Hidden gems await hungry explorers in Lakewood’s quieter corners.
These modest eateries may not dazzle with fancy decor, but their authentic flavors and warm hospitality keep loyal customers coming back.
From homestyle comfort foods to international specialties, these unassuming spots serve up some of the city’s most memorable meals.
Ignazio’s Kitchen
Hidden in a Lakewood strip mall, this authentic Italian gem serves up some serious flavor bombs that will transport diners straight to Sicily.
Owner and chef Ignazio, a seasoned restaurateur with multiple successful Denver establishments, brings his homeland’s recipes to life with fresh ingredients and daily-made pizza dough.
The restaurant has become a local favorite for its warm, family-style hospitality and generous portions that won’t break the bank.
Food Highlights
- Ossobuco: A crowd favorite that keeps customers coming back and dreaming of their next visit
- Halibut Puttanesca: A perfectly cooked fish swimming in a sauce worth sopping up with their incredible house-made rolls
- Penne Rustica: A hearty dish loaded with chicken, sausage, peppers, and onions
- Arancini Balls: Served piping hot with delicious marinara sauce
- House-made Garlic Knots: Fresh-baked daily and served with every pasta dish
Atmosphere
The space feels like walking into a cozy Italian home kitchen, complete with traditional decor and the aromatic wafts of fresh-made sauce.
The restaurant buzzes with energy by 5:30 PM, filled with happy diners and the sounds of genuine hospitality.
Sam and Ignazio treat every guest like family, sometimes even surprising patrons with roses or gifts for the kids.
Bottom Line
Come for the authentic Sicilian cuisine, stay for the warm hospitality and incredible value – especially on Tuesdays when pasta dishes come with salad and garlic knots for just $12 (at the time of this writing!).
Address: 13041 W Alameda Pkwy Lakewood, CO 80228
Danny Ray’s Food & Spirits
When a beloved 40-year-old diner faced demolition in 2023, owner Danny Hopkins refused to let his legacy fade away.
Instead, he transformed his classic Carnation Restaurant into a bigger, better version just down the road.
Now Danny Ray’s Food & Spirits serves up the same comforting dishes that made the original famous, but with an exciting twist – a full bar and expanded menu that keeps the locals coming back for more.
Food Highlights
- Eggs Benedict: A house specialty featuring a toasted English muffin, Canadian bacon, perfectly poached eggs, and rich hollandaise sauce
- Crispy Chile Rellenos: Two deep-fried roasted chiles stuffed with jack cheese, smothered in green chili and cheddar
- Machaka Skillet: A hearty combination of ground beef, hash browns, jalapeños, onions, mushrooms, and cheddar cheese topped with green chili
- Florentine Skillet: Fresh spinach, onions, mushrooms, hash browns, and sliced avocado crowned with hollandaise sauce
Atmosphere
The space offers a casual, inviting vibe with both dining room and bar seating.
Sports fans can catch the game on multiple TVs while enjoying their meal.
The restaurant maintains its classic diner charm while offering an upgraded experience with full bar service.
Bottom Line
Danny Ray’s delivers generous portions of perfectly executed comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
The combination of all-day breakfast, friendly service, and handmade desserts makes this family-owned gem worth seeking out.
Address: 11353 W Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO 80215