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Name: Jax Fish House LoDo
Address: 1539 17th St, Denver, CO, 80202
Telephone: (303) 292-5767
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 4.16

Jax Fish House LoDo

1539 17th St, Denver, CO, 80202

(303) 292-5767
Store is closed

Jax Fish House LoDo Menu

Appetizers

Griddled Blue Crab Cakes

Fried Calamari

Tuna Tartare

Chicken Fried Frog Legs

Northern Lights Smokeries Black Cod

Prince Edward Island Mussels

Peanut Oil Seared Tombo Carpaccio

Griddled Blue Crab Cakes

Fried Calamari

Tuna Tartare

Chicken Fried Frog Legs

Northern Lights Smokeries Black Cod

Prince Edward Island Mussels

Peanut Oil Seared Tombo Carpaccio
Soups, Salads and Favorites

Jax Shrimp Gumbo

Chopped Salad

Mixed Organic Baby Greens

Jax Lobster Roll

Late Summer Tomato Watermelon Gazpacho

Northern Lights Smoked Salmon Linguine

Colorado's Best Beef Burger

Jax Shrimp Gumbo

Chopped Salad

Mixed Organic Baby Greens

Jax Lobster Roll

Late Summer Tomato Watermelon Gazpacho

Northern Lights Smoked Salmon Linguine

Colorado's Best Beef Burger
From the Raw Bar

Maine Lobster and Alaskan King Crab

Chilled Seafood Sampler Platters

Peel and Eat Shrimp

Maine Lobster and Alaskan King Crab

Chilled Seafood Sampler Platters

Peel and Eat Shrimp
Autumn Specialties

Grilled Mississippi Catfish

Grilled Steelhead

Pan Seared Sea Scallops

Peppercorn Crusted Ahi Tuna

Pan Seared Mahi Mahi

Colorado's Best Beef Grilled Ribeye

Maple Rubbed ?Long Farm' Pork Chop

Grilled Mississippi Catfish

Grilled Steelhead

Pan Seared Sea Scallops

Peppercorn Crusted Ahi Tuna

Pan Seared Mahi Mahi

Colorado's Best Beef Grilled Ribeye

Maple Rubbed ?Long Farm' Pork Chop
Oysters Extraordinaire

Cornmeal Fried Oysters

Grilled West Coast Oysters

Raw Oysters on the Half Shell

Oyster Mignonettes

American Sturgeon Caviar

Red Wine Vinegar and Shallot

Chile Rice Wine

Cornmeal Fried Oysters

Grilled West Coast Oysters

Raw Oysters on the Half Shell

Oyster Mignonettes

American Sturgeon Caviar

Red Wine Vinegar and Shallot

Chile Rice Wine
Sides

Corn on the Cob

House Cut French Fries

Wilted Greens

Fresh Linguine

Steamed Red Potatoes

Fried Hominy

Roasted Cauliflower Yukon Gold Gratin

Chorizo Sweet Potato Hash

Goat Cheese Hand Mashers

Corn on the Cob

House Cut French Fries

Wilted Greens

Fresh Linguine

Steamed Red Potatoes

Fried Hominy

Roasted Cauliflower Yukon Gold Gratin

Chorizo Sweet Potato Hash

Goat Cheese Hand Mashers

Healthy Meal suggestions for Jax Fish House LoDo

Appetizers

Griddled Blue Crab Cakes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fried Calamari [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tuna Tartare [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Fried Frog Legs [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Northern Lights Smokeries Black Cod [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Prince Edward Island Mussels [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Peanut Oil Seared Tombo Carpaccio [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Griddled Blue Crab Cakes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fried Calamari [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tuna Tartare [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Fried Frog Legs [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Northern Lights Smokeries Black Cod [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Prince Edward Island Mussels [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Peanut Oil Seared Tombo Carpaccio [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Soups, Salads and Favorites

