The best neighborhood restaurants tend to feel effortless, like they’ve always belonged there. Paperboy arrived in Denver this spring with that exact energy, bringing its Texas roots and devoted following along with it.
The Austin-born concept, founded by Ryan Harms, opened its first out-of-state location in West Highland, a neighborhood that mirrors the restaurant’s easygoing, community-driven spirit. The brand itself has always leaned into that sense of intention and growth. “There seems to be a homegrown feeling to our business,” Ryan says. “Starting from a food trailer and developing a brand and following, then a brick-and-mortar really helped us grow in a thoughtful way.”
Walking in, the space makes the same impression as the neighborhood itself. It’s bright and welcoming with expansive window walls that open onto the lively street on warm summer days. It feels social without trying too hard, the kind of place that’s woven into the neighborhood’s rhythm. The menu follows suit, built on comfort and quality. “Our goal is simple: make great things and take good care of people,” Ryan says.
Dishes like the strawberry hibiscus Pop-Tart bring a playful, house-made twist to nostalgic favorites, while staples like the Paperboy pancake and crispy cheddar hash brown round out the experience. “It’s all really wonderful,” he emphasizes, “but those are the can’t-miss items.”
Happy Hour
Just blocks from Paperboy, Mead St. Provisions offers a more relaxed alternative to the typical happy hour. The locally owned deli and eatery brings together prime-cut meats and Colorado-sourced ingredients in a polished, inviting setting. Charcuterie boards lead the way, designed for sharing and best paired with a glass of wine, while sandwiches, smoked wings, and small plates make it just as fitting for a laid-back lunch. It’s the kind of place where a quick drink easily turns into a long evening once another board or bottle hits the table.
News Bites
Known for its signature wings and house-made sauces, Fire on the Mountain pairs bold flavors with a strong commitment to sustainability as a Denver Certified Green Restaurant. With made-from-scratch sides and responsibly sourced meats, it’s a neighborhood staple.
Origami Den offers an intimate sushi speakeasy with soft lighting, whimsical cherry blossom decor, and hundreds of hand-folded cranes suspended throughout the space. The menu leans elevated and inventive bites like caviar-topped karaage and torched filet mignon nigiri.
Mendocino Farms opened its West Highland location early this year, bringing chef-driven sandwiches and fresh, seasonal salads to the neighborhood. The California-born brand offers a quick lunch built on bold flavors and quality ingredients.
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