Rioja Photos
RIOJA ATMOSPHERE
You might also consider
More like Rioja
Recommended Reviews - Rioja
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
I would rate this a solid 3.5. My favorite thing we ordered was the cocktail and the tuna tartar. Entrees we got the steak and lamb. The lamb was not good and didn't have that lamb flavor I love. Spouse got the steak and it was really good. Service was great. Table was wobbly. Probably won't be back.
July 28, 2026 - Denver, CO After a midday hike on the Cherry Creek Trail, we were looking for a shaded, dog-friendly patio to escape the heat. As we wandered through Larimer Square, the menu posted outside Rioja caught my eye, and we decided to stop for lunch. I'm so glad we did. The service was exceptional from start to finish. Our pup was immediately greeted with a bowl of ice water, and despite the hot afternoon, our own water glasses were never allowed to get empty. Those little touches made us feel genuinely welcome. We started with the Summer Harvest Salad ($14) with Rebel Farms greens, freekeh, crème fraîche, pistachios, and fresh herbs. The kitchen thoughtfully split it into two bowls for us, and it was one of the best salads I've ever had--fresh, flavorful, and beautifully balanced. For our entrée, we shared the Dumpling Lasagna ($18), made with duck sausage, mushroom ramen broth, egg roll dough, chili crunch, and green onions. It was unlike any lasagna I've ever tasted, wonderfully creative and absolutely delicious. Although it couldn't be plated separately, they provided extra plates so we could easily share. We couldn't resist dessert and ordered the Flourless Fudge Torte ($14) with milk chocolate ganache, cherry compote, and vanilla crème anglaise. It was every bit as decadent and delicious as it sounds, and the perfect ending to an outstanding meal. Between the exceptional food, attentive service, and welcoming patio, we left feeling pampered, well-fed, and truly appreciated.
Had an *off-the-charts* delicious meal @ Rioja on Larimer Square - there's a reason it has a James Beard award: amazingly good. The server was top-tier, she knew what she was talking about: outstanding. The vibe is upscale & hip. Put this spot on your list. I also recommend reservations
This is my third time here and it's been great service each time at the bar by Rachel and Joe, who were really nice. The ambiance is lovely and they have lots of soft seating and romantic booths. I had the pork belly/ bacon and it was good both times.Also had the Amish chicken and their wine list is amazing.
My colleague and I had a nice brunch here. I ordered the chef's crepes that came with crab filling and she ordered a green breakfast bowl with grilled chicken added. We shared our dishes and they were a perfect combo. The food was excellent, but service was lacking. I had to ask multiple times for a second glass of grapefruit juice. We also had to wait quite a while for our check. It's worth noting that they were a James Beard Award Winner. The food was 5 solid stars, but I knocked off a star for the service. The inside of the restaurant looked cozy and tastefully decorated with white tablecloths, but it was a beautiful day so we sat outside facing the shared courtyard.
James beard tortellini truffle! I had a great time here at this restaurant. I used OpenTable to get me a reservation right before closing was like 30 minutes before and I arrived around 45 minutes before my before closing. Ordered a little bit. Greeted and checked in, got a seat right in the front. View was the beautiful street lights. Kyle was my server for the night and he gave me a great layout of whats were the good things to have. I already had the tortellini in mind since it was featured in James Beard awards so I got that it was really cheesy and the truffle was really powerful and then I packed a punch. It was a little bit underwhelming however, I really enjoyed the artichoke soup with chili sauce or chili and then I also really like the beignet. I think I didn't have to go with the seafood. I only had a little bit of the octopus and I was like I don't think I'm gonna get this next time but the next day it was a delicious left over for lunch. It look like a paella. Pretty elegant spot, and recommend for date night spot. Ps loved the starter bread with lavender fragrance. Also the rosemary bread was a majestic touch too!
The food and dining experience was superb. My party sat outside on the patio. The menu is very well planned. Our entrees were well portioned. Dessert was absolutely delicious and fantastic! If you are in Denver, I highly recommend Rioja!
