Open List Home >> Denver, CO >> Restaurants & Food >> Restaurants >> Rioja
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Rioja is a three star restaurant in Denver. Located in the Downtown neighborhood, this restaurant is mildly expensive. It's known for its vegetarian offerings. Know before you go: this place features outdoor dining. Upon entering the restaurant, you'll find a romantic atmosphere. This restaurant features brunch and valet parking. This restaurant is recently opened, handicap accessible, and good for groups. People who have eaten here found the food incredibly flavorful.
4.0 of 5 stars.
In full disclosure I'm not a "local "-- I travel to Denver for business. As such, I get to eat out - on the company - and experience all the "hot" restaurants. Often I read magazines, ask the...
yelp.com - user review - 10/15/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
I love Rioja. So much so that it has become my and my boyfriend's go-to restaurant on either of our birthdays.I feel that it is appropriate to mention that I am a vegetarian, and Rioja is certainly...
yelp.com - user review - 10/13/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
The BF and I went to Rioja on Saturday night. SO GOOD. I honestly have nothing to complain about here- except that maybe the butter could be warmer. Really, that's it. The bread you spread it on-...
yelp.com - user review - 10/05/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
I've eaten here twice now. Once a few years ago, then again last night. It was my father's birthday and this is the place he picked for us to meet up at. We scored a reservation at the chef's...
yelp.com - user review - 10/03/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Rioja's is amazing!! I save it for special occasions since it is a little on the pricey side (about $25/entree) but it never disappoints. It is a cute little restaurant with a great ambiance and the...
yelp.com - user review - 09/29/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Dinner was great, they have a great menu, so good that I couldn't decide so I had to do the tasting menu, which was really nice cause I pretty much got to decide what was on my tasting menu. I would...
yelp.com - user review - 09/28/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Everything here was phenomenal, from the appetizer offerings, entrees, desserts, and wine list. The restaurant itself was set up nicely. It was large, and the crowd was lively. Our waiter was...
yelp.com - user review - 09/25/2009
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3.0 of 5 stars.
Rioja was pretty good. Husband and I went on a Friday night, showed up at 8pm without reservations and only waited 5 minutes at the bar before we were seated. Personally, my biggest complaint is the...
yelp.com - user review - 09/12/2009
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2.0 of 5 stars.
maybe i'm spoiled or have different taste buds than everyone else but i really did have high hopes going to rioja from all the fab reviews on yelp. however, i was really disappointed. i came to denver...
yelp.com - user review - 09/11/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
A stellar and consistantly good restaurant!I have been there for lunch and dinner many times and the food and service never disappoints. The atmosphere is very nice and relaxing, eventhough there is...
yelp.com - user review - 09/01/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Someone else mentioned this in their review, that it's always dangerous when someone tells you that this is their favorite restaurant -- it sets the expectations pretty darn high. Well, despite those...
yelp.com - user review - 08/24/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Made this our fancy night out after going to Comedy works.Recommend the gazpacho, Jen's house chopped salad, Pork belly, Artichoke Tortelloni, Colorado Lamb, not to mention the starter...
yelp.com - user review - 08/23/2009
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3.0 of 5 stars.
It's always a bit dangerous when someone local tells you on your vacation that "this is my favorite restaurant in Denver." The expectations are too high.Rioja was, I thought, quite good. If you care...
yelp.com - user review - 08/21/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
I was there in August 2008 on one of my last evening in Denver. Wish I had discovered this place a few months before.It was around 7PM on a Saturday. The place was packed and the maitre d' found a...
yelp.com - user review - 08/20/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
My husband and I have been here a few times and we have been very very happy everytime. This place is great and the scallops are fantastic!
yelp.com - user review - 08/13/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
What an amazing spot!! The past two times I've been in Denver I've gone to Rioja with clients. Both times were outstanding!! The service is great and the menu is unique. The spanish wines are delish...
yelp.com - user review - 08/11/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
One of the best spots to eat in downtown Denver.
yelp.com - user review - 08/09/2009
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3.0 of 5 stars.
I've eaten at Rioja a number of times and enjoyed each meal, but the last couple times it has definitely been less then perfect. The last meal the scallops were burned to a crisp, long past seared.
yelp.com - user review - 08/02/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
this place is spectacular for a few reasons...1. they have a bread guy just walking around handing it out2. one of the bread selections has lavender in it - sounds funky, but you need to try it3....
yelp.com - user review - 07/28/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Best retaurant in Denver! Everything I've tried has been absolutely amazing, but my favorites are the parsnip ravioli, gnocchi with truffle oil and crab-lemon-asparagus pasta. I've had tuna prepared...
yelp.com - user review - 07/28/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
This was my first meal in Denver and it started my Colorado weekend right. I came with a few friends for a late dinner and we left very happy.We arrived on time but ended up having to wait 15 minutes...
yelp.com - user review - 07/27/2009
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3.0 of 5 stars.
not too impressed. Looks too corporate inside and the place is huge. We started with the Rioja picnic. Meats, cheeses, etc. Bread was dry and there was not a lot to it. The pea pod ravioli was...
yelp.com - user review - 07/23/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
If you have read any of my reviews, you know that it is nearly impossible to earn 5 stars from a single dining experience. Rioja, has done the impossible.For lunch, we sat down in a very comfortable...
yelp.com - user review - 07/22/2009
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3.0 of 5 stars.
