WOW — A true taste of Oaxaca in downtown Denver! Zocalito blends the exceptional flavors of one of Mexico's most renowned foodie destinations into contemporary and approachable fare. As a traveler to Oaxaca, I was surprised to see the authentic spices and flavors of the region on full display here. Do not miss the calamari kale salad or the ceviche to start. Brb—drooling. Oh, and the drinks? Rico cocktails with a killer menu of mezcal and tequila. The chef and front-of-house staff bring the place to life with lots of love and care for your experience. This place has it all — Alebrijes from Oaxaca color the space with culture in this modernly-appointed restaurant that excites the senses. Expect high-end dining with zero attitude. Can't wait to come back!!! <3
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Lesley Larson
You have to eat here!! Atmosphere & service were warm, genuine & friendly and the food was totally incredible!! We had two different soups (black bean & the pozole), cheese, chorizo, poblano dip, the cod & the steak tenderloin with manchego potatoes. The Latin flavors were fresh, flavorful & really well-executed! Every single dish was delish!!! If you are anywhere near downtown or just craving amazing Mexican-type food (they have tacos, tamales & rellenos), this will be a win!
I went here while traveling to Denver for a conference. The meal was so amazing that I went back two nights in a row. Food is delicious, service is amazing, and drinks are good too!! Food has great spice--chicken tortillas soup, wings, chocolate mousse dessert--I can't wait to go back!
E SK
I was in Denver for work and found Zocalito -- bowled over by the unbelievable food, outstanding drinks, and incredible service. We had such a good experience we went back the next night for dinner!! We would have gone a third time, but they were closed on Sunday. We were so disappointed! The bartender (Matt?) was absolutely amazing, helpful, friendly, attentive, and made great drinks and excellent menu recommendations. Our drinks were perfect - best margaritas I have ever had, and it's my drink of choice. The aztec soup is smooth and flavorful and I loved it so much I got it twice :). The chile rellenos were delicious, the wings were outstanding - every last thing is clearly made with expertise, care, and love. The mexican chocolate mousse was the finale though. I don't think I have ever had anything that good. Had that twice as well! I may write to the restaurant to beg for the recipe. I am going to have to find an excuse to return to Denver to dine here again! Wonderful people, wonderful food, wish them the best, and so much success. HIGHLY recommend!!!Dietary restrictions: I have celiac, they were very accommodating!!
This place was phenomenal from the apps to the desert. After my visit i fully believe my server when he said there is nothing on the menu that falls short of delicious. The civeche was so fresh and flavorful. The calamari was cooked to perfection and the mole was out of this world. I also tried the duck which is a must try for everyone. I cannot recommend this bistro highly enough. Give it a try and you will join me in singing their praises. 1000% will be returning sooner rather than later
Happy hour + Ian makes this place worth a stop. Great neighborhood spot with top notch customer service. Can’t wait to come back !
Nikki Johnson
This is by far one of my favorite restaurants! I am a regular! That is because of the way you are treated when you come to dine. It is A1 customer service not some of the time but all of the time! Love the atmosphere. It is so chill! And the food is absolutely delicious! So good that I can never just stop at one order of wings! I think I've tried every flavor and most times 2 in one visit! And never once have been disappointed!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Charles Wilkop
If your celebrating with a large group hands down this is the spot to go!Went with a group of 20 friends for a birthday and were able to order many options to share and each dish was outstanding! Flavors were so amazingly authentic and delicious! We were all thrilled with the service as well! The restaurant was packed so we thought we would have cocktails for a hour before appetizers arrived but happily this restaurant has terrific kitchen management and the dishes kept on coming!Staff was friendly and made us feel like family. Great vibes and Awesome Food!
Very accommodating for our office holiday party. ~15 of us, served apps and drinks to start and we each ordered our own entree. Food is fine dining! Awesome, big party.Also, had a baby shower here in 2021. Mike and Matt and great people.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Sarah Leisher
This is one of of my and my coworkers favorite after-work spots so we decided to have our company holiday party here. Mike was full of helpful tips to make the evening run smoothly and was very responsive as I was setting the plans. Matt hustled all night! He made sure our group of 20 always had everything we needed, from never letting a person need a drink to providing recommendations from the menu. Every single person was happy and I've gotten several comments that this was a favorite group party location we've ever planned. We already knew the margs are delicious but we were all so impressed with our dinner as well. I can't say enough good things about the delicious food, drinks, ambiance, and service. Highly recommend for small or large groups!
