Denver’s Newest Bar-Forward Restaurant Brings Whimsical to the Ballpark District
A vibrant hang out spot with delectable eats
Photo: Courtesy of Wonderyard Garden + Table
Wonderyard Garden + Table is elevating Denver’s food-scene to new and whimsical heights. First imagined as a dream, General Manager, Rob Duran shares how its larger-than-life concept sought to bring a special energy to Downtown. One that makes for a lively and aesthetically compelling place to bond over food and drinks.
He explains that pop culture and history – such as The Great Gatsby, The Secret Garden and the Roaring 20s – influenced its creative charm. “Wonderyard is an electric, vibrant-yet-whimsical space for both new and old friends to connect and partake in our carefully crafted beverage program and shareable menu,” Duran explains. “At its core, Wonderyard is a unique space in [the] Ballpark district, offering guests the opportunity to experience a novel concept in the heart of the Mile High City.”
Photo: Courtesy of Wonderyard Garden + Table
Photo: Courtesy of Wonderyard Garden + Table
Despite the Ballpark District’s historic boom and bust, Wonderyard specifically chose the Old Colorado Music Building as its homebase to participate in the city’s revitalization efforts. “Every one of us on the Wonderyard team has a connection and passion for Denver. We wanted to encapsulate our love for this city by creating a hopeful representation for its future – which is the premise of Wonderyard,” he emphasizes.
The idea behind the restaurant’s eclectic design was nothing short of collaboration and artistry. Drawing on past film and fashion, Linda Boerjesson, Wonderyard’s lead designer, worked with Francois Saffiedine, Founder and CEO of Lotus Concepts, to help bring his vision for the space to life.
Photo: Courtesy of Wonderyard Garden + Table
Photo: Courtesy of Wonderyard Garden + Table
When asked what Wonderyard’s most enchanting aspect is, Duran points out its atmosphere. “The beautiful decorations, delectable food and drinks and talented staff all come together to provide a truly one-of-a-kind experience,” he says. The restaurant has even hosted holiday themed activation events, including St. Patrick’s Day, Opening Day, and more, to create an environment that continually wows each person who walks in.
Led by Executive Chef Chef Jose “Pepe” Rodriguez, Wonderyard’s shareable fare, salads, flatbreads, handhelds and mains, and desserts offer imaginative twists on classic dishes from around the world. “My personal favorite is the Lox in Translation flatbread, which is our take on an everything bagel with lox on top, “ Duran shares. “Other fan-favorites include the patatas bravas, which are crispy potatoes served with a smoky hot sauce and the gambas al ajillo, which is garlicky shrimp (think shrimp scampi).”
Photo: Courtesy of Wonderyard Garden + Table
Photo: Courtesy of Wonderyard Garden + Table
Wonderyard’s beverage menu makes the dining experience even more fun. Its most popular drinks are the Le Cloud – a pink-lemonade and cotton candy concoction with a cloud of blue cotton candy floating above the glass – and the One of a Kind, a tropical, rum-based drink. “A portion of each [The One of a Kind] sale is donated to a quarterly-rotating, local charity. From March to June, proceeds will benefit Safe House in Denver,” Duran says.
Guests can even enjoy a premium experience through the restaurant’s limited membership called the Wonder Club. Some of the perks include free cocktails, skipping the entry line on busy nights and having access to a private party planner for events.
Photo: Courtesy of Wonderyard Garden + Table
Photo: Courtesy of Wonderyard Garden + Table
Find Wonderyard on the corner of 22nd and Larimer St. and follow the restaurant on Instagram for the latest news regarding events and activations.
