Cherry Creek Shopping & Dining Guide — Best Restaurants, Boutiques & Things to Do

Cherry Creek is Denver’s premier destination for upscale shopping, exceptional dining, and a vibrant cultural scene. Spanning two distinct but complementary areas — the open-air boutique district of Cherry Creek North and the enclosed luxury of the Cherry Creek Shopping Center — this neighborhood delivers an experience that rivals the best shopping and dining districts in the country. Whether you’re hunting for a one-of-a-kind outfit, craving a world-class meal, or simply looking for a perfect afternoon out, Cherry Creek has something for everyone.

For a deeper look at the neighborhood’s history, real estate, and lifestyle, check out our comprehensive Cherry Creek neighborhood guide.

Cherry Creek North — 16 Blocks of Boutiques, Galleries & Local Charm

Cherry Creek North is the heart and soul of Denver’s independent shopping scene. Stretching across 16 beautifully landscaped blocks north of 1st Avenue between University Boulevard and Steele Street, this open-air district is home to more than 320 shops, galleries, restaurants, and service businesses. Unlike a typical mall, Cherry Creek North feels like a walkable European shopping village — tree-lined streets, outdoor patios, public art installations, and a genuine neighborhood atmosphere that keeps locals and visitors coming back year after year.

Boutique Shopping in Cherry Creek North

What sets Cherry Creek North apart from other Denver shopping areas is the sheer concentration of independent boutiques and locally owned stores. You won’t find the same cookie-cutter chain stores repeated on every block. Instead, you’ll discover carefully curated collections from shop owners who are passionate about fashion, home décor, jewelry, and gifts.

• Garbarini — One of Denver’s most celebrated women’s fashion boutiques, Garbarini has been a Cherry Creek North fixture for decades. Expect designer labels, personalized styling, and a selection that balances high fashion with wearable everyday pieces.

📍 Garbarini
239 Detroit St, Denver, CO 80206
📞 (303) 333-8686 | 🌐 garbarini.com

• Lawrence Covell — A legacy luxury retailer offering European and American designer clothing for men and women. Lawrence Covell has operated in Cherry Creek since the 1960s, making it one of the longest-running independent fashion retailers in the region.

📍 Lawrence Covell
225 Steele St, Denver, CO 80206
📞 (303) 320-1023 | 🌐 lawrencecovell.com

• Show of Hands — This beloved gallery and gift shop specializes in handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, glasswork, and art from Colorado and American artisans. It’s the perfect place to find a meaningful, locally made gift.

📍 Show of Hands
210 Clayton St, Denver, CO 80206
📞 (720) 441-1592 | 🌐 showofhandsdenver.com

• Bloom — A women’s boutique known for on-trend fashion at accessible price points. Bloom carries a rotating selection of clothing, accessories, and shoes that appeal to a wide range of styles.
• Max — A men’s clothing boutique offering curated collections of contemporary and classic menswear from premium brands. The knowledgeable staff makes the shopping experience feel personal and unhurried.

Art Galleries & Creative Spaces

Cherry Creek North is also one of Denver’s top gallery districts. Art lovers can spend hours wandering through spaces that range from contemporary fine art to photography, sculpture, and mixed media.

• William Havu Gallery — One of the most respected contemporary art galleries in the Rocky Mountain region, showcasing paintings, sculptures, and works on paper from established and emerging artists.
• Pismo Fine Art Glass — A nationally recognized gallery dedicated to contemporary art glass. The pieces on display range from delicate blown glass to bold sculptural works.
• Plus Gallery — A cutting-edge contemporary art space that features rotating exhibitions from both local and international artists working in a variety of media.

Throughout the year, Cherry Creek North hosts First Friday Art Walks and seasonal events that bring the gallery district to life with special exhibitions, artist receptions, and live entertainment.

Cherry Creek Shopping Center — World-Class Retail Under One Roof

Just across 1st Avenue from Cherry Creek North sits the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, one of the finest enclosed shopping malls in the western United States. With over 160 stores, anchored by major department stores and featuring dozens of luxury brands, the mall offers a premium shopping experience in a beautifully designed, climate-controlled environment.