Jax Shrimp Gumbo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chopped Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mixed Organic Baby Greens [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Jax Lobster Roll [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Late Summer Tomato Watermelon Gazpacho [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Northern Lights Smoked Salmon Linguine [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Colorado's Best Beef Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Jax Shrimp Gumbo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chopped Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mixed Organic Baby Greens [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Jax Lobster Roll [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Late Summer Tomato Watermelon Gazpacho [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Northern Lights Smoked Salmon Linguine [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Colorado's Best Beef Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
From the Raw Bar

Maine Lobster and Alaskan King Crab [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chilled Seafood Sampler Platters [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Peel and Eat Shrimp [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Maine Lobster and Alaskan King Crab [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chilled Seafood Sampler Platters [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Peel and Eat Shrimp [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Autumn Specialties

Grilled Mississippi Catfish [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Steelhead [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pan Seared Sea Scallops [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Peppercorn Crusted Ahi Tuna [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pan Seared Mahi Mahi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Colorado's Best Beef Grilled Ribeye [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Maple Rubbed ?Long Farm' Pork Chop [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Mississippi Catfish [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Steelhead [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pan Seared Sea Scallops [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Peppercorn Crusted Ahi Tuna [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pan Seared Mahi Mahi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Colorado's Best Beef Grilled Ribeye [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Maple Rubbed ?Long Farm' Pork Chop [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Oysters Extraordinaire

Cornmeal Fried Oysters [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled West Coast Oysters [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Raw Oysters on the Half Shell [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Oyster Mignonettes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

American Sturgeon Caviar [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Red Wine Vinegar and Shallot [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chile Rice Wine [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cornmeal Fried Oysters [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled West Coast Oysters [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Raw Oysters on the Half Shell [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Oyster Mignonettes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

American Sturgeon Caviar [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Red Wine Vinegar and Shallot [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chile Rice Wine [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sides

Corn on the Cob [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

House Cut French Fries [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Wilted Greens [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fresh Linguine [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Steamed Red Potatoes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fried Hominy [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Roasted Cauliflower Yukon Gold Gratin [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chorizo Sweet Potato Hash [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Goat Cheese Hand Mashers [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Corn on the Cob [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

House Cut French Fries [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Wilted Greens [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fresh Linguine [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Steamed Red Potatoes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fried Hominy [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Roasted Cauliflower Yukon Gold Gratin [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chorizo Sweet Potato Hash [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Goat Cheese Hand Mashers [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sorry, We are updating this restaurant blood pressure menu details.

Sorry, We are updating this restaurant cholesterol menu details.

Write An Anonymous Review

Elizabeth D.

This review is based on their happy hour special. My boyfriend and I come here for a treat from time to time for their happy hour special. He loves oysters, and they are only $1.25 per oyster during the special. Also select drinks and appetizers are half priced. Calamari is my favorite, though not your traditional calamari severed with red sauce. The oysters are very good for being in a land locked state. They get fresh products flown in every day, so I imagine their happy hour is to get rid of yesterday's leftovers before they spoil. I give them 4 stars because I've only had the happy hour, the regular dinner oysters could be better for all I know. The service is very great, which is to be expected for a place like this (always busy). If I ever come here for dinner I know I won't be let down, I will just have to expect to pay a little more.
(4)
Travis B.

Food was great. Atmosphere was fun. Go with the crab legs, the buttermilk bread, and the tequila jalapeno drink and you won't be disappointed.
(4)
Cee R.

Ok I love seafood, but this place came up way short. We didn't do the oysters but I tried the in house made cola. That being strange tasting and flat. Moved on to order the lobster roll, and if you ever had a legit lobster roll you would understand this was not even close to being on par. Dry and uneventful in the palette! The toast it was on was the best thing about the sandwich ... And I must have missed all the tail meat; mine was all claw. Also a buddy we were with had a side order of French fries and it was 6 dollars when you can buy a burger with fries for 9 bucks. Nice place to go, but only if you enjoy throwing your money away.
(2)
Angela R.

The service was very good. However, I was not a fan of the food at all. For a restaurant with the name "Fish" in it, I would have expected an extensive list of fish to choose from. Instead, they basically have oysters, calimari, clams, and other things that not everyone loves. I just wanted some straight up fish! Also, the noise level was extremely loud, and the tables were so crowded that our waiter could barely take our order when other people needed to pass by. I definitely will not be going back.
(1)
Eric J.