I only have photos of my food and drinks, but I came here with two friends, and we had the grandest of times. This is a restaurant that exhibits superb service and phenomenal food. The restaurant is modern, sleek, open, and well lit. The service is out of this world. Everyone is falling over themselves to help you, though not in a gross way. I had two pastas (you could have either a full pasta dish or a half, and I chose to have two halves). I had the goat cheese gnudi (lamb ragu, fennel pollen, pecorino). Half portion was 14, whole 28. It was rich, meaty, and delish. I also had the mushroom pappardelle (pickled pearl onion, crispy maitake, sheep ricotta, dill). Half 18, full 29. Rich, filling, luxurious. My friend had the duck, which she loved. She can't eat red meat and it was prepared in such a way it almost made her feel like she was eating red meat again. My friend's husband had the scallops as an app (we tasted them too, they were decadent). Then he had the paella, again, a crowd pleaser. We ate every bite of all of it. We had several complex, amazing cocktails. Not the run of the mill. Ingredients that are more unique than the average spot for sure. A lot of gin and absinthe. We had one called Ecto cooler (rum, lychee, kiwi coriander shrub) that we all enjoyed immensely. It's not cheap. For all three of us, with our decadent entrees and multiple alcoholic drinks, as well as dessert and apps, was around 450 with the appropriate tip (I did tip heavy because the service was so spectacular). But I also appreciate this restaurant pays a living wage and charges a small uncharge to allow for this. Amazing experience. And on a pedestrian walkway and near clocktower cabaret, so you can have a great evening.
I went for the artichoke tortellini that is talked about. Excellent! Excellent, excellent. And I don't even like Italian food that much. Melt in the mouth, excellent broth, perfect portion of dough and cheese. The drinks wer very refreshing. The sandwiches were great and so was the cucumber gazpacho. Will be back.
Rioja was one of the best meals I've had in Denver. We started with the complimentary bread service, which included cornbread, olive bread, and sourdough. The Harvest Salad was fresh, balanced, and absolutely hit the spot. The standout dish, though, was the truffle tortellini. It was rich, flavorful, and easily the star of the meal. My only regret is ordering the 4-piece portion instead of the 7-piece! I loved that the restaurant offers both half and full portions of their pastas, making it easy to share and try multiple dishes. We also ordered the Thai Pork, and the kitchen was kind enough to split it onto two plates for us, which was a thoughtful touch. The service throughout the evening was attentive super attentive and friendly. We ordered all that was recommended. The three dishes we shared were the perfect amount for two people. In fact, not a single bite was left on our plates. We were so satisfied that we didn't even make it to dessert, but that's just a reason to come back. Highly recommend: Harvest Salad, Truffle Tortellini, and Thai Pork.
I genuinely cannot believe it took me this long to find Rioja. This place is it for Denver. Located on Larimer Square, the vibe alone is worth the trip - but then the food goes and makes it unforgettable. We started with the bread and whipped butter, which sounds simple but honestly set the tone for the whole meal. So, so good. From there we had the tuna tartare, artichoke tortellini, goat cheese gnudi, and the mushroom pappardelle - and I don't know where to begin. The handmade pastas are the star of the show. The pappardelle was my unexpected favorite, followed closely by the tortellini and the gnudi (genuinely a tough call between those two). The asparagus salad was fresh and delicious. The tartare was the one thing I'd say was just good rather than transcendent -- still solid, just didn't blow me away the way everything else did. Service was attentive without being overbearing, the atmosphere is elevated but not stuffy, and the menu apparently rotates often so there's always a reason to come back. Perfect for a nicer dinner with friends, bringing your parents, or just treating yourself to something special. Already thinking about my next visit.