Anchor Stores

• Nordstrom — The flagship department store at Cherry Creek, Nordstrom offers an extensive selection of designer fashion, shoes, beauty products, and accessories across multiple floors. The in-store restaurant and espresso bar make it easy to spend an entire afternoon here.
• Neiman Marcus — Denver’s only Neiman Marcus location, this store is the go-to destination for luxury fashion, fine jewelry, and high-end beauty brands. The personal shopping services and seasonal trunk shows are a major draw for serious shoppers.
• Macy’s — A full-line Macy’s department store offering a broad range of fashion, home goods, and beauty products at a variety of price points, making upscale shopping accessible to a wider audience.

Luxury & Designer Brands

Beyond the anchors, Cherry Creek Shopping Center is home to an impressive lineup of luxury and designer boutiques that you won’t find elsewhere in Colorado:

• Louis Vuitton — Iconic French luxury house offering leather goods, fashion, and accessories.
• Tiffany & Co. — The legendary jeweler’s Cherry Creek location features fine jewelry, engagement rings, and signature blue-box gifts.
• Burberry — British heritage luxury brand known for its trench coats, scarves, and distinctive check pattern.
• Tory Burch — Sophisticated American sportswear, handbags, shoes, and accessories with a signature bohemian-chic aesthetic.
• Eileen Fisher — Timeless, sustainable women’s clothing in organic fabrics and relaxed silhouettes.
• lululemon — Premium athletic wear and yoga apparel with a loyal Colorado following.
• Apple Store — A sleek, modern Apple retail location for the latest devices, accessories, and Genius Bar support.

The mall also features popular national retailers like Zara, H&M, Anthropologie, Free People, and Restoration Hardware, giving shoppers a diverse range of style and price options all in one location.

Best Restaurants in Cherry Creek

Cherry Creek isn’t just about shopping — it’s one of Denver’s top dining destinations. The neighborhood has an impressive collection of restaurants ranging from upscale steakhouses to casual eateries, with cuisines spanning American, Italian, Japanese, Mediterranean, and more. Here are the standout spots you need to know about.

Elway’s Cherry Creek

Elway’s is the signature steakhouse from Denver Broncos legend John Elway, and the Cherry Creek location is the original. Located at 2500 E. 1st Avenue, this upscale restaurant serves prime steaks, fresh seafood, and classic American dishes in an elegant, energetic setting. The bar scene is lively, especially on weekends, and the patio is one of the best in the neighborhood for warm-weather dining. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a perfectly prepared filet mignon, Elway’s delivers consistently.

⚠️ Elway’s Cherry Creek — Permanently closed as of August 31, 2024. Elway’s remains open at Downtown Denver and DIA.

Quality Italian

Quality Italian brought a dose of New York City sophistication to Cherry Creek when it opened its doors. This upscale Italian-American restaurant serves elevated classics — think chicken parmesan for two, fresh pasta dishes, and an outstanding raw bar. The sleek, modern interior and buzzy atmosphere make it a favorite for date nights and group celebrations. Don’t miss the famous chicken parm pizza appetizer, a signature dish that has earned a cult following.

📍 Quality Italian
241 Columbine St, Denver, CO 80206
📞 (303) 532-8888 | 🌐 qualityitaliandenver.com

True Food Kitchen

True Food Kitchen is the go-to spot for health-conscious diners who refuse to sacrifice flavor. Founded by Dr. Andrew Weil, the menu is inspired by anti-inflammatory principles and features seasonal dishes made with responsibly sourced ingredients. Popular items include the ancient grains bowl, the inside-out burger, and an impressive selection of fresh-pressed juices and natural sodas. The bright, airy interior and spacious patio make it a perfect lunch destination after a morning of shopping.

📍 True Food Kitchen
2800 E 2nd Ave, Ste 101, Denver, CO 80206
📞 (720) 535-4670 | 🌐 truefoodkitchen.com

More Top Dining Picks

• Hillstone — Known for its consistently excellent American cuisine, craft cocktails, and warm hospitality. The Thai steak salad and the sushi-grade ahi tuna are perennial favorites.

📍 Hillstone
303 Josephine St, Denver, CO 80206
📞 (303) 333-4688 | 🌐 hillstone.com

• North Italia — A stylish spot for handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and Italian-inspired cocktails. The brunch menu on weekends is outstanding.

📍 North Italia
190 Clayton Ln, Denver, CO 80206
📞 (720) 941-7700 | 🌐 northitalia.com

• Kisbee on the Roof — A rooftop dining experience at The Jacquard hotel featuring Mediterranean-inspired small plates, creative cocktails, and panoramic views of the Front Range.

