When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
Kona Grill - Denver
Why Kona Grill - Denver is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Kona Grill in Denver offers a polished yet casual dining atmosphere that makes it an excellent place to meet up with friends for any occasion. Located conveniently in the Cherry Creek Shopping Center near Neiman Marcus, this restaurant features a beautifully shaded patio perfect for enjoying the vibrant Denver weather while savoring their renowned happy hour offerings. Guests can indulge in a diverse menu that includes hearty steaks, fresh seafood flown daily from the Pacific Ocean, and award-winning sushi—presenting a unique blend of contemporary American cuisine with global inspirations. Kona Grill is also notable for its handcrafted cocktails, made with the finest spirits and freshly squeezed juices, enhancing the social dining experience. Whether it's brunch, lunch, dinner, or late-night drinks, Kona Grill provides a lively vibe with live local DJ sets on weekends, creating the perfect backdrop for connecting with friends. Their commitment to fresh, scratch-made dishes and carefully sourced ingredients, including a pledge towards 100% cage-free eggs, underscores their high-quality dining standards. Add the accessibility features like valet parking and wheelchair accessibility, plus options for takeout and reservations, and Kona Grill stands out as a versatile venue for friendly gatherings in Denver.
Here's what people think of Kona Grill - Denver
As of recent, Kona Grill - Denver holds a 4.7-star rating based on 15325 reviews.
User reviews for Kona Grill in Denver reflect a strong overall satisfaction, contributing to its excellent 4.7-star rating from over 15,000 reviews. Many patrons praised the consistent quality of the food, especially highlighting the fresh sushi and flavorful steaks as standout dishes. The ambiance, described as both polished and casual, was frequently mentioned as ideal for group meetups or special occasions. Positive reviews also lauded the attentive service and the vibrant happy hour, which offers great value and a lively atmosphere. Guests appreciated the diversity of the menu and the availability of vegetarian-friendly options, which added to the inclusive dining experience. On the other hand, some negative feedback centered around occasional slow service during peak hours and mixed experiences with brunch, where a few found the offerings and execution less impressive than other meal times. A few reviewers noted that the venue can get noisy on busy weekend nights due to the DJ events. Overall, the consensus suggests that Kona Grill delivers an excellent dining experience with fresh ingredients, innovative cocktails, and a welcoming environment—making it a popular choice despite minor service hiccups reported by some. The blend of contemporary cuisine and exceptional sushi in Denver’s Cherry Creek area continues to draw positive attention from locals and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kristina
Mother’s Day Brunch — Never Again, But the Regular Menu Redeemed Everything! I originally came here for their bottomless Mother’s Day brunch and it was honestly terrible — definitely not worth the $49 per person. Most of it tasted like cheap, store-bought, or frozen items just microwaved and thrown onto a buffet. The only fresh things were the watermelon and a few pieces of asparagus (which they barely gave us enough of). I left feeling so disappointed. However, after I posted my review, the restaurant reached out to me directly. They apologized sincerely for my bad experience and invited me back to try their regular menu — they never asked me to change or remove my review, they just genuinely wanted to make things right. I’m really glad I gave them another chance! This time, everything was delicious. I had the dragon roll, which was so tasty and came with a fun presentation — they poured alcohol around it and lit it on fire! I also tried the wagyu surf and turf, and it was incredible: the steak was cooked perfectly and melted in my mouth. The sweet chili green beans were full of flavor and had a perfect texture. I finished with the butter cake, which was warm, moist, and perfectly balanced with the raspberry sauce and ice cream. I still don’t recommend their Mother’s Day brunch — save your money! — but I do recommend their regular menu. The food and service really impressed me the second time, and I appreciate how they handled my concerns with genuine care. I’ll definitely be back.
Jeffery Smitty
I had the absolute pleasure of being served by Ryder at Kona Grill, and let me tell ya, he made the whole experience a real treat! From the moment we were seated, his hospitality shone through. Ryder had us feeling right at home. I went for a cheeseburger with bacon, and it was downright delicious. Juicy, cooked just right, packed with flavor, the works! Ryder's service? Top notch, like he was treating us to a meal at his own mama’s house. Can’t wait to come back, and I sure hope Ryder is there next time!
Terrance Kelly
It's not what I imagined being in the cherry creek district. It's definitely not worth $200. The service was phenomenal, but the food lacked big time! I was disappointed, and many who follow me (over 3 million viewers) know I don't run into many disappointments. The food presentation looked good, but the taste was below quality for such an upscale restaurant.
Amanda Marucci
Fantastic meal, great service from Erica, and the best way to spend an afternoon. The summer special sushi roll is fantastic and should be put on the main menu! The French fries are also some of the best I’ve ever had. Angry edamame is not for the weak of heart but so flavorful and unique if you like the heat. Thank you, Erica for an amazing dining experience!
Allison
Matthew was absolutely fantastic, so friendly and full of great energy! He kept us laughing with his fun jokes and made the whole experience even more enjoyable. We’ll definitely be asking for him next time!
How to reach Kona Grill - Denver
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Why Kona Grill - Denver may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Kona Grill - Denver with your friends?