Rioja is a fancy restaurant that delivers high quality dishes and a great atmosphere. Given its downtown location, it's a perfect option for visitors staying downtown or for a fine dining experience prior to a show. We had an out-of-town friend staying in downtown Denver for a conference. We wanted to impress her, and I had been wanting to visit Rioja for some time, so we gave it a go. Everything about the experience was perfect. This includes the service, which was warm and knowledgeable. We ordered the two James Beard award dishes, the fresh bacon and the artichoke tortellini, to share between us. Both were delightful and definitely worthy of the attention. I had the mushroom pappardelle; which was appropriately rich and satisfying. We also had a round of drinks. We all enjoyed our drinks and found them to be well-balanced. My friend was delighted by this experience. Mission accomplished.
Met an old friend (from kindergarten!) and her son for a pre-theater dinner, with my daughter. We sat outside, but did see the interior, which was lovely. There's a small, limited menu, which I always like because they're focused on doing a few items very well, as opposed to many items less well. They do not have gluten-free pasta items. All their pasta is made in-house, and the server told me that so far, efforts with 1:1 flour have not achieved the texture that they want. But they do have risotto, so I ordered that, and the tuna tartare. The tuna was wonderful!! Really delicious. Our server brought me some papadum, because the olive crackers have wheat. The flavors were perfect. The half-order of risotto was quite small, and the piece of smoked trout was small as well, but combined with the tuna, was a perfect meal. The sauce was silky. My daughter and my friend's son both had the steak, and she said it was great. It was a nice size, and perfectly cooked. My friend had the pork. She's a trained chef and a serious foodie, and mostly enjoyed her entree. The "What's up Doc" cocktail with mezcal was very, very good. My daughter had one too. A lovely dining experience! I would return, just for the tuna tartare. Service was attentive without being intrusive, and I really appreciated the papadum.
While traveling for work I made a last minute reservation here for my coworkers and I and I am so happy we did! We got so lucky with our service - Britain was top notch. He made sure we tried all the best the restaurant had to offer and then some. The food was a star but I would be remiss not to compliment the smoothness of their dirty martinis. Yum! But the fooood. I loved the artichoke tortelloni, the Thai chili pork & grilled octopus and the dessert they brought us was phenomenal. I still can't stop thinking about it. Will recommend this to people I know who live and are traveling to Denver for years to come! read more
Where do you start on this review. The lady who took my reservation was so kind and happened to be from the same place I am. Then time comes and we are seated and treated by this gentleman and what a lovely service. So far no food. Just the service. Well the restaurant it self is cozy, has an outside seating and it's so nice. The food. Amazing. Just so good that we will be back for more. The octopus is the winner but the Amish chicken was not that far off. The deserts or the food. Which one is better can't decide. You have to try it. If there were 7 stars possible I would give 6.5 as I love octopus but it was as tender as I liked it but the others loved it. So it's me :( read more
Overall, this was a great dining experience due to our server, Justin. He was so kind and attentive throughout the night. Our drinks were also delicious and the atmosphere was upscale. The food, however, was hit or miss. My partner is vegetarian and was super disappointed in the four square meal. The pictures online all included pasta, salad, etc., but she was served cold soup, cold farro, watermelon salad, and shishito peppers - not much of a balanced meal. I ordered the short rib which was okay, the best part of the plate was the carrot puree and potato. For dessert, the fig beignets were delicious. I'm not sure if it was just an off night, but for the price point we expected more. read more
Rioja was our final meal on our recent trip to Breckenridge and Denver. 3 stars on yelp means the experience was OK, and that's what I would call it. Nothing bad, just nothing outstanding that would make us want to return. the restaurant is nice, with a nice fine dining feeling. We ordered quite a few dishes. For Appetizers we had the Heirloom Tomato Salad, the Pork Belly, and the Kanpachi Crudo. Of the three dishes, the Tomato salad was probably the best and I almost always like crudos, but this one was pretty bland. We had two appetizer sized pastas - The Nettle Fagiolini with mint and the Tagliatelle Bolognese. The Fagiolini is a green pasta that looks like a green bean. Interesting but bland. The Tagliatelle was tasty, but came out almost at room temperature so points off for that. For entrees we had the Braised Short Rib (dry), and the best dish of the night - The Octopus. We both felt the short rib was not good. I enjoyed the octopus more than my wife did. Bottom line is that perhaps they had a bad night. We don't come to the Denver area enough to ever make a return visit. read more
5 months ago
A-freaking-mazing. What a meal... artful, thoughtful, complex. Beautiful dining room, attentive and educated service. Chefs kiss! Best restaurant in Denver. read more
Business owner information
Beth G.