📍 Kisbee on the Roof
222 Milwaukee St (The Jacquard Hotel), Denver, CO 80206
📞 (303) 515-2000 | 🌐 thejacquard.com

• Matsuhisa — World-renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s outpost in Cherry Creek offers exquisite Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine, including signature dishes like black cod miso and yellowtail jalapeño.

📍 Matsuhisa Denver
318 Clayton Ln, Denver, CO 80206
📞 (303) 329-6628 | 🌐 matsuhisarestaurants.com

• Cherry Creek Grill — A neighborhood staple for over two decades, serving American bistro fare with seasonal specials and an excellent wine list.

📍 Cherry Creek Grill
184 Steele St, Denver, CO 80206
📞 (303) 322-3524 | 🌐 cherrycreekgrill.com

• Flower Child — A fast-casual restaurant offering healthy bowls, salads, and wraps made with organic produce and sustainably raised proteins.

📍 Flower Child
3110 E 1st Ave, Unit 101, Denver, CO 80206
📞 (720) 779-1980 | 🌐 iamaflowerchild.com

Cafés & Coffee Shops

Cherry Creek has a thriving café culture that caters to everyone from remote workers looking for a quiet spot with good Wi-Fi to friends catching up over a leisurely latte. The coffee scene here is a mix of local roasters and beloved national brands, all with their own character.

• Aviano Coffee — Widely considered one of the best coffee shops in all of Denver, Aviano is a Cherry Creek North institution. The espresso drinks are expertly crafted, the pastries are sourced from top local bakeries, and the sunny patio on Fillmore Street is the place to see and be seen on a Saturday morning.

📍 Aviano Coffee
244 Detroit St, Denver, CO 80206
📞 (303) 399-8347 | 🌐 avianocoffee.com

• Narrative Coffee — A specialty coffee roaster with a focus on single-origin beans and precise brewing methods. Narrative appeals to serious coffee enthusiasts who appreciate knowing the story behind every cup.
• Dazbog Coffee — A Colorado-born coffee chain with Eastern European roots, Dazbog has a strong local following for its bold roasts and signature blends.
• Le French Café — An authentic French bakery and café offering flaky croissants, quiches, macarons, and excellent café au lait in a charming Parisian-inspired setting.
• Starbucks Reserve — The Cherry Creek Starbucks locations offer a polished experience, and the Reserve menu features small-lot coffees and specialty brewing methods beyond the standard offerings.

Whether you need a quick cortado on the go or want to linger over a cappuccino with a good book, Cherry Creek’s café scene has a spot that fits your mood perfectly.

Cherry Creek Farmers Market

Every Saturday and Wednesday during the growing season (typically May through October), the Cherry Creek Farmers Market transforms a large parking area at 1st Avenue and University Boulevard into one of Denver’s best open-air markets. Established in 1998, this market has grown into one of the largest and most popular farmers markets in the state.

What you’ll find at the Cherry Creek Farmers Market:

• Fresh produce — Seasonal fruits and vegetables from Colorado farms, including Palisade peaches (a summer highlight), heirloom tomatoes, sweet corn, and leafy greens.
• Artisan bread and baked goods — Fresh-baked sourdough, pastries, pies, and specialty breads from local bakeries.
• Local meats and cheeses — Grass-fed beef, free-range poultry, lamb, and artisan cheeses from Colorado ranches and creameries.
• Flowers and plants — Beautiful cut flowers, potted plants, and herb starts for your garden.
• Prepared foods — Tamales, empanadas, crepes, fresh pasta, salsas, jams, and honey from local producers.
• Live music and community events — The market frequently features live music, cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly activities that turn a grocery run into a Saturday morning event.

The Cherry Creek Farmers Market is a true community gathering place and one of the best ways to experience the neighborhood’s vibrant local culture. Arrive early for the best selection, and bring your own bags.

Nightlife & Evening Entertainment

While Cherry Creek may not have the rowdy bar scene of LoDo or South Broadway, it offers a more refined evening experience that appeals to those who prefer craft cocktails, wine bars, and upscale lounges over crowded dance floors.

