Seemor
Root DownA-Worth Trying
1600 W 33rd Ave, Denver, CO 80211
· New American restaurant, American restaurant, Brunch restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (3487 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Creative New American with global twists, strong brunch and cocktails, excellent for dietary needs, but portions run small and a 5% surcharge plus add-ons push value concerns.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Root Down delivers A-grade performance through exceptional food quality anchored by standout dishes like rockfish tom kha and arepas, paired with strong service attentiveness. Solid consistency and polished mid-century design support reliable experiences, though occasional execution lapses and modest portions relative to pricing prevent grade A territory. A competitive neighborhood favorite that exceeds typical restaurant standards.
Restaurant Summary
Root Down feels warm and bustling in Highland, a place where the bar hums at happy hour before settling into cozy date-night energy. Service is usually attentive and thoughtful, with servers guiding choices and pacing courses smoothly. A guest summed it up: "Creative plates, polished vibe, and easy to linger." Pricing and a small 5% surcharge surprised some diners, so value expectations matter. The kitchen leans boldly global—think Thai-leaning rockfish, pesto-topped arepas, and a coconut-kissed red rice risotto. It is contemporary and produce-driven rather than fussy, with bright flavors and textures that spark conversation. Fans rave about the tom kha rockfish, arepas, and desserts; occasional misses pop up (an overcooked chicken or undersized brunch burrito), but most visits land solidly satisfying for adventurous eaters. Families do fine here, especially at brunch with familiar comforts like chilaquiles, omelets, and chicken on a biscuit. The creative bend means picky kids might hesitate, but there are workable options and staff handle restrictions well. Expect moderate-to-premium pricing for the category, and consider happy hour for a softer entry point.
At a Glance
- Creative fusion dishes with consistent standouts like rockfish tom kha and arepas
- Strong gluten-free and vegetarian coverage with flexible modifications
- Stylish mid-century design and lively atmosphere for dates and celebrations
- Portions run small relative to price for some dishes
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- globally_inspired_menu
- strong_dietary_accommodations
- polished_midcentury_design
What People Love
- Vibrant global flavors that feel fresh
- Attentive service with smart recommendations
- Celiac-friendly choices without compromise
- Desserts and cocktails that finish strong
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive ($28-$35 mains) which may surprise casual diners
- Portions can feel small; consider sharing multiple plates or using half portions
- A 5% surcharge appears on checks; factor into budget
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$48-$66 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For pescatarians: Rockfish Tom Kha or Diver Scallops plus Poblano Zucchini Soup
- For gluten-free diners: GF omelet, chilaquiles, red rice risotto, and mushroom tempura
- Value path: Happy hour sliders, fries, and arepas with a seasonal cocktail
Perfect For
- Date night with cocktails
- Adventurous brunch with friends
- Happy hour grazing
- Celebratory dinners
Location Insights
Area: Trendy Highland block with a mix of locals and destination diners; lively evenings and weekend brunch crowds.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked dining corridor with good lighting and steady foot traffic.
Nearby: Near other hot spots from the same group, residential streets, and bars; draws pre-dinner and date-night crowds.
HighlandHighland is known for its trendy dining options, eclectic bars, and boutique shops. The area has a lively social atmosphere with a focus on farm-to-table and innovative cuisine, appealing to food enthusiasts and locals seeking quality and variety in dining experiences.
SunnysideSunnyside offers a more laid-back and neighborhood-centric vibe within Highland, featuring casual dining spots, coffee shops, and a strong sense of community. It is less commercialized but increasingly popular for its authentic local flavor.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–21:00
Tuesday16:00–21:00
Wednesday16:00–21:00
Thursday16:00–21:00
Friday16:00–21:30
Saturday10:00–14:30, 17:00–21:30
Sunday10:00–14:30, 17:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →