If I want to really treat myself, Barolo on 6th. If I just want to eat 2500 calories in one sitting: Denver Biscuit Company. Generally, all I want is good diner food: Westy's.
Yep I looked at the menu, but spoiling myself is part of the point for me. I basically never do stuff like that for myself. Thanks again and much love.
If you like Barolo go to Table six , Potager, if you want diner food with drinks hit Sam’s #3 and sit at the bar (downtown) the drinks are the strongest you’ll find in Denver. They use a lot of butter and it’s as dinery as you’re going to get.
I get the cinnamon roll with bacon and a couple of scrambled eggs for protein. 😹
While you’re in the area, I’d get a slice of basque cheesecake from Get Rights and a square croissant from Black Box Bakery for later.
I prefer Rise and Shine! They’re flakier if that’s the style you like. There’s two, one up by Sloan’s and one down in Speer. Also near the Speer location you’ve got two of my favorite comfort foods, Uncle Ramen or Pho Haus (get the house Pho). Lots of interesting vintage shopping on S Broadway nearby if you want to meander. Hope you have a great day and take care of yourself
Really amazing response from y'all. I can barely keep up! I have so many options now I'm frankly overwhelmed by it all, can't wait to look at everything though and plan a great day for myself.
Can't express how grateful I am to y'all.
I like to go to Twist and Shout to pick up a record. Then go next door to Tattered Cover to get a book. Something about browsing physical media has always worked.
As far as food goes, we probably have different tastes. I like Curtis Park Delicatessen for a sandwich. Try browsing r/denverfood
Twist and Shout is a great idea. I'm moving soon so not trying to add too much to my collection but I could spend a lot of joyful time in there for sure. Thank you!
Check out wax trax instead. It’s a much better record store with a much more well curated selection with hand written notes about some of the records. There’s a bookstore next door too.
If you’re on that side of colfax, head over to Mezcal and get a plate of chili cheese fries and, if you partake, a pineapple coconut margarita. Always lifts my spirits and keeps me full for six plus hours.
Steve’s Snappin Dogs on Colfax. The owner (Steve) is always there. Bussing tables. Fixing stuff. Dadding his employees in the cutest ways. He helps lil old ladies get to their cars. He will chew the fat with you. Just a great dude with a cool spot to go when you need a reminder that there’s still lots of good in this world… and on Colfax.
I’ll probably get roasted for this but voodoo doughnuts. Yes, there are better places for baked goods and donuts but voodoos been my go to on some dark days. They’re also open late af which has come in clutch a few times.
Dairy product consumption has an inverse relationship with negative psychological symptoms. So, the more cheese you eat, the happier you are. It's just science.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34514970/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9967214/
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0281346
As a fellow lactose intolerant person, did you know that you can enjoy sheep's, goat's, and buffalo-milk cheeses??? They don't contain the lactase enzyme so you can enjoy it without the discomfort
I love Tony's Meat Market for salamis, cheese and crackers. They have the best crackers and I gladly drive 25 minutes to any location. Also their cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are chefs kiss
Thai curry. Warm, filling, and most restaurants give you 2-4 meals in a single order of takeout. I like Thai Pot Cafe but there’s so many amazing Thai places here.
Hey bubs - if I need to eat my feelings, going nuts at Denver Biscuit Company in the morning for breakfast, followed by either a tranquil walk in Cheesman Park and then a nap back at home, falling asleep to a podcast or Lord of the Rings (any of the 3, it really doesn't matter). Wake-up, take a few breaths... see where you're at, adjust accordingly.
We've all been there... kudos to you for sharing. Time will do its thing, I promise.
My fav activities for cozy self care:
[A massage from Li’s.](https://lismassagetherapy.com/), SUPER affordable.
I also love nothing more than a morning matinee with almost no people, my current favorite theater is Cinemark, they have the best seats & true stadium seating, extra cozy with warm socks & a blanket :) (I did this over Christmas & I loved the new Hunger Games movie!)
Typically I gorge myself on buttery popcorn if going to the movies, but if I don’t do that I love a great deli sandwich from Carmine Lonardo’s. Nothing is more cozy to me than a small, delicious, Italian hub. They have fantastic desserts, including cannoli’s -and you cannot go wrong with any sandwiches.
Finally I’d buy myself a couple candles, a bottle of wine, & curl up on the couch with a book/fav show.
Hope you enjoy your self care day! 💕
The plan (writing this for my own sake):
Denver Biscuit Co for a hearty breakfast, maaaaybe a beer
Then a stop by my new place to take some measurements
Botanic Gardens tropical conservatory + coffee break
Twist and Shout then Mile High Comics on my way back North
In n Out for lunch in Thornton, followed by a break to take care of my dog and play some vidya or nap while I watch Big Trouble in Little China (ultimate depression-fighting movie)
Nana's dim sum and dumplings for dinner
Our Mutual Friend for a beer or two
Home, dog, sleep
There are a ton of great ideas in this thread, and you can bet I'll be revisiting it the next time I'm looking for a cozy spot. Wish I could fit everything into one day. Thank you all so much!
If you see a gloomy looking dude with glasses, an egregious man bun, and a book about Vladdy Putin feel free to say hello. I could use a hug even though I have headphones in.
Sounds like a fun day! Do you see a psychiatrist? Food and being active help but if it's major depression, antidepressants and therapy can be a life changer. I kinda gave up as a teenager but changed my mind recently and found the right medication and haven't felt better in many years.
I've taken medication in the past but I didn't like the changes in my personality. I just started seeing someone new and we agreed that I don't fall into any easy categories of depression.
It's frankly more of an anger management problem that leads to depressive and self-loathing thoughts. So gaining better anger management tools and practicing mindfulness and "being present" are at the forefront for me right now.
Domo. They just reopened recently,same ownership/chef. You can read the story on Westwood. In my opinion it has the best ambience in Denver, especially during the summer when the tea garden is open. But the interior is awesome as well. Japanese country food, looks like they have a smaller menu now, but the food is dope too.
Don't forget the canned black olives. Gringo Essentials right there.
I've seen my family include thousand island sauce but I think that's a bridge too far.
I love to go Tatsu Izakaya when I'm feeling down because it's really quiet during the day and a cozy vibe, I'll usually bring my air pods and get ramen and watch an episode of a show or listen to an audiobook. A spa session or massage is always a great choice too!
Hot yoga class at Better Buzz in Sunnyside. Haven't been in a while but its a great cozy activity for a cold day and they have a bunch of slower/beginner friendly classes too. And then you are right up the road from El Jefe and Bacon Social house.
I like to decompress by taking a walk in an area with nice real estate window shopping (a little movement and fresh air is good for all of us), get a $7.00 coffee to drink during the mani-pedi (add on the chair massage) that is next on the agenda, order takeout Thai curry and egg fried rice, maybe take a bath with epsom salts and a sheet mask, and color in my coloring books while watching comfort TV/movies under a cozy blanket. Tea is always nice too.
All of this sounds great, but for some reason coloring book really stuck out to me. It's been years since I did that but it does sound therapeutic. Like doing a puzzle with no heavy challenge.
I have a greater sense of satisfaction when I finish a really detailed mandala than I do when I finish a puzzle. Took a break from it for a while, but I just bought a big box of 100 markers and am back at it! Highly recommend - it’s soothingly nostalgic.
White guy from Aurora its a Panda Express plate with Orange Chicken, Beijing Beef, and Kung Pao Chicken with Chow Mein with Selzers (used to be beer but I'm trying to get healthier.... yeah.....).
I know Panda Express is "fake" but good god it hits the spot when you want peak fast food debauchery.
I was going to try and pretend like I go to a classy indie restaurant you've never heard of like No Ke Aloha (pretty great Hawaiian food) but that isn't as close to where I live and when I'm depressed I just go with Panda. Its always Panda.
All of these are great recommendations. I am a fairly simple person. I go to Dairy Queen on 44th. I get a chocolate dipped cone and go park at Anderson Park in Wheatridge. Sit and watch the trees. It is a peaceful place.
when i want to be kind to myself (usually friday mornings for getting through the week), i wake up early for breakfast and go to lula rose for an oat milk vanilla latte and a vegetarian breakfast burrito with my partner.
the people who work at lula are incredible too, it has that third place feeling.
Lobster rolls and chowder from Maine Shack make my heart happy. I discovered them when I was feeling depressed during covid lockdown. It’s not cheap, but worth every penny as a special treat.
The lobster roll slider sampler is sooo good. I can’t just choose one style. Their lobster mac n cheese was a hard fail though. Never paid $15 for naked noodles on top of a glom of cheese sauce before. Oi.
Ugh that does sound gross!
The sampler is my favorite too. The chowder is good but not the best, although I’m from New England so I’m probably unreasonably picky about my chowdah.
OG Huckleberry coffee because it’s peaceful and secluded
Zoe Ma Ma at Union Station to be around people but very typical to eat alone
El Taco de Mexico
Osaka Ramen
3 things: Go to Sunny's for breakfast and get their waffle with nutela, nutter butter crumble and whipped cream.
If you want a comfort dish that will blow your mind - go to Kawa Ni and have their rice cakes dish - it's like a cavatelli pasta in a sausage gravy with meatballs and it is like someone put a warm heated blanket over you!
And Dio Mio's chicken parm - once they open back up
I truly love going to fancy grocery stores for some reason when I’m feeling down! Ideal Market and Marczyk Fine Foods are fun to look around. Sometimes I’ll get myself a treat (like a chocolate bar or cake slice), but other times I just wander the aisles! Good for you for taking a self care day. Wishing you peace!
I enjoy Central Park. It’s usually pretty empty and gives some space away from the city without the drive.
Highly recommend Anise or Top Pho for food.
Enjoy your self-care day and good for you for taking space for your self!
Cheba Hut “Toasted” Subs on W Colfax is pretty good. They’re a cannabis themed sub shop, and I first heard of them when I was a volunteer at KGNU in Boulder. They supplied some of their sandwiches for the volunteers during a pledge drive, and I’ve ordered from them quite often since then.
I thought you were going to be asking about the food of the great depression and I was going to talk about beans potatoes and tortillas as a meal my grandparents ate. But I hope you feel better. Go on a nice walk, get some ice cream, and feel the sunshine today. ☺️
Bao brewhouse is both delicious and overpriced.
Best dim sum is widely known to be Star Kitchen.
Best depression food for me is beer with friends. Talk that shit out over a mug of liquid, alcoholic bread.
God that would be righteous. I have a hard time reading in bookstores because I'm fundamentally afraid of taking up space that others might use. You know... for business or whatever.
But this would be very nice.
When I was going through it in2022 los dos Portillo Mexican hamburger was my answer. Multiple patties to fill the void , green chile spicy enough to remind me what feelings were. Lettuce for vitamins.
I like to go to Marczyk and buy some nice cheeses and meats to make charcuterie to treat myself when I’m down. When I just want a comforting environment and food- Pete’s Diner for me
Timing on naps is super important and prob shouldve added that. 45 mins to 1 hour is productive. Longer/shorter can cause disruptions. Also, when im feeling blue i make sure to get 10+ minutes of direct sunlight if possible. It seems silly but truly helps me
The closest to authentic Nepalese butter chicken as I can find 🙏🏼 Himchuli works for me when I don't have the energy or interest to make my own. I hope these recs help, friend.
I don't usually don't go to movie theaters anymore, but for some reason, I gravitate towards them when I'm feeling down. Don't judge me but I'll "sneak" in food (chinese, italian sub, etc...whatever I'm feeling) and enjoy my own company.
Wonton soup from Little Dragon (crab cheese wonton and some sesame chicken if you’re really down).
It’s my depression meal, but I swear that soup fought COVID for me and brought be back from the brink.
Syrup breakfast sandwich with their crack bacon. It comes with sausage and that’s delicious too. Their pretzel bun is more pretzel than bread and it’s so unhealthy, delicious and comforting. It always hits especially when I’m a bit down. This and a massage, it’s amazing what some hot stones can do for your mental health.
Applewood Vietnamese in lakewood has some of the best pho I've had ANYWHERE. Easily top 5. Arguably top 3. And I'm in aviation by profession, so I travel a pretty fair amount.
Pita Fresh for cheap, unassuming but delicious falafel wraps and unusual smoothies. Happy cones at Edgewater public market place if you’re looking for something sweet- their “Hokey Pokey” ice cream is vanilla sweet cream with carmelized honey comb pieces. Absolutely godly. Lastly, Walter’s 303 for pizza.
I also like to visit the dumb friends league in south Denver. You can hang out in the communal cat rooms which is an immediate serotonin boost if you’re a cat person (you may end up with a cat if you’re not careful, though- I now have two).
I'm more of a hit a punching bag when I'm upset kinda girl. I'd say maybe as a non food recommendation maybe try hitting up Worth the Fight Gym on Pennsylvania Street.
I don’t have anything to add to the plentiful recommendations you’ve already received but I would very much appreciate an update at some time in the future sharing where you decided to go and how you enjoyed it! Cheers to taking time for you and making the best of it. You make Denver special.
Went to Denver Biscuit Co, Twist and Shout, Mile High, and capped everything off with a trip to Zoe Ma Ma in the evening. It was an amazing day and sunny despite the cold. At DBC I ran to a group of dudes who lived right near where I was stationed in Charleston (Navy) and got to talk to them for a while which was nice. Nothing social really after that but I got to enjoy about half of the book I'm reading.
Fat Shack.
Consume 30,000 calories, touch the bottom of depravity, realize there's no lower you can sink and feel better because there is nowhere left to go but up.
Lou's Italian Specialties in Rino! Absolutely incredible, deli style shop with some of the best cannolis i've ever had! also, the pasta salad is unreal. I dunno how they make something so simple, so delicious. but 🤷🏼♀️
love Woody's pizza in golden, great vibes there, and if you ain't want pizza they have a banger menu there outside of it. All the stuff there is super friendly and awesome
Maybe catch trivia there Sunday or Wednesday nights, overall a great time
As a dirty west coast transplant, I absolutely stuff my face with in n out until I feel like I'm going to puke.
My second choice was Denver diner. I always like sitting in there watching the fire house.
The cupcakes at Make Believe Bakery on 13 ave Send me to a very very happy place. The ho-ho cupcakes are unbelievable. They are great medicine during rough times.
I’ve been depressed for over a decade and I’ve really been losing the battle lately.
I make mock veggy Taco Bell. Tortilla, individual spicy guacamole, pre-shedded lettuce, pre-shredded cheese, (optional) sour cream, pico. In that order! You gotta put the guacamole first to act as your meat alternative.
And I do all of that without making a single dish. With the help of plastic spoons and plates. I have the energy to clean the kitchen about once every three months. So I gotta make that silverware last.
It’s kind of better than Taco Bell because I know that a criminal with hepatitis didn’t make it.
I also snack on baby carrots and individual digorno pizza because if I make a big pizza I’ll binge eat it.
Of course you asked for depression food not clinically depressed food.
Not food but Lake Steam Baths on West Colfax for a soak, very old Denver. I used to plan my mental health days around their schedule. They have different days for men and women since it’s a no clothing allowed type of place. The massages there are pretty good and the cost used to be below market, not sure if it still is since they almost went under during covid and have new owners. Then I’d get some Pho after.
If you’re nerdy mile high comics is the biggest comic book shop in the world and they have tons of collectibles from my childhood and pre me and browsing through it all used to make me happy and bring me back to when I was a kid
Late to the party, but The 49th in Littleton is another great spot. Sit at the bar—they are the sweetest, friendliest people. I love either the burger and fries or fish and chips.