Definitely a good restaurant, but I would not rank it among the best. I think it's reputation comes partly from being in the cool part of town and being one of the better places there. The food is...
yelp.com - user review - 07/18/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Such a great atmosphere to eat, enjoy your company and the food. Every dish that I have tried there has been sublime. The best part to me are those Rosemary goat cheese biscuits so good they need to...
yelp.com - user review - 07/14/2009
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2.0 of 5 stars.
The tab for their own webpage says, "Best Restaurant in Denver". They even have a special page detailing all of the favorable press for their restaurant. Allow me to differ:Visiting from out of...
yelp.com - user review - 07/12/2009
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2.0 of 5 stars.
We went to dinner at Rioja the othe night and it was a like a different restaurant ... we had been really impressed the first few times we dined there, but now I have to say, it seems to be just...
yelp.com - user review - 07/01/2009
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3.0 of 5 stars.
The one and twenty millionth review of Rioja follows: But this time, it's not quite as complimentary as you might expect . . . Rioja is good. That's a fact. But yesterday's dinner started out not so...
yelp.com - user review - 06/29/2009
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2.0 of 5 stars.
Denver is a happenin' city. It has a vibrant arts scene, shops, restaurants and charming natural surrounds. According to the Southwest in-flight magazine (I know *must* be a credible source!)...
yelp.com - user review - 06/13/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Homemade mozzarella appy. Flat-bread appy. Tomato bisque. Veal cheek special. Blackberry whiskey sour. Mojito. All of it was excellent. Getting a reservation is a must (at least for Friday night) -...
yelp.com - user review - 06/13/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
As a frequent visitor to Denver from Manhattan, I am always excited when I find excellent restaurants.Rioja was splendid to the point that it rivals some of the top places I have eaten at home in NYC!...
yelp.com - user review - 06/11/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
what can I say, fantastic food. really fantastic. fantastic atmosphere fantastically congenial service. the only down side was that i had so much of their fantastic bread that I just couldn't try any...
yelp.com - user review - 06/02/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Wanted to up date the Yelp community in regards to the Rioja. While we didn't make a huge deal the night of our reservation, the management did seek me out and made a grand effort to discuss our...
yelp.com - user review - 06/02/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
GREAT place to eat! (if you don't mind splurging a bit)food: YUMMY. DELICIOUS. every bit of food i tasted, from the appetizer (bruschetta), to the breads that were passed around, to the salad (endive...
yelp.com - user review - 06/01/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
A safe choice if you are looking for contemporary american cuisine in Denver
yelp.com - user review - 05/30/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
One of the best meals I've had in a while; Rioja was our "fancy dinner" splurge on our recent visit to Denver and it was worth every penny!To be fair, it was a perfect 70 degree evening and we were...
yelp.com - user review - 05/27/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Rioja must be back on the upswing, because our meal last night was fantastic. The Superb: The halibut and scallops were cooked perfectly. The chopped salad and spring salad were fantastic. The...
yelp.com - user review - 05/15/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
One of the best restaurants in Denver. Their menu always has new dishes and no matter what I try it is good. The only negative is that some of the seating in the middle of the restaurant is crowded, I...
yelp.com - user review - 05/14/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
One of my faves in DenverImaginative , tasty, great cocktailsFab meal with vino for $75 a head
yelp.com - user review - 05/13/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Brought the fam here from NYC. We decided to do a tasting menu. This is/was the way to go!!!! We got to sample a little of everything and it was only about $50 per (not bad when you think about...
yelp.com - user review - 05/04/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
This place had AMAZING food! They also provided a nice selection of wines which I enjoyed thoroughly. My boyfriend and sat at the bar for a while to wait for a table to open on the patio. During that...
yelp.com - user review - 05/03/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
This place is quite a little gem. I finally made it here! Yay! I loved everything I tasted. I started off with a cocktail of course, and I decided to order a blackberry whiskey sour after much...
yelp.com - user review - 04/26/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
I came here with the knowledge that Rioja was supposed to be the best restaurant in Denver. While nothing was necessarily wrong with anything about this place, I can say I just wasn't blown away by my...
yelp.com - user review - 04/26/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
I've been here a few times and I had the best time the other night. The bartenders rock and the place has a great vibe. Try the spicy margarita -- it's amazing! The food is also good and the...
yelp.com - user review - 04/18/2009
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3.0 of 5 stars.
admittedly, I have delayed writing this review, so my memory of everything won't be spot on. We dined at Rioja back in February.My boyfriend and I decided to eat here after hearing a lot of good...
yelp.com - user review - 04/18/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Regret.Tons and tons and tons of regret.For not eating here sooner.The food isn't JUST delicious. It's beyond unique - combinations of flavors you'd never expect that work so incredibly well...
yelp.com - user review - 04/17/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Can't believe this is the first time I have gone. Great food, friendly staff and chef. The owner/chef works the floor herself so really good customer service. Had the Rioja Cheese plate to start,...
yelp.com - user review - 04/15/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Fantasic menu, good wine list, interesting decor, and the prefect location. My only compliants was the waiters were a little puashy on getting you to spend more money on food and booze. We ate a...
yelp.com - user review - 04/11/2009
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3.0 of 5 stars.