Kona Grill - Denver stands out as an exceptional gathering spot for friends because it seamlessly combines a vibrant yet polished ambiance with a culinary experience that satisfies diverse palates. Whether you're craving award-winning sushi, upscale American dishes, or specialty craft cocktails, Kona Grill offers a menu that caters to every taste in a relaxed yet refined environment. The restaurant’s prime location in Denver’s Cherry Creek Shopping Center makes it easy to access and ideal for meeting up before or after a day of shopping or other activities. With a stellar rating of 4.7 from over 15,000 reviews, the place has clearly earned the trust and enthusiasm of locals and visitors alike. Its fully shaded patio invites guests to enjoy a lively, outdoor happy hour or a casual meal. The blend of exceptional food quality, a well-curated drinks menu, and a versatile setting fosters an atmosphere where catching up, celebrating, or simply unwinding with friends feels natural and memorable. This balance of factors makes Kona Grill an unbeatable choice for a social meetup spot.
What dining options make Kona Grill perfect for group meetups?
Kona Grill - Denver’s menu is remarkably diverse and crafted to please large groups with different tastes and dietary preferences. It features a wide range of offerings from fresh sushi selections and creative appetizers such as Chicken Satay and Avocado Egg Rolls to hearty main courses like Sweet-Chili Glazed Salmon, Big Island Ribeye, and Macadamia Nut Chicken. This breadth of choice ensures that everyone in the group, regardless of preference for seafood, meat, or vegetarian options, will find something appealing. The restaurant also offers a special kids’ menu with favorites like Mini Cheeseburgers and Grilled Chicken, making it family-friendly. For brunch meetups, Kona Grill serves an all-you-can-eat brunch option that includes indulgent dishes like Chicken & Waffle, Eggs Benedict, and Smoked Salmon Flatbread alongside pastries and sushi. The availability of both casual and upscale dishes allows groups to tailor their dining experience, whether it’s a relaxed weekend brunch or a celebratory dinner. This flexibility in cuisine and menu offerings is a key reason why Kona Grill suits group events so well.
What activities and amenities does Kona Grill - Denver provide for a memorable gathering?
Beyond cuisine, Kona Grill - Denver elevates group meetups through its inviting atmosphere and crowd-pleasing amenities. The restaurant features a polished yet casual setup with stylish indoor seating and a fully shaded outdoor patio, perfect for larger groups and seasonal gatherings. The patio invites socializing over happy hour specials, where guests can enjoy $3, $6, and $9 cocktails and bar bites, fostering a convivial atmosphere. Additionally, the presence of a sushi bar adds a dynamic element to the dining experience, where groups can watch the chefs prepare fresh sushi and enjoy an interactive meal. The bar also serves a variety of craft cocktails, wines, and beers, which are perfect accompaniments for socializing. For those looking to keep things casual, Kona Grill’s selection of sliders and burgers provide comfort food options that appeal widely. The venue’s contemporary décor and convenient location next to well-known retailers like Neiman Marcus and West Elm also make it an ideal midpoint meeting place. These combined features create an engaging environment that keeps groups entertained and comfortable.
How does Kona Grill’s atmosphere contribute to group enjoyment?
Kona Grill - Denver’s atmosphere plays a crucial role in making it an inviting space for friends and family to come together. The ambiance balances an upscale, modern vibe with casual comfort, allowing guests to feel both relaxed and special. The spacious layout accommodates small to large groups without compromising intimacy or noise levels. The indoor area is tastefully decorated with contemporary furnishings and mood lighting, setting an inviting yet stylish tone. The shaded outdoor patio offers fresh air and a lively vibe, especially during Denver’s pleasant weather, ideal for happy hours or casual meals. This versatility means groups can choose from quieter corners for catching up or open spaces for lively celebrations. The attentive and friendly staff further enhance the experience by providing seamless service that adjusts to group needs. Altogether, the atmosphere supports a social experience that feels both fun and refined.
Why is Kona Grill - Denver ideal for celebrations or special meetups?
Kona Grill’s combination of culinary excellence, diverse menu, inviting ambiance, and premium location makes it an excellent choice for special occasions with friends or family. The restaurant’s ability to accommodate groups, from intimate gatherings to larger parties, ensures every celebration gets appropriate attention. The menu’s gourmet options allow hosts to impress guests with refined tastes, while the sushi and brunch choices add uniqueness and variety often sought on special days. The bar’s specialty cocktails and happy hour promotions provide a festive touch to any event. Its location in Cherry Creek makes parking convenient and adds an element of prestige thanks to proximity to upscale shopping. Whether celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or simply reconnecting with loved ones, Kona Grill delivers an experience that combines great food, a lively yet sophisticated setting, and attentive service — all key elements that make an event memorable and enjoyable.
How does Kona Grill handle group dining logistics and convenience?