I am a great fan of Oaxacan food, especially the moles. Zocalito has wonderfully complex moles. We were a party of four and everyone enjoyed their meal. I'll be back soon!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Skirt Steak Layered with Oaxacan Mozzarella, Grilled Duck Breast, Grilled Beef Tenderloin, Chocolate Mousse with Raspberry Sauce and Vanilla Gelato, Seafood Stew
Scott Aiges
OMFG! The food here is insanely good! So fresh, so tasty, so legit Oaxacan! Run, do not walk, to this place hidden in plain sight in downtown Denver. Food is AMAZING!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Christopher
Our company had its holiday party here. Matt was very attentive to our entire party of 16. Drinks, appetizers and food were served promptly. Everything was delicious (Thanks Chef Mike). We plan on having more company dining experiences here.
This place is a hidden gem!!! The food is so so good. I ordered the cod and it was magic in my mouth. Please help support the local restaurants and with this place you will not be disappointed.Service was impeccable! So friendly and kind with wonderful suggestions.Vegetarian options: Bean soup! Wowza!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Skirt Steak Layered with Oaxacan Mozzarella
Craig Miller
I wanted to love this place, I really did, as the menu that we looked at online sounded so good! When we arrived (on a Saturday night in downtown Denver) the place was very empty, which made me a tad bit leery to start with. The server, who was the only person waiting on anyone in the place, was very , attentive and was quick to seat us. Sat down and we ordered drinks before our meal and they came out super quick! I ordered a mezacal drink (I like mezcal cocktails) and at first it was an ok drink, too heavy on the mezcal but still drinkable, my wife just got a glass of wine.We ordered only entrees here. my wife got the duck and I got the banana leaf wrapped chicken breast. The duck had good flavor, but was kind of chewy, which is odd for duck. The chicken was just ok, but the entire dish tasted like I was eating an ancho chilie.Overall I wouldn’t suggest this place unless you are looking for a quick bite to eat for sustenance.
WOW — A true taste of Oaxaca in downtown Denver! Zocalito blends the exceptional flavors of one of Mexico's most renowned foodie destinations into contemporary and approachable fare. As a traveler to Oaxaca, I was surprised to see the authentic spices and flavors of the region on full display here. Do not miss the calamari kale salad or the ceviche to start. Brb—drooling. Oh, and the drinks? Rico cocktails with a killer menu of mezcal and tequila. The chef and front-of-house staff bring the place to life with lots of love and care for your experience. This place has it all — Alebrijes from Oaxaca color the space with culture in this modernly-appointed restaurant that excites the senses. Expect high-end dining with zero attitude. Can't wait to come back!!! <3
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
You have to eat here!! Atmosphere & service were warm, genuine & friendly and the food was totally incredible!! We had two different soups (black bean & the pozole), cheese, chorizo, poblano dip, the cod & the steak tenderloin with manchego potatoes. The Latin flavors were fresh, flavorful & really well-executed! Every single dish was delish!!! If you are anywhere near downtown or just craving amazing Mexican-type food (they have tacos, tamales & rellenos), this will be a win!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Chorizo & Poblano, Manchego Potatoes Gratin, Grilled Beef Tenderloin, Aztec Soup
I went here while traveling to Denver for a conference. The meal was so amazing that I went back two nights in a row. Food is delicious, service is amazing, and drinks are good too!! Food has great spice--chicken tortillas soup, wings, chocolate mousse dessert--I can't wait to go back!
I was in Denver for work and found Zocalito -- bowled over by the unbelievable food, outstanding drinks, and incredible service. We had such a good experience we went back the next night for dinner!! We would have gone a third time, but they were closed on Sunday. We were so disappointed! The bartender (Matt?) was absolutely amazing, helpful, friendly, attentive, and made great drinks and excellent menu recommendations. Our drinks were perfect - best margaritas I have ever had, and it's my drink of choice. The aztec soup is smooth and flavorful and I loved it so much I got it twice :). The chile rellenos were delicious, the wings were outstanding - every last thing is clearly made with expertise, care, and love. The mexican chocolate mousse was the finale though. I don't think I have ever had anything that good. Had that twice as well! I may write to the restaurant to beg for the recipe. I am going to have to find an excuse to return to Denver to dine here again! Wonderful people, wonderful food, wish them the best, and so much success. HIGHLY recommend!!!Dietary restrictions: I have celiac, they were very accommodating!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Chicken Relleno, Guacamole with Crickets, Oaxacan Salsa & Guacamole, Spicy Dry Rubbed Chicken Wings, Oaxacan Chicken
This place was phenomenal from the apps to the desert. After my visit i fully believe my server when he said there is nothing on the menu that falls short of delicious. The civeche was so fresh and flavorful. The calamari was cooked to perfection and the mole was out of this world. I also tried the duck which is a must try for everyone. I cannot recommend this bistro highly enough. Give it a try and you will join me in singing their praises. 1000% will be returning sooner rather than later
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Kurobuta Pork Tenderloin & Red Mole, Grilled Beef Tenderloin, Calamari, Mole
Happy hour + Ian makes this place worth a stop. Great neighborhood spot with top notch customer service. Can’t wait to come back !
