My Guide to Denver’s LoHi Neighborhood (2026)
UPDATE (2026):
I can finally say we spent four (!!) amazing years living in Denver’s LoHi neighborhood. Although we recently moved home to Atlanta to be closer to family, LoHi is still our favorite place we’ve ever lived. That’s thanks to the beautiful parks and river, fabulous breweries, walking trails, coffee shops, and restaurants. It’s truly a unique neighborhood exploding with life, and we couldn’t love it more! In the years since writing this post, some restaurants have changed, and we’ve discovered new favorites. Enjoy this updated look at Denver’s LoHi neighborhood!
WE MOVED. Actually, we moved in July but it still feels like news that deserves capital letters. Brian and I picked up from Atlanta, where we were both raised, and drove across the country to Denver, Colorado. The journey, both mentally and physically, to get here was a roller coaster of emotions and you can read my post all about it here.
The great news is that we LOVE our new (ish?) neighborhood. We say to each other almost daily how lucky we feel to have ended up where we did. Because of the pandemic, we weren’t able to travel out here prior to moving so we chose a neighborhood solely based on advice from friends and family (and the internet.. which can be hit or miss to say the least).
We currently live in Denver’s LoHi (Lower Highlands) neighborhood, which is nestled just West of I-25 South and LoDo (Lower Downtown). This city is full of acronyms and I still feel myself cringe with imposter syndrome when I use any of them. I’ll let you know if I ever get over it.
We have gotten to know the neighborhood in a way that is different than we would have just two years ago: through takeout, sitting on patios, and going on long masked walks. All things considered, we’ve had a great time finding our way around. Below is a list of the favorites: Restaurants, Breweries, Coffee Shops, and my favorite Ice Cream Place (obviously).
Coffee Shops
There are a number of incredible coffee shops in LoHi, most of which are excellent places to work remotely. Some have great food, some have beautiful views, and some stay open for happy hour!
Blue Sparrow Coffee - Bright, airy, and yet comfy. Blue Sparrow’s cold brew is delicious and they have delicious pastries. And a great work remote working location. This spot is in the ‘Riverfront Park’ area of LoHi, so it’s right off Commons Park, the Platte River Trail, and neighbors several restaurants and a brewery.
Hello Darling (Commons Park) - Cute, cute, cute, cuuuuuute. I’ll say it again: cute. This cafe transitions from day to night with a happy hour featuring wine and cocktails. Their coffee, drinks, and snacks are all delicious, but you must get the breakfast burrito if you’re there in the morning. Hello Darling is located right across the park from Blue Sparrow, so if one is too busy, simply pop over to the other for another great option.
Starbucks - I know, I know. But it’s right on the river with a TON of outdoor tables. It’s the perfect pit stop for a pup cup on a long Saturday walk by the river.
Maci Cafe- Looking for a quick and easy breakfast place while you’re in town? Maci Cafe has bagels, breakfast sandwiches, coffee, and a very homey vibe. They sell art from a local artist inside, where you wait to pick up your order. They only have a few tables, and they’re outside on the patio, making it a difficult place to sit during colder months, but great in the spring and summer!
Restaurants
There is no shortage of delicious restaurants in LoHi. Over the years, we’d like to think we’ve tried every spot in the neighborhood. Here’s what you need to know about our favorites:
Kawa Ni - I’m convinced there is no better restaurant in LoHi. A Japanese restaurant with incredible food, great drinks, and a vibe that will make you want to redecorate your house immediately. This was a regular date night spot and our favorite place to bring visitors.
Uncle - If you’re a fan of ramen, you have to try Uncle in LoHi. Make sure to try the soft-shell crab buns as an appetizer. Also, get a reservation because the wait for walk-ins can be quite long.
Fox and the Hen - Finally, a brunch place that felt like home. Helmed by Season 15 Top Chef finalist, Carrie Baird, the food and drinks are creative and exactly what you want on a slow weekend morning.