Hosting a group meetup at Kona Grill - Denver is facilitated by the restaurant’s thoughtful approach to group dining logistics. It offers a range of seating options, including tables that can be arranged for larger parties, and the shaded outdoor patio is perfect for more casual or social setups. The menu structure, featuring sharable appetizers, sushi platters, and customizable entrees, encourages communal eating and ease of ordering. For those who prefer planning ahead, Kona Grill also provides catering and group meal packages, which helps simplify the preparation for bigger meetups. The staff is experienced in handling group dynamics and ensures timely service to keep the gathering flowing smoothly. Additionally, the restaurant’s extended hours and weekend brunch enhance scheduling flexibility. Conveniently positioned within a well-trafficked shopping area, it also benefits from ample parking and easy access, removing typical stressors associated with meeting large groups. This infrastructure and service orientation make Kona Grill a practical and enjoyable choice for group events.
What kind of drinks and bar options enhance group socializing at Kona Grill?
The bar at Kona Grill - Denver significantly elevates the social aspect of any meetup through an extensive selection of craft cocktails, wines, and beers. Its specialty cocktails are carefully crafted to offer unique flavor profiles that complement the diverse menu, suited for both casual and celebratory gatherings. Happy hour deals with affordable prices on drinks encourage guests to linger and engage, turning a meal into an event. The bar environment itself is designed to be lively yet accessible, with bartenders who interact expertly with guests to customize drinks and enhance the social vibe. This makes Kona Grill not just a dining destination but also a favored spot for post-work drinks or weekend unwinding with a group. Combined with bar snacks and shareable appetizers, the beverage options foster an interactive and festive atmosphere that helps groups bond over excellent drinks and delicious food.
How does Kona Grill appeal to families and children during group meetups?
Kona Grill - Denver extends its group-friendly reputation to families by providing a welcoming atmosphere and a dedicated kids’ menu that suits younger tastes. The kids’ menu features familiar, crowd-pleasing dishes such as Mini Cheeseburgers, Chicken Tenders, and Grilled Salmon served with sides like Mac & Cheese or French Fries, ensuring children enjoy their meals just as much as adults. This careful attention to family needs frees parents to relax and socialize without mealtime stress. The spacious and clean environment, combined with friendly service, helps families feel comfortable and accommodated. Additionally, brunch options like all-you-can-eat servings appeal to families wanting a leisurely weekend outing. By catering thoughtfully to all ages, Kona Grill creates an inclusive experience that supports multi-generational meetups where everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, can have a pleasant time together.
What special menus or offers create a unique dining experience at Kona Grill?
Kona Grill - Denver enhances group meetups with a variety of special menus and offers designed to elevate the dining experience. Notably, the restaurant features an all-you-can-eat brunch that invites groups to indulge in offerings like Chicken & Waffles, Eggs Benedict, and an array of pastries and sushi — perfect for those looking to enjoy a long, leisurely meal with multiple options. Seasonal promotions such as the Taste of Kona, a 3-course dinner experience, let groups savor curated meals inspired by global flavors at a set price, providing both value and excitement. Happy hour specials on drinks and appetizers further add to the appeal, encouraging groups to gather during optimal times for great deals and a festive atmosphere. These curated experiences ensure that no matter the occasion or timing, Kona Grill provides something special that enhances group enjoyment and makes the meal memorable.
How do reviews and customer experiences reflect the appeal of Kona Grill - Denver for group gatherings?
The outstanding 4.7 rating based on over 15,000 reviews for Kona Grill - Denver is a testament to its consistent excellence as a group-friendly restaurant. Customers frequently praise the quality and variety of the food, highlighting both the sushi and innovative appetizers as favorite picks. Many reviewers share positive experiences about the warm, attentive service and the inviting atmosphere that encourages lingering and socializing. The balance of casual and upscale elements is often mentioned as ideal for celebrations or casual meetups, and the availability of happy hour specials is a popular draw. Families appreciate the accommodating kids’ menu and friendly environment. Such positive feedback underscores how Kona Grill delivers on its promise to be a place where groups can relax, enjoy great food and drinks, and make lasting memories. These collective experiences reflect why it continues to be a top choice for group dining in Denver.
What makes Kona Grill’s location in Cherry Creek an advantage for meetups?
Kona Grill’s Cherry Creek location in Denver is a major advantage for group meetups, offering both convenience and an appealing setting. Cherry Creek is a well-known destination featuring upscale shopping, galleries, and entertainment, making it a vibrant hub where groups can plan a full day of activities around their meal. The restaurant’s proximity to major retailers like Neiman Marcus and West Elm provides excellent options for shopping before or after dining, ideal for groups wanting to combine experiences. Its location near valet parking and easily accessible from 1st Avenue means guests don’t have to worry about parking hassles, a frequent stressor in busy urban areas. The stylish and modern neighborhood adds prestige and attractiveness to meetups held here. This location, therefore, not only serves as a convenient meeting point but also enhances the overall experience by situating guests within a lively, upscale environment that extends the value of their gathering beyond the meal.
These aspects collectively make Kona Grill - Denver a top destination to rally with friends or family, offering exceptional cuisine, a welcoming environment, and a host of features that cater perfectly to groups. Whether hosting a casual happy hour, a festive brunch, or a special celebration, Kona Grill delivers a comprehensive experience that stands out in Denver’s dining scene.