Hello and welcome! Are you tired of going to restaurants where the atmosphere is dull and boring? Do you want to enjoy delicious food while being entertained by live music? If yes, then you have come to the right place. This article is all about restaurants with live music in Denver, where you can have a great time with friends, family or even on your own. We’ll take you on a tour of some of the best restaurants in town that offer fantastic live music, delicious food, and great service.
By reading this article, you will get a sneak peek into the world of restaurants that offer live music in Denver. You’ll learn about the different genres of music that are on offer, the timings, and days when live music performances take place. We’ll also give you an idea of what to expect while you’re there, such as the dress code, the kind of crowd, and the average cost per person. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with all the information you need to choose the right restaurant for your next night out.
If you’re somebody who wants to add a bit of spice to your dining experience, then this article is exactly what you’re looking for. It’s not only going to show you where to go but also explain why it’s the perfect choice for you. The solution is straightforward, dining in restaurants with live music can uplift your mood, brighten your day and create unforgettable memories. And, there’s no better place to do that than in the beautiful city of Denver. So let’s dive in and explore the restaurants that are waiting to offer you amazing food, drinks and hours of live music.
Top 10 Restaurants in Denver with Live Music
Denver is known for its thriving live music scene, and what’s better than pairing good food with great music? There are numerous restaurants in Denver that offer live music performances ranging from jazz, blues, country to rock. Choosing the top 10 was no easy feat but after extensive research, we have come up with a list that showcases the best of the best.
1. Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox
Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox is a unique restaurant that is tucked away in a historic building in Denver’s Ballpark neighborhood. Its eclectic decor mixes vintage and modern elements and the overall vibe is described as funky and fun. Ophelia’s menu focuses on innovative American cuisine with a creative twist. However, what sets Ophelia’s apart from other restaurants is its live music performances. The restaurant regularly hosts local and national bands, making it a must-visit for foodies and music lovers alike.
The Venue
Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox was originally built in 1889 as the Airedale Building, which served as a brothel, and later a peep show, in the early 1900s. After being abandoned for years, the building was renovated in 2014 to become Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox. The venue’s unique history, combined with its creative decor, creates an atmosphere that is unlike any other restaurant in Denver.
The Food
Ophelia’s menu features a blend of elevated bar food and globally-inspired cuisine. Some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes include the “Brick Chicken,” which is marinated in a mixture of garlic, lemon, and herbs, and the “Colorado Lamb Sliders,” which are served on buttery brioche buns with a side of harissa aioli. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, including the “Mushroom and Cashew Nut Loaf,” which is a plant-based loaf served with a side of roasted squash and kale.
The Music
Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox hosts live music performances several nights a week. The restaurant’s music calendar features a variety of genres, including jazz, blues, funk, and soul. Some past performers include The Motet, The Main Squeeze, and The Colorado Symphony. The restaurant also hosts a weekly drag brunch, where guests can enjoy performances from local drag queens while dining on brunch favorites.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unique venue with a rich history | May be too loud for some guests |
| Eclectic decor and atmosphere | The menu may not appeal to everyone |
| Food is inventive and delicious | Limited seating available, reservations recommended |
| Regularly hosts local and national music acts | Parking can be difficult in the area |
Why It’s Number 1
Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox pulls out all the stops when it comes to creating an unforgettable dining and entertainment experience. The unique venue, inventive menu, and diverse music acts make it a top choice for those looking for an immersive evening out. The only downside is that it can get quite loud inside, which may not be ideal for those looking for a quiet dinner. Overall, Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox easily earns its spot as the number one restaurant with live music in Denver.
Best live music venues in Denver for a night out
Denver, Colorado is a bustling city with a thriving live music scene. From rock to jazz, there is a wide range of music genres to enjoy while dining out. Here are the best live music venues in Denver for a night out.
1. Dazzle Jazz
Dazzle Jazz is one of Denver’s premier jazz clubs featuring celebrated luminaries and award-winning emerging artists. It has become a cornerstone institution of the local jazz community, consistently earning recognition as one of the top jazz clubs in the world.
- Location: 1512 Curtis St., Denver, CO 80202
- Music Style: Jazz
- Price Range: $$
- Capacity: 130
- Food and Drink Menu: Full Bar and American Cuisine
Dazzle Jazz occupies three levels of an intimate century-old building, housing a full-service restaurant, two bars, a music venue, and a private event space. It has a state-of-the-art sound system and an enjoyable view of the stage from every seat. Dazzle Jazz has played host to the best jazz artists worldwide, including Terry Gibbs, Jon Hendricks, Monty Alexander, and Lionel Loueke, among others.
2. Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club
Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club combines the intimacy of a jazz club with the sophistication of a sup-per club. It is located in the thriving RiNo Arts District and features the region’s top jazz musicians in an atmosphere of comfortable elegance. Nocturne is the perfect place to enjoy a date night, an intimate gathering or celebrating a special occasion, while enjoying jazz music.
- Location: 1330 27th St, Denver, CO 80205
- Music Style: Jazz, Soul, Latin and Blues
- Price Range: $$$
- Capacity: 140
- Food and Drink Menu: Dinner Menu and Full Bar
The venue is modeled after the Art Moderne movement and has a sleek yet comfortable design. From the ambient lighting to the warm décor, every detail of Nocturne elevates the dining and musical experience. Nocturne has hosted celebrated musicians such as Christian McBride, Benny Green, Cassandra Wilson and Gregory Porter, among others.
3. El Chapultepec
El Chapultepec is a historic jazz club established in 1933, making it one of the oldest jazz clubs in Denver. It has hosted some of the biggest names in jazz and blues history, including Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald. It is also the favorite hangout of many local jazz musicians, who come to jam unannounced, making every visit a unique experience.
- Location: 1962 Market St., Denver, CO 80202
- Music Style: Jazz, Blues
- Price Range: $
- Capacity: 75
- Food and Drink Menu: Full Bar and Mexican Cuisine
El Chapultepec has a dive bar ambiance and a live music connection that echoes through the walls of the establishment. Its stage is small but has witnessed some of the most iconic jazz performances, making El Chapultepec a vital part of Denver’s cultural heritage.
4. Be on Key Psychedelic Ripple
Be On Key Psychedelic Ripple is a local hidden gem that offers a unique live music atmosphere. It is known for its eclectic offerings, from psychedelic rock to reggae, funk, and jam bands. It has vintage décor and a casual environment that is reminiscent of a 1960s music scene.
- Location: 1700 Logan St., Denver, CO 80203
- Music Style: Psychedelic Rock, Reggae, Funk and Jam Bands
- Price Range: $
- Capacity: 300
- Food and Drink Menu: Full Bar
Be on Key Psychedelic Ripple has one of the best sound systems in Denver that delivers crisp, clear sound from every corner of the room. It also has a massive stage that can accommodate up to ten musicians, making it a popular choice for jam bands. The venue offers a casual atmosphere that encourages free-spirited revelers to dance the night away.
5. The Walnut Room
The Walnut Room offers a unique dining and music experience. It is a family-owned and operated venue that serves Neapolitan-style pizza and features live music. The venue has both an upstairs and down-stairs area that offer different atmospheres to suit any mood.
- Location: 3131 Walnut St., Denver, CO 80205
- Music Style: Rock, Indie, Folk and Singer/Songwriter
- Price Range: $$
- Capacity: 200
- Food and Drink Menu: Dinner Menu and Full Bar
The Walnut Room is known for its friendly staff, delicious food, and intimate music performances. The venue has fostered an environment that encourages conversation and connection between musicians and fans. It has hosted bands such as The Lumineers and The Fray, while also providing a platform for emerging artists in Denver.
In conclusion, Denver has some of the best live music venues in the country. Whether you are looking for jazz, rock, blues, or funk, there is a music venue for you. These venues are not only about great music; they provide a complete dining and entertainment experience that enriches and enlivens the soul.
Experience the Best Dinner and Live Music in Denver
Denver is one of the most vibrant cities in America, famed for its rich music and culinary culture. Tourists and locals alike flock here to experience the best live music while enjoying dinner. Fortunately, Denver has a wide variety of restaurants that offer an array of well-cooked dishes and live music that can make any night memorable. This article highlights some of the restaurants you want to visit to enjoy dinner and live music in Denver.
Legendary Venues: Live Music at El Chapultepec
El Chapultepec has been serving up live jazz for over 80 years, making it Denver’s most beloved jazz music hotspot. Open until 2 a.m., the restaurant offers an extensive menu of delicious Mexican food and signature cocktails, including the famous silver bullet. Patrons are treated to live jazz music every night. El Chapultepec’s stage has hosted local and international legends such as Willie Nelson, Tony Bennett, Ray Charles, and Frank Sinatra. Here are some of the pros of visiting El Chapultepec:
- Great selection of Mexican food and cocktails
- Famous live jazz music performers
- A long-standing history of serving live jazz music to customers
If you’re visiting El Chapultepec, it’s recommended to make a reservation or come early to secure a table. The venue attracts music lovers from across the city, and the music can get very loud.