I feel like a snob posting this review. Perhaps it is because I am from the SF Bay Area where the standard of "foodie quality" food is much higher than most other places. The Denver food scene leaves...
yelp.com - user review - 03/30/2009
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3.0 of 5 stars.
3.5 StarsHad high expectations for Rioja. The Denver yelpers gave high ratings, and even the Denver locals that I met were singing Rioja's praises. It looked promising as I called at 5pm on a Saturday...
yelp.com - user review - 03/29/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
We had dinner at Rioja last night for my boyfriend's birthday. The food was out of this world, right down to the bread. The choices were interesting, and they even gave a birthday card and...
yelp.com - user review - 03/15/2009
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3.0 of 5 stars.
Excellent food and outstanding service, just not sure it was worth the high price. However, I'm sure at some point I will be back. I recently read how they have a special on either Monday or Tuesday...
yelp.com - user review - 03/13/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
The food was good but not worth the $$. For the price there are a lot better restaurants in Denver. The service was incredible. By far one of the best experiences on a service level I've had in a...
yelp.com - user review - 03/12/2009
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3.0 of 5 stars.
Reality check. Rioja is very tasty. The service is pretty good. The ambiance is delightful. The location is great.HOWEVER:The purpose of 5280 week is to showcase your restaurants wares for $52.80...
yelp.com - user review - 03/07/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Hmmmm...where oh where do I begin? Another perfect evening at Rioja - even during 5280 Week on a Friday night! Surprise, surprise! Like I mentioned in my first review - Rioja is the perfect sibling...
yelp.com - user review - 03/04/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Went for Valentine's Day and it's still all that. The paper-thin slices of ahi tuna with a light touch of coriander will live on in my memory for years to come. Thank you Rioja for coming through...
yelp.com - user review - 02/28/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Despite hearing negative reviews of Denver's Restaurant Week experience, I decided to take my chances and go to what is considered Denver's best restaurant, Rioja. Surprisingly it was only a 30 minute...
yelp.com - user review - 02/26/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
What luck! I had one free night and Denver and was fortunate enough to have dinner at Rioja. Thank you, Yelpers, for recommending it.I was in town on business and and hate eating alone eating alone....
yelp.com - user review - 02/25/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Denver Restaurant Week at Rioja tonight could not have been any better. It's great that they make eveything on their menu available with some items having an additional surcharge.I had an appetizer...
yelp.com - user review - 02/23/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
I really really really like this place. Had the nicest V-day dinner here- were seated at one of the chef's tables (were told when making reservations) and loved it- got to see the chefs preparing all...
yelp.com - user review - 02/17/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Rioja saved our Valentine's Day! We had reservations at Venice (see that review), but when that didn't work out, we decided to try different restaurants. We got to Rioja and they had a table in the...
yelp.com - user review - 02/16/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
I still have dreams about their artichoke tortellini. YUM is all I have to say. The service was okay, the atmosphere was a liiiitle noisy but the food definitely made up for it. Some of the best...
yelp.com - user review - 02/10/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Rioja's lemon gnocchi is to die for. The wine list, atmosphere, and location are fantastic. So does Rioja really need an 87th Yelp review? Probably not. But here goes anyway: We (me and Mr. Tracy A.)...
yelp.com - user review - 02/08/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
I have the fortune of having eaten a lot of good food, but dinner here was on another plane! Each dish was carefully prepared, intelligently laid out, and beautifully presented. Bright herbs, oils,...
yelp.com - user review - 02/02/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
This place just keeps getting better. I have eaten here five times in the last few years but the dinner last night was the best yet. Try to get Neil as your waiter, order a bottle of Juan Gil Jumilla...
yelp.com - user review - 01/29/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
only have triend brunch, which was great both times
yelp.com - user review - 01/27/2009
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3.0 of 5 stars.
I've been here a couple of times and have always had a pretty solid meal. I won't give it 5 starts as I think there are better fine dining options in Denver......even Bistro, her sister restaurant...
yelp.com - user review - 01/23/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Fantastic! It's hard to achieve 5 stars but Rioja succeeded. My lovely boyfriend took me out for a nice dinner. I admit I was a bit scared of their menu from an online viewing. Three of their...
yelp.com - user review - 01/10/2009
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4.0 of 5 stars.
