Best Restaurants in Lakewood CO (2025)

A Lakewood cornerstone since 1989, 240 Union blends a lively open kitchen with seasonal, wood-fired American fare. Regularly recommended by Denver dining guides and praised by 5280, it’s where locals celebrate milestones over seafood, steaks, and crisp pizzas.

A beloved family Italian spot where owner Elisa Heitman’s Naples heritage shows in hearty pastas, parmigiana, and daily specials. Westword has chronicled its decades-long following and expansion next door, noting the three-generation crowd that still packs the dining room.

The Osei-Fordwuo family brings Ghanaian hospitality and a continent-spanning menu—fufu with peanut soup, kebabs, grilled tilapia—to Lakewood. Lauded by 5280 and featured by local media, it remains a rare, community-driven destination for West African flavors in Colorado.

This compact kitchen turns out vibrant regional Thai dishes—Floating Market noodle soup, khao soi, and hang leh curry—at spice levels locals respect. Celebrated by Westword and listed by 5280, it’s a top stop for serious Thai cooking west of Denver.

A rustic shack with a serious smoker turning out brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and sausage. Westword highlights its loyal following and straightforward Kansas City–style sauces—exactly the unfussy, neighborhood barbecue Lakewood crowds return to week after week.

A Lakewood stalwart reborn from Deli Italia, this independently owned spot bakes blistered pies and Italian subs with market-sourced ingredients. Westword chronicled the rebrand and community ties; locals come for cannoli, charry crusts, and classic deli comforts.

A European-style bakery loved for kringle, almond horns, and buttery danishes made daily. Recognized by national food writers and updated regularly for hours, it’s where Lakewood stocks up on old-world pastry craft before the cases sell out.

Chef-owner Gaby Berben serves homestyle German dishes—sauerbraten, schnitzel, rouladen—in a tiny room where reservations are wise. Westword has celebrated its authenticity and charm; regulars linger over soups and cakes that taste like home.

The pink palace of West Colfax roared back with cliff divers, mariachi, and a dramatically upgraded menu led by award-winning chef Dana Rodriguez. Covered extensively by Denver press and national outlets, it remains a singular, proudly local experience.

Family-run since 2000, Namaste’s extensive menu spans tandoori platters, momos, and richly spiced curries. Included in 5280’s roundup of the area’s best Indian dining, it’s a dependable Lakewood choice for balanced flavors and thoughtful service.