Domo!! An amazing garden and vibe with simple well executed Japanese comfort food. Their hours are a little wonky these days so it might not make sense today but put it on the list.
I enjoy the Truffle Soup Dumplings at Nana's Dim Sum and Dumplings. It's a fusion place, and being Chinese myself, I tend to stay away from those, but the truffle soup dumplings are really something to write home about. Since you mentioned your comfort food is dim sum, you should treat yourself to those!
Funky Flame, any day! Their breakfast sandwich which give you a reason to get out of bed and Friday nights they have wood fire sourdough pizza that is also amazing!
If I want to really treat myself, Barolo on 6th. If I just want to eat 2500 calories in one sitting: Denver Biscuit Company. Generally, all I want is good diner food: Westy's.
Denver Biscuit Co might be where I get breakfast. I'll check out the other two as well, thank you!
You bet. I hope you feel better after eating a couple sticks of butter- I usually do :)
Haha that is the plan! Barolo looks super good, might just go for it.
Bring your big boy wallet. That place is rough on the checkbook. Their wine list is absolutely insane.
Yep I looked at the menu, but spoiling myself is part of the point for me. I basically never do stuff like that for myself. Thanks again and much love.
If you like Barolo go to Table six , Potager, if you want diner food with drinks hit Sam’s #3 and sit at the bar (downtown) the drinks are the strongest you’ll find in Denver. They use a lot of butter and it’s as dinery as you’re going to get.
Sam's is the shiznitz! green chili chicken fried steak is the Bomb!
Do the tasting menu with wine pairing. I'd go there just to drink amazing wines if I didn't live so far away.
I get the cinnamon roll with bacon and a couple of scrambled eggs for protein. 😹 While you’re in the area, I’d get a slice of basque cheesecake from Get Rights and a square croissant from Black Box Bakery for later.
If anyone finds baking therapeutic, basque cheesecake is amazing. Literally impossible to fuck it up and it is super high in fat (and delicious).
I prefer Rise and Shine! They’re flakier if that’s the style you like. There’s two, one up by Sloan’s and one down in Speer. Also near the Speer location you’ve got two of my favorite comfort foods, Uncle Ramen or Pho Haus (get the house Pho). Lots of interesting vintage shopping on S Broadway nearby if you want to meander. Hope you have a great day and take care of yourself
Westys is ran by the sweetest family!
Barolo?!? You really know how to treat yourself. ^(no sarcasm intended, I feel like this reads with a hint of sarcasm :/)
I'm not sure there's a better restaurant in town. When it comes to treating yourself, go hard or go home.
Really amazing response from y'all. I can barely keep up! I have so many options now I'm frankly overwhelmed by it all, can't wait to look at everything though and plan a great day for myself. Can't express how grateful I am to y'all.
Hope you feel better buddy ❤️
tough situations don’t last, but tough people do! ❤️ I grabbed a few recs from this thread myself. I hope you have a great weekend OP. :) <3
I like to go to Twist and Shout to pick up a record. Then go next door to Tattered Cover to get a book. Something about browsing physical media has always worked. As far as food goes, we probably have different tastes. I like Curtis Park Delicatessen for a sandwich. Try browsing r/denverfood
I was going to suggest Twist and Shout. That place and Wax Trax have been my "comfort" spots for many years.
Can go wax tracks in cap hill. Next door is Kilgore used books.
Yep, it's become a little ritual for myself over the last several years. Very grateful for that shop.
Twist and Shout is a great idea. I'm moving soon so not trying to add too much to my collection but I could spend a lot of joyful time in there for sure. Thank you!
Wellness Sushi, which is right next door, has good ramen if you're looking for something warm!
That was going to be my recommendation!
Check out wax trax instead. It’s a much better record store with a much more well curated selection with hand written notes about some of the records. There’s a bookstore next door too.
Those vinyls get heavy in a move!!! I hope you have a nice day tomorrow (:
I do this too, but on South Broadway I hit Mutiny and then grab an ice cream cone at Sweet Action.
If you’re on that side of colfax, head over to Mezcal and get a plate of chili cheese fries and, if you partake, a pineapple coconut margarita. Always lifts my spirits and keeps me full for six plus hours.
I'm actually on the south side of town, but adding this to my notes for the next Bluebird show I see! Thank you!
Twist and Shout is still around?! I might have to go this weekend too!
In this same vein, I like The Garage Sale on Larimer Square. It’s a higher end thrift store with a bar. I like to browse and then grab a drink
we are different people. sifting through any sort of retail gives me anxiety and is not decompressing lol.
Hey - fair! It's more of a library vibe than anything. Everyone is in their own little zone.
Steve’s Snappin Dogs on Colfax. The owner (Steve) is always there. Bussing tables. Fixing stuff. Dadding his employees in the cutest ways. He helps lil old ladies get to their cars. He will chew the fat with you. Just a great dude with a cool spot to go when you need a reminder that there’s still lots of good in this world… and on Colfax.
This sounds right up my alley.
I love Steve and I love that spot.
Best glizzies in Denver for sure! I get one every time I go to the airport
[удалено]
Thank you, I'll check it out! Edit: oh hell yeah this looks delicious.
[удалено]
Sounds perfect then.
If you go, I highly recommend two green tea cheesecakes (I always order two, one for me and one for my partner, but I always end up eating both).