I really like the brick and carmel-yellow paint interior, with funky glass plates adorning the walls. All the staff was very helpful and friendly on my visit (which was with friends who had just...
yelp.com - user review - 01/02/2009
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Some of my favorite food in Denver! Sunday brunch or a Friday night date night. A very trendy atmosphere, but relaxing and romantic. Unique and diverse menu and a very knowledgeable staff you don't...
yelp.com - user review - 12/29/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
It was a great dining experience. Savory dishes with a unique Mediterranean twist. Shared the tortellini and risotto, which were quite good. The food stands out, but I have had better. What makes...
yelp.com - user review - 12/28/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Finally! We went to Rioja for my lovely birthday dinner and everything was spectacular. Everything turned out perfect...we went in on a Sunday night without reservations and still managed to be sat....
yelp.com - user review - 12/22/2008
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We throughly enjoy Riojas and have been dining there for years. Their food is outstanding and very innovative and the menu offers so many wonderful options. We've never been disappointed with food, ambience,...
citysearch.com - user review - 12/02/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
If you want the best place in town that will leave you with taste buds melting like butter and making you feel like you have eaten the least best meal in your life, then come to Rioja.We had an early...
yelp.com - user review - 11/25/2008
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Great place! I'd give it 5 stars, but it's a bit too pricey... Our lunch (2 people) was over $100... however, everything from the appetizers, to wine and dessert was really good! The waiter made...
yelp.com - user review - 11/24/2008
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3.0 of 5 stars.
I'm not head over heels for this place like most people seem to be. Don't get me wrong, it's yummy and I do like it - but there is lots of yummy out there and this restaurant just doesn't rise to the...
yelp.com - user review - 11/17/2008
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2.0 of 5 stars.
As we waited for our reservations we sat at the bar. When I asked for water, the bartender rolled his eyes. Very loud, would not recommend for a romantic outing. Lamb was more gamey tastings than...
yelp.com - user review - 11/16/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Rioja, Rioja, why have I not heard of you before Yelp? A friend of ours was visiting from Chicago, and she asked for a cute and fun place to have dinner at in Denver. So, wanting to impress our...
yelp.com - user review - 11/14/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
this was my first meal in denver, and hands down the best restaurant i ate at in the city. i only ate there once for lunch, and by the time i left 3 days later i was sad that i didn't go back (i had...
yelp.com - user review - 11/12/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
I came here for my sister's bridal shower. It's probably the best place I have ever eaten at in Denver. Very wonderful, very delicious. A gem. The atmosphere is great. Not too bright, warm lighting...
yelp.com - user review - 11/08/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
This is one of those restaurants I go to when I want to impress my out of town guests. The food really is amazing and I've had nothing but great experiences with the staff and winelist. I love the...
yelp.com - user review - 10/21/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Oh my goodness I love this place. I have stayed 3 nights total in Denver and this is the only place where I have eaten. It is amazing, sublime, genius flavor pairings. I have travelled a bit over...
yelp.com - user review - 10/20/2008
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4.0 of 5 stars.
I ate here back in July on a business trip (before I moved to Denver), I was intrigued by the flight of blue cheese. I never realized the absolute difference within a type of cheese, I mean I am a...
yelp.com - user review - 10/20/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
This is far by the best restaurant I've eaten. This is an amazing place and I can only wish it was closer to Southern California so I could eat it more often. If absence makes the heart grow fonder,...
yelp.com - user review - 10/11/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Oh. Mah. Gah. Why haven't I eaten here before? Why, oh, why, oh why?!?! So delicious. I'll be taking all of my out of town guests here from now on. Now on to the review...First of all we got to sit...
yelp.com - user review - 10/07/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
What a TREAT. Miss Tiffany, Denver's fabulous CM, brought me here for lunch today, and let me tell you, it was heaven. Firstly, we got to sit outside, which pleased me greatly as a cold front has...
yelp.com - user review - 10/02/2008
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3.0 of 5 stars.
My co-worker and I went here while we were on a business trip to Denver. After reading all of these glowing reviews on Yelp and seeing their great menu we decided to go.This restaurant is situated in...
yelp.com - user review - 10/01/2008
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My wife and I went to Rioja for dinner and had great time. The food was very well cooked. The service was attentive and at the same time was very friendly. It was weekend but the restaurant was full. The...
citysearch.com - user review - 09/27/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Went here a few times while staying at Tabor. Hard to get a table but worth the wait. Nice outdoor seating when it's hot. Had the duck one night and home made pasta another. Both excellent. Service...
yelp.com - user review - 08/31/2008
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4.0 of 5 stars.
I had my last drink of my Denver trip for the Democratic Convention at this place. After a week of meetings, parties and many, many drinks, this place topped it off with the best bloody mary on a...
yelp.com - user review - 08/30/2008
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The lavender bread here is to die for! Trendy and little overpriced, this place is still worth a visit.
kudzu.com - user review - 08/29/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
I made a deal with myself when I started yelping that I wouldn't review a place if I genuinely didn't have something to add to other reviews. Right now Rioja is simply my favorite restaurant in Denver...
yelp.com - user review - 08/29/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Went to Rioja with a couple of friends. Great atmosphere, fun place to drink. Knowledgeable bartender and servers. I had tuna two ways to start and it was incredible, with the tartar being the better...
yelp.com - user review - 08/29/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
The BREAD. Oh my goodness. That lavender bread is the best. I almost want to go there just for that, and wine. It might be declasse...but it's so friggin good.We went here on a double date (I love how...
yelp.com - user review - 08/27/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
OK, how is this for romantic? We used OpenTable when we got engaged... and again for our first anniversary. Both times my husband put a note into the reservation about the event. The first time, a few...
