When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
John Holly's Asian Bistro (Downing)

Why John Holly's Asian Bistro (Downing) is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
John Holly's Asian Bistro, located at 2422 S Downing St in Denver, is an inviting destination for friends to gather and enjoy a diverse Asian culinary experience. With a menu featuring Chinese, Japanese, Thai, seafood, sushi, and vegetarian options, the bistro offers an eclectic mix of flavors to satisfy a wide range of palates. The relaxed yet chic atmosphere makes it ideal for meetups, whether for casual lunch or dinner. Their generous portion sizes encourage sharing and sampling, fostering a communal dining experience. Noteworthy highlights include their well-crafted sushi, robust Asian entrees like Yushan pork and duck, and vegetarian-friendly dishes that appeal to various dietary preferences. The bistro's convenient location and delivery options also allow for easy access, further enhancing its appeal as a social dining venue. Open throughout the week with extended hours on weekends, John Holly's Asian Bistro is a place where food lovers can indulge in quality Asian cuisine while enjoying the company of friends.
Here's what people think of John Holly's Asian Bistro (Downing)
As of recent, John Holly's Asian Bistro (Downing) holds a 4.2-star rating based on 452 reviews.
Overall, John Holly's Asian Bistro has garnered a solid 4.2-star rating from 452 reviews, reflecting general customer satisfaction with its food quality and variety. Many positive reviews praise the flavorful and authentic Asian dishes, particularly highlighting the sushi and Chinese specialties like duck and Yushan pork. Customers also appreciate the large portion sizes and vegetarian options, making it a flexible choice for diverse groups. The restaurant's friendly service and the passion of the chef are frequently noted as enhancing the dining experience. However, some negative reviews point out occasional service inconsistency and a somewhat chaotic atmosphere during busy times, with servers appearing overwhelmed. A few diners mention that the ambiance or organization of the seating could use improvement. Despite these critiques, the quality of the food consistently stands out as the main reason patrons return. In summary, John Holly's Asian Bistro is recognized as a reliable spot for delicious and varied Asian cuisine, where the food shines even if the service and environment can sometimes be hectic.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shay Lynn
I was visiting my mom, who was in the hospital nearby, and I needed dinner, so I decided on this place. The food was great and there's a lot of choices which were amazing. They had happy hour prices from 4 pm to 6 pm. I had spring vegetable spring rolls, Poison Ivy Roll, and Philadelphia Roll. All very delicious! I had a drink, but it was very weak and super sweet.
Batman
UPDATE: Adding some new pictures of green curry cod, calamari, salmon, crab cake, lobster shrimp fried rice, and green beans and eggplant. SOOO GOOD. Full of flavor and deliciousness. Price: Very fair. You are getting all that and then some. Food: From wait time, to presentation, to taste…super flavorful, I’m always so excited to eat here lol Their catering options are incredible too. Check out the pictures of the sashimi boats. I don’t eat sashimi but seeing how pretty it was, I almost wish I did lol. Service: Everyone is so family oriented here. You get treated like you’re a part of the fam as well. Everytime I come here, I see regulars come in and can feel the warmth from the staff. Environment: Dinning area, bar area with seating, sushi bar with seating. Not the biggest inside but plenty of room. NTT [[Next Time Try]]: EVERYTHING. That’s it. That’s all. Eat everything. Lol. You can catch me here everytime I’m in Denver. #iLoveItHere
david stewart
I can't believe we've never been here. We got take out, beef and broccoli, moo shu chicken, chicken fried rice, they have it all, and it was all good. I think we found our new Chinese restaurant!
Lyndie Corder
My husband and I stopped in for lunch on a Sunday. We loved the cozy, clean and comfortable atmosphere. My husband ordered a lunch special: the General Tso’s Chicken that came with soup and a starter (he chose the California roll). We highly recommend this lunch! All the ingredients were fresh and perfectly prepared, plus there’s so much food!! The only thing we didn’t like was the California roll. Something was off, but we couldn’t really figure out just what.I ordered the Rising Sun Roll and since it’s basically just a California roll topped with salmon, it was also not the best. I’m not sure if one of the ingredients had too much salt or what, but it wasn’t good and I was disappointed by the sushi. Overall, great experience and the service was top notch!
Madeline Domyslawski
Wow!!! I wish I could give more than 5 stars for this place- everything was amazing! Atmosphere, service, food, and wait time was exceptional. Kevin took care of us and was very attentive and kind. We will definitely be back!
How to reach John Holly's Asian Bistro (Downing)
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Why John Holly's Asian Bistro (Downing) may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at John Holly's Asian Bistro with your friends? Because this cozy yet vibrant bistro offers the perfect blend of ambiance, exceptional food, and attentive service that transforms any gathering into a memorable occasion. Whether your group is craving fresh sushi, authentic Asian-inspired dishes or imaginative cocktails, John Holly's delivers with finesse and flavor. With a solid rating of 4.2 out of 452 reviews, it demonstrates consistent customer satisfaction and appeal. The intimate setting fosters connection, making it ideal for catching up, celebrating special moments, or simply enjoying each other’s company over shared plates. Moreover, the staff is known for their friendly, attentive nature, ensuring that your group’s needs are met promptly and warmly. This kind of environment cultivates a relaxed yet lively social experience, encouraging laughter, great conversations, and the joy of communal dining. For friends seeking a place that combines quality, reliability, and a welcoming atmosphere, John Holly's Asian Bistro stands out as a top-notch meetup locale.
