Denver Spotlight: The Velvet Cellar

The Velvet Cellar is a sophisticated yet approachable dining and wine destination located in the heart of Denver’s Lower Downtown (LoDo) district, blending Southern culinary soul with a Colorado heart.¹

Here is a detailed look at what makes it unique, its history, menu highlights, customer feedback, and contact information.

Unique Identity & History

The Velvet Cellar is housed in the historic Saddlery building at 1500 Wynkoop Street, near Union Station, which contributes to its unique blend of modern elegance and historic charm.²

• Concept & Cuisine: It defines itself as refined Southern comfort with a focus on fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced Colorado ingredients.³ This unique culinary perspective is inspired by the Southern Gulf Coast, specifically Daphne, Alabama, the hometown of co-owners Reilly Chunn and Chris Dominey.⁴ Executive Chef Jon Simoneau helms the kitchen, creating dishes that aim to provide “familiar comforts” with a few surprises.⁵

   

• The Wine Program: The “Cellar” in its name is central to its identity.⁶ It boasts an extensive wine program with a stock of 300 to 400 bottles from local and international vineyards.⁷ Co-owner Chris Dominey, who is working toward his Level 4 Diploma in Wines, has curated the selection to be approachable for both newcomers and connoisseurs.⁸ The interior features a striking wine wall and glass-fronted racks, making guests feel like they are seated right inside a cellar.⁹

   

• Location History: The restaurant occupies a significant location that has been home to two previous popular Denver establishments: The Squeaky Bean and Chow Morso.¹⁰ After the space sat vacant for a period, The Velvet Cellar officially opened in late 2023/early 2024, with its ownership team expressing a strong commitment to revitalizing and contributing to the downtown Denver dining scene.¹¹

   

Highlight Menu Items

The menu offers a range of Southern-inspired comfort dishes, Colorado steaks, and creative small plates.¹²

Signature Dishes & Selections:

• Gulf Coast Influence: The restaurant draws heavily on the diverse culinary history of the Southern Gulf Coast, evident in dishes like the Catfish & Grits (crispy thin fillets, heirloom red corn cheddar grits, collards, and Cajun cream sauce).¹³

   

• Colorado Steaks: They offer top-tier steak selections featuring fresh, sustainably raised Colorado beef, including:¹⁴

   

  • Filet Mignon
  • Ribeye (richly marbled)¹⁵

     

  • Dry-Aged New York Strip
• Comfort & New American: Other standout dishes have included:
  • Slow Roasted Pot Roast (8-hour Colorado grown & grass-fed chuck with rosemary mash)¹⁶

     

  • Bolognese Pappardelle¹⁷

     

  • Pan-Seared Scallops (served with a tangy citrus beurre blanc)¹⁸

     

  • Velvet Crab Cakes (made with fresh lump crab meat)¹⁹

     

  • Truffle Fries (hand-cut with truffle oil and Parmesan)²⁰

     

Customer Feedback

General feedback highlights the high quality of food, service, and ambiance:

• Positive Reviews: Many guests praise the elevated experience, describing it as a “hidden gem in LoDo” with “absolutely amazing” food.²¹ Customers appreciate the knowledgeable and friendly staff, with one reviewer noting the staff “was so knowledgeable and everything was extremely approachable,” and the food “was absolutely fantastic.”

   

• Special Occasions: It is frequently recommended for special occasions, with guests celebrating anniversaries and successful private group events, noting the setting and quality of the customized menus.²²

   

• Ambiance: The interior is often described as warm, intimate, and perfect for a date night or a relaxed dinner, striking a balance between sophisticated and welcoming with its modern decor and historic elements.²³

   

Significant Events

The most significant recent event for The Velvet Cellar is its opening in late 2023/early 2024, which marked a major vote of confidence in the downtown Denver dining area.²⁴

• Media Features: The restaurant has been featured in local media, including an episode of “Dining Out With Larry,” which showcased its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional dining experience.²⁵

   

• Private Dining: They offer a semi-private space called The Cove, nestled adjacent to the main dining area, which is ideal for corporate dinners and birthday celebrations, accommodating up to 22 guests.²⁶

   

Address, Contact Information, and Links