yelp.com - user review - 08/26/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Ahh my favorite restaurant in Denver.Simply put, if you do not like this restaurant, you have bad taste in food. This fusion Spanish/Mediterranean cuisine is no Taco Bell my friend. Chef Jen has...
yelp.com - user review - 08/24/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Mother of God! How on earth could a place be this wonderful? I have been here for brunch, drinks, appetizers, lunch, dinner, and dessert, and everything is amazing. Service, food, atmosphere, wine...
yelp.com - user review - 08/21/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
AMAZING. I don't know any other words to describe it. You know your dinner is going to amazing if your pre-meal breads are amazing. I can never get enough of their crusty lavender bread and their...
yelp.com - user review - 08/17/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
I've only been here once (for an anniversary), but it was the best dining experience I've ever had. The service was superb (I am tempted to say flawless), the food was fantastic, and the atmosphere...
yelp.com - user review - 08/13/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Wow. I'm a talkative person, and this place made me speechless. We learned about Rioja after reading all the amazing reviews online. It's situated on a really cool street in downtown Denver. We were...
yelp.com - user review - 08/07/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
The waitstaff is friendly and has great timing. The wine list was good, and the food was amazing. It's not "cheap" for for downtown fine dining, it is reasonably priced. My friend and I had...
yelp.com - user review - 08/06/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Can't really top the reviews that have already been posted when it comes to Rioja. 6-stars, perhaps? Everything about the restaurant is incredible - the service, food and drink all go hand-in-hand....
yelp.com - user review - 08/03/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Mind blowing food! Absolutely awesome. The ingredients were so fine and fresh, and the flavours just exploded in your mouth with every single bite. The atmosphere is not too formal, and not too...
yelp.com - user review - 08/02/2008
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4.0 of 5 stars.
had appetizers and cocktails on the patio here with a friend. both the food and drinks were fantastic. we left stuffed and completely delighted with the food, service and atmosphere. if you havent...
yelp.com - user review - 07/28/2008
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Sitting outside is already such a treat being that I'm from SF...probably one of the main attractions for making a reservation at this restaurant. We had exceptional service and good food...and yes,...
yelp.com - user review - 07/28/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Well, I finally made it to Rioja for dinner, and despite some lofty expectations, I can comfortably say it easy surpassed all of them. With confidence, I can absolutely state that- OH YES, it's...
yelp.com - user review - 07/27/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Rioja is a delight. The food is presented gorgeously, and tastes better. When I downloaded my vacation photos it turned out my boyfriend and I had taken almost as many pictures of our food at Rioja...
yelp.com - user review - 07/20/2008
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I was recently on vacation in Denver and went to Rioja for brunch. It was delicious! I highly recommend this trendy restaurant in a trendy area of Denver!
citysearch.com - user review - 07/15/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Rioja is a great restaurant! I have been a few times and was impressed each time. The lamb is amazing! I can't wait to go back!
yelp.com - user review - 07/03/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
This restaurant is a real gem. The menu is varied and the food is not only flavorful and creative but also decently-priced. To start the meal, rather than plain old bread, they gave me a choice of...
yelp.com - user review - 06/25/2008
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4.0 of 5 stars.
You have to be ready to try new things if you want to check out Rioja. The first time I came here with a friend, the chef noticed we were debating between her restaurant and the neighboring ones. She...
yelp.com - user review - 06/19/2008
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I went on a Tuesday night to celebrate an anniversary with my girlfriend, and had book my table through OpenTable . com which was great as well. I had a request for no prices on her menu, and mentioned an...
citysearch.com - user review - 06/11/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Love this place for brunch - the beignets, the baked mozzarella, the mimosa, etc. Service is usually helpful. The wine list is extensive. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu. At dinner,...
yelp.com - user review - 06/05/2008
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My wife and I don't have a ton of money, and we get to go to high-caliber restaurants like this about once per year at most. Still, we've made it to a lot of the top rated spots in the Denver area, and all I...
citysearch.com - user review - 05/16/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
I had one of the best meals since I moved to this city at Rioja last nt. My friends and I decided to each order an appetizer and share - golden beet carpaccio, handmade mozzarella, salmon flatbread....
yelp.com - user review - 05/03/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Had a wonderful meal at Rioja last night. One of the best meals I've had in Denver in the 7 yrs. I've lived here. The menu is diverse and creative which made it difficult but exciting to make our...
yelp.com - user review - 03/23/2008
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Great service and great food. This is really more like a 4.5 stars.Our waiter was very knowledgeable and gave great suggestions. The skate wing's wonderful aromas was coming over from the next table...
yelp.com - user review - 03/05/2008
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Restaurant week gave me a great excuse to visit Rioja with another couple as dining companions. We couldn't get a reservation until 8:45 on a Sunday night, which sort of bummed me out, but all was...
yelp.com - user review - 02/25/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
If you are ever in Denver, don't miss out on this place (or Larimer Square.) The service was professional, the food impeccable, and the atmosphere just right. We had to wait a few minutes before we...
yelp.com - user review - 02/21/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
C'mon everyone...it's Rioja. You can't go wrong here. It's the perfect place for a special-occasion meal, or for entertaining out of town guests. It's also the perfect place to treat yourself to a...
yelp.com - user review - 02/13/2008
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Wonderful, I love the atmosphere and the service was exceptional. We enjoyed our food, but it wasn't spectacular. We liked the fresh bread and the peanut butter dessert.
yelp.com - user review - 02/10/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Honestly, I have to say the dining experience here was top-notch. The food was excellent (i had the lamb), the wine list was extensive, and the service was superb. I should note, we were there with...
yelp.com - user review - 02/06/2008
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Rioja has a different feel - a pretty down to earth staff in a place with some fantabulous food. The appetizers are excellent - the pine nut crusted goat-cheese balls (that come with the "Picnic") are...
yelp.com - user review - 01/18/2008
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4.0 of 5 stars.
This is a wonderful place. Just lovely.Judging from the street, we thought it was a tapas joint. Once we walked in, we knew we were at something much more special.We didn't have a reservation, so...
yelp.com - user review - 12/19/2007
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Please pay no mind to the vindictive reviews from dining ?newbies? who have not been to Rioja more than once and who probably think the average McChain restaurant is innovative. As someone who has been going...
citysearch.com - user review - 12/15/2007
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Not to be nit-picky, but Rioja is the name of a wine region in Spain, so the tag, "Greek/Mediterranean" seems slightly misplace.Onward!Staff: Simply Awesome, you nearly never get this level of service...
yelp.com - user review - 11/19/2007
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Hubby and I were in Denver for the World Series (YAY RED SOX!!) and a friend who lives there recommended Rioja. Given the fact that every other meal during our stay consisted of bar food, we were...
yelp.com - user review - 10/31/2007
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Oh my god I love this place. It doesn't really need another positive review, but I can't help myself. I'm completely obsessed. Every meal here has been the kind I dream about for weeks afterwards....
yelp.com - user review - 10/29/2007
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1.0 of 5 stars.
I had great hopes for Rioja. The glimpse of good service honed in on what I thought was a promise of things to come. We began with the promise of a very nice amuse bouche--goat cheese, watercress...
yelp.com - user review - 10/10/2007
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Last night I went to Rioja in a group and it was a complete disappointment. My girlfriend and I are both vegetarians, and there was only one thing on the menu for us to eat. It came out in under ten minutes,...
citysearch.com - user review - 10/07/2007
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5.0 of 5 stars.
When I am in Denver I go to Rioja.Fabulous food, delicious drinkables, fan-frickin-tastic staff.Don't be one of those dumb stressy people when they're deservedly busy - just watch the rhythm of the...
yelp.com - user review - 10/06/2007
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My husband and I went to Rioja on a gift certificate. Thank goodness, because we would have never wanted to pay for the food we got. Every piece of meat was overcooked. Everything was really oversalted. It was...
citysearch.com - user review - 10/03/2007
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Hooray! Eating, drinking, eating some MORE....The awesome dinner started off with a fun cocktail with Limoncello and gin....then some awesome bread (that you get to choose from the basket - I highly...
yelp.com - user review - 09/30/2007
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3.0 of 5 stars.
A colleague recommended this place for a business dinner. Their website says "flavors of the Mediterranean influenced by seasonal, local ingredients." Not my cup of tea. It is kind of small and was...
yelp.com - user review - 09/26/2007
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5.0 of 5 stars.
My wife and I go here whenever we get the chance. The lamb chorizo pizza is amazing. Black truffle gnocchi and hanger steak are very tasty as well. Very nice wine list if a little on the expensive...
yelp.com - user review - 09/25/2007
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Don't get me wrong, Rioja has good food... but it definitely did not live up to the hype. Our waiter was courteous and patient. My fiancee started with some sangria which she found to be nothing special. I...
citysearch.com - user review - 09/24/2007
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Gasp.... can it be? A restaurant that uses edible lavender in its bread? When I heard about this, I had to rush over just for the bread- which turned out to be a delicious sourdough with the delicate...
yelp.com - user review - 09/10/2007
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Rioja was a good end to a crappy experience. Downtown Denver is the cutest fucking downtown I have ever been to. It is a big city with a small town feel.Anyway Rioja was a great experiece basically...
yelp.com - user review - 08/29/2007
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4.0 of 5 stars.
I took my folks here when they came in from out of town. They were impressed, and I was happy to find a place these picky eaters enjoyed. Rioja has a beautiful ambiance inside, and a breezy elegance...
yelp.com - user review - 07/29/2007
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5.0 of 5 stars.
Without a doubt, Rioja is one of the best restaurants in town. I'd say one of my top 5 if not top 2. Great location along Larmier Square, great food and don't skip on desert .... house special is...
yelp.com - user review - 07/23/2007
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5.0 of 5 stars.
I am not sure I have anything negative to say about Rioja. On a recent visit, I waited at the bar for my friends and enjoyed a fabulous lemon cocktail. When my friends arrived, they also ordered...
yelp.com - user review - 07/23/2007
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4.0 of 5 stars.