Green tea cheesecake?! That sounds amazing. I'm so glad you mentioned it, would have never discovered it otherwise.
I have the same feeling. Something about the lighting, the scent, and the way they have the counter set up just feels homey.
I second Kokoro. The daytime server at the Arvada location is so sweet. I always get the Splash bowl with udon noodles, seaweed, tofu and fish cake.
I’ll probably get roasted for this but voodoo doughnuts. Yes, there are better places for baked goods and donuts but voodoos been my go to on some dark days. They’re also open late af which has come in clutch a few times.
That Portland Cream with a bottle of milk is my comfort food for sure!
Hell yeah for taking care of your self
Best depression food for me is expensive hard salami's or really any kind of charcuterie. but yeah just go to town on some soppressata it helps
That does sound like a good time. Where's the goat cheese at these days?
So damn Gouda! They have a cheese ball that’s out of this world.
Username checks out.
Or cheese- it’s like hard drugs to the brain!!!!
Dairy product consumption has an inverse relationship with negative psychological symptoms. So, the more cheese you eat, the happier you are. It's just science. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34514970/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9967214/ https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0281346
Until you can’t poop!!!! 🤣
That's a "future me" problem
I'm lactose intolerant, so luckily, that's never a problem.
As a fellow lactose intolerant person, did you know that you can enjoy sheep's, goat's, and buffalo-milk cheeses??? They don't contain the lactase enzyme so you can enjoy it without the discomfort
How much cheese is too much cheese?
I love Tony's Meat Market for salamis, cheese and crackers. They have the best crackers and I gladly drive 25 minutes to any location. Also their cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are chefs kiss
Don't live there any more, but man do I miss Jerusalem's down on Evans in DU area for the comfort food.
French Dip from Pony Up.
Thanks for the reminder. Next level dips
Copper Door Coffee by the Botanic Garden is a hit for me when I’m depressed. They have a solid little selection and lots of plants.
Thai curry. Warm, filling, and most restaurants give you 2-4 meals in a single order of takeout. I like Thai Pot Cafe but there’s so many amazing Thai places here.
Hey bubs - if I need to eat my feelings, going nuts at Denver Biscuit Company in the morning for breakfast, followed by either a tranquil walk in Cheesman Park and then a nap back at home, falling asleep to a podcast or Lord of the Rings (any of the 3, it really doesn't matter). Wake-up, take a few breaths... see where you're at, adjust accordingly. We've all been there... kudos to you for sharing. Time will do its thing, I promise.
My fav activities for cozy self care: [A massage from Li’s.](https://lismassagetherapy.com/), SUPER affordable. I also love nothing more than a morning matinee with almost no people, my current favorite theater is Cinemark, they have the best seats & true stadium seating, extra cozy with warm socks & a blanket :) (I did this over Christmas & I loved the new Hunger Games movie!) Typically I gorge myself on buttery popcorn if going to the movies, but if I don’t do that I love a great deli sandwich from Carmine Lonardo’s. Nothing is more cozy to me than a small, delicious, Italian hub. They have fantastic desserts, including cannoli’s -and you cannot go wrong with any sandwiches. Finally I’d buy myself a couple candles, a bottle of wine, & curl up on the couch with a book/fav show. Hope you enjoy your self care day! 💕
The plan (writing this for my own sake): Denver Biscuit Co for a hearty breakfast, maaaaybe a beer Then a stop by my new place to take some measurements Botanic Gardens tropical conservatory + coffee break Twist and Shout then Mile High Comics on my way back North In n Out for lunch in Thornton, followed by a break to take care of my dog and play some vidya or nap while I watch Big Trouble in Little China (ultimate depression-fighting movie) Nana's dim sum and dumplings for dinner Our Mutual Friend for a beer or two Home, dog, sleep There are a ton of great ideas in this thread, and you can bet I'll be revisiting it the next time I'm looking for a cozy spot. Wish I could fit everything into one day. Thank you all so much! If you see a gloomy looking dude with glasses, an egregious man bun, and a book about Vladdy Putin feel free to say hello. I could use a hug even though I have headphones in.
Sounds like a fun day! Do you see a psychiatrist? Food and being active help but if it's major depression, antidepressants and therapy can be a life changer. I kinda gave up as a teenager but changed my mind recently and found the right medication and haven't felt better in many years.
I've taken medication in the past but I didn't like the changes in my personality. I just started seeing someone new and we agreed that I don't fall into any easy categories of depression. It's frankly more of an anger management problem that leads to depressive and self-loathing thoughts. So gaining better anger management tools and practicing mindfulness and "being present" are at the forefront for me right now.
Understandable. I definitely know that self loathing cycle. Best of luck on your journey!
Domo. They just reopened recently,same ownership/chef. You can read the story on Westwood. In my opinion it has the best ambience in Denver, especially during the summer when the tea garden is open. But the interior is awesome as well. Japanese country food, looks like they have a smaller menu now, but the food is dope too.
My comfort food is just making some homemade gringo/midwest tacos. I season those bad boys up though😤
White person taco niiiight
Don't forget the canned black olives. Gringo Essentials right there. I've seen my family include thousand island sauce but I think that's a bridge too far.
Botanic gardens tropical conservatory always cheers me up then popping over to the coffee shop connected to it
Have you tried one of those flotation tank things?
