Rioja is a Mediterranean restaurant in Denver, Colorado. The establishment features a menu inspired by Mediterranean ingredients and is influenced by local and seasonal products. Serving the downtown Denver area, the restaurant offers lunch, dinner, brunch, and daily happy hour, along with a broad selection of Spanish wines by the glass and bottle.
Led by Executive Chef and Owner Jennifer Jasinski and General Manager and Owner Beth Gruitch, the culinary team focuses on passion, creativity, and attention to detail. The menu includes handmade pastas such as artichoke tortelloni and mushroom pappardelle, as well as various starters like tuna tartare and the Rioja "picnic" featuring artisan meats and cheeses. For those seeking quick options, the restaurant provides carryout services through Flavor Dojo.
Located on Larimer Street, the restaurant is situated in the heart of Larimer Square. It is a short walk from Creekfront Park and the Robert and Judi Newman Center for Theatre Education, and is near the intersection of 14th Street and Market Street.
The restaurant is recognized for its culinary excellence, having been a James Beard Foundation award winner for Best Chef Southwest and a 2016 semifinalist for Outstanding Chef. This reputation for high-quality, seasonal Mediterranean cuisine makes Rioja a notable destination in downtown Denver.