• The Courtyard at The Jacquard — The Jacquard Hotel’s ground-floor lounge and courtyard offer a sophisticated setting for evening cocktails. The craft cocktail menu is inventive and seasonal, and the atmosphere is perfect for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap.
• Blue Island Oyster Bar — A chic seafood-focused spot with an excellent raw bar, champagne selections, and a lively happy hour that draws a well-dressed crowd.

📍 Blue Island Oyster Bar
2625 E 2nd Ave, Denver, CO 80206
🌐 blueislandoysterbar.com

• The Cherry Cricket — A beloved Denver institution since 1945, the Cherry Cricket is a more casual option known for its legendary burgers, cold beer, and unpretentious atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to end a long day of shopping with a no-frills meal and a local craft brew.

📍 The Cherry Cricket
2641 E 2nd Ave, Denver, CO 80206
📞 (303) 322-7666 | 🌐 cherrycricket.com

• Elway’s Bar — The bar side of Elway’s steakhouse has a life of its own. Expect a lively scene, generous pours, and plenty of sports on the screens.

For a different kind of evening entertainment, catch a show at the nearby JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center, which hosts theater productions, film screenings, and cultural events throughout the year.

Getting to Cherry Creek & Parking Tips

Cherry Creek is located just a few miles southeast of downtown Denver, making it easily accessible by car, bike, bus, or rideshare. Here’s what you need to know about getting there and parking once you arrive.

By Car

From downtown Denver, head south on University Boulevard or take Speer Boulevard east. Cherry Creek North is roughly bounded by 1st Avenue, 3rd Avenue, University Boulevard, and Steele Street. The Cherry Creek Shopping Center is located at 3000 E. 1st Avenue. The drive takes about 10–15 minutes depending on traffic.

Parking

• Cherry Creek Shopping Center — The mall offers a large free parking garage and surface lots. Parking is generally easy to find, though it can get busy on weekends and during the holiday season.
• Cherry Creek North — Street parking is available throughout the district, with a mix of metered and two-hour free spots. Several public parking garages are also available, including structures near 2nd Avenue and Fillmore Street. The Cherry Creek North parking garage (accessible from 2nd Avenue) offers convenient free parking for shoppers.
• Valet parking — Some restaurants and hotels in the area offer valet parking services, which can be especially convenient during busy evenings.

By Bus & Public Transit

RTD bus routes serve the Cherry Creek area, with several lines running along 1st Avenue and Colorado Boulevard. The Route 83 bus connects Cherry Creek to downtown Denver and other south Denver neighborhoods. While Cherry Creek doesn’t have its own light rail station, the nearby Colorado Boulevard station on the H Line provides a connection to the broader RTD rail network.

By Bike

The Cherry Creek Trail is one of Denver’s most popular multi-use paths, running right through the neighborhood. The trail connects Cherry Creek to downtown Denver, Confluence Park, and points south toward Cherry Creek State Park. Denver B-cycle stations are available in the area for bike-share users.

Seasonal Events & Festivals

Cherry Creek hosts several major events throughout the year that draw visitors from across the Front Range:

• Cherry Creek Arts Festival — Held every Fourth of July weekend, this is one of the top-rated outdoor art festivals in the nation. More than 250 juried artists display and sell their work across multiple blocks of Cherry Creek North, with live music, culinary demonstrations, and family activities.
• Cherry Creek North Food & Wine — An annual tasting event featuring dishes from neighborhood restaurants paired with wines, craft cocktails, and local beers.
• Holiday Shopping Season — From November through December, Cherry Creek transforms into a winter wonderland with festive decorations, holiday pop-up shops, extended shopping hours, and special events including visits with Santa and tree-lighting ceremonies.
• Summer Sidewalk Sale — A popular mid-summer event where Cherry Creek North boutiques offer steep discounts on seasonal merchandise.

Exploring Beyond Cherry Creek

Cherry Creek’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring other beloved south Denver neighborhoods. After a day of shopping and dining, consider venturing to nearby Washington Park, Denver’s favorite green space for jogging, paddle boarding, and picnicking. The neighborhoods of Bonnie Brae, Glendale, and the Denver Country Club area are all just minutes away, each offering their own unique dining and shopping options.

Cherry Creek truly is the crown jewel of south Denver’s shopping and dining scene. Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting for the first time, this neighborhood rewards exploration — there’s always a new boutique to discover, a new restaurant to try, and a new reason to come back. Plan your visit today and experience the best that Denver has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions