Great Eats in Lakewood
Photo Deliciousness Credit: Lady Nomada
Lakewood’s diverse dining scene is a mix of classic neighborhood favorites and hidden culinary gems, offering everything from smoky barbecue and craft breweries to authentic global flavors like German schnitzel and Ethiopian stews. Whether you're grabbing a casual bite to go or indulging in a chef-driven meal with mountain views, there's something for every craving.
Pizzeria Lui
Website / 5380 W Mississippi Ave
Pizzeria Luu opened its doors in July 2017 under the ownership of chef and baker Zach Parini, who honed his craft at Denver's Grateful Bread Company. Parini brings a focus on quality ingredients and traditional techniques to his Neapolitan-style pizzas. The menu features a variety of 14-inch pies, including classics like the Margherita and inventive options such as the Lawn Boy, topped with pesto, artichokes, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and arugula. With gushing reviews saying things like "its the best pizza in the whole country", this is a popular spot!
Carmine Lonardo's Specialty Meats & Deli
Website / 7585 W Florida Ave,
A locally owned staple for authentic Italian meats and groceries since 1976, Carmine's is famous for its commitment to authentic Italian products and family traditions. Their house-made Italian sausage—available in mild and spicy—has been the top seller since day one, with about 10,000 pounds made fresh every week. You'll also find imported pasta, olive oil, canned goods, fresh-baked treats, and incredible sandwiches. Huge, loaded, and made on fresh-baked rolls, they're packed with house-made sausage, cold cuts, or whatever else you're in the mood for. They also serve up stromboli, pepperoni rolls, and other Italian comfort food.
Szechuan Chinese Restaurant
Website / 9090 W 6th Ave
The exterior may look unassuming, but Szechuan is one of the most raved-about Chinese restaurants in the Denver metropolian area. A cherished spot for decades, favorite dishes from this eatery include tender dumplings, flavorful sesame chicken, egg drop soup, and more that keep happy customers coming back, year after year. Great prices, generous portions, lots of space, and family friendly.
Tstreet Roadhouse
Website / 445 S Teller St,
This polished, elegant spot serves up creative American fare across breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. The place has a cozy vibe with comfy seating, soft lighting, and a great bar. Built on Colorado-grown Concepts, guests can enjoy classic favorites like the famous "Teller Burger," alongside upscale options like fresh oysters. Enjoy appetizers like baked brie and Brussels sprouts, mains such as blackened shrimp linguini and pan-seared salmon, and sweet treats like the Colorado peach cobbler or peanut butter pie.
Farmhouse Thai
98 Wadsworth Blvd #117
Serving up authentic, award-winning Thai food since 2019, Farmhouse Thai is a simple spot that places all the focus on the food. Fresh ingredients and balanced flavors are central to the menu, which includes dishes like khao soi, floating market noodle soup, hang le curry, and more. Written up by outlets like Condé Nast Traveler, earned raves and recognition for its quality, including being named the Best Thai Restaurant by Westword in 2022. It’s known for sticking to traditional Thai flavors without overcomplicating things.
Lady Nomada
Website / 7167 W Alaska Dr,
Newly opened in 2023, Lady Nomada brings a Baja-inspired vibe to the area. The menu features a variety of dishes, with popular choices like birria tacos, chicken enchiladas, crispy carnitas, and the "Nomada's Best of Plate" that offers one of each. Sun-washed interiors, roll-top garage doors, desert plants, and hand-painted murals create a lively atmosphere.
Abrusci's Fire & Vine
Website / 2200 Youngfield St
Serving the community since June 2017, Abrusci's is a higly rated and easygoing Italian fixture that's known for its contemporary rustic ambiance, classic Italian dishes, and wood-fired pizzas. Signature items include the Antipasti at The Vine, Big Huge Giant Garlic Knots, and a variety of specialty pizzas like the Hot Honey and Margherita.
Teller's Taproom & Kitchen
Website / 2200 Youngfield St
Established in 2011, Teller's Taproom & Kitchen was created with the belief that every neighborhood deserves a great bar and grill. Classic decor features a historic 1890s mahogany bar, originally from the Lamar train station. Elevated pub fare includes burgers, sandwiches, meatloaf, mac & cheese, and hearty breakfast options, along with a rotating selection of craft beers and cocktails.
##### Curry Kitchen
Website / 13019 W Alameda Pkwy
This family-owned restaurant gets lots of rave reviews for its authentic Indian cuisine, offering a variety of vegan dishes like vegan wings and sweet potato masala, as well as traditional items such as tandoori, kebabs, and masalas. The "Dinner for 2" sampler is a popular choice, allowing guests to sample multiple dishes. You'll leave this spot both happy and full.
Manning's Steaks and Spirits
Website / 11100 W Alameda Ave
Owned and operated by Diane Manning and her son Michael, the establishment offers a casual yet refined dining experience. True to its name, the menu offers variety of steaks, including a 7oz Filet, 12oz NY Strip, and 14oz Ribeye, as well as seafood options like Salmon Picatta and King Crab. Guests can also enjoy appetizers such as Baked Brussels Sprouts and Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, along with a selection of salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes.
