The Taylors' love of food, presentation and culinary mastership has helped to give Denver the reputation it now enjoys as the cultural center of the Rocky Mountain West. In 1987, at the age of 25, self-taught chef and Denver native Kevin Taylor opened Zenith American Grill, serving his unique take on southwestern cuisine.
Six months after opening, Zenith was among the three top-rated restaurants in Denver. Awards and recognition were garnered from national media outlets including Bon Appetit, Restaurant Hospitality and GQ. Zenith also earned a prized four-star rating, securing Taylor's place on the culinary map.
Six months after opening, Zenith was among the three top-rated restaurants in Denver. Awards and recognition were garnered from national media outlets including Bon Appetit, Restaurant Hospitality and GQ. Zenith also earned a prized four-star rating, securing Taylor's place on the culinary map.
Services
Treat your guests to exceptional, creative cuisine within the city's most unique venues when you hold your event with Kevin Taylor Restaurant Group. Known for the highest standard of service, creativity and elegance, Kevin Taylor cuisine utilizes fresh, local ingredients complemented with artistic presentation, whether it be plated, passed or stationed.
Masa Cocina Mexicana is temporarily closed. In the meantime, we encourage you to visit our sister restaurant Hickory & Ash for takeout, available Tuesday-Saturday from 4-8 p.m., with in-person dining returning in early February. We appreciate your support! Kevin Taylor is one of Denver's most accomplished and acclaimed chefs, operating a variety of successful restaurants and catering operations.
Reviews (27)
Elizabeth Ford
Jan 14, 2022
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Everyone wants a fairytale wedding. In complete honesty, that is what Kevin Taylor’s at the Opera House gave us! We were fortunate to work with the wonderful Xavier and his team. Believe me when I say that every single detail was thought out and executed to perfection.
You can’t beat the exceptional venue space! With that background, we got STUNNING photos. Our florist, videographer, and photographer were all inspired when they saw the space and were clearly enjoying setting up each table and shot.
The food and beverages were phenomenal. So many guests have messaged me to comment on the amazing
You can’t beat the exceptional venue space! With that background, we got STUNNING photos. Our florist, videographer, and photographer were all inspired when they saw the space and were clearly enjoying setting up each table and shot.
The food and beverages were phenomenal. So many guests have messaged me to comment on the amazing
Roni Ogin
Nov 30, 2021
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Jennifer Goetz
Nov 14, 2020
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I recently worked with Kevin Taylor Restaurant Group at the 2020 Meetings + Events Magazine Best of CO Awards Gala. As the event planner working with all vendors on the planning and coordination of this event, I can’t say enough about how easy and pleasant it was to work with KTRG. They were attentive to our needs and went above and behind to exceed the expectations of the attendees. Thanks...looking forward to working with you again!
Benjamin G.
Oct 21, 2020
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Franke Gentile
Jun 10, 2019
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Kevin Taylor's at the Opera House was perfect! From our first tour to the last sip of champagne, we couldn't be happier. Our wedding was in July 2019 and we started planning in October. We first met with Xavier to take a tour in October and that is when we fell in love. During the process Xavier was extremely helpful and every time I expressed a concern he would relieve any of the stress I felt. The day of the wedding was great as well. Our ceremony took place at a separate location and when we arrived for cocktail hour, things were already set up, and on schedule. Xavier and Trout greeted the
Thaddaeus Johnson
Dec 21, 2017
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Cheryl Stimack
Dec 01, 2017
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Trevor S.
Sep 28, 2017
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The ambiance is elegant and welcoming. The service is exceptional and the staff are all very friendly. Truly I can't speak highly enough about the staff. They always go out of their way to make dinner feel like a special experience.
The food is incredible. Every individual element of each course works together to create a delectable experience for the taste buds. The menu is very contemporary and offers unique ingredients to explore. The portions are filling but not huge and the presentation is so gorgeous it almost makes one sad to eat. Truly a wonderful place to dine.
The food is incredible. Every individual element of each course works together to create a delectable experience for the taste buds. The menu is very contemporary and offers unique ingredients to explore. The portions are filling but not huge and the presentation is so gorgeous it almost makes one sad to eat. Truly a wonderful place to dine.
Erik H.