This is by far one of my favorite restaurants! I am a regular! That is because of the way you are treated when you come to dine. It is A1 customer service not some of the time but all of the time! Love the atmosphere. It is so chill! And the food is absolutely delicious! So good that I can never just stop at one order of wings! I think I've tried every flavor and most times 2 in one visit! And never once have been disappointed!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
If your celebrating with a large group hands down this is the spot to go!Went with a group of 20 friends for a birthday and were able to order many options to share and each dish was outstanding! Flavors were so amazingly authentic and delicious! We were all thrilled with the service as well! The restaurant was packed so we thought we would have cocktails for a hour before appetizers arrived but happily this restaurant has terrific kitchen management and the dishes kept on coming!Staff was friendly and made us feel like family. Great vibes and Awesome Food!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Chicken Wings with Crema, Steamed Mussels, Grilled Duck Breast, Mayan Fried Calamari, Grilled Beef Tenderloin, Calamari, Chorizo Cheese Dip, Spicy Dry Rubbed Chicken Wings, Seafood Stew, Oaxacan Chicken, Aztec Soup
Very accommodating for our office holiday party. ~15 of us, served apps and drinks to start and we each ordered our own entree. Food is fine dining! Awesome, big party.Also, had a baby shower here in 2021. Mike and Matt and great people.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This is one of of my and my coworkers favorite after-work spots so we decided to have our company holiday party here. Mike was full of helpful tips to make the evening run smoothly and was very responsive as I was setting the plans. Matt hustled all night! He made sure our group of 20 always had everything we needed, from never letting a person need a drink to providing recommendations from the menu. Every single person was happy and I've gotten several comments that this was a favorite group party location we've ever planned. We already knew the margs are delicious but we were all so impressed with our dinner as well. I can't say enough good things about the delicious food, drinks, ambiance, and service. Highly recommend for small or large groups!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Chicken Relleno, Chorizo Cheese Dip, Mole, Spicy Dry Rubbed Chicken Wings, Seafood Stew, Oaxacan Chicken
Restaurantji Recommends
I am a great fan of Oaxacan food, especially the moles. Zocalito has wonderfully complex moles. We were a party of four and everyone enjoyed their meal. I'll be back soon!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Skirt Steak Layered with Oaxacan Mozzarella, Grilled Duck Breast, Grilled Beef Tenderloin, Chocolate Mousse with Raspberry Sauce and Vanilla Gelato, Seafood Stew
OMFG! The food here is insanely good! So fresh, so tasty, so legit Oaxacan! Run, do not walk, to this place hidden in plain sight in downtown Denver. Food is AMAZING!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Our company had its holiday party here. Matt was very attentive to our entire party of 16. Drinks, appetizers and food were served promptly. Everything was delicious (Thanks Chef Mike). We plan on having more company dining experiences here.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Grilled Beef Tenderloin, Calamari, Chorizo Cheese Dip, Oaxacan Salsa & Guacamole, Spicy Dry Rubbed Chicken Wings
This place is a hidden gem!!! The food is so so good. I ordered the cod and it was magic in my mouth. Please help support the local restaurants and with this place you will not be disappointed.Service was impeccable! So friendly and kind with wonderful suggestions.Vegetarian options: Bean soup! Wowza!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Skirt Steak Layered with Oaxacan Mozzarella
I wanted to love this place, I really did, as the menu that we looked at online sounded so good! When we arrived (on a Saturday night in downtown Denver) the place was very empty, which made me a tad bit leery to start with. The server, who was the only person waiting on anyone in the place, was very , attentive and was quick to seat us. Sat down and we ordered drinks before our meal and they came out super quick! I ordered a mezacal drink (I like mezcal cocktails) and at first it was an ok drink, too heavy on the mezcal but still drinkable, my wife just got a glass of wine.We ordered only entrees here. my wife got the duck and I got the banana leaf wrapped chicken breast. The duck had good flavor, but was kind of chewy, which is odd for duck. The chicken was just ok, but the entire dish tasted like I was eating an ancho chilie.Overall I wouldn’t suggest this place unless you are looking for a quick bite to eat for sustenance.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 2
Service: 4