You can't go to Rioja without ordering the Rioja Picnic appetizer. The duck gets along so nicely with the goat cheese that they almost make a Doat in your mouth! Get it? A Goat and a Duck... lol, I...
yelp.com - user review - 07/14/2007
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Great date place. Came here during a convention one evening--conveniently located down the street from the convention center.My company remarked about the quality of the wine list. Not my area of...
yelp.com - user review - 07/10/2007
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5.0 of 5 stars.
This gorgeous restaurant on Larimer Street was a nice surprise to a Denver newcomer looking for a perfect dinner. The selection of bread was impressive and I enjoyed the olive bread and whatever one...
yelp.com - user review - 06/28/2007
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3.0 of 5 stars.
Traveling in Denver we tramped out in the rain/snow mix to find good some good food. After seeing the Rioja web page which states "a menu inspired by Mediterranean ingredients influenced by local and...
yelp.com - user review - 05/01/2007
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4.0 of 5 stars.
I have eaten at Rioja 3x and always been pleased. The homeade breads are very very fresh and a pleasure to nosh on while waiting for your app and/or entree. I am one of those people that always tries...
yelp.com - user review - 05/01/2007
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Flying solo on business. But I still make my way to find a delicious restaurant. Rioja was the joint tonight, because I couldn't find a sushi joint that was closing in 30 minutes. Rioja was packed...
yelp.com - user review - 03/19/2007
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Yaha! My boss made an excellent pick for dinner last night. The food was not only delicious (well except for the blood orange sauce that was served with my salmon...eech), but the wine selections...
yelp.com - user review - 03/16/2007
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I was impressed with the selection of items on the menu. There was really good desserts too. Not the greatest place for kids, as we got some "looks" from the hipsters everytime one made a peep, but the food...
citysearch.com - user review - 03/04/2007
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4.0 of 5 stars.
At this beautifully attired Mediterranean on well-traveled Larimer Square's restaurant row, the setting is sexy and stylish, the staff is sensational, the wine list reigns supreme, and the...
yelp.com - user review - 02/27/2007
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4.0 of 5 stars.
"This is not how we do brunch at Rioja. Here brunch is perfect So I would like this one to be on me."What delectable Benedict (minus the bacon), with avocado and spinach on a goat cheese biscuit....
yelp.com - user review - 02/14/2007
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This week was my third visit to Rioja. My two other visits were in 2006, and I walked out feeling very satisfied with my meal and overall dining experience. This time I was very disappointed. I hope this was...
citysearch.com - user review - 02/10/2007
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My fiance and I went to Rioja for a romantic dinner. We were seated immediately, and our server was very attentive. I ordered the horseradish and potato-crusted salmon, and it was absolutely delicious, as the...
citysearch.com - user review - 01/29/2007
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I had heard good things about Rioja, so I booked it for our first anniversary dinner on New Year's Eve 2006. Everything at Rioja was better than I hoped for. We had a reservation, and we were seated...
citysearch.com - user review - 01/02/2007
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We moved to CO 6 months ago so as "foodies" we are trying all the restaurants - Loved their other restaurant (Bistro Vendome - everything is great) so looked forward to Rioja - I could go into detail but it...
citysearch.com - user review - 12/08/2006
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After reading these reviews of Rioja, I decided to try it for a birthday celebration. We arrived early, and though they graciously agreed to seat us, they gave us the worst seat in the house (though we did not...
citysearch.com - user review - 12/01/2006
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i am a definite fan of rioja. everytime i have been there i have thought the service was excellent. they have THE BEST appetizer in denver (the pork belly). this bacon dish simply dissolves in your mouth. ( i...
citysearch.com - user review - 11/21/2006
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everything is perfect--location, ambience and food. Rioja is a wonderful addition to the Denver dining scene. It is a place to see and be seen. The food is simply better than anything else you will find...
citysearch.com - user review - 09/22/2006
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I'm in Denver at least twice a year and I always go to Rioja, usually with a fairly large group. The staff somehow remembers me, and we are always pleased with the food. On this most recent visit, the salad...
citysearch.com - user review - 09/06/2006
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We just happened to run into this place while exploring the neighborhood for a interesting lunch spot. The patio seating was very quaint, and our service was amazing. I've read a few reviews which rated the...
citysearch.com - user review - 08/30/2006
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We entertained clients on a Monday night and the restaurant was packed. I had the scallops which were wonderful. Cooked to perfection. The heirloom tomato salad was a touch of heaven. Portions are reasonable....
citysearch.com - user review - 08/07/2006
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5.0 of 5 stars.
The 'Rioja Picnic' appetizer is amazing! If you like Mediterranean food, you have to try it. The ambiance is nice, and great wine list.
yelp.com - user review - 08/01/2006
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Quite possibly one of the best restaurants in Denver. We had amazing appetizers (tuna tartare and prosciutto wrapped mozzarella), great wine and a wonderful entree (salmon special). I would highly recommend...
citysearch.com - user review - 06/04/2006
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My mom and I went to brunch here on weekend. It was wonderful. We were seated immediatley. I recommend the "Mochakick" in place of coffee. It was delicious and the glass was delightful. During the Brunch hours...
citysearch.com - user review - 05/17/2006
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I always thought the first time I'd write a review would be because I was disappointed with a place. Instead, I'm glad to be writing about the wonderful experience my wife and son had tonight at Rioja. The...
