Matt C.
Yelp
Occupying the rooftop of the Populus Hotel is Stellar Jay, a restaurant and bar with an emphasis on live fire cooking, shared plates, and craft cocktails. Oh, and one of the most unique views in Denver.
The experience from start to finish was exceptional. The service was on point, the ambiance moody and cool, with the food and drink taking center stage. For a date night or a fun group outing looking for unparalleled photo opps.
When you arrive at the hotel, they set up your elevator ride since it takes you directly to the top floor. The restaurant is stunning and beautifully designed. Open kitchen, beautiful bar, and excellent views make for a total vibe.
However, it's not all ambiance here. In my opinion, many Denver restaurants focus TOO MUCH on atmosphere, while letting the f&b program slip. NOT HERE. The menu is thoughtful, sustainable, and concise.
We weren't starved since we had some light bites at a previous event. We split a few appetizers and cheers'd with cocktails. I imbibed with two Mohawkan Old Fashioneds, a variation on the Oaxacan Old Fashioned. It was everything I want in a cocktail. A bitter, sweet, boozy sipper. Pricey, but worth it! Let's talk food.
+Tempura Mushroom ($18) // maitake mushroom and onion, espelette pepper, squash 'aioli.' This. THIS. This mushroom, ladies and gentleman, is the greatest mushroom dish I've had in recent memory. FTW MIND BLOWN!!! Crispy fried mushroom with a faux aioli???? I don't know who came up with this, but the execution is nothing short of outstanding. Should be illegal.
+Hamachi Crudo ($23) // blood orange, pink peppercorns, leek, fennel. I love a crudo, especially hamachi, however I felt like this one lacked a bit of seasoning. It was fresh and vibrant, but didn't have that wow factor element I had hoped for.
+Beef Toast ($22) // flying b bar braised beef, sourdough, feta, cipollini onion. Looks like this dish isn't on the menu anymore, though it was delicious! Rich beefy flavors throughout, crisp yet not too crisp bread, nice accoutrements to balance out the dish.
I'm already planning my return!