The Lower Highlands (LoHi) is one of the trendiest spots in Denver for hot clubs, one-of-a-kind boutiques and delectable restaurants, and 303’s named the top experiential eateries to hit on your next trip to LoHi.
“We love the proximity to downtown,” said Justin Cucci, chef and owner at LoHi’s Linger. “It’s kind of like Brooklyn, away from the craziness of downtown, but has really cool buildings and businesses; it’s an experience.”
For coastally inspired Mexican fare, Lola, 1575 Boulder St., is a tasty spot to hangout. A low-key, lowly-lit casual environment combined with a variety of traditional and modern items on the menu, this Mexican haven has something to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
Lola provides a tasty, killer happy hour menu with delectable tacos and small plates, and strong, coinstyle margaritas, to enjoy with friends over brunch, happy hour and dinner.
“I can honestly say that every shift at Lola has some way of dining on the cheap, or going over the top” said Jamey Fader, head chef and owner of Lola.“For the best deal we have to offer on any given day, you’ll have to come by and check us out; that’s the real litmus test.”
After experiencing Lola, take a short walk down the road to Little Man Ice Cream, 2620 16th St., where ice cream isn’t the only thing on the menu. Located next the former Olinger Mortuary turned restaurant hot spot, Linger, Little Man provides customers with a one of a kind experience that keeps them coming back.
A giant silver milk can, 1920s and 1940s era music playing outside and a picturesque view of LoHi and Denver, meet you while waiting in line at Little Man for an afternoon or evening treat.
With more than 100 traditional and innovative creations like vanilla and black, sesame seed ginger, the selection of flavors at Little Man Ice Cream is an enticing variety ice cream lovers have to try.
Next to Little Man Ice Cream is Linger, 2030 W. 30th Ave., a worldly, innovative restaurant you’ll want to savor. After traveling across the globe, Cucci arrived at the now theme of Linger, bringing a creative spin to traditional street fare.
Distinctive foods from Europe, South Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and the Americas fill Linger’s menus giving customers a variety of delectable, crave-able dishes like Mongolian Duck Buns and Chicken B’stilla to choose from.
For those at Linger, it’s not just about the food, dining at Linger is an experience.
“Linger is an experience that is punctuated by the food is foremost,” Cucci said. “I hope we hit all expectations and we can have a three-dimensional experience, with all their [customers] experiences stimulated by being there.”
Experience is what drives crowds to LoHi’s happenin’ corner of the Highlands, and in my opinion, with eats like these, it’s not hard to see why.
Photographs by Glenn Ross, Lori Stewart and Teresa Taylor
Crystal Anderson is an adventure-seeking journalist, who loves geeking out to Lord of the Rings, meeting new people and traveling. She’s interested in exploring all of Denver’s hidden wonders and hotspots. Have a favorite hidden haunt you want covered? Divulge your secrets to crystal@dev-303magazine.pantheonsite.io