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Leven Deli Co.

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Holiday Hotspots for Foodies

Discover Festive Flavors and Hidden Gems This Holiday Season

As the days shorten and the air cools, it’s the perfect time to dive into Colorado’s holiday food and drink scene. I’m Fiona Quiban, also known as, Bonappetitmysweet, on Instagram and TikTok, here to guide you to the top holiday dining spots. From warm, family-style restaurants to festive pop-up bars and decadent desserts, let’s explore the must-visit places to celebrate this season!

Restaurants

Nothing beats sharing a warm meal with loved ones during the holidays. These restaurants around Denver offer hearty dishes and comforting flavors perfect for the season.

Tasty Pot: For Taiwanese-style hotpot, Tasty Pot in Parker is a must-try. Their Kimchi Dumpling Hot Soup is a standout, packed with pork, kimchi, dumplings, rice cakes, shrimp, clams, and more—a rich, satisfying choice on a chilly evening.

Old Town Hot Pot: For a Chinese-style hot pot experience, head to Old Town Hot Pot in Aurora. This all-you-can-eat spot lets you customize with a variety of broths, including my favorite, the spicy kimchi, along with meats, seafood, and veggies.

Hong Kong Station: Craving something different? Try Hong Kong Station’s Hong Kong Style French Toast, filled with peanut butter and toasted to golden perfection. It’s a sweet, satisfying treat worth indulging in.

MAKFam: This spot brings tradition-inspired Chinese comfort food to Denver with a creative twist. Their málà wings, wonton soup and beef stir-fried noodles are packed with flavor, thanks to the signature málà seasoning.

Glo Noodle House: For rich, creamy ramen and unique cocktails, Glo Noodle House is a favorite. Their Asian-inspired cocktails, featuring ingredients like ube and yuzu, add a special touch to your meal.

Leven Deli Co.: Located near the Denver Art Museum, Leven Deli Co. is a part Jewish deli and part Mediterranean restaurant. Their Pastrami Reuben, with 12-day cured pastrami and pickled white cabbage on toasted rye, is unforgettable.

Odell’s Bagel: Bagel lovers will appreciate the unique open-faced sandwiches at Odell’s, including the Hamachi, topped with wasabi tobiko and fresh shiso. Each bite is a burst of flavor.

Desserts

Treat yourself or your family to these delightful dessert spots around Colorado:

Poulette Bakeshop: Known for both sweet and savory pastries, Poulette Bakeshop's stuffed croissants are a seasonal standout—generously filled and packed with flavor.

Tea Street: This popular Denver boba spot has expanded to Parker, serving up classics like milk tea and unique choices like the Black Sesame Freeze, made with house-milled sesame seeds and topped with your choice of toppings.

Snowl: Ideal for sharing, Snowl's Korean shaved ice comes in flavors like strawberry with fresh fruit toppings. They also serve Taiyaki Ice Cream in three customizable styles and offer a selection of savory Korean snacks.

Parlor Doughnuts: For light, airy, layered doughnuts, Parlor Doughnuts in Aurora is ideal. With flavors like strawberry shortcake and French toast, as well as holiday specials, there’s something for every sweet tooth.

Little Man Ice Cream: A Colorado classic, Little Man Ice Cream transforms its West Colfax location into Santa's Workshop for the holidays. Enjoy festive ice cream flavors and events like cookie decorating for the full holiday experience.

Festive Drinks

If you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit, Denver’s holiday pop-up bars are the place to be. Enjoy festive cocktails and immersive decor at these fun spots:

The Block Distilling Co.: Located in RiNo, The Block Distilling Co. is known for its unique cocktails, like the “Do You Know the Muffin Man?” gingerbread-spiced espresso martini, and the “Bunny Hill,” a cozy whiskey hot chocolate with peppermint liqueur.

Welton Room: Espresso martini fans will love Welton Room’s holiday-themed martini flights—ideal for enjoying seasonal flavors. Not an espresso martini lover? Don’t worry; they offer a variety of other festive cocktails to choose from.

Adrift, Avanti, Happy Camper, and My Neighbor Felix: These popular Denver bars go all-out with holiday decorations and themed drinks. With festive decor and special holiday cocktails, each spot is perfect for celebrating with friends and making holiday memories.

From savory hotpots and delicious pastries to festive cocktails and unique desserts, these Colorado hotspots bring a touch of magic to the holiday season. So, gather your friends and family and make this holiday season unforgettable with Colorado’s best eats, desserts and drinks!

“From cozy family-style dining to indulgent desserts, Colorado’s holiday food scene has something for everyone. Let me guide you to the best spots this season!”

“Exploring Colorado’s holiday food scene means discovering cozy family-style restaurants, lively pop-up bars, and decadent desserts. Each spot offers a unique way to celebrate the season, creating unforgettable moments with family and friends over good food and festive cheer.”