Drink beer it's cold, eat soup it's made fresh.
(4)
Ric Y.

My friend had his birthday dinner here. He billed it as the best sea food in Denver, but I have to say I was pretty disappointed. I really liked the atmosphere, despite the fishy smell by the bar - hey, it's a sea food place! I ordered the lobster for around $30 bucks and got about 4 bites of a lobster tail that was overcooked, 3 questionable pork/shrimp dumplings, and an inedible leaf salad. I would have been happier eating at red lobster. Everything I had was "meh" at best, and after the meal I was still hungry - I kept eating bread. I actually got more food at a food truck about an hour after I ate. The waitress was pretty pushy, and constantly trying to up-sell everything. I swear she rolled her eyes at me when I didn't order anther drink. I felt like the portions were ridiculous for the price, and the food was mediocre at best don't waste your time or money..
(2)
Rob W.

Stumbled upon this place on a quick visit to Denver. Expections were not that high as I didnt expect much from a seafood joint in the Rockies! We were plesantly suprised by a fantastic meal. We sampled a few oyesters, which were very fresh and accompanied by some good dipping sauces. They had a nice seasonal menu and some nice cocktails. Overall I would be sure to add this to my list of places to return in the future.
(4)
cindy b.

Jax is fun. It's so lively you can even have fun here if you are a teetoler. I've never been here when the place wasn't hopping; heck sometimes the street outside is hopping. It's small so at peak dinner hour there's a wait. Don't go expecting to stroll right to the table. Part of the fun is ordering one of their tasty beverages, alcoholic or not, at the bar. Dinner reservations for four at 7 on a Wednesday night was no exception--allowing for spillover St. Patrick's celebrants. We came expecting a treat and got it. Three kind of raw oysters from all over, mussels, and those blue crab cakes that I could make a meal on. Keep your hands off my crab cakes! I also went for the cold king crab with two sauces. I like the way the horseradish is pooled in the ketchup for the squeamish (I love horseradish just for the thrill of it, any way), and the second sauce was very good but not necessary. The crab was perfect and needed no garnish, and a stupendous portion. The fried catfish, the shrimp cocktail (it was ordered as an entree for a light eater, but it was over half a pound so beware), and the surf and turf were all fabulous. A big plus is the seafood here is always served fresh up and hot, harder to achieve than you'd think. Since we were eating "light" (seafood in its pure form is pretty darned low fat); we went for coffee and dessert. The ice cream was exceptional and the Cappuccino cheese cake suburb. Even the NY purist thought it exceptional. Oh, the drinks. The regular Bloody Mary was downscale, coming with an olive instead of my requisite celery. They want you to order the deluxe, I guess. The Vodka and tonic was with Absolute--definitely a plus for a novice drinker to learn that alcohol is to be enjoyed, not swilled, and the wine list will have to be explored another time. There is quite a tasty drink menu but this place could also live up to a very very nice white. For that overall quality consistency, and the service (not hovering but completely satisfying) I give it a five in its seafood category. Wouldn't mind if my guests this week wanted to go again!
(5)
Randy T.

The service and food were amazing. We went out for my wife's birthday and did it right. The service was spectacular, not just from our waiter, but from the entire staff. The food was amazing. The oysters (Shigoku and Rocky Points) were top notch, pricey, but well worth it. I would highly recommend the the Shigoku. We also had the blue marlin appetizer. It is a ceviche of sorts and, yet again, was fantastic! For dinner we split the grouper cheeks. It was a large enough portion to split and we loved it. Great combination with the homemade ravioli and pesto. Desert, the waiter gave my wife her choice from the menu on him for her birthday. A little gesture that goes a long way. We had the Colorado peach cobbler. It was good. The ginger whip cream was a bit powerful, but it was still good. We would probably get something different next time.
(5)
Jenny P.

Salmon was not good.... However the shrimp linguine is superb. It wasn't too buttery, but had the right flavor. Oysters are always good and depending on when you get it, it can be extremely pricey. It's a nice casual place to dine at for a date. My boyfriend and I enjoyed the overall ambiance. Clean and fishy ( it is Jax Fish House anyways). Service was ok. Took awhile to get my check, but that just means more time to drink.
(3)
Brandi M.

