El Five is in the Highlands on the fifth floor of an office building. The vibe roars “This is not the Denver I was expecting!” An uninterrupted 360-degree view of the city is astonishing and totally Instagram-worthy. The décor features posters of celebrities popular in the middle east, emblazoned with descriptions in Egyptian. Dark glass-speckled mirrored ceilings, tile walls, and an open kitchen with seated prep kitchen add to the stunning ambience. Booths and tables throughout the dining room are surrounded by huge glass windows and a heated patio for even more spectacular viewing. The bar has its own area and it’s one of the most exciting lounge spots around. The Mediterranean décor continues with posters on the tile walls and filigree-covered shades that cast a soft glow. The back wall holds liquor while the center of the bar gives staff the chance to interact with guests. El Five gets a “10” for people watching – whatever your age.
The menu is a melting pot of all Mediterranean regions, labeled as Tapas De Gibraltar. Share appetizer platters, order from a selection of awesome small plates (tapas) or go for the signature paellas. Or combine them all. Don’t miss the med spread dish of peanut and charred carrot hummus, mohammara, Turkish eggplant, artichokes, and house-made pita. Crispy cauliflower yufka brings a chickpea crust filled with smashed cauliflower, while pinenuts, tahini, avocado Fattoush, and cumin aioli on the plate help create the most popular dish on the menu. Moroccan lamb sausage with hummus, fava beans, pea tendrils, and lemon mint are delish; and, matzo ball dumplings take this Chinese favorite food to new heights. The chicken bouillon, mirepoix, lemon olive oil, and dill in the broth accent the flavor of the “not for Passover” dumpling. Outrageous seafood paella brings mounds of crab, lobster, shrimp, mussels, and fish atop basmati rice. Mideastern spices used in the dishes offer great flavors without extreme heat.
A long list of specialty cocktails includes the Ray Donavon concocted with Johnnie Walker Black Label, Velbet Falermum (ginger, lime and almond syrup of Caribbean origin), and two dashes of Angostura bitters. Another favorite is the signature sangria with frozen fresh fruit and lots of booze, and yes, a high-flying Paper Plane. Add great wines with a focus on regions from the Mediterranean, beers, and a list of non-alcoholic offerings.
El Five is the most exciting restaurant in the area with its astonishing décor, incredible service, and unique elements. The crowds come early and late, young and old, people watching is unbelievable, and food appeals to all. El Five is open nightly for dinner and brunch on Sunday. No reservations at the bar, but do reserve for a table in the dining room. Delight in the experience at this most popular spot for locals and out-of-town visitors.