When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
The Velvet Cellar
Why The Velvet Cellar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Velvet Cellar is a sophisticated yet approachable wine bar and dining venue located in Denver's historic Lower Downtown (LoDo) district. Housed within the beautifully restored Saddlery building, one of the last grand old warehouse structures in LoDo, it offers an inviting atmosphere perfect for socializing with friends and family. With an open floorplan centered around a full-service bar, The Velvet Cellar provides a warm environment where patrons can sip craft cocktails, enjoy an exceptional selection of local and international wines, and indulge in a thoughtfully curated New American menu with Southern Gulf Coast influences. Executive Chef Jon Simoneau leads the culinary team, serving dishes made from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, including Colorado's finest steaks, fresh seafood, and creative vegetarian options. The interior blends modern elegance with historic charm, inviting guests to relax and savor quality food and drink in a vibrant downtown setting just steps from Union Station, Ball Arena, and Coors Field. The Velvet Cellar's commitment to refreshing its menu seasonally ensures a dynamic culinary experience, making it an ideal meeting spot for casual gatherings, romantic evenings, or special celebrations.
Here's what people think of The Velvet Cellar
As of recent, The Velvet Cellar holds a 4.7-star rating based on 306 reviews.
Reviews for The Velvet Cellar consistently highlight its high-quality food, outstanding wine selection, and welcoming atmosphere, reflected in its impressive 4.7-star rating from over 300 reviews. Positive reviews commonly praise the elegant yet comfortable ambiance, attentive and knowledgeable staff, and creative craft cocktails that perfectly complement the menu offerings. Many guests appreciate the locally sourced ingredients and flavorful dishes, especially the expertly cooked Colorado steaks and inventive appetizers. The venue's central location in LoDo enhances its appeal as a convenient and attractive destination for diverse occasions. On the other hand, some negative feedback mentions occasional issues such as wait times during peak hours, pricing that can be on the higher side, and occasional inconsistencies in service speed. A few patrons noted that the historic setting's unique layout might affect acoustics or table spacing. Overall, the majority of reviews affirm The Velvet Cellar as a standout spot in Denver’s dining scene, celebrating its successful blend of sophisticated design, culinary excellence, and excellent drink offerings, making it a favored place to meet friends and enjoy memorable dining experiences.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nicole S
Went here for the first time to celebrate my and my husband's wedding anniversary. The staff had reserved us a booth with a cute card informing that we were celebrating our anniversary. We were offered complimentary glasses of champagne to celebrate, and each staff member we interacted with were very attentive, kind, and bubbly. The food was exceptional, both in taste and in plating. The cocktails were phenomenal as well. Very happy we found this restaurant and had such a fantastic anniversary celebration experience ❤️ highly recommended!
Jason Britton
Everything was very tasty. We had the calamari, bruschetta, steak and Marsala. Service was excellent and the white wine flight was also super delicious. The only small knock was that the calamari could have used more sauce.
Wendy Gordon
I was disappointed in the food after reading all the reviews. Starting with my white sangria, dishes all felt a little off. The sangria was the most flavorless sangria I've ever had. It tasted like a glass of white wine filled with ice cubes. It did have a slice of dried orange floating in it. It's as if the bartender forgot all the other ingredients. The purple gnocchi and cauliflower dish was good but not outstanding. The addition of spaghetti squash just gave it an odd texture. My husband liked the chicken Marsala but said the sauce was a little bitter. I had the poke bowl, which for $39 was underwhelming. The green bean side was completely off. It was supposed to be made with pecans but we got almonds. The pecans were one of the selling points to me. It was otherwise a heap of kind of oily, not terribly flavorful green beans. The pink nimbus cocktail was very tart. The banana tart was good but the biggest component was the giant dollop of whipped cream that topped it. I would have like more banana. Our server Becky was very personable. The atmosphere stood out and we enjoyed the playlist in the background.
Jenn Pfankuch
I had the most amazing crémé brûlée here!!! It was purple and had POTATOES in it!!! The pork chops, mushrooms, and everything else was so good but the crémé brûlée oh my gawdddd. The cuisine is very southern meets American and French inspired! Very nice atompshere and excellent selection of beverages!
