After a long day of seminars, ink sessions, or shopping the convention floor, it is time to relax. Whether you’re in cosplay or covered in tattoos, these Denver eateries offer welcoming spaces to unwind. We are thinking cold drinks, yummy snacks, and chill vibes around town after an action-packed afternoon at the convention. Save this list for later, Denver.
Denver Central Market
Where: 2669 Larimer St., Denver
When: Sunday – Thursday 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., Friday – Saturday 8 a.m.- 11 p.m.
The Lowdown: Craving a little bit of everything? Head to Denver Central Market, just a short ride from the Convention Center. With over 10 vendors offering both sweet and savory bites, it is a fun way to satisfy your thirst and hunger. Hours vary by vendor, so ordering ahead online is your best move. For drinks, make your way to Curio Bar inside the market, where we loved the NA Bloody Mary and the refreshing NA Eastside. Food-wise, we recommend trying Lunch Boxx. We started with the Birria Fries (yes, they are as good as they sound) and followed it up with the juicy Aji Verde Steak Sandwich. Still hungry? Order the Tzatziki Wrap that drips with flavor. See you at the market, Denver.
Jackson’s Lodo
Where: 1520 20th St., Denver
When: Monday – Thursday 11 a.m – 11 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. – 2 a.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m. – 2 a.m., Sunday 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.
The Lowdown: Looking to keep the energy up after the convention? Stop by Jackson’s Lodo, a boisterous sports bar packed with personality – awesome for post-event eats and drinks. For food, go big with the Rockpile Burger stacked with all the fixings, or keep it veg-forward with the Crispy Avocado Taco trio. As for drinks, pump it up with the Red Bull Tropical Tequila or refresh with the citrus-based 3 PM Cocktail. It is the kind of spot that keeps the night going, and then some.
Appaloosa Grill
Where: 535 16th St Mall, #110, Denver
When: Daily 11 a.m. – 1 a.m.
The Lowdown: Warm, lively, and located on the newly renovated 16th Street Mall, Appaloosa Grill features nightly live music and is an ideal stop for post-convention grub. Start your experience with the non-alcoholic Berry Spritz (bonus for being naturally caffeinated) or the Appaloosa Seasonal Mocktail, a gut-friendly refresher. We started with the Spicy Seared Ahi, so fresh it practically melted. For mains, go classic with the beer-battered Fish & Chips or opt for the Mediterranean Grilled Vegetable Tian, a gluten-free and vegan-friendly dish. Winding down or keeping the energy up, this hub passes the vibe check.
Nola Jane
Where: 1435 Market St., Denver
When: Sunday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.
The Lowdown: Bringing Cajun-Creole flair to the heart of Denver, this vibrant, buzzing hub is within the convention center neighborhood. For food, we recommend the Fried Chicken Sandwich, stacked high and packed with flavor, or balance it out with the Catfish Plate, best ordered blackened for that extra smoky taste. On the drink side, the Hurricane is a must, a delightfully sweet and dangerously good option. Feeling a little fancy? The French Quarter Spritz is a crisp and refreshing way to wrap it all up. Catch the vibe and see you at Nola Jane, Denver.
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Where: 1400 Stout St., Denver
When: Sunday – Thursday 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Friday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 12 a.m.
The Lowdown: Located in the Central Business District, Stout Street Social offers a vibrant menu and adventurous flavors. Starting with drinks, we recommend the Elderflower Basil Martini, floral and bright, while the Black Manhattan delivers a smooth, strong finish. For mains, the Salmon Mango Roll brings sweet and savory together beautifully. The Peking Duck Tacos are fresh, crispy, and tangy, while the Elk Bolognese offers a lean, satisfying twist on a classic. A great place to add to your post-convention dining destination.
Joy Hill
Where: 1229 S Broadway, Denver
When: Sunday – Thursday 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m., Friday – Saturday 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
The Lowdown: This lively pizza bar pairs stunning views with the freshest ingredients in a fun and energetic setting. Start off on the right note with the best Margarita in town, bright and savory with every taste. For food, go for the Prosciutto and Burrata pizza, the ideal blend of salty meets creamy, and add on the Bison Meatballs for a filling and flavorful delight. Joy Hill is perfect for post-convention festivities and unwinding with a view.
Point Easy
Where: 2000 E 28th Ave., Denver
When: Tuesday – Thursday 5 p.m. – 9 p.m., Friday – Saturday 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
The Lowdown: Interested in an elevated dining experience with refined flavors and a polished atmosphere? Point Easy is the place to be after post-convention activities. Begin with drinks, we recommend the non-alcoholic Placebo Effect, which is zesty and refreshing. For starters, the Caviar and Potato Chips strike the balance between luxe and comfort. Mains like the Smoked Beet Tartare bring earthy elegance, while the Doppio Ravioli, stuffed with coffee-braised oxtail and topped with red wine au jus, is simply rich and unforgettable.
Until next time, Denver.