Thank you so much for this wonderful feedback! We're so happy to hear…
Was really excited to try when visiting Denver but honestly was disappointed. We tried one of the weekly specials (paella) and the pork chop were way too salty. The truffle tortellini was very good! Would come back for that only. Ambiance is cute and it was easy to get a reservation. read more
2 years ago
Dinner last night was simply amazing! We decided to go to a nicer restaurant to celebrate our anniversary. We were definitely not disappointed. We had for our shared starters: artichoke tortellini and the nettle fagioloni. The artichoke tortellini light and sumptuous served in a umami rich broth. The nettle fagioloni was an unexpected treat. The pasta was nested amongst mint, crispy morel mushrooms, fresh and tender green peas and ricotta di pecorino. I didn't want to stop eating it. Bread service was lavender sourdough bread that was crunchy and chewy on the outside and soft and fluffy inside. We also have got cheese biscuits that were beyond delectable. This coming from someone who hates goat cheese. For our main we enjoyed the seared venison with a chestnut puree, red braised cabbage, bitter greens and a huckleberry venison jus. We savored every single bite. Everything about this place was wonderful. From the moment we walked in the door until the moment we walked out, we encountered impeccable service, food and cocktails. Love this place. Oh and this is a James Beard award winner! read more
I loved Rioja! I was in walking distance from my hotel. We hadn't made reservations but were sat down without any hesitation. I wish I remembered our waiter's name, but he had long hair and a tall gentleman. He was nice. He made the dining experience fun and he constantly came to check if we were doing alright. All the wait staff as well were incredible, couldn't ask for a better experience. The food was AMAZING. We started off with their house salad, which light and fresh. Honestly one of my favorite salads. My artichoke tortellini was tasty, the broth was actually my favorite part of the dish. We ended it with this beautiful mousse, which hit the spot! I loved the sesame cracker that came with it. I would definitely come back to Rioja again! read more
3 months ago
2 months ago
Business owner information
Beth G.
Thank you so much for this wonderful feedback! We're so happy to hear…
2 months ago
Business owner information
Beth G.
We believe you have left this review in error. None of what you have…
2 years ago
I came here for my birthday. It was my first time visiting this restaurant, and what a lovely experience! Our server was adorable and explained the menu well. I had the cardamom pork belly appetizer, which melted like butter under my fork. I adored the lavender sourdough bread too. I had the artichoke tortelloni for my main dish. The flavors of all the dishes were exquisite. For dessert, they had a special: raspberry mousse, frangipane, Ruby chocolate, peppercorn marshmallow. Being an adventurous eater I had to try it, and I'm glad I did. But before it came, they brought me a surprise: birthday cake ice cream and a birthday card! This place is beautiful, fun, and the food is fabulous. Every staff member I interacted with was delightful. Highly recommended and I'll be back to try something new! read more
6 months ago
Delicious scallops app and steak entree, I'd eat here again. Bar tenders were super even encouraged me to do half order of fig pastry's. read more
Business owner information
Beth G.
