Finds Across Denver That Will Make the Fall Season Special

Wonderful woks, a Japanese hot spot and DIY craziness

October 9, 2024

Rebecca Gart,

EAT

Photo: Connor Stehr

The eggplant dish at the year-old Kumoya is one of the most inventive items I’ve ever tasted in Denver: Nasu Misoyaki ($18) is a thick, miso-marinated slice of eggplant that is broiled until creamy and topped with crunchy rice pearls. Hard to explain, but simply amazing. Owned by the Culinary Creative Group (Señor Bear, Bar Dough, Mister Oso and more) and headed by chef/partner Corey Baker, Kumoya is a contemporary Japanese izakaya-style restaurant, complete with DJs, live music and a separate pub menu served from 10 p.m to 2 a.m.

Located on the corner of West 32nd and Zuni in LoHi, the revamped space is divided into several sections: a front room for private parties; the bright, airy main dining area with modern upholstered booths and sushi counter; a lounge with enormous cloud-like lights; and a dark, moody late-night bar. As for the menu, there is sushi (with a unique dry-aged fish program), but the hot and cold plates are the true standouts. But, seriously, get the eggplant. 2400 W. 32nd Ave., Denver.

MAKE

Photo: Courtesy of Upstairs Circus

“Craft” has two meanings at Upstairs Circus in RiNo—first, there are the craft cocktails, and then, there are the actual crafts. Upstairs Circus is a hip, DIY workshop space, where people of all ages can talk, laugh, drink and complete a two- to three-hour crafting project, ranging from jewelry to leather wallets to woodworking. A variety of folks gather here for date nights, bridal showers, girls’ night out and corporate events.

I went with a friend, so after we ordered our Aperol spritzes, we browsed and chose our individual crafts. The friendly staff provided us with our supplies and a detailed tutorial sheet on how to make/assemble our masterpieces. The setup is easy, and the “creative assistants” are there to help at every turn. While I enjoyed my cocktail and chatting at our communal table, I completed a lovely marble cheese board that I will definitely use at home for casual entertaining. Although food isn’t offered (it doesn’t seem to go well with crafting), there are a variety of scrumptious spots nearby to try out afterward. 1500 Wynkoop St., Denver.