Calamari was frickin perfect.
(5)
Ingrid S.

I love this place! Love the owner and the staff! They are always so welcoming and friendly and compassionate and wanting to service those I bring in. For a long time I search for a great seafood place that wasn't a chain and that's how I stumbled upon Jax's I am loyal to Jax's and am able to only come about once a year as the price is that high but the food is fresh, seafood is flown in daily and if you don't like something they will fix it. Just a good all around place that if you live here or not you gotta try, it well worth the money, if you go mid afternoon, mid week you will have a better chance of not having to wait a long time for a table.
(4)
Erik H.

Great atmosphere and awesome seafood! I had never been before but a coworker had recommended. No disappointment. Made a reservation via yelp and was kindly treated by the great staff. Although I didn't know the food would have a modern twist on some traditional dishes, my guessed and I were most pleased.
(5)
Brenda F.

The face lift is great. Fourth two seat bar with Botha on the side. The new menu looks great to. Can't wait for our dinner to come out.
(5)
Linda V.

My husband took me to Jax for my birthday. The folks at the door were so accomodating and friendly given that we were running a tad late for our reservation. (Rockies fireworks game had downtown packed more than usual.) The service was outstanding! The server suggested the special (whole striped bass). It was fantastic. My husband ordered the salmon and he enjoyed it very much. The cocktail prices seemed a bit high. All in all, it was a great night out and wonderful dining experience. We will be back!
(4)
Shenna J.

Best Seafood place in Denver! I'm from SWFL so I know good seafood. They have an awesome happy hour if you're trying to save some $$$. I always get the peel-and-eat shrimp! I'm not an oyster fan but my bf loves them. Make sure to get the calamari too!
(5)
Erin M.

This was the second stop for Wednesday Night Happy Hour. The place was nice enough. We started out on one side of the patio and moved over when the douche bag brigade paraded in. So Jenn, Heidi and I ordered our PBR's and a dozen oysters. The oysters were fresh and tasted like they were born in a month with an R. But the douche bags kept it going. I kept thinking I'd look over and see a collar popped but I just saw a group of guys that looked like they needed a bath.. or to be hosed down thoroughly.. today. The service was so-so and other than the leaves flying in my eyes/mouth and the douchebags at the end of the patio it was pretty cool!
(3)
Erin J.

I went to Jax Fish House for Mardi Gras and had a great time. We hung out at the bar which was very festive with live music. The bartenders were very friendly and the drinks were very tasty. I tried the oysters and the Lobster BLT, both were delicious and very fresh. I definitely would like to go back to dine in their dining area.
(4)
Jennifer M.

Winner, winner oysters for dinner! And, order a glass of Oyster Bay Sauv Blanc and life is really good. This place is fantastic and fun for happy hour. Mike, the shucker, will treat you well at the bar. Service, ambiance, food and drinks are two thumbs up!
(5)
Jay K.

I love Jax's! I live in another land-locked foodie town but this place, hands down, has the best raw oysters! Added bonus was the happy hour - my friend loved the $3 dollar martini's made with a great well gin (Booth's). Their cooked seafood is also delicious and their bar menu was fun. I have been served several times by Noah and he never disappoints. The host was also charming but I can't remember his name.
(4)
Clarice C.

came for happy hour the other day and OMG probably one of the best happy hour's i've been to! i hear it's always pretty busy so you have to get here early but it was snowing outside so me and my friend were able to get a seat at the bar very easily. Josh, the bartender, was awesome. he recommended a couple drinks but we ended up trying all of the infused vodkas which were all delicious. there was strawberry, blueberry, cucumber and green tea. the food was bomb.com we started with the gumbo fries, and calamari. so delicious. normally, i order calamari for the fried batter but this calamari was about the actual squid. the sauce they use for the calamari is also great. it tasted so fresh. the food was so good, we wanted more and ended up ordering the seafood dynamite and sea dog too! this restaurant was just super cute in general. it even smells like you are by the ocean!! awesome location. saw many other things on the menu i am dying to try. i will for sure be coming back.
(5)
Joolia C.