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled you…
We overall enjoyed our experience at Rioja. We took some family members who were in town. The appetizers and entrees were all delicious! We also really enjoyed the bread service- loved the different options of breads. My only complaint was that the service was pretty slow and they forgot about one persons entree. They did offer complimentary dessert which was appreciated. read more
1 year ago
8 months ago
2 years ago
Went for my birthday dinner. Unfortunately, very overrated based on my first experience at rioja. Ordered lamb tartare as an app, came out with rotten mint, and a ton of a greenery that was not on the menu description. I assume they ran out of fresh mint? App reminded me of a cold tuna sandwich. On to the mains: braised short rib: good, but no vegetables at all, just a glorified hash brown rectangle. The black and white tagliatelle was the show stopper. Highly recommend. I only got one drink the entire time, because our server was MIA for a long period of our meal. By the end, our dishes sat for at least 5-10 minutes before being taken. 2 top table was too small even for 2 people. Our plates had to be shifted everywhere and condensed. Birthday cake Ice cream cones were also delicious. I think we may have caught them at a bad time, with an underwhelming seasonal menu. I had been so excited to go here, but I'm not sure I'll try it again since the bill was around $100, and I would have rather went somewhere else overall. read more
Outstanding meal as always. Duck Leg special was excellent and the Artichoke Tortelloni was delicious as always (a fave). It was our friends 1st time in and they loved it! As did my wife. Interesting wine program; i had an awesome Nascetta from northern italy! Service and vibe top notch! read more
Business owner information
Casandra H.
Thanks for the wonderful review Roland. I will make sure to pass…
8 months ago
2 years ago
Well the service is top notch! Located on Larimer Square, you will need to find parking in a lot nearby. Here is a tip, when you get the directions via Waze, click the more button to find a nearby parking lot. The decor is very chic in an understated way. I had the spicy greens salad and it was so delicious! read more
3 years ago
Colorados 1st James Beard best chef winner? I get it. This restaurant is not hip, it's refined without being pretentious. Even during Monday dinner service, I found friends to be made at the bar. I'm in my 30s, and made friends with folks in their 40s and 50s. It's a "order wine", over "grab a cocktail" spot...that being said, their Syrah was fantastic, Breads are offered in multiple varieties. The lavender sourdough, olive, and biscuit all delicious ! They have a system that allows them to preserve expensive wines,and offer them by the glass. Their pastas are fresh and rotate frequently. Usually I'm afraid to breath when I eat beignets, but these are mini, and are covered in both sugar and powdered sugar, so you can breath without destroying the 5 mile radius around you. This review may read like a series of unconnected facts, but give them a visit, and it'll make sense. :D read more
Business owner information
Casandra H.
Thanks for the wonderfully detailed review of your recent visit…
8 months ago
More like a 4.5 star. Food was pretty good. I got the Tuna tartar that was great, the beets were great as well. For my main I did the duck which was good. Service was decent. I would advise against the mezzaluna, it was too rich for me. Check out if nearby. read more
1 year ago
The food was amazing. One of the best meals we've had! I had the bramble on cocktail and it was delicious! We got the salad and the tortelloni. Definitely get the tortelloni!! Get the bigger size if sharing. My husband got the spiced pork and it was unbelievable!! I wouldn't recommend the halibut as much. For dessert my husband and I shared the cheesecake. It was also amazing. I highly recommend this restaurant! With 4 cocktails, a salad, appetizer, 2 entrees and a dessert the bill came to $200. Worth every penny! Our server was also exceptional. She gave recommendations and was very attentive. Seats were nice and it wasn't loud considering how many people were there. You must try it! read more
4 months ago
Business owner information
Beth G.
Thank you so much for this wonderful review! We're so happy to hear…
10 months ago
Business owner information
Beth G.
