The Best Sushi in Colorado: Temaki Den

An Unforgettable Birthday at Temaki Den

For Blake’s 39th birthday, I wanted to treat him to something truly special, and Temaki Den in Denver, Colorado, exceeded all our expectations. Nestled in the heart of RiNo (River North Art District), Temaki Den offers an exquisite dining experience that combines traditional Japanese flavors with contemporary flair. From expertly crafted cocktails to an unforgettable omakase experience, our evening at Temaki Den was nothing short of magical.

The Ambiance: Modern Elegance

Walking into Temaki Den, we were immediately struck by its modern yet warm atmosphere. The sleek, minimalist design is complemented by subtle Japanese accents, creating a space that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. The open sushi bar allowed us to watch the chefs at work, adding an element of excitement and anticipation to our meal.

Starting with Cocktails and Sake

We began our evening with a selection of cocktails that were as beautiful as they were delicious. I opted for the Yuzu Margarita, a refreshing blend of tequila, yuzu, and a hint of chili that perfectly balanced sweet, sour, and spicy notes. Blake chose the Kyoto Old Fashioned, a unique twist on the classic, featuring Japanese whisky, black sugar, and bitters.

Next, we indulged in a sake flight, an exploration of some of Japan’s finest offerings. The flight included three distinct sakes: a crisp and dry Junmai, a fruity and aromatic Daiginjo, and a rich and full-bodied Nigori. Each sip was a new discovery, deepening our appreciation for this ancient and revered beverage.

The Omakase Experience: A Culinary Masterpiece

The highlight of our evening was undoubtedly the omakase experience. Omakase, meaning "I’ll leave it up to you," is a traditional Japanese dining style where the chef selects and prepares a series of dishes. Trusting in the chef’s expertise, we embarked on a culinary journey that showcased the finest seasonal ingredients and masterful techniques.

Course 1: A Delicate Beginning

Our omakase began with a Seaweed Salad, featuring a variety of fresh, crisp seaweeds lightly dressed with a tangy ponzu sauce. This was followed by a Chawanmushi, a savory egg custard topped with delicate crab meat and a hint of yuzu zest. The smooth texture and subtle flavors were a perfect start to our meal.

Course 2: Fresh from the Sea

Next came a series of Sashimi, each piece more exquisite than the last. The Bluefin Tuna, with its melt-in-your-mouth texture, was a standout, as was the Hamachi, known for its buttery richness. Each slice was accompanied by a dab of freshly grated wasabi and a delicate soy dipping sauce.

Course 3: Nigiri Perfection

The nigiri course was a revelation. Each piece of sushi was meticulously crafted, with the rice perfectly seasoned and the fish sliced to just the right thickness. Highlights included the Salmon Belly, with its luxurious, fatty texture, and the Uni (sea urchin), which was incredibly fresh and creamy. The A5 Wagyu Beef Nigiri, lightly seared and topped with a sprinkle of sea salt, was a decadent treat.

Course 4: Creative Innovations

Our omakase continued with some of the chef’s more inventive dishes. The Toro Tartare, served on a crispy rice cracker with a quail egg yolk and a hint of truffle oil, was a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The Grilled Scallop, tender and sweet, was complemented by a bright yuzu kosho sauce.

Course 5: A Sweet Finale

To end our meal on a sweet note, we were presented with a Matcha Panna Cotta, a silky dessert infused with the earthy flavor of matcha and topped with a sweet red bean sauce. It was the perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness, providing a satisfying conclusion to our feast.

Final Thoughts

Our evening at Temaki Den was a truly unforgettable celebration of Blake’s 39th birthday. The impeccable service, stunning presentation, and exquisite flavors combined to create a dining experience that we will cherish for years to come. Temaki Den is not just a restaurant; it’s a journey through the artistry and tradition of Japanese cuisine, right in the heart of Denver. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in an extraordinary meal, Temaki Den is a destination that promises to delight and inspire.