citysearch.com - user review - 04/19/2006
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Went to Rioja with three other couples to celebrate a big business deal. SO MUCH FUN! The appetizers were excellent - Hubby and I ordered the mozzerella and I'm still dreaming about it. For my main course I...
citysearch.com - user review - 04/17/2006
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I love this place. I have been there three times, and every time it is wonderful. We had to wait for a table even though we had a reservation, but they were very apologetic. The food was marvelous. We had a...
citysearch.com - user review - 02/21/2006
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After reading a couple of so so reviews, I was a bit skeptical. A group of us went and had a great time - the food was incredible. The waiter did not rush us and gave us guidance through the menu. Amongst many...
citysearch.com - user review - 02/10/2006
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Rioja is one of the places I LOVE to eat or dine! I love the homemade mozzarella app., the ambience is great, and so is the service. Great spot for a "date"!
citysearch.com - user review - 01/31/2006
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4.0 of 5 stars.
Attractive, comfortable decor awaits you in this tasty mid-priced Larimer Square fine eatery. Proprietor Jennifer Jasinski whose past is a laundry list of well known spots in California and Vegas...
yelp.com - user review - 01/09/2006
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We were sat 40 minutes after our reservation. Very Noisy! Service was spotty, twice we were brought something we didn't order and server often couldn't remember who ordered what when putting the plates down....
citysearch.com - user review - 01/02/2006
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My husband and I dined at Rioja this past week and were sorely disappointed in the entire experience. We felt that the food was highly overrated and overpriced; our appetizer of baked mozzerella wrapped in...
citysearch.com - user review - 12/23/2005
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We had heard so many good things about Rioja!! Unfortunately we experienced none of them. The restaurant was so noisy that I could not hear my dinner companions unless they yelled. The food was not fabulous as...
citysearch.com - user review - 11/28/2005
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my experience with this restaurant was very unfavorable. the management does not seem to be able to communicate effeciently with their employees, and also employees don't seem to be able to interact well...
citysearch.com - user review - 08/09/2005
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Went here for my birthday and had a spectacular time. Solid winelist and the waiter made a terrific recommendation. Wes started with the flatbread topped with fresh sturgeon and caviar. It was terrific and...
citysearch.com - user review - 07/11/2005
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Rioja has rapidly become one of my favorite places to dine. The crowd at Rioja is elegant and exotic. Everyone is there for great food and a great time. The food is wonderful. They have a menu that changes...
citysearch.com - user review - 07/11/2005
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Great Food, Great Service, Great Atmosphere, The open kitchen is so much fun, and a great way to sneak in without a reservation. The staff is so nice and friendly, we are always greeted as if we were old...
citysearch.com - user review - 06/03/2005
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We wanted to try something different this weekend for brunch, so decided on Rioja. When we arrived we waited at the hostess stand for quite some time before being acknowledged by anyone. Nobody even looked at...
citysearch.com - user review - 05/14/2005
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Myself and a few friends went to dinner here about 7:30 on a Thursday night. The restaurant was busy but we only ended up waiting about 10 minutes for a table. We started out with the baked mozzarella...
citysearch.com - user review - 04/16/2005
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Each experience has been very disappointing. Gummy Risotto, Burnt Fig Pizza and No Bread summarizes my visits. Service was also poor - the waiter even apologized for how bad everything was.
citysearch.com - user review - 03/19/2005
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The decor is simple but pleasant at this busy establishment. We were seated about 20 minutes after our reservation. We started with two items: the crispy angel hair wrapped shrimp - not sure where the "angle...
citysearch.com - user review - 03/17/2005
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I had the pleasure of celebrating my birthday at Rioja. It was busy and we did not get seated until 30 minutes after our reservation time; however we were compensated with a couple appetizers on the house and...
citysearch.com - user review - 03/01/2005
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Chef-owner Jennifer Jasinski (formerly of Panzano at the Hotel Monaco) has emerged as Denver's most creatively inspired restaurateur since opening Rioja in 2004. In 2 short years, the slick Larimer Square...
frommers.com - user review
Full Review »
my girlfriends and i wanted a nice dinner downtown and decided on the spot to give rioja a try. it was amazing. the food was incredibly flavorful, best that i have had in a long time...
cityguide.aol.com - user review
Full Review »
dijon-celery-root-endive salad, and dill pistou, bacon-wrapped venison loin with crispy parsnip croquette, red chard and sour cherry-port glaze...
usrg.com - user review
Full Review »
owner and chef jennifer jasinski has created a restaurant that features the flavors of the mediterranean influenced by local, seasonal ingredients. located in historic larimer square...
5280.com - user review
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star chef struts her stuff in larimer square...
cityguide.aol.com - user review
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chef jennifer jasinski's creatively inspired mediterranean food is influenced by local seasonal products. rioja is simple, pure food that emphasizes bright flavors & textures. the wines are a collection of fun...
opentable.com - user review
Full Review »
Chef Jennifer Jasinski's creatively inspired Mediterranean food is influenced by local seasonal products. Rioja is simple, pure food that emphasizes bright flavors & textures. The wines are a collection of fun...
opentable.com - user review
Full Review »
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