Mar 09, 2017
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As I write this review, KT's rating sits at a 3/5 stars. I wholeheartedly disagree with this and quite frankly, don't understand how it's that low. My recent experience was during restaurant week. I know because of that circumstance, the service I've historically received at other restaurant venues has been borderline offensive. Our service was exquisite. Friendly, genuine, and humorous. We were catered to anything and everything we even jokingly asked for, from mocktails to ice cream. This doesn't even include the five-star culinary experience. All of the dishes were cooked
Matt P.
Feb 18, 2017
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Amazing food and even better atmosphere. Most restaurants, especially on Valentine's Day, cram as many people as possible into their space. Kevin Taylor's seating is open and comfortable. The option to have the professional bartenders and/or managers pick the wine pairing with each dish is must have. They are knowledgeable about the wine and do a great job of pairing. Highly recommend this place.
Russell G.
Nov 21, 2016
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I'm actually surprised to see this place has an overall rating of 3 stars right now. I had an amazing experience here.
Everything about this place was on point for me. You walk down a curved stairway to the hostess. The place itself is curved as if you are in an oval room which I found unique. Very classy, but not stuffy décor. This is definitely a place you can come to if you're dressed casual but you'll fit in with the vibe of the place better if you are dressed nice.
The service here was fast and courteous. We were never rushed and we never had to wait to get our server&apos
Everything about this place was on point for me. You walk down a curved stairway to the hostess. The place itself is curved as if you are in an oval room which I found unique. Very classy, but not stuffy décor. This is definitely a place you can come to if you're dressed casual but you'll fit in with the vibe of the place better if you are dressed nice.
The service here was fast and courteous. We were never rushed and we never had to wait to get our server&apos
Daniel S.
Mar 02, 2016
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Jonathan B.
Apr 30, 2015
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Not only is KT one of the finest chefs in Denver, so you know the cuisine is outstanding, you get a fantastic ambience of the Ellie Caulkin's Opera House right there next to you. Literally, next to you. For select events, you can even enter through the restaurant right to your seat! Service was outstanding, the bar is worth showing up early, and you can valet a block away at Hotel Teatro and save the headache of the parking garage after the show.
Prices are what you expect for a high-quality experience...do not let discount shopper reviews deter you from this culinary gem.
Prices are what you expect for a high-quality experience...do not let discount shopper reviews deter you from this culinary gem.
Christina P.
Feb 28, 2015
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I ate here for the first time last night for restaurant week. It was me in a party of 5. When we came down the stairs, there was a woman who immediately came up to us and offered to check our coats. I waited longer than I should have for a host/hostess to come and greet me and ask about my reservation. Little did I know, the woman that checked our coats was also the hostess seating people. I think perhaps the restaurant should've had multiple people doing this job, or maybe she should've been clear about her role. I awkwardly watched waiters and waitresses walk by hoping one of them would
Jeff H.
Dec 20, 2013
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Very disappointing, from the stale bagged rolls they served with dinner, to the 4 poor choices for dessert, and everything in between... honestly, I was excited to try this restaurant out, I booked a table for my employee Christmas dinner and was embarrassed. I'm shocked they can stay in business!
The only reason it was given 1 star was because 2 of the 4 people that assisted us during the evening were very, very nice ~ unfortunately, that just can't make up for a poor dining experience and mediocre food.
$153.00 dinner for 3 with no cocktails or dessert... there are about 20 exceptional
The only reason it was given 1 star was because 2 of the 4 people that assisted us during the evening were very, very nice ~ unfortunately, that just can't make up for a poor dining experience and mediocre food.
$153.00 dinner for 3 with no cocktails or dessert... there are about 20 exceptional
Robert H.
Nov 21, 2013
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Great ambiance
Art
50s deco
Kirkland grand pieces on the walls
Killer looking bar
Fair wine list for a medium level restaurant
Food to my taste was really salty
Had all the proper form, good duck et al but not terribly complex and really salty
Decent place to eat before a show, bit many other, better choices close by
Art
50s deco
Kirkland grand pieces on the walls
Killer looking bar
Fair wine list for a medium level restaurant
Food to my taste was really salty
Had all the proper form, good duck et al but not terribly complex and really salty
Decent place to eat before a show, bit many other, better choices close by
Anthony N.
Apr 17, 2013
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Who would've thought you could turn a floor in the Opera House into such a trendy spot? If only the food and service were able to match such a beautiful venue.
Decor and ambiance = aces. The food = pretty tasty, but pricey for what you pay for.
