where innovation meets craftsmanship, one pour at a time. 2990 Larimer St., Denver, theblockdistillingco.com
Colorado Sake Co.
Home to the Denver Comedy Lounge, Colorado Sake Co. is the state’s only sake brewery. Here the team crafts fresh, small-batch Junmai Ginjo sake, and offers more than a dozen sakes on tap. Settle in beneath the origami-covered ceiling and colorful murals, and order a sake flight alongside inventive izakaya dishes like spicy tuna tacos, duck confit buns, or okonomi fries.
True to izakaya culture, the vibe is casual, communal, and more about good company and conversation than formality. On weekends come for dim sum brunch, where crowd favorites include duck bao buns, pork shumai, and eggplant sesame. The atmosphere is warm and playful, fueled by laughter, flowing sake, and a welcoming crowd that makes you want to come back again and again. 3559 Larimer St., Denver, coloradosakeco.com
Art & Galleries
On the first Friday of each month, the district comes alive for RiNo’s signature art walk, when studios and galleries open their doors late into the night. And this fall, the new Art RiNo Festival adds even more energy, with live music, installations, and community art events that fill the streets. But even when art isn’t directly celebrated it’s found all around the neighborhood.
RiNo Art District Murals
What began in 2021 as a creative experiment has transformed into an ever-evolving open-air gallery. With more than 200 large-scale murals scattered throughout the RiNo Art District, and new works appearing all the time, the neighborhood itself has become a canvas. Follow the mural map as you wander between studios, breweries, and some of Denver’s most creative restaurants and bars.
RiNo ArtPark
Anchoring the north end of the district, the RiNo ArtPark is where creativity and community meet. The campus blends a small, maintained green space, public art, and gallery spaces with the Bob Ragland Branch of the Denver Public Library, a community arts library that features a weekend-only, volunteer-run, zine collection.
Here you’ll find Alto Gallery, RedLine’s satellite studios, and Truss House, a performance venue for everything from local bands to open-air workshops. Once a long-time vision for the neighborhood, the project now thrives as a living hub for collaboration and connection. Pick up a pastry and coffee from nearby Reunion Bread in The Source, and sit in the sunshine while taking in public art and local views. 1900 35th St., Denver, rinoartdistrict.org
RedLine Contemporary Art Center
On the southern edge of RiNo, near where the district meets historic Five Points, RedLine is a nonprofit art center known for pushing boundaries and building community. Exhibitions here blur the line between gallery and gathering space, spotlighting artists who engage directly with issues of equity and social justice.
The result is a rotating mix of thought-provoking shows, open studios, and events that make art feel alive and relevant. Step inside for a $5 donation, or plan your visit around one of the lively openings or community nights to see Denver’s creative pulse in action. Note: RedLine is currently closed through November 14 for installation prep, so make sure to check the hours before you go. 2350 Arapahoe St., Denver, redlineart.org
Alto Gallery
Now located within RiNo ArtPark, Alto Gallery brings fresh energy to Denver’s creative scene. After stints in the Berkeley neighborhood and the historic Evans School in the Golden Triangle, the gallery has found its home alongside RedLine’s satellite studio to create a shared space where artists, educators, and the public intersect. Exhibitions rotate frequently, spanning ceramics, mixed media, and contemporary painting, with regular workshops and events that invite visitors to engage directly with the work.
“Alto” means “high” in Spanish, and in this case is a nod to both the Mile High City and the artistic heights the gallery aims to reach. Open every day except Sunday and Monday, it’s an easy stop to explore what’s new, meet the artists, and see how this evolving space continues to elevate Denver’s art conversation.1900 35th St. Suite B, Denver, altogallery.com
Music and Performance Venues
Like any good arts area, the performing arts are part of it. From live jazz in a sexy restaurant to punk rock thumping in a basement dive, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club
Housed in a repurposed RiNo warehouse with soaring wood ceilings and warm acoustics, Nocturne reimagines the 1940s jazz supper club for a new generation. Since opening in 2015, it’s become a cornerstone of Denver’s live music scene where thoughtful dishes clang along with world-class jazz. Most reservations are pre-paid “dinner and a show” experiences featuring a three-course seasonal menu and the night’s artist fee, though limited bar seating is available with an à la carte menu. Expect plates that surprise the palate the way jazz surprises the spirit, plus award-winning cocktails, zero-proof creations, and natural wines that keep the rhythm flowing six nights a week. 1330 27th St., Denver, nocturnejazz.com
Number Thirty Eight
Spanning more than 20,000 square feet, Number Thirty Eight is part beer hall, part music venue, and all high energy. The sprawling indoor-outdoor space features over 100 taps pouring local craft beer, cocktails, and zero-proof options, plus a menu of regional handhelds and hearty bowls. Try the bison rib mac and cheese paired with a local IPA.
Free entertainment happens nightly with college football and game screenings in season and live music or DJs through the summer. There’s also a sand volleyball court, plenty of games, and one of RiNo’s largest patios that’s dog-friendly and steps from the ArtPark. Come for the sunshine, stay for the vibe. 3560 Chestnut Pl., Denver, nmbr38.com
Two Moons Music Hall
Opened in April 2024, Two Moons Music Hall brings a design-forward touch to Larimer Street’s nightlife. Created by the team at Pearl Street Hospitality, the space balances warmth and modern polish. Think soft lighting, textured materials, and a bar program that treats zero-proof cocktails with the same care as its craft creations. Live music fills the room six nights a week, and each evening is dedicated to a different genre from indie to jazz to funk. Check the calendar, find your night, and settle in for one of RiNo’s most thoughtfully designed listening experiences. 2944 Larimer St., Denver, twomoonsmusic.com
Where to Stay
Whether you’re visiting Denver and want to hole up in RiNo, or want an exciting staycation, there’s a plethora of ways to stay. Some even have a food and art culture all their own.
The Ramble Hotel
Located on the southern edge of RiNo, The Ramble Hotel is a 50-room boutique property that channels the spirit of the French salons of Rambouillet while embracing a distinctly Denver sense of style. The elegant escape blends modern construction with vintage charm, featuring wide-plank hickory floors, antique Persian rugs, and large windows that fill the dark, moody rooms with light.
Guests praise the plush beds, thoughtful design, and in-room touches like a French press for morning coffee, room service, and cocktails delivered after 7 p.m. Stay at The Ramble and you won’t have to go far for a world-class meal since the hotel is home to two of Denver’s aforementioned culinary standouts, Death & Co. and Super Mega Bien. Despite its proximity to RiNo’s lively nightlife, double-insulated walls and soundproof glass ensure a quiet night’s rest. Steps from the district’s best dining, art, and culture, The Ramble feels like your own polished pied-à-terre in the heart of the city. 1280 25th St., Denver, theramblehotel.com
Catbird Hotel
Modern, playful, and designed for comfort, Catbird Hotel redefines what an extended stay can feel like. Located on the northern edge of RiNo, the property combines boutique style with thoughtful amenities including self check-in, free daily breakfast, and a rooftop bar with games, events, and two hot tubs for guests. The hotel’s Playroom offers free rentals of Vespa scooters, Polaroid cameras, ukuleles, record players, vinyl, and outdoor gear, plus kitchen tools like a Vitamix, waffle maker, or air fryer for when you want to cook.
Rooms are compact but smartly designed, with larger suites available for longer stays. There are laundry facilities, water stations on every floor, and even dedicated Zoom rooms for remote work. Dog- and family-friendly, Catbird balances cozy with hip and affordable with high-design. 3770 Walnut St., Denver, catbirdhotel.com
