The story
Hop Alley brings a vibrant, contemporary perspective to Chinese cuisine in Denver’s RiNo neighborhood. The restaurant has earned a 2026 Michelin Bib Gourmand—an award recognizing good quality, good value cooking—and it’s a distinction that feels earned with every visit. The space itself is energetic and welcoming, a setting that matches the bold, thoughtful cooking coming from the kitchen.
The team behind Hop Alley has also been recognized nationally: the restaurant was a 2020 James Beard Semi-Finalist for Best Chef Mountain Region, and in 2025 it received both a Michelin Exceptional Cocktails Award and another Bib Gourmand nod. The beverage program is clearly a point of pride, and the wine list earned the restaurant a 2025 James Beard Semi-Finalist nod for Outstanding Wine & Beverage.
Beyond the main dining room, Hop Alley offers a Chef’s Counter experience on Thursday through Saturday. Here, Chef Doug Rankin—formerly of Bar Chelou in Pasadena and a veteran of kitchens run by José Andrés and Ludo Lefebvre—presents a singular tasting menu. Dubbed “Petit Chelou,” this residency features his award-winning, creative neo-bistro cuisine, completely separate from the daily menu. It’s an intimate, six-seat affair that requires advance reservations.
The main menu changes regularly, with options for vegans, vegetarians, and pescatarians, plus gluten-free selections. Takeout is available by phone starting at 3:30 PM, with online ordering opening at 5 PM. For those dining in, the restaurant serves dinner Monday through Saturday, closed on Sundays.
Hop Alley is located at 3500 Larimer Street in Denver.
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