Mark Filler
We had a fantastic overall experience here. We went here because of Restaurant Week and my wife's birthday, and we WILL be back. Great bar area. Spacious, cool vibe, and classy. I apologize for no pictures of that area. The bartenders were on point, without a doubt, and, more importantly, very cohesive and fluid in their chemistry. It was busy at the bar, and their efforts were effortless. Our primary bartender was Buckles, and his personality was clever and welcoming, and his efficiency was flawless. Simona (I think) popped in here and there, and she was great also. The food. Please understand my pics are of the Restaurant Week portions, so yours will have more. My wife's drink was tasty, and the presentation was elegant. Wife got the calamari, and I was jealous. It was served the way we prefer, and the sauce was magnificent. But, then I tasted my elote corn chowder, and my jealously dimmed, as mine was just as good. Wife got the steak for the second course. There was a little too much fat in it for her taste, but I tried it and the seasoning was fantastic, and I loved the taste. I got the chicken marsala, and I don't even like mushrooms very much. It was awesome. I made my mind forget that it had mushrooms in it, and enjoyed it immensely. For dessert, she got the brulee and I got the bread pudding. No complaints, and both were solid. My wife said these words "this is the best dessert I have had in...a long time." The manager even checked in with us as we were leaving (Scholl?), and he was extremely nice and you sensed his great personality and proficiency in his leadership in the thirty second conversation I had with him. Just a heads up, because I am a sports guy, that the place doesn't have TV's, So, separate your life from sports for an hour or two and go here for the experience. I would highly recommend Velvet Cellar, and we can't wait to come back to check out happy hour.
How to reach The Velvet Cellar
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Website: None
Why The Velvet Cellar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Velvet Cellar with your friends?
Gathering at The Velvet Cellar offers an exceptional opportunity to enjoy a sophisticated yet inviting environment that effortlessly balances class and comfort, making it the perfect spot to reconnect with friends or family. This downtown Denver gem boasts a stunning ambiance with exposed brick walls and elegant wood detailing that captures both the historic charm of its location and a contemporary, cool vibe. Hosting your group here makes every meetup feel special, surrounded by stylish décor that enhances the mood without overwhelming conversation or interaction. The attentive, knowledgeable service delivered by passionate staff ensures that your group’s needs are met seamlessly—whether it’s recommendations for food, wine, or cocktails. The Velvet Cellar’s menu, though curated rather than extensive, offers an excellent variety of bespoke dishes crafted from locally sourced, fresh ingredients, pleasing diverse palates. This commitment to quality, combined with inventive cocktails and an impressive wine list, promises a culinary journey that enriches every gathering and creates lasting memories. Whether celebrating milestones, enjoying casual catch-ups, or hosting a business meetup with a warm neighborly feel, The Velvet Cellar invites you to make your event extraordinary through its thoughtful blend of atmosphere, service, and cuisine.
What activities can you enjoy at The Velvet Cellar?
The Velvet Cellar’s setting provides more than just a meal; it offers a carefully curated experience ideal for groups seeking a blend of relaxation, fine dining, and social connection. Upon arrival, the warm, spacious bar area becomes an immediate draw for groups looking to unwind with expertly crafted cocktails. Their mixologists excel at blending creativity and precision, delivering unique drinks that spark conversation and add vibrancy to any gathering. Beyond the bar, your party can indulge in a progressive tasting of American cuisine focused on scratch-made dishes that celebrate local flavors. The food menu features thoughtfully designed options that can satisfy any appetite, allowing groups to share plates and discover new favorites together, enhancing the communal spirit of the meetup. The cozy yet upscale dining room, with its blend of exposed brick, wood accents, and ambient lighting, creates an intimate backdrop for lively conversations or quiet reflections alike. For groups enjoying a special occasion, The Velvet Cellar’s wine selection is extensive and carefully chosen, providing perfect pairings to the food and enriching your palette with prestigious and lesser-known labels. This combination of cocktail artistry, culinary depth, and ambiance crafts a multi-dimensional experience that fits perfectly with a group’s desire to enjoy both atmosphere and quality food and drink.
Why is The Velvet Cellar perfect for a group meetup?
The Velvet Cellar’s design and service philosophy make it an unquestionably ideal venue for group events. Its spacious layout offers ample room for gatherings without feeling crowded, allowing friends and families to maintain a sense of comfort and privacy. The exposed brick and industrial-chic décor exude a casual elegance that appeals broadly, from young professionals to seasoned diners seeking a refined atmosphere that’s not overly formal. The staff’s attentiveness is a highlight frequently praised in reviews; servers and bartenders remain engaged and responsive, which is crucial when catering to various tastes and dietary preferences in a group setting. Location is also a major advantage, situated centrally downtown near major attractions like Union Station, Ball Arena, Mile High Stadium, and Coors Field—making it easy to coordinate meetups around other social or sports events. Pricing is noted as reasonable for the quality and experience provided, hitting a sweet spot between mid-range and upscale dining, which suits groups looking to impress without overspending. Whether for birthday celebrations, work gatherings, or weekend outings, guests find The Velvet Cellar’s balance of atmosphere, culinary craftsmanship, and stellar service perfectly suited to making any group event feel both memorable and effortlessly enjoyable.