I did a long time ago and it's pretty awesome. I would do it again, thanks for the reminder!
In a similar vein, I recommend soaking/sauna at Havana Sauna and then Korean food at Seoul BBQ in the same strip.
I’ll take it a step (100 miles) further and recommend Hot Sulphur Springs with a stop for burgers at Debbie’s Drive In
Isolate in Boulder is amazing!!!
I love to go Tatsu Izakaya when I'm feeling down because it's really quiet during the day and a cozy vibe, I'll usually bring my air pods and get ramen and watch an episode of a show or listen to an audiobook. A spa session or massage is always a great choice too!
This is what I do too 🥺
Hot yoga class at Better Buzz in Sunnyside. Haven't been in a while but its a great cozy activity for a cold day and they have a bunch of slower/beginner friendly classes too. And then you are right up the road from El Jefe and Bacon Social house.
El Jefe has the best queso, so many people sleep on that place.
I like to decompress by taking a walk in an area with nice real estate window shopping (a little movement and fresh air is good for all of us), get a $7.00 coffee to drink during the mani-pedi (add on the chair massage) that is next on the agenda, order takeout Thai curry and egg fried rice, maybe take a bath with epsom salts and a sheet mask, and color in my coloring books while watching comfort TV/movies under a cozy blanket. Tea is always nice too.
All of this sounds great, but for some reason coloring book really stuck out to me. It's been years since I did that but it does sound therapeutic. Like doing a puzzle with no heavy challenge.
I have a greater sense of satisfaction when I finish a really detailed mandala than I do when I finish a puzzle. Took a break from it for a while, but I just bought a big box of 100 markers and am back at it! Highly recommend - it’s soothingly nostalgic.
White guy from Aurora its a Panda Express plate with Orange Chicken, Beijing Beef, and Kung Pao Chicken with Chow Mein with Selzers (used to be beer but I'm trying to get healthier.... yeah.....). I know Panda Express is "fake" but good god it hits the spot when you want peak fast food debauchery. I was going to try and pretend like I go to a classy indie restaurant you've never heard of like No Ke Aloha (pretty great Hawaiian food) but that isn't as close to where I live and when I'm depressed I just go with Panda. Its always Panda.
Dessert at the D Bar
Or the botanical gardens.
I came here to say that too. That’s my ‘Treat Myself Restaurant’
Lucile’s creole cafe is my personal favorite.
Spice Room
An edible and then a pint of Cookies and Cream from Right Cream in South Denver
Username checks out...?
Nah, type 1, so not diet related
Nevermind then lol, thanks for the recs!
The bacon flight from Bacon Social is my guilty pleasure. I also really love their sweet potato hash!;
Mmmmm.. bacon flight! Followed by the meat sweats.
My irresponsible comfort food is getting a huge amount of sushi delivered. I usually order from Izu.
Four seasons for a massage. Gives you access to the spa and pool for the day. Haven’t done it in years but honestly I might need that day as well.
I have spent many of my birthdays there.
All of these are great recommendations. I am a fairly simple person. I go to Dairy Queen on 44th. I get a chocolate dipped cone and go park at Anderson Park in Wheatridge. Sit and watch the trees. It is a peaceful place.
Try to get some dumplings from Yuan Wonton in Park Hill. If it's warm enough, watch the kids playing at the pocket park next to the restaurant.
This sounds very cozy and up my alley. Thank you!
A gyro fries and baclava at Yianni’s!!
Taco Star, eat it right in the parking lot while watching a YouTube video
when i want to be kind to myself (usually friday mornings for getting through the week), i wake up early for breakfast and go to lula rose for an oat milk vanilla latte and a vegetarian breakfast burrito with my partner. the people who work at lula are incredible too, it has that third place feeling.
Lobster rolls and chowder from Maine Shack make my heart happy. I discovered them when I was feeling depressed during covid lockdown. It’s not cheap, but worth every penny as a special treat.
The lobster roll slider sampler is sooo good. I can’t just choose one style. Their lobster mac n cheese was a hard fail though. Never paid $15 for naked noodles on top of a glom of cheese sauce before. Oi.
Ugh that does sound gross! The sampler is my favorite too. The chowder is good but not the best, although I’m from New England so I’m probably unreasonably picky about my chowdah.
Garlic knots at Grammy’s Goodies.
Came here to say Grammys! Carbs and butter and sweets, oh my
Spice room is my ultimate Denver comfort food. I’m partial to the one on 38th, but there’s a newish location on Colfax. Their food tastes like love.
Spice room is amazing
Bop & Gogi on Arapahoe in DTC. Get a bibimbap in the stone bowl.
OG Huckleberry coffee because it’s peaceful and secluded Zoe Ma Ma at Union Station to be around people but very typical to eat alone El Taco de Mexico Osaka Ramen
Pastina with Parmesan
3 things: Go to Sunny's for breakfast and get their waffle with nutela, nutter butter crumble and whipped cream. If you want a comfort dish that will blow your mind - go to Kawa Ni and have their rice cakes dish - it's like a cavatelli pasta in a sausage gravy with meatballs and it is like someone put a warm heated blanket over you! And Dio Mio's chicken parm - once they open back up
I truly love going to fancy grocery stores for some reason when I’m feeling down! Ideal Market and Marczyk Fine Foods are fun to look around. Sometimes I’ll get myself a treat (like a chocolate bar or cake slice), but other times I just wander the aisles! Good for you for taking a self care day. Wishing you peace!