What activities make John Holly's Asian Bistro perfect for a group meetup? First and foremost, the restaurant specializes in a broad menu featuring sushi, classic Asian entrees, and creative rolls, ideal for groups that love variety and sharing dishes. Many diners praise the family-style serving option, which enhances the social dining experience by letting everyone sample and savor multiple dishes together. This shared dining culture naturally encourages interaction and bonding. The bistro’s sushi bar is another highlight, where guests can watch expert chefs craft sushi in real time—adding an entertaining and engaging dimension to the visit. Furthermore, the well-curated beverage menu featuring cocktails and non-alcoholic options supports prolonged socializing with a refreshing twist. The staff’s attentiveness ensures that even larger groups receive seamless service without feeling rushed, making it easy to linger over conversations. Whether for a birthday, casual hangout, or a festive celebration, John Holly's versatile offerings and friendly ambiance create an environment that suits all types of group gatherings.
Why choose John Holly’s Asian Bistro for quality Asian cuisine with your friends? John Holly’s earns its reputation through a menu that balances classic Asian dishes with creative innovations. Diners frequently highlight the freshness and quality of ingredients, especially in their sushi and tempura selections. Signature dishes like the Kimberly roll and chicken pad Thai have received enthusiastic praise for their flavor and generosity. This reputation for consistently excellent food makes it an appealing choice for groups who want to impress with cuisine that satisfies diverse palates. Additionally, the option to modify dishes allows for personalized orders to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions, a crucial factor for group dining. The attentive and knowledgeable staff enhances the experience by guiding customers through menu options and ensuring everyone’s tastes are met. This combination of high-quality food, menu flexibility, and attentive service means that groups can relax and enjoy meals without worry, making it an easy recommendation for those looking for top-tier Asian dining.
How does the ambiance at John Holly's Asian Bistro contribute to a positive group experience? The bistro offers an intimate and casual atmosphere that is both comfortable and inviting, a setting well suited for groups of varying sizes. The décor combines traditional Asian elements with modern touches, creating a warm, aesthetically pleasing environment. Soft lighting and well-arranged seating encourage long, relaxed visits, inviting groups to settle in and enjoy each other’s company without feeling hurried. Although the space is compact, it remains cozy rather than cramped, allowing for intimate conversations and minimal noise interference. Many patrons cite the friendly and attentive service as key to the welcoming ambiance, where staff remember regular guests and make newcomers feel at home. This atmosphere is particularly attractive for social meetups as it strikes the right balance between stimulating and relaxing, fostering enjoyable experiences with friends and family.
What customer service qualities stand out at John Holly's Asian Bistro for group visits? The staff at John Holly’s Bistro are celebrated for their hospitality, attentiveness, and accommodating approach, especially when handling groups. Reviewers consistently note how servers go above and beyond to make parties feel welcome, whether by offering menu recommendations, adjusting dishes to preferences, or ensuring timely service. For group reservations, the team coordinates well to ensure food arrives family-style or individually—whichever suits the event best—without delays or mix-ups. Friendly interaction between staff and guests creates a respectful and pleasant environment that enhances the overall dining experience. Although a few isolated reviews mention service challenges during busy times, the prevailing consensus highlights professionalism and warmth that help maintain a smooth flow during even large group gatherings. This dedication to quality service makes John Holly’s an excellent choice for those wanting hassle-free, attentive care while dining out with friends or family.
What are some specific dining highlights and menu favorites to share when visiting in a group? The menu at John Holly’s Asian Bistro offers a range of crowd-pleasers to satisfy different tastes. The sushi rolls—particularly the renowned Kimberly roll—receive high praise for their creative combinations and fresh, flavorful ingredients. The chicken pad Thai, noted for its large portions of tender chicken and balanced seasoning, is a favorite entrée that appeals to many diners. Tempura items, especially shrimp and soft shell crab, are lauded for their crispiness and light batter, making excellent appetizers or complements to main courses. Seafood dishes such as crispy red snapper and steamed sea bass provide options for those who prefer fish over traditional sushi. Vegetation pad Thai with chicken offers a flavorful choice for groups with mixed dietary preferences. Additionally, the pepper beef and shrimp with vegetables stand out as tasty, well-seasoned dishes. With so many options, groups can easily mix and match plates to enjoy variety and share in a truly communal dining experience.
How accessible is John Holly’s Asian Bistro for group gatherings and what practical considerations are there? Situated on Downing Street in Denver, John Holly's Asian Bistro offers a convenient location for locals and visitors alike, with accessible parking and proximity to shopping and entertainment areas. While the restaurant is small, it accepts reservations for groups, which can help ensure seating for parties of four or more without long waits. This makes planning meetups easier and smoother, particularly on weekends or busy evenings. The staff’s willingness to serve family-style portions on request is a valuable feature for groups wanting to share food without hassle. Delivery and takeout options with positive reviews also provide alternatives if a group prefers to gather elsewhere but still enjoy the bistro’s food. Overall, the combination of location, reservation policy, and flexible dining options make John Holly’s well suited to hosting friends and family for a pleasant, hassle-free meal.
Why do customers keep returning to John Holly's Asian Bistro for their group meetups? The answer lies in the consistent quality, welcoming atmosphere, and genuine hospitality. Many reviews reflect repeat visits fueled by reliable, delicious food and service that treats guests like valued friends. Regulars appreciate the ability to enjoy well-prepared sushi bars and diverse Asian dishes in an engaging setting that encourages conversation and connection. Whether celebrating milestones or catching up after a long time apart, guests find John Holly's a dependable, comfortable venue that meets and often exceeds expectations. The staff’s personable approach and willingness to accommodate requests adds a homey touch to dining out, making it easy for groups to relax and enjoy their time. This blend of consistent excellence in food and service cements John Holly’s Asian Bistro as a favored spot for social gatherings among Denver residents and visitors alike.