Thank you so much for joining us! We are glad you enjoyed your…
1 year ago
Recently in Denver and happened upon Rioja late Sunday night. Seated immediately and offered bread made in house. Lavender sourdough for the win. Also the salted butter was delicious. Ordered the house salad, pork belly, and artichoke tortellini. Everything was delicious, but the tortellini wins. An amazingly delicious bite of food. Can't wait to come back to Denver and eat here again. Brilliant! read more
2 years ago
Some of the best food I've ever had. I literally recommend everything. The servers will help you choose and answer any questions you may have about the menu, the restaurant, or the area in general. The place is beautiful and clean and has an upscale vibe to it. Definitely recommend if you're in the area! read more
1 year ago
My wife and I stopped by Rioja tonight randomly during a trip to Denver and were so glad that we did. We started off with the James Beard Award winning Artichoke Tortelloni and a couple rye undertaker cocktails. For the mains, we had ricotta gnocchi and the grilled bavette steak. Floors were impeccable and we can't wait to indulge there again! read more
Yummy food and delicious drinks. We had the pork belly and pasta to share. I liked my octopus entree (though not sure if the tomatoes paste was a good compliment to it) and my husband's pork chop was delicious as well. If you like refreshing cocktails, I'd recommend getting the wild berry fusion. The place wasn't too crowded when we got there but for some reasons, our waitress was very rushed in having us order... read more
11 months ago
11 months ago
1 year ago
We had the bacon appetizer, braised duck and goat cheese gnudi with lamb ragu entrees, and for dessert, chocolate peanut butter cheesecake and lemon blueberry budino. Everything was AMAZING!! Our server, Scott, was so professional, helpful, and friendly, and the entire staff was so classy and upscale. It is a beautiful place with fabulous food and service. I would recommend it to anyone. read more
Best food I've had in Denver. Hands down. Came here on a Sunday night early and we were blown away. The Nude and Notable cocktail is a great way to start the meal, though my friends grabbed wine and loved the selection. We ordered the 4 course menu, as well as the Smorrebrod and the chilled carrot soup as appetizers. Complementary bread accompanied these. We were delighted by all of it. The rosemary biscuit was a favorite, but the olive sourdough and lavender sourdough were also fantastic. For entrees we ordered the artichoke tortellini, Seared Venison, and the octopus. Wow. Every dish was incredible but I think the favorite was the venison. It was the best bite of food I've had in a long time and I will be dreaming of it for many days to come. read more
More info about Rioja
1431 Larimer St
Denver, CO 80202
Lodo, Northwest
Directions
(303) 820-2282
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.riojadenver.com/
Full menu
Hours
Payment methods
Food & Alcohol
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Other Amenities
From the Business
More Info
Special Hours
Rioja Reviews in Other Languages
Ask the Community - Rioja
Does Rioja have private pods for those seeking to avoid COVID?
No pods or mini greenhouses. They do have tables outside on the sidewalk and in Larimer Street with propane heaters.
Is there still outside dining available that you can request at the Tim of booking your reservation?
Hello Kathy, You can request outdoor seating when making the reservation when you speak with us.…
Do they offer Happy hours?
Rioja offers a daily happy hour from 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Would it be terrible to bring children? We're traveling from out of state and have to bring kids.
This is not a stuffy place and the staff is very welcoming. I don't see a problem if your children are well-behaved and are adventurous eaters. However, the dinner menu is fairly expensive and even the basic items are prepared in an eclectic and…
Are dogs allowed in the outdoor patio space?
Do they allow dogs on the patio?
Call to confirm, but I don't believe that's allowed in Denver. I've tried at a few restaurants on 17th and been told that I can't be on the patio with my little guy.
Do they have vegan options?
Vegetarian options, but limited vegan (typical salad offerings)
Is there a corkage fee? If so, how much is it?
When I called a few months ago they said they do not accept outside bottles. They have an amazing wine list though so you'll find a great bottle. We tried their 20+ year old Rioja and it was one of the best wines I've had.
Is there a dress code? We will be traveling from out of town and walking most of the day, not sure if we'll need to go home and change first.
No posted dress code. However, if you are a person of color and dressed casually, be prepared to be told that no tables are available even though tables are in fact available. A minute after being turned away, we called the restaurant and were told…
Is this restaurant loud?
I went to Rioja on a Tuesday & there wasn't an open table in the restaurant. Although the restaurant was crowded, the noise is properly controlled through use of furniture , flooring , etc . Additional, I would not call the Rioja crowd, rowdy.…
You might also consider
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
369 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
10 years ago
1 year ago
16 years ago
3 years ago
9 months ago
13 years ago
2 years ago
6 months ago
6 years ago
2 years ago
10 years ago
12 years ago
2 years ago
2 years ago
18 years ago
6 years ago
3 years ago
6 years ago