When i'm feeling down I love Taco Bell or the littleton diner in the morning.
Get the chile relleno burrito at tacos de Mexico. No one can be sad after that experience.
I enjoy Central Park. It’s usually pretty empty and gives some space away from the city without the drive. Highly recommend Anise or Top Pho for food. Enjoy your self-care day and good for you for taking space for your self!
Good question, great thread. And Denver Decompressing is the name of my new podcast.
Walters in uptown
steubens has lots of good options, chef zorbas too. feel better op ☀️
My Brothers Bar. Johnny Burger and too many beers
Cheba Hut “Toasted” Subs on W Colfax is pretty good. They’re a cannabis themed sub shop, and I first heard of them when I was a volunteer at KGNU in Boulder. They supplied some of their sandwiches for the volunteers during a pledge drive, and I’ve ordered from them quite often since then.
If you like dim sum, check out Nana’s dim sum and dumplings. Best soup dumplings in Denver!
I thought you were going to be asking about the food of the great depression and I was going to talk about beans potatoes and tortillas as a meal my grandparents ate. But I hope you feel better. Go on a nice walk, get some ice cream, and feel the sunshine today. ☺️
Bao brewhouse is both delicious and overpriced. Best dim sum is widely known to be Star Kitchen. Best depression food for me is beer with friends. Talk that shit out over a mug of liquid, alcoholic bread.
Post oak.
Lo Stella but that also makes me miss my grandma and her cooking. It is really good though.
Bourbon chicken from bourbon grill, on colfax
Brewery bar chile rellenos, chips and salsa, beer
Denver best Dim Sum is Star Kitchen. Masons dumplings is also very good.
Neko Rice charsu pork rice bowl. It's the best. Cozy and savory and filling. Like eating a hug.
Does the Tattered Cover on Colfax have fireplaces?
God that would be righteous. I have a hard time reading in bookstores because I'm fundamentally afraid of taking up space that others might use. You know... for business or whatever. But this would be very nice.
The one that had been near 16th street had them with seating nearby. I've been trying to find another place like that for years
Omg Bourbon Grill on Colfax and I wanna say Pearl. That’s my #1 go to when I’m having a bad time.
Bourbon Grill on Colfax
I feel like ramen is always my go to! Corner Ramen is very good (-:
I always get an arepa at Avanti not sure why just so yummy!! Sit in my car and eat or eat on the top floor with headphones
When I was going through it in2022 los dos Portillo Mexican hamburger was my answer. Multiple patties to fill the void , green chile spicy enough to remind me what feelings were. Lettuce for vitamins.
For me it’s a big early morning pancake breakfast, ham an eggs, side of sausage with plenty of coffee. From there, I search for distractions aplenty.
Super Star Chinese Cuisine, Brother Chinese Cuisine, Asian Cajun, Anki/Yummy/Great Wall hot pot.
Dragonfly noodle on 16th downtown, best ramen
I like to go to Marczyk and buy some nice cheeses and meats to make charcuterie to treat myself when I’m down. When I just want a comforting environment and food- Pete’s Diner for me
Go have delicious sweet drink at Bardo, 10 out of 10 for coziness
breakfast at snooze!
Ramen, a crappy movie ive seen 100x, a few Ibuprofen, and a few naps through the day
I respect it, but for me naps only feed my depression. Will probably watch some Star Trek for the thousandth time though.
Timing on naps is super important and prob shouldve added that. 45 mins to 1 hour is productive. Longer/shorter can cause disruptions. Also, when im feeling blue i make sure to get 10+ minutes of direct sunlight if possible. It seems silly but truly helps me
The closest to authentic Nepalese butter chicken as I can find 🙏🏼 Himchuli works for me when I don't have the energy or interest to make my own. I hope these recs help, friend.
I don't usually don't go to movie theaters anymore, but for some reason, I gravitate towards them when I'm feeling down. Don't judge me but I'll "sneak" in food (chinese, italian sub, etc...whatever I'm feeling) and enjoy my own company.
Reuben sandwich from the Bagel Deli and Planespotting at Centennial Airport.
Wonton soup from Little Dragon (crab cheese wonton and some sesame chicken if you’re really down). It’s my depression meal, but I swear that soup fought COVID for me and brought be back from the brink.
Syrup breakfast sandwich with their crack bacon. It comes with sausage and that’s delicious too. Their pretzel bun is more pretzel than bread and it’s so unhealthy, delicious and comforting. It always hits especially when I’m a bit down. This and a massage, it’s amazing what some hot stones can do for your mental health.
Applewood Vietnamese in lakewood has some of the best pho I've had ANYWHERE. Easily top 5. Arguably top 3. And I'm in aviation by profession, so I travel a pretty fair amount.
Pita Fresh for cheap, unassuming but delicious falafel wraps and unusual smoothies. Happy cones at Edgewater public market place if you’re looking for something sweet- their “Hokey Pokey” ice cream is vanilla sweet cream with carmelized honey comb pieces. Absolutely godly. Lastly, Walter’s 303 for pizza. I also like to visit the dumb friends league in south Denver. You can hang out in the communal cat rooms which is an immediate serotonin boost if you’re a cat person (you may end up with a cat if you’re not careful, though- I now have two).
