Most couples prioritize the large wedding tasks first like booking the venue other major wedding vendors. But when you get wrapped up in all the wedding planning activities, it’s easy to overlook the rehearsal dinner. With weddings returning in full force post-pandemic, even rehearsal dinner venues book up well in advance, so it’s best to book your date as soon as you can to get the ambiance and cuisine you’re looking for. If you have another friend or family member taking care of that, wonderful! If not—or if you’re planning it together—here are a few fantastic Colorado rehearsal dinner restaurants.
What to Look for in a Rehearsal Dinner Venue
Here are a few questions to ask when looking for your rehearsal dinner restaurant:
- Is it located near the ceremony/rehearsal venue (for easy commute)?
- Can it comfortably host all of our guests?
- Does it mesh with your overall wedding theme?
- How are the food and drinks?
- How is the service, and what is the meal service style?
- Does it have A/V capabilities (for toasts and presentations)?
- Does it have the ambiance we’re looking for?
- Do they have a private space available?
- Is our date and time available?
- Does this fit in our budget, and do they have packages/special pricing available?
- Do we have dietary needs to consider?
Best Rehearsal Dinner Restaurants in Colorado
El Tejano | Denver, Colorado
This festively-decorated premier restaurant and event venues was designed especially for special events like rehearsal dinners, corporate events, and wedding-related parties. With a prime spot in the Ballpark District of downtown Denver, the rooftop area features beautiful views of the city. El Tejano has several event spaces available indoors and out, or you can rent out the entire venue, which can host over 300 guests. They serve brunch, specialty drinks and margaritas, and their signature street tacos!
La Tour Restaurant & Bar | Vail, Colorado
For a mountain view venue, try La Tour Restaurant & Bar in Vail. It captures the warm mountain-town ambiance of Vail Village with extra elegance and sophistication fit for a wedding rehearsal. La Tour specializes in private special events and intimate gatherings such as rehearsal dinners. Their events coordinator makes sure you are well cared for during your event.
The restaurant has received Wine Spectators “Best of Award for Excellence” among other accolades. Local chef-owned and operated for 20 years, they have perfected their delicious French cuisine and exceptional service. La Tour also has an impressive selection of wines and chef-inspired dishes. The intimate event venue can host up to 116 seated guests in several seating arrangements and combinations of outdoor, indoor, and bar seating. Ask for the fireplace room or patio for a cozy family-style event.
Kenichi | Aspen, Carbondale, and Snowmass Colorado
I wanted to add some variety on this list, so to round it out even more, Kenichi offers a unique Japanese cuisine experience for your rehearsal party. Kenichi boasts “world-class sushi at the base of Aspen Mountain.” The restaurant is loved for its acclaimed dishes and friendly service.
For rehearsal dinners, you can reserve a private tatami dining experience or buy out the entire restaurant depending on your party size. All three Colorado locations offer private dining rooms. If you book the entire restaurant, the Kenichi Experience includes a multicourse family-style chef’s omakase meal with sashimi, hot chef-inspired tasting plates, sushi, and entrees. Meals are perfectly paired with your selection of wine and/or sake.
Sheridan Opera House | Telluride, Colorado
The Sheridan Opera House is a historic landmark that has served as a place for upscale entertainment, performances, events, and parties since the early 1900s. Now, this “intimate Telluride theater” near the gondola keeps up with the times by hosting local artists and songwriters.
Today, the Sheridan Opera House is nonprofit venue, home of the Sheridan Arts Foundation and Young People’s Theater. If you love the idea of hosting a rehearsal dinner in a 109-year-old theater, The Sheridan Opera House has a stunning antique painted olio curtain as the backdrop for your event. The opera balcony and SHOW Bar offer even more seating arrangements. While this venue doesn’t include food, they have just about everything else covered, including:
- booking event entertainment for you
- providing all rental equipment (tables, chairs, etc.)
- providing for all A/V needs (stage, sound, lights, project, movie screen, and more)
- full bar service on-site at their SHOW and SideSHOW bars
- preferred vendor list for planners, florists, caterers, and more
Need More Rehearsal Dinner Recommendations?
I’m happy to help! Book your engagement session or wedding with John Moler Photography and receive more wedding resources. Get in touch here for more info.