We got the scallops (quite delicious) and a pork chop (on special). I think we were both impressed by scallops, but it's seriously hard to screw up scallops. Pork chop on the other hand was a tad dry, bland, and neared on inedible. Plus, the combination of flavors just didn't really work out with the other flavors on the plate.
All in all
Decor and ambiance = aces. The food = pretty tasty, but pricey for what you pay for.
We got the scallops (quite delicious) and a pork chop (on special). I think we were both impressed by scallops, but it's seriously hard to screw up scallops. Pork chop on the other hand was a tad dry, bland, and neared on inedible. Plus, the combination of flavors just didn't really work out with the other flavors on the plate.
All in all
Alisha C.
Mar 15, 2013
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Underwhelmed and disappointing.
I give Kevin Taylor's at the Opera House three stars but if it was for the food alone it would border the single star. This is a review from my experience during DRW.
I have had a chance to try two of the other Kevin Taylor's and had great experiences there. I was excited to try this one and happy we got a reservation during restaurant week. On to the experience:
Service: I felt the service was nice if you are into having servers just there to get their job done. I felt they were pretty aloof.
Food: Unimpressed. We picked this restaurant during DRW
I give Kevin Taylor's at the Opera House three stars but if it was for the food alone it would border the single star. This is a review from my experience during DRW.
I have had a chance to try two of the other Kevin Taylor's and had great experiences there. I was excited to try this one and happy we got a reservation during restaurant week. On to the experience:
Service: I felt the service was nice if you are into having servers just there to get their job done. I felt they were pretty aloof.
Food: Unimpressed. We picked this restaurant during DRW
Kristen W.
Aug 24, 2012
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Well, lets start with the positives. Number one for me is the amazing ambiance. I love descending down the Lucite staircase into the twinkling starry lights and dramatic decor. It feels like you have entered a secret but elegant hideaway complete with old Hollywood style glamor. (It would make a big impression on a date night!)
The hostess greeted us at the base of the stairs and seated us at a romantic little table for two. While we had reservations, the restaurant was rather empty, granted it is a big place. There were maybe 4 to 5 other tables dining along with us.
We ordered a bottle
The hostess greeted us at the base of the stairs and seated us at a romantic little table for two. While we had reservations, the restaurant was rather empty, granted it is a big place. There were maybe 4 to 5 other tables dining along with us.
We ordered a bottle
Xerxes N.
Jun 15, 2012
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What an awesome place in Downtown Denver. I was there for a special event last night so my experience may be a bit different from just coming here for dinner.
First, you walk downstairs so if my bearings are correct the place was sort of underground. Walking in I felt like I was back at ODU's planetarium for my college astronomy class. They had ceilings with shining and moving lights that looked like stars. The decor was absolutely gorgeous and picturesque. Behind the bar area was this beautiful red design that looked like one of those puzzles you stare at and over time an image reveals
First, you walk downstairs so if my bearings are correct the place was sort of underground. Walking in I felt like I was back at ODU's planetarium for my college astronomy class. They had ceilings with shining and moving lights that looked like stars. The decor was absolutely gorgeous and picturesque. Behind the bar area was this beautiful red design that looked like one of those puzzles you stare at and over time an image reveals
Stacy P.
Mar 11, 2012
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If you're planning to splurge at Kevin Taylor's at the Opera House, go all out and get a steak. The crew at KT's can cook a steak and they know it - it comes served with not a steak knife, but a butter knife. And that isn't unwarranted arrogance, it really is all you need to cut into their amazing cuts of meat. Some of the other dishes are hit and miss, though - one at our table ordered the fettucini, which was incredibly disappointing, and the lemon curd napoleon was... bizarre. It tasted good, but it was a little difficult to get past the random squirts of filling. To be honest
Claire A.
Mar 06, 2012
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I swear I felt like Cinderella coming down the twirling staircase entry, loved that moment!!! Oh Kevin Taylor Opera House, you definitely made an impression on me! I've never dined in such elegance as this! Extremely expensive but so worth the experience.
The location of the restaurant is below the Performing Arts Center in Downtown, beneath the Buell Theater off 14th/Curtis. Your entrance is a Grand Staircase to your Hostess. From coming down the entry,it's open to a huge 2 story theater room filled with dining patrons, long bar, hidden intimate dining areas, holistic art, showcased
The location of the restaurant is below the Performing Arts Center in Downtown, beneath the Buell Theater off 14th/Curtis. Your entrance is a Grand Staircase to your Hostess. From coming down the entry,it's open to a huge 2 story theater room filled with dining patrons, long bar, hidden intimate dining areas, holistic art, showcased
Hans O.