MMMMMMMMMMMmmMMmMmMMmMmMmMM! So place was PACKED. But luckily there was an itty bitty table my friend&i were able to squeeze into- YAY. starter- raw oysters (from seattle?) first time having oysters. DEF an experience. Not too bad at all. My oyster loving friend claimed they were one of the best tasting places he's ever had. Meals- Can't remember the names... One was from a daily special, a special fish dish we'll call it, and the friend ordered some fish dish off the menu. Bottom line- both were DELICIOUS! MmMmMmMmM yummy yummy I could've eaten both of them by myself. Especially with the bottle of wine, it was just great. Recommendations- MAKE RESERVATIONS if you're going on a busy night/holiday that place was nonstop packed.
(4)
Lola F.

I really enjoyed Jax Fish House! Right off the bat, excellent service when my boyfriend and I came in at 8:30 on a Friday and the wait was 1.5 hours. Right away the maitre d' got us a pretty great seat at the chef's counter and even grabbed an extra seat to accommodate us. The service was excellent, the drinks were great, and my steamed mussels were delicious! Only thing is that the our order of oysters took like 40 minutes to get out to us. The waiter told us the shucker was running behind.... Either way, I was kept good and tipsy by our attentive waiter, food was great, and atmosphere was lively and warm. Great night!
(5)
Andrew F.

Went there for lunch. Seemed expensive and mediocre. I had the salmon sandwich. The sandwich was small but good but the fries were mediocre. Overall many of the lunch dishes (~$20) seemed expensive. Service was excellent.
(3)
Miki L.

I'm from Hawaii. I am a fish snob. Very glad to say that I found a wonderful seafood spot. A few starter notes... Jax has a tempting raw bar, includes shrimp, mussels, crab legs and who know what else. They also have a competent bar, which is also home to the raw bar, so there's lots to see. Jax offers a very decent selection of wine, all fairly priced. And most impressively, every single staff member who I cam in contact with was friendly and helpful. As for my meal... Enjoyed fresh oysters (Kumamoto and Penn Cover) as a starter. Started with a half dozen. They were so tasty, ordered another set. Served simply with a piece of lemon, malt vinegar and some mild tomatoe sauce with fresh, hot horse radish. My entree... A lightly fried, delicately coated piece of cod, perfectly cooked, very moist. Sitting on top of sauteed chard and served with a side of polenta. Total comfort food. Juliette, our very competent server talked me into dessert. Hard to choose between the options, but finally settled for the Sticky Chocolate Cake with a brown ale sauce, bourbon ice cream and chocolate toffee sauce. Married with a rich cup of Joe, it was heaven. I'd recommend that you make reservations. Or go, hoping to settle in for a long night of happiness at the bar!
(4)
Donna A.

Great lobster roll and fantastic service!!
(5)
Geoff C.

Really solid seafood joint with a good balance of raw bar, fish and crab entrees, and non-seafood entrees for those who have yet to be converted. Crab cakes were poor...mushy with little to no lump crab...not worth your time. Mussels in green curry sauce were really good and with their great bread a tasty way to kick off the meal. Steelhead filet was fresh and cooked to perfection. The potato risotto was way too creamy and detracted from the dish but I was already happy. Super helpful staff and a good vibe too boot.
(4)
Alisha A.

I came from San Francisco for a wedding and was unable to locate my friends, who were all at the rehearsal dinner. I had been given a list of local restaurants and based on the Yelp reviews, and I came here to drown my sorrows. This place was JUST what I needed! The food was really incredible- from start to finish. All the oysters were fantastic, and the guys at the bar did a great job in steering me towards a fabulous selection. I'm still dreaming about that avocado cucumber gazpacho with ceviche, as well as the DELICIOUS grilled octopus. Seriously. That was really some of the best octopus I've ever had. Did I mention the cocktails? And the prosecco? It was one of the best spontaneous meals I've ever had when traveling, and I would come back in a heartbeat. Jax, thank you so much for turning my weekend around. You rocked my world!
(5)
Amanda B.