What type of cuisine and drinks does The Velvet Cellar offer?
The culinary offerings at The Velvet Cellar center around American cuisine that showcases fresh, locally sourced ingredients crafted with care under the guidance of Chef Todd Bobrovicz. The menu’s variety, while intentionally curated rather than extensive, is designed to appeal universally and highlight vibrant, scratch-made dishes. Guests can expect inventive appetizers that set the tone for a meal of bold flavor and quality, such as sophisticated small plates ideal for sharing among friends. Main dishes emphasize freshness and seasonality, with attention to detail that transforms simple ingredients into elegant presentations. Complementing the food is an imaginative cocktail program that brings inventive yet approachable drinks to the table, curated by bartenders who are both skilled and passionate about mixology. The wine selection is diverse and well-chosen, pairing beautifully with the food and offering something for every preference, from classic varietals to unique finds that elevate the dining experience. For groups, this combination enables a shared culinary adventure that ignites conversation, encourages tasting and sharing, and leaves everyone feeling satisfied both in taste and atmosphere.
How does The Velvet Cellar’s ambiance enhance group experiences?
The ambiance at The Velvet Cellar significantly enriches the group gathering experience, creating a space where friendship and neighborliness naturally flourish. The design retains architectural authenticity through exposed brick walls and charming wood detailing, juxtaposed with modern lighting and design touches that impart a trendy, upscale feel. This fusion of old and new cultivates an atmosphere that is approachable yet elegant, making it easy for guests to feel relaxed while still experiencing something special. Ambient noise levels, layout, and lighting are carefully balanced to support ongoing conversation without interruptions or excessive crowd bustle, an essential aspect for groups who want to connect deeply or celebrate milestones together. The staff’s friendly and attentive presence further elevates the ambiance, contributing to a welcoming environment where guests feel taken care of from doorstep to departure. These elements together produce an environment that encourages lingering, sharing, and creating memories, ideal for any meetup—whether it’s a casual night out or a more formal celebration.
What should groups know about the location and accessibility of The Velvet Cellar?
The Velvet Cellar enjoys a prime location in downtown Denver at 1500 Wynkoop Street, putting it conveniently at the crossroads of the city's major cultural and sports venues. This central positioning means groups can easily incorporate a visit to The Velvet Cellar into broader plans, including trips to Union Station as well as games or concerts at Ball Arena and Coors Field. Parking and public transit options nearby also add to the ease of gathering here, removing common logistical hurdles when coordinating group outings in busy urban settings. The venue itself is designed for comfort and accessibility, with thoughtful space planning that accommodates larger parties and provides room to socialize without feeling cramped. Its historic building with exposed brick contributes charm while maintaining full modern amenities, allowing guests to enjoy the best of both heritage and convenience. For groups planning celebrations, business dinners, or casual nights out, The Velvet Cellar’s location and setup simplify organization and make arriving, meeting, and departing smooth and enjoyable experiences.
How does The Velvet Cellar’s service quality impact a group’s visit?
Service at The Velvet Cellar is widely recognized as one of its defining strengths and core reasons the establishment has garnered a high rating from visitors. The restaurant prides itself on attentive, knowledgeable staff who deliver personalized recommendations and facilitate a smooth and enjoyable dining experience for every guest. For groups, this level of service is indispensable; servers and bartenders efficiently manage orders, anticipate needs, and ensure that everyone at the table feels catered to, even when juggling multiple preferences and requests. The management team’s presence and engagement add another layer, reflecting the owners’ commitment to excellence and guest satisfaction. This kind of proactive, friendly service transforms a typical meal into a memorable event, where guests can relax and enjoy each other’s company without concern for details. It also elevates the venue’s reputation as a top choice for hosting group events where hospitality truly makes a difference in setting the tone and atmosphere.
What makes The Velvet Cellar suitable for both casual and special group events?
The Velvet Cellar’s versatility is a major asset that suits it to a wide variety of group occasions, from informal get-togethers to milestone celebrations. Its balance of casual elegance allows guests to dress comfortably and feel at ease, yet still experience the sophistication associated with a fine dining environment. This flexibility means groups can choose to keep the atmosphere laid-back for a friendly night out or elevate the evening to mark a birthday, anniversary, or corporate event without feeling out of place in either scenario. The thoughtfully designed space supports both intimacy and conviviality, as tables can accommodate varying party sizes and arrangements. Additionally, the attention to detail in both cuisine and service ensures that attendees enjoy high-quality food and drink regardless of the event’s formality. This adaptability explains why guests recommend The Velvet Cellar not only for casual meetups but also for business dinners, celebrations, or any gathering where outstanding hospitality and ambiance are priorities.