240 Union
Website / 240 Union Blvd
Serving contemporary American cuisine since 1989, this restaurant is a staple of the Lakewood community. It features a sixty-foot open kitchen, allowing guests to observe the preparation of dishes that range from fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas to specialty pastas and various meat entrees. The menu is updated seasonally to incorporate fresh ingredients, and daily specials showcase the chefs' creativity.
Coyote Table Artisan Kitchen & Bar
Website / 2950 Bear Creek Blvd
Known for its deliciously unique artisan pizzas, the restaurant also serves a variety of dishes including bison ravioli, fish tacos, and mac n cheese. Guests can enjoy a relaxed vibe with a large bar area, ample seating, and digital trivia accessible via their phones. Dessert offerings specialize in gelato, sorbet, and ice cream.
Cafe Jordano
Website / 11068 W Jewell Aved
A beloved Italian dining spot since 1991. Born in Naples, owner and co-founder Heitman was inspired to bring authentic Italian flavors to the Denver suburbs. In 2018, Cafe Jordano moved its new, larger location, continuing to dole out red sauce to raving customers. Favorites include house-made pastas like Fettuccine Alfredo and Spaghetti with Meatballs, signature chicken entrees such as Pollo Alla Parmigiana and Greg’s Favorite, buffalo-based specialties for a unique twist, and vegetarian options like Eggplant Parmigiana.
Westrail Tap & Grill
Website / 195 S Union Blvd
Serves up solid bar food, craft beers, and a laid-back, welcoming vibe. Owned by Jamie and Linda Shotton, this spot is known for its daily specials, like prime rib Wednesdays, fish fry Fridays, and fajita Saturdays, along with a solid lineup of burgers, sandwiches, wings, and pub-style appetizers. They’ve got 13+ craft beers on tap and plenty of TVs for catching the game. A go-to for both casual hangouts and private events.
The Ranch @ West 40
Website / 12101 W Colfax Ave
Offers classic American dishes in a friendly, neighborhood setting, including an outdoor patio with views of downtown Denver. The menu features breakfast favorites like chicken fried steak and eggs, traditional eggs benedict, and buttermilk pancakes, while lunch and dinner options include steak and eggs, fried chicken and waffles, and lobster scramble. Check out the daily specials, especially the Friday night fish fry,
The Yabby Hut
Website / 3355 S Yarrow St E-131
A laid-back spot where you can roll up your sleeves and dig into some serious seafood. They specialize in Cajun-style boils, serving up fresh crawfish, dungeness crab, and lobster tossed in your choice of flavorful seasonings. Eating with your hands is encouraged. Daily specials include discounted oysters on Mondays and deals on fresh crawfish when it's in season.
Moose Hill Cantina and Catering
Website / 11911 W Colfax Ave
A local favorite since 1984, this hacienda-style stop offers delicous Mexican-fusion fare that includes street tacos, classic taco plates, and sizzling fajitas. Also offers all-day breakfast items like the Steak & Bacon Breakfast Handheld Burrito, and desserts like Churro Cheesecake and Waffle Sundaes. Creative cocktails include their signature "moose milk" shakes.
African Grill and Bar
Website / 955 S Kipling Pkwy
Whether you're craving West African jollof rice or South African bobotie, this family-owned local spot has you covered. Serving up a variety of African dishes from across the continent, the menu features a range of options, including stews, rice dishes, plantains, and fufu. They also offer unique African cocktails like the "Old African Cocktail" and "African Queen Cocktail."
Simms Steakhouse
Website / 11911 W 6th Ave
Popular dining spot known for its Certified Angus Beef steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic views of the Denver skyline. The menu features a variety of options, including sirloin and Kobe beef sliders, mussels, and calamari from the Happy Hour selection. Guests can also enjoy specials like Prime Rib Mondays and a Sunday Brunch Buffet. Reservations recommended.
Westwood Inn
Website / 7615 W 5th Ave
A family-owned diner that's been serving the community for over 20 years, this restaurant offers a mix of American and Mexican dishes, with breakfast and lunch options available. Favorites include their hearty breakfast burritos, smothered in green chili, and classic diner fare like steak and eggs.
Gabby's German Eatery
Website / 245 S Harlan St
A cozy, family-run spot serving up authentic German and European dishes. Owner Gaby Berben, who has been sharing her homestyle cooking at Denver festivals for years, opened this intimate eatery in 2018. The menu features classics like sauerbraten, goulash, dumplings, sauerkraut, brats, soups, pierogies, and German cheesecake. With limited seating, it's a good idea to call ahead for reservations.
Piggin' Out Smokehouse
Website / 9987 Morrison Rd
A family-owned barbecue joint known for its authentic, slow-smoked meats. They offer a variety of smoked dishes, including pulled pork, pork ribs, chopped brisket, and sausages, all prepared daily using high-quality ingredients. Classic sides include potato salad, coleslaw, and mac and cheese. Casual, family-friendly atmosphere with both indoor seating and a shaded outdoor patio. Catering services available.
