A Food, Wine, Beer, and Music Lovers Guide to Denver, CO
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By Katye McGregor Bennett, KMB Communications
If there’s one thing the #AVFoodies crowd knows, it’s that trade shows aren’t just about the gear—it’s about the people, the conversations, and yes, the food and drink that fuel all those late nights and early mornings. With CEDIA Expo landing in Denver again, we tapped our friend and fellow foodie, Elizabeth P. Lord-Levitt, for her best local recommendations. Whether you’re looking to grab dinner with your team, impress a client, or sneak off for a post-show cocktail, this list has you covered.
Wine Bars: Because We All Know Katye Loves Wine
Denver has a lively wine scene that makes it easy to unwind after a long day on the show floor. Barcelona Wine Bar is a staple, with a sister location Corsica Wine Bar also in Denver that delivers the same warm, rustic vibe and an outstanding wine list with small plates to match. For something a little more adventurous, check out Noble Riot, a RiNo neighborhood favorite that mixes eclectic pours with a cozy, come-as-you-are atmosphere. Sunday Vinyl has caught my eye and my ears’s attention and La Bouche has also. Definitely want to scope those out. Beyond what I’ve listed here, Denver offers a growing list of wine-forward hangouts—perfect for #AVFoodies who’d rather swirl than sip cocktails.
Drinks & Speakeasies: Where Conversations Flow
Denver knows how to do a cocktail. If you want your night to feel like an experience, head to Williams & Graham, a true speakeasy that nails both the drinks and the vibe. For whiskey lovers, Seven Grand is a must—think extensive selections and bartenders who know their stuff.
If you’re in the mood for something elegant, sip your martini in style at The Cooper Lounge, perched above Union Station. And if your crew is up for a moodier, cocktail-forward spot, Death & Company delivers an unforgettable experience (and makes you look like you know all the cool spots).
Dinner: Deals Over Plates Worth Sharing
If you’ve got time for a proper sit-down, make reservations now—these spots fill up fast during Expo week. Work & Class is a local gem serving up comforting, hearty dishes in a no-fuss, always-delicious way. If you lean more toward elevated farm-to-table, Mercantile at Union Station is a stunner, perfect for catching up with industry friends over small plates and wine.
Tavernetta is where Italian cravings are satisfied in style, and if you want something a little trendier with a New York-meets-Denver flair, book a table at The Greenwich. Pro tip: don’t skip dessert.
But wait—there’s more. Denver’s food scene has some can’t-miss spots that deserve their own spotlight:
- Cholon – Downtown Denver, serving Asian fusion so good you’ll be dreaming about it later. Must orders: onion soup dumplings and kimchee fried rice (trust us).
- Hop Alley – Bold Asian fusion just outside downtown. Must orders: La Zi Ji, bone marrow fried rice, and the Beijing duck roll.
- Guard & Grace – A Troy Guard steakhouse that nails it. Elevated and polished, with five sister restaurants around Denver worth exploring if you want something more casual.
- Shells & Sauce – Quaint, family-run Italian in SE Denver. Off the beaten path and deliciously worth it.
- Uchi – As Barrie McCorkle of D-Tools put it: “Epic sushi.” Enough said.
- Matsuhisa – Another Barrie McCorkle recommendation for sushi that rivals the best in the world.
Rooftops: Where the View Steals the Show
When the Colorado sunshine hits just right, there’s no better way to toast the day than on a rooftop. Avanti F&B is a collective of food stalls and bars that makes it easy for groups to find something they love. For an iconic Denver rooftop with a bit of whimsy, Linger is a can’t-miss. And if you find yourself in Cherry Creek, the Rare Bird rooftop is as chic as it gets—perfect for snapping a shot for your own Expo highlight reel.
Music Lovers: Red Rocks & the CE Pro All-Star Band
If your idea of networking leans more toward live music, you’re in luck. Red Rocks Amphitheatre is one of the most iconic venues in the world, and its late-summer/early-fall lineup never disappoints. Check out what’s playing while you’re in town at denver.org’s Red Rocks calendar or the official Red Rocks site.
And closer to home for the AV crowd—get ready: the CE Pro All-Star Band is making its return to Denver for CEDIA Expo 2025. This group of industry rockers, beloved for their energy and throwback hits, is back for a one-night-only performance to kick off the show on Thursday night Sept. 4 at the Cervantes’ Master Ballroom on 2635 Welton Street. If you’ve never experienced the CE Pro All-Star Band, consider this your official invite to join the crowd, sing along, and maybe even dance a little—it’s a highlight of Expo week you won’t want to miss.
Your #AVFoodies Game Plan
Like any good show strategy, the key to conquering Denver’s food scene is planning ahead. Book a couple of reservations now for team dinners, and leave room for spontaneity—you never know when that hallway chat will turn into a night out at a hidden gem.
CEDIA Expo is all about connections, and what better way to connect than over good food, great drinks, or live music? See you at the show—and maybe on a rooftop with a glass of wine, cocktail, mocktail, beer, or whatever you enjoy sipping in hand.