Mar 02, 2010
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The dining experience that Kevin Taylor at the Opera house takes you is very different from any other restaurant you had dined. It all starts when you step in and walk inside Denver Performing Arts Complex, it's like stepping in another world, totally separated from the chaotic Denver... The restaurant door doesn't surprise you at the beginning but when you step down their giant stairwell you'll get surprised by their décor, and very minimalistic yet elegant atmosphere.
I had made a reservation on Open Table and called them to check if they were able to accommodate my party of
I had made a reservation on Open Table and called them to check if they were able to accommodate my party of
Becky R.
Mar 07, 2009
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The boyfriend and I went here on the first Sunday of Restaurant Week, expecting a fantastic meal. Overall, I'm sorry to say that I was a bit disappointed.
The restaurant was pristine, but all the tables were just in the one giant room. It felt like dining in a museum, but I'm not sure that's a good thing. It felt a bit like a fancy cafeteria. We were seated at a little 2-top table by the wall. I sat on the "booth" side while my boyfriend sat across from me in a chair... the entire meal, he couldn't look at me longer than a minute or two at a time. The fact of
The restaurant was pristine, but all the tables were just in the one giant room. It felt like dining in a museum, but I'm not sure that's a good thing. It felt a bit like a fancy cafeteria. We were seated at a little 2-top table by the wall. I sat on the "booth" side while my boyfriend sat across from me in a chair... the entire meal, he couldn't look at me longer than a minute or two at a time. The fact of
Mary Jo S.
Sep 18, 2008
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We glided down the marble staircase to Kevin Taylor's at the Opera House, hand properly floating above the handrail. All memories of perfect manners come back just at the sight of the elegant restaurant with elegant staff and elegant golden hued decor. (Costumes are framed in shadow boxes on the wall).
We were greeted like family by the Maitre'D and from that moment on had nothing to worry about except what to select from the menu. Ms. M, my theater partner/birthday girl, and I chose:
Charred Hearts of Romaine Salad
Goat Chevre, Pimenton Almonds, Roasted Tomato Vinaigrette
Saffron
We were greeted like family by the Maitre'D and from that moment on had nothing to worry about except what to select from the menu. Ms. M, my theater partner/birthday girl, and I chose:
Charred Hearts of Romaine Salad
Goat Chevre, Pimenton Almonds, Roasted Tomato Vinaigrette
Saffron
Matthew B.
Apr 03, 2008
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Here's my tale of Valentine's day romance:
So I wanted a place to take the mrs. for Valentines day that would knock her socks off.
Unfortunately for daddy most places in town price gouge the crap out of you on Valentines day because they realize that every couple in town is going to want to go to dinner. It's not uncommon to find places charging $150 for two in DENVER of all places! This isn't New York City, and thank God for that.
I thought I had beat the system by finding K.T's at the Opera house. I figured that by finding a place without a prix fixe (or fix, your
So I wanted a place to take the mrs. for Valentines day that would knock her socks off.
Unfortunately for daddy most places in town price gouge the crap out of you on Valentines day because they realize that every couple in town is going to want to go to dinner. It's not uncommon to find places charging $150 for two in DENVER of all places! This isn't New York City, and thank God for that.
I thought I had beat the system by finding K.T's at the Opera house. I figured that by finding a place without a prix fixe (or fix, your
Amanda W.
Jun 25, 2007
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Impress someone!
Sweep down the massive grand staircase to this opulent restaurant and prepare to be greeted by the starry night sky. The ceiling is studded with fiber optic lights and looks remarkably like the real thing, well, minus the exit sign floating out in space.
While the surroundings at this restaurant are posh, the staff will treat you like royalty and never give you any 'tude. We arrived for dinner prior to a show at the Buell, with only slightly more than an hour until curtain. Our waiter was extremely prompt and helpful, keeping us on schedule without making us feel rushed
Sweep down the massive grand staircase to this opulent restaurant and prepare to be greeted by the starry night sky. The ceiling is studded with fiber optic lights and looks remarkably like the real thing, well, minus the exit sign floating out in space.
While the surroundings at this restaurant are posh, the staff will treat you like royalty and never give you any 'tude. We arrived for dinner prior to a show at the Buell, with only slightly more than an hour until curtain. Our waiter was extremely prompt and helpful, keeping us on schedule without making us feel rushed