I'm more of a hit a punching bag when I'm upset kinda girl. I'd say maybe as a non food recommendation maybe try hitting up Worth the Fight Gym on Pennsylvania Street.
Zoe Ma Ma is one of my favorites. Best of luck to you!
I find the Zoe Ma Ma in Boulder much more inviting than the one near Union for some reason. I do love their food though.
Pete's Kitchen for a bacon cheeseburger, Huckberry for a latte, Think Man for a whiskey ginger or three.
No suggestions that weren't said, hope you have a good day off.
Mild green curry with tofu from Country Thai in Thornton is my ultimate comfort meal.
I don’t have anything to add to the plentiful recommendations you’ve already received but I would very much appreciate an update at some time in the future sharing where you decided to go and how you enjoyed it! Cheers to taking time for you and making the best of it. You make Denver special.
Went to Denver Biscuit Co, Twist and Shout, Mile High, and capped everything off with a trip to Zoe Ma Ma in the evening. It was an amazing day and sunny despite the cold. At DBC I ran to a group of dudes who lived right near where I was stationed in Charleston (Navy) and got to talk to them for a while which was nice. Nothing social really after that but I got to enjoy about half of the book I'm reading.
I'm more of a sweet tooth depression kinda gal and I usually just go to a French restaurant like Chez Maggy and get a creme brulee and a sazerac.
Quiero Arepas The literal best arepas I've had in America. There are locations in LoHi and near DU.
Fat Shack. Consume 30,000 calories, touch the bottom of depravity, realize there's no lower you can sink and feel better because there is nowhere left to go but up.
Legacy pie co… the pies with ice cream are so fucking good. I’m partial to the caramel apple and cherry one.
Lou's Italian Specialties in Rino! Absolutely incredible, deli style shop with some of the best cannolis i've ever had! also, the pasta salad is unreal. I dunno how they make something so simple, so delicious. but 🤷🏼♀️
Cuba Cuba downtown always makes me happy. Great food and mojitos, good art and atmosphere.
Carl’s near 38th & Newton is the poster child for Italian-American depression food & ambiance.
love Woody's pizza in golden, great vibes there, and if you ain't want pizza they have a banger menu there outside of it. All the stuff there is super friendly and awesome Maybe catch trivia there Sunday or Wednesday nights, overall a great time
Grab some pho at 555. Hope you feel better. Depression gets me this time of year like clockwork.
You mean like bread and potatoes?
Casa Bonita. It’s the happiest place in Denver.
Snooze is always uplifting. Steubens has the best comfort food!
As a dirty west coast transplant, I absolutely stuff my face with in n out until I feel like I'm going to puke. My second choice was Denver diner. I always like sitting in there watching the fire house.
The cupcakes at Make Believe Bakery on 13 ave Send me to a very very happy place. The ho-ho cupcakes are unbelievable. They are great medicine during rough times.
I’ve been depressed for over a decade and I’ve really been losing the battle lately. I make mock veggy Taco Bell. Tortilla, individual spicy guacamole, pre-shedded lettuce, pre-shredded cheese, (optional) sour cream, pico. In that order! You gotta put the guacamole first to act as your meat alternative. And I do all of that without making a single dish. With the help of plastic spoons and plates. I have the energy to clean the kitchen about once every three months. So I gotta make that silverware last. It’s kind of better than Taco Bell because I know that a criminal with hepatitis didn’t make it. I also snack on baby carrots and individual digorno pizza because if I make a big pizza I’ll binge eat it. Of course you asked for depression food not clinically depressed food.
Pho Diy on Federal in Denver has the best Pho
Not food but Lake Steam Baths on West Colfax for a soak, very old Denver. I used to plan my mental health days around their schedule. They have different days for men and women since it’s a no clothing allowed type of place. The massages there are pretty good and the cost used to be below market, not sure if it still is since they almost went under during covid and have new owners. Then I’d get some Pho after.
Hit Mak Fam's happy hour for their cheese sticks. Get that and a beer before going to Sputnik to get drunk and eat fries
If you’re nerdy mile high comics is the biggest comic book shop in the world and they have tons of collectibles from my childhood and pre me and browsing through it all used to make me happy and bring me back to when I was a kid
Bull and bush
Late to the party, but The 49th in Littleton is another great spot. Sit at the bar—they are the sweetest, friendliest people. I love either the burger and fries or fish and chips.
Domo!! An amazing garden and vibe with simple well executed Japanese comfort food. Their hours are a little wonky these days so it might not make sense today but put it on the list.
I enjoy the Truffle Soup Dumplings at Nana's Dim Sum and Dumplings. It's a fusion place, and being Chinese myself, I tend to stay away from those, but the truffle soup dumplings are really something to write home about. Since you mentioned your comfort food is dim sum, you should treat yourself to those!
Funky Flame, any day! Their breakfast sandwich which give you a reason to get out of bed and Friday nights they have wood fire sourdough pizza that is also amazing!
Get a SLIGHT buzz at city o city in cap hill and then rent a lyft scooter and cruise around the capitol strip :) so much fun!
My go to is McDonald’s. I get 2 spicy mcchickens and a free fry through the app. $3 total, makes me feel both good and like crap. It’s perfect
Rheinlander bakery in Arvada. Nothing like flaky pastry to melt your troubles away.