Casual Dining with Live Performances: The Mercury Cafe
The Mercury Cafe is a fantastic dining destination for those who want to enjoy great meals and live performances. The restaurant is famous for its tasty vegetarian and vegan meals, and even meat lovers will enjoy their dishes. Live music is featured five nights a week, providing diverse genres of music ranging from jazz to salsa. In addition to traditional live music performances, The Mercury Cafe also hosts poetry readings and events that promote local cultural heritage.
- Outstanding vegetarian meals
- A cozy and welcoming atmosphere
- A wide variety of live performances
In the summer, the restaurant hosts weekly farmers’ markets, which usually see a lot of traffic from the public. The unique events at the Mercury Café add to its popularity and provide an experience that is hard to find elsewhere.
International Flavor meets Live Music: Dazzle
If you’re looking for a unique fusion of international cuisine and live music, Dazzle is the place to be. It’s widely known as one of Denver’s high-end and most elegant live music restaurants. With a warm atmosphere, Dazzle offers a variety of dishes crafted by their talented culinary team. Best of all, they have a unique “Dazzle Wine Down Hour” hosted every day, offering an extensive list of discounted wines to customers.
- Award-winning menu, including vegan and vegetarian-friendly options
- Nationally acclaimed live jazz and Latin music performances
- Dazzling wine menu, with happy hour discounts available every day
Dazzle is a perfect venue for date nights, as well as special events, like birthdays and anniversaries. The restaurant has won several awards, making it one of the top-rated live music and dining restaurants in the city. Below is a table summarizing the features of each restaurant:
| Restaurant | Live Music Genre | Cuisine | Reservations Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Chapultepec | Jazz | Mexican food | Recommended |
| The Mercury Cafe | Varied genres | Vegetarian and vegan cuisine | No |
| Dazzle | Jazz and Latin music | International cuisine | Recommended |
Wrapping Up
Denver is a fantastic destination to experience the best of live music and fine dining. From El Chapultepec’s legendary jazz scenes to The Mercury Cafe’s cozy atmosphere, and Dazzle’s elegant ambiance, there is a restaurant for every visitor. Try them!
The Pros and Cons of Restaurants with Live Music in Denver
Denver’s vibrant culinary scene is not just about the food, it’s an experience. Restaurants in Denver have taken it up a notch by integrating live music into their dining experience. However, like any other type of experience, there are pros and cons. In this section, we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of restaurants with live music.
Pros
If you’re contemplating dining at a restaurant with live music, here are a few factors to consider:
- Great Entertainment: Live music is an excellent addition to a dining experience. It’s a refreshing and engaging way to spend an evening, and you get to listen to new music or your favorite tunes
- Musical Diversity: Live music restaurants in Denver feature various musicians across a wide range of genres. From funk to jazz, blues to rock, restaurants with live music have something for everyone.
- Enhanced Dining Experience: Eating and listening to live music is a visceral, as well as a social experience that is quite different from only eating in silence. It is indeed magical to feel the rhythm of the music while enjoying excellent cuisine.
Cons
While restaurants with live music do provide a unique experience, there are some disadvantages to consider:
- Raised Prices: In many restaurants, the addition of live music will result in a more expensive experience due to the musician’s cost, licensing fees, and additional costs that come with the territory.
- Noise Pollution: Depending on the musician and the sound system, the music’s volume could be too high or intrusive, making conversation between diners difficult.
- Menu Quality: With live music in restaurants, some may argue that the primary purpose of the experience is the music, leading to a particular void in the menu’s quality.
Table Comparison
Below are the pros and cons of dining at a restaurant with live music in Denver-
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great Entertainment | Raised Prices |
| Musical Diversity | Noise Pollution |
| Enhanced Dining Experience | Menu Quality |
When deciding whether to visit a restaurant with live music, consider the pros and cons above.
Real-World Example
A good example of Denver’s restaurants with live music is the Dazzle Jazz Club. Dazzle is a legendary jazz club that has a unique approach to integrating music into their dining experience. They provide an extensive selection of craft cocktails, beers, and an inventive menu of jazz-inspired foods.
Dazzle also offers a versatile musical experience, featuring a low-volume jazz experience during dinner hours and an authentic, lively jazz club feel later in the evening.
One of the unique features of Dazzle is its live-streaming capability, accessible anywhere in the world. The club is one of the first among Denver’s restaurants with live music to offer this feature, providing their patrons access to live performances and events outside the club.
This level of engagement with their clientele is what has made Dazzle one of Denver’s unique restaurants with live music.
