El Five

From the same group that created Root Down, Ophelia's and Linger (located next door), El Five is also focused on planet-friendly food, much of it plant-based, all of it superb. To be sure there are meat entrees on the menu of small plates, but vegetarians and vegans have plenty of options. Embracing an industrial-glam aesthetic enhanced by bold pops of color in wall-spanning murals, El Five is bustling and welcoming with sweeping views over LoHi and downtown Denver thanks to its fifth-floor location (hence the name), expanse of windows and a sunset-bathed terrace. The entire Mediterranean region is showcased on the eclectic menu labeled Tapas de Gibralter, including Italy, Spain, Israel, Lebanon and Morocco. While the atmosphere is casual, service is attentive and knowledgeable, and a cocktail from the sophisticated bar list is the way to start the evening.