Señor Bear- A Latin restaurant with delicious cocktails and shareable plates. A bit more expensive than the others on this list, but the food is incredible. They also have a great happy hour menu.
My Neighbor Felix- A new Mexican place that recently moved in. They have fire pits on the patio and tons of outdoor tented seating. Their empanadas and skillet queso are perfect appetizers. Be aware that if you get the Megarita, it isn’t a pitcher... It’s a giant margarita in one of those glasses you buy someone for their 21st birthday and it comes with extra long straws. I can’t say I hated it.
Brider- Rotisserie chicken. Mac & cheese. Crispy brussels. Also right across the street from Denver Beer Co (see below). Thank me later.
Happy Camper - An Instagram-worthy pizza place and bar. Pro tip: If you like spicy food, order the Dime Piece (it’s technically off-menu now, but they still make it!).
Cho 77- This is where Brian and I went for his birthday. It has great Asian street-food style dishes and a really cool vibe on the inside (read: small with dark walls, modern bar, cool photography on the walls). This one is technically over in LoDo off 16th St. Mall but it’s worth the short walk.
Avanti Food & Beverage- Hello food hall. I’ve had the bao buns and pizza here and both were delicious. A perfect spot if you are looking for a place to feed people with different tastes. However, there is usually a line and it’s tricky to get a table, so I would recommend ordering online and picking up.
Linger- Eclectic restaurant in an old mortuary. Yep. They also have a rooftop and their menu has sections for each part of the world. They book up with reservations WEEKS in advance (on the weekends) so think ahead for this one. They also have a great brunch.
Bar Dough- If you were wondering HOW I hadn’t mentioned pasta yet, you have arrived. The portions are small but very rich, and the garlic bread is *chef’s kiss*.
Little Man Ice Cream- I don’t have the words to express my love. Just go. And get the Salted Oreo flavor. It also feels important for you to know that at Halloween they decorate with hundreds, literally, of pumpkins and it will give you MAJOR Halloweentown vibes.
Breweries and Bars
Take a spin around Denver, and you’ll find breweries on every corner. Great local craft beer is one of the city's highlights. In addition to several amazing breweries, LoHi is home to a couple of extraordinary cocktail bars.
Zuni Street Brewing Co - When it comes to breweries, this one stole my heart. Zuni always has tables, heaters, and the beer is GOOD. They also have a very wide variety, so it’s a good bet for anyone. The best part? They typically have live music and food trucks on the weekends, and their weeknight trivia is always a packed house. Their interior is COVERED in plants. It’s simply the best vibe.
Prost Brewing Company - A German biergarten with great food and refreshing drinks. They also have a large patio and family-style tables, making it easy to find a spot, even when it’s busy.
Denver Beer Co - They have the coolest names for their beers, and there is always a 10/10 food truck outside. They also have a sister brewery next door, which means they have 2x their normal seating (you can order from either regardless of where you’re sitting). Also! Try a flight. It’s not on the menu, but you can order one.
The Broken Cage - A small but mighty cocktail bar that (bonus!) sells plants. My recommendation: go for happy hour and get the watermelon margarita.
The Family Jones Spirit House - A quirky, yet elegant, cocktail bar and distillery. They have some really unique drinks, so I highly recommend branching out and trying a funky cocktail!
Parks and Trails
South Platte River Trail - This wide walking and biking path runs from Mile High Stadium, through LoHi, and south to Cherry Creek along the Platte River. You’ll find runners, dog walkers, bikers, and skaters on this path every day of the week. It’s full of life, and where I fell in love with running!
Confluence and Commons Park - Two connected parks that separate LoHi (Lower Highlands) from LoDo (Lower Downtown). They run alongside the river. You’ll find a community garden, an active dog-walking community, and plenty of picnickers. Not to mention, a concert series that happens every week in the Spring and Summer.
There you go! A guide to eat and drink your way through LoHi. Let me know if you try anywhere on this list and look out for more of my Guide To posts on the way. Where else do you want to see a guide for? Let me know on Instagram!