Case Study: Vesta Denver
Vesta is a unique addition to Denver’s restaurants with live music. They are known for their cuisine, with a menu featuring international dishes ranging from Asian through the Mediterranean to the Americas.
Vesta offers live music every Thursday through Saturday, with the musicians being Denver’s best performers. They have also collaborated with local music schools such as the Denver Music Institute, a partner since 2015.
Vesta has one of Denver’s most unique setups, with a beautiful dining area, an intimate performing space, and a bar setup designed to keep the peace between two groups of guests with varying desires. They have done an excellent job integrating music into their dining experience!
Overall restaurants with live music come with a more complex experience. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages helps to make better decisions in choosing an ideal venue that aligns with personal preferences.
Where to Find the Best Restaurants with Live Music in Denver Neighborhoods
Denver has a diverse and thriving music scene, and there’s nothing better than combining a great meal with live music. Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out or a fun evening with friends, Denver’s neighborhoods offer a variety of excellent restaurants with live music. This guide will help you navigate through some of the best options available in different neighborhoods of Denver.
1. LoDo Neighborhood
Also known as Lower Downtown, LoDo is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. This historical district is home to several great restaurants with live music.
- The Crimson Room: This intimate speakeasy-style bar features live jazz music on most nights. Diners can enjoy delicious cocktails and small plates while listening to some of Denver’s best jazz musicians.
- Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar: This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and extensive oyster selection. Diners can enjoy live music on the rooftop terrace every Sunday during the summer months.
- Mercantile Dining & Provision: This restaurant offers contemporary American cuisine made from seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Every Thursday evening, they host a live music series featuring local musicians.
2. RiNo Neighborhood
RiNo, short for River North, is a trendy and rapidly growing neighborhood located north of downtown Denver. This area is known for its vibrant art scene, craft breweries, and cool restaurants with live music.
- Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club: This swanky jazz club features live music every night of the week. They serve an upscale menu with small plates, entrees, and desserts, and have an impressive selection of wines and cocktails.
- The Walnut Room: This pizzeria and music venue is a popular gathering spot for locals. They feature a variety of live music, including rock, indie, and country, and have a friendly and laid-back atmosphere.
- Ratio Beerworks: This brewery hosts live music events on weekends, featuring local bands and artists. They have an eclectic beer selection and also serve pizzas from the Denver Deep Dish food truck.
3. Capitol Hill Neighborhood
Capitol Hill is another historical neighborhood located just east of downtown Denver. It’s a densely populated area with a mix of Victorian houses, apartment buildings, and condos, and also boasts some great restaurants with live music.
- Dazzle: This jazz club and restaurant serves award-winning food and drinks and features live music seven nights a week. They have a diverse menu with everything from seafood to steak, and also offer vegetarian and gluten-free options.
- Humboldt Farm Fish Wine: This farm-to-table restaurant serves fresh and seasonal cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. They have a great wine selection and host live music events in their outdoor patio during the summer months.
- Charlie Brown’s Bar & Grill: This local favorite has been serving classic American food and drinks since 1927. They have a diverse menu with burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more, and also feature live music on select nights.
4. Five Points Neighborhood
Five Points is a historical African American neighborhood located just northeast of downtown Denver. It’s known for its rich culture, music history, and soul food restaurants. Here are some great options for restaurants with live music in Five Points:
- Spangalang Brewery: This brewery and taproom is named after a jazz term and pays homage to Five Points’ jazz history. They feature live music events on weekends and serve a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and sours.
- Denver Bicycle Cafe: This cozy cafe is a popular hangout spot for cyclists and locals. They have a rotating beer selection and serve breakfast, sandwiches, and pastries. They also feature live music events on weekends.
- The Roxy on Broadway: This bar and music venue has been a staple in the Five Points neighborhood since the 1990s. They feature live music events almost every night of the week, including blues, rock, and country.
5. Union Station Neighborhood
Union Station is a transportation hub and mixed-use development located in the heart of downtown Denver. It’s home to several great restaurants with live music options.
5.1 The Terminal Bar
This bar is located inside the historic Denver Union Station and offers a variety of local beers, wines, and cocktails. They have a large outdoor patio with views of the city skyline and feature live music events on select nights.
5.2 Stoic & Genuine
This seafood restaurant features fresh and sustainable seafood from both coasts. They have a great wine and beer selection and offer live music events on their outdoor patio during the summer months.
5.3 Mercantile Dining & Provision
This restaurant, mentioned earlier under LoDo neighborhood, is also located inside Union Station. They feature live music events every Thursday evening from local musicians.
Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Neighborhood | Music Genre | Menu Options | Special Events |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Crimson Room | LoDo | Jazz | Small plates, cocktails | N/A |
| Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar | LoDo | N/A | Seafood, oysters | Live music on rooftop terrace during summer |
| Mercantile Dining & Provision | LoDo, Union Station | N/A | Contemporary American cuisine | Live music every Thursday from local musicians |
| Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club | RiNo | Jazz | Small plates, entrees, desserts, extensive drink menu | N/A |
| The Walnut Room | RiNo | Rock, indie, country | Pizza, salads, appetizers, beer | Live music events featuring local bands and artists |
| Ratio Beerworks | RiNo | N/A | Beer, pizza | Live music events featuring local bands and artists |
| Dazzle | Capitol Hill | Jazz | Seafood, steak, vegetarian, gluten-free options | Live music seven nights a week |
| Humboldt Farm Fish Wine | Capitol Hill | N/A | Farm-to-table cuisine, great wine selection | Live music events on outdoor patio during summer |
| Charlie Brown’s Bar & Grill | Capitol Hill | N/A | Burgers, sandwiches, salads, classic American food | Live music events on select nights |
| Spangalang Brewery | Five Points | Jazz-inspired, rotating bands | Beer only | Live music events on weekends |
| Denver Bicycle Cafe | Five Points | N/A | Beverages, breakfast, sandwiches, pastries | Live music events on weekends |
| The Roxy on Broadway | Five Points | Blues, rock, country | Bar food, appetizers, beer only | Live music events on select nights |
| The Terminal Bar | Union Station | N/A | Local beers, wines, cocktails | Live music events on select nights |
| Stoic & Genuine | Union Station | N/A | Seafood, beer, wine | Live music events on outdoor patio during summer |
Each restaurant has its own unique style, menu, and atmosphere. Some offer upscale dining, while others have a more casual and laid-back vibe. Some specialize in jazz music, while others offer a variety of genres. Choosing the right restaurant with live music is all about finding the perfect combination of food, drinks, and entertainment, and exploring different neighborhoods is a great way to discover new and exciting options.
FAQs: Restaurants with Live Music Denver
What are some of the best restaurants in Denver with live music?
Some of the best restaurants in Denver with live music include Dazzle Jazz, El Chapultepec, Herb’s Hideout, and Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club.
What types of music can you find at restaurants with live music in Denver?
Restaurants with live music in Denver offer a variety of music styles such as jazz, blues, rock, country, and pop, among others.
Are there any restaurants in Denver with outdoor live music?
Yes, you can find restaurants in Denver with outdoor live music such as The Rusty Bucket Restaurant and Tavern, The Grizzly Rose, and The Fox Street Compound.
Do restaurants with live music charge extra for entertainment?
It depends on the restaurant. Some may include the entertainment fee in the menu prices while others may charge extra for entertainment.
Can you make reservations at restaurants with live music in Denver?
Yes, you can make reservations at most restaurants with live music in Denver. However, it is recommended to book in advance, especially on weekends.
What kind of food do restaurants with live music offer in Denver?
Restaurants with live music in Denver offer a wide range of food options such as American cuisine, BBQ, Italian, Mexican, and sushi, among others.
Are there any restaurants with live music in Denver that cater to large groups?
Yes, there are several restaurants with live music in Denver that can accommodate large groups such as Howl at the Moon, The Crimson Room, and Tavernetta.
What is the ambiance like at restaurants with live music in Denver?
The ambiance at restaurants with live music in Denver varies depending on the venue. Some may have a casual and laid-back atmosphere while others may be more upscale and elegant.
Can you enjoy live music at restaurants in Denver every day of the week?
While some restaurants in Denver offer live music every day of the week, others may only have live music on certain days. It is recommended to check the restaurant’s schedule before visiting.
Are there any restaurants with live music in Denver that are kid-friendly?
Yes, there are many restaurants with live music in Denver that are kid-friendly such as Hard Rock Cafe, Jazz at Jack’s, and Sam’s No. 3.
Conclusion
In Denver, there are numerous restaurants with live music to choose from. Whether you’re into jazz, blues, or pop, you’re sure to find a venue that suits your taste. Some of the top restaurants include Dazzle Jazz, El Chapultepec, and The Grizzly Rose. Make sure to check the venue’s schedule and book in advance to avoid disappointment. After enjoying a great meal and live music, continue exploring Denver’s vibrant nightlife scene by checking out some of the city’s bars, clubs or taking a stroll around downtown. Thank you for reading and don’t forget to check out our other interesting articles!