The Bindery

Just off Central Street in Denver’s LoHi neighborhood, The Bindery fills the ground floor of a modern building where new construction meets older brick storefronts. Floor-to-ceiling windows line the main dining room, pulling in daylight from early morning through late afternoon. Most people walk in past the bakery counter – pastries and loaves lined up behind glass – before the space opens into a larger dining area. The open kitchen runs along one side, so cooks are visible at work throughout the day. A bar stretches along the opposite wall, with high stools and a row of bottles in plain view from nearly every table. Tables are set for everything from solo breakfasts to group brunches, and the layout leaves enough space to move easily between the bakery, bar, and main dining floor. On warmer days, the street-facing patio fills with diners and the occasional dog – outdoor seating is dog-friendly and gets a lot of sun, especially in the morning. The menu covers breakfast through dinner, but brunch draws the most regulars. Dutch baby pancakes come out sweet or savory, and hanger steak and eggs is a staple. Crab Benedict, beet-cured smoked salmon, and house-made pastas round out the main plates. The in-house bakery turns out fresh pastries daily, and everything is available for takeout at the front counter. The bar runs a full cocktail list – bacon Bloody Marys are a fixture – plus a lineup of wine and other drinks. Composed salads, like the salmon Niçoise, show up year-round. Inside, the space stays bright and modern – high ceilings, clean lines, and simple table settings. The open kitchen and bar keep things lively, but the overall setup is straightforward and uncluttered. Most people head for the patio if the weather’s good, but the main room rarely feels cramped. Parking can be a puzzle in LoHi, but The Bindery has a few reserved spots in the building’s garage. Paid street parking is the backup. Reservations are a good idea, especially on weekends, and walk-ins usually find a spot at the bar if there’s space. The chef’s table sits near the kitchen and can be reserved for a closer look at the action. The place draws a mix – business lunches, casual brunches, and the occasional special occasion dinner – all under one roof. The open kitchen and bakery make it easy to see what’s happening behind the scenes, and the menu shifts with the seasons but always leans on house-made staples.