Denverites are about to get another downtown dining option with the opening of Ocean Prime at 1465 Larimer this week. The new restaurant from owner/restaurateur Cameron Mitchell will open in Larimer Square on Thursday.
Ocean Prime describes itself as an "all-American supper club," with classic staples like fondue and deviled eggs. It is a hybrid of seafood restaurant and a steakhouse. Chef Michael Denton has spent 14 years with the company, opening seven restaurants, one being Ocean Prime in Dallas. With seafood being flown in fresh everyday from around the world, Denton thinks the restaurant will bring something new to Denver's dining scene. "We want to deliver something a little different," Denton says.
The restaurant will offer live entertainment Tuesday through Saturday in the lounge with a piano player on a baby grand piano tucked into the corner. Denton says the music will range from classic Sinatra to Billy Joel to Coldplay, or anything the guests request. The upstairs dining room is formal without the lounge feel. The terrace bar, upstairs next to the dining room is a great space for having a relaxing drink on the couch. As Denton says, "it's like three different restaurants in one." It is a destination for a lavish evening out, getting everything in one place. There is truly something for everyone.
The retro interior recalls the days of glamor and fine dining. The entrance brings you into the lounge, with the formal dinging room and terrace bar upstairs. But don't expect to walk in and see a boys' club. Unlike the supper clubs of yesteryear, Ocean Prime has a feminine side with its soft throw pillows in the lounge and curved glass that frames the bar. It's bright and open with mirrors reflecting the excitement within. The most striking feature of the lounge (besides the baby grand piano) is the series of blue lights that illuminate the base of the bar. It is a simple feature that adds a huge pop.
Walk up the staircase and enter the formal dining room. At the top of the stairs is a welcoming fireplace enclosed in glass. The dining room offers both booths and tables, with the usual white table clothes. The terrace bar, also upstairs, offers great views of the city with windows that open up for the warmer months. The illuminated bar top and second fireplace offer a warm ambiance that is perfect for drinks on a Saturday night.