It's been a while since eating at Jax. We were trying to catch a quick bite prior to a concert-unfortunately, we didn't have reservations. Luckily, we found a place at the bar. We were hoping for the tuna poke but they had just run out so we decided to try the conch ceviche. It was delicious. My date decided to try the miso salmon, of course I had to sample it and it was also wonderful. I had the crab cake, I have to say it wasn't quite as good as the other items we tried but it was good, just not sure I would order it again. The service was excellent and our cocktails were also quite good.
(4)
Jenna J.

Awesome service! I LOVE their Clam Chowder
(4)
Clara L.

My parents and I had dinner here for my mom's bday back in July. Our waitress was very helpful in answering our various questions about the menu and made sure our beverage glasses were full. I ordered the grouper cheeks, and my parents got the salmon and trout entress. Overall, it was a good meal, but I guess with all these 4 and 5 star reviews on yelp, I was expecting more. I guess I'll give it 3.5 stars...
(3)
Melissa N.

Have been twice and am sure wont go back for dinner anymore. Happy hour maybe. Service was bad both times . The "gulf shrimp" $15 salad had 1 shrimp on it. Lame.
(3)
Jim T.

Let's start this whole thing off with the funniest oyster joke in the universe: Q: What do you get when you cross an epileptic oyster shucker and a prostitute with diarrhea? A: Someone who shucks between the fits! Bwahaha - oh, never mind. If you mention the work Jax without oysters in the same sentence, you should be banned from the space. I have a thing about shellfish - I love it, whether it be blue crabs, scallops, oysters - you name it. So, if you're one of those queasy folks who doesn't like oysters, or needs someone to twist your arm - just leave them. Seriously. Leave them for people who love them. Jax has the best oysters in town, not the best I've ever had, but best in town. And usually many varieties at a time. Let George and Ira Gershwin sum it up: You say oysters and I say ersters, So I'll have the oysters and cancel the ersters..... Let's call the whole thing off! What they say about guys who eat oysters is true. Solid 4+.
(4)
Kristine S.

Wow! This place did not disappoint. From the service to the food!!?! Excellent. Happy hour best time to go. Try cucumber cocktail, streamed mussels and calamari.
(4)
Sara C.

The service was a little slow but the food was great. It's hard to find good seafood in Denver, but this place has it!
(4)
Alyssa C.

I came here with my parents for my mom's bday and we had a great time. Vibe is fun and uplifting. The resturant lends you to feel as if you are in a fish tank with cool lighting and swanky colors, and a cool fish tank in the center. We ordered some great items - oysters (dad said they were some of the best he's had), cesar salad (really good!), corn chowder (amazing). I got the snapper (special of the day) and my dad got the sturgen. I thought the snapper was good, the sturgen - eigh average. Our server raved about it, I wasn't too sure. The only thing we didn't like was the house farm salad with tuna. I think we should have gone with the tomato salad, but took the server's advice - the house farm salad was pretty average. We finished with the chocolate cake - which i would reccomend, a delish tasty treat! I'd go back, but it wasn't to die for.
(4)
Steve M.

Stopped here for some oysters and a few drinks before a work event. Great stuff. Did the around the world wit the oysters. Great way to get to know what different oysters taste like. To my surprise there is a BIG difference between them. From the larger to smaller sizes they also have a taste range from earthy, to very briny. Great little bar. they also make their own spiced rum, which was very very good. I'll be back here for sure.
(4)
Keith N.

Where's the ocean? I have mixed feelings... I'm going to try it again when the summer menu arrives. I went here for fish and the only ocean fish they offered were tuna and tillapia (snore). I know I'm in Colorado, but I generally don't like freshwater fish and hoped Jax might have more to offer. Pros: - Great service - Creative presentations - Unique flavor combinations - Fresh oysters (3 different kinds) - Crayons! Cons: - Fish selection - Cramped dining area - No "catch of the day" - Pricey Give me grouper, halibut, mahi, sword, monk, snapper, anything other than trout, catfish and steelhead. Just my opinion.
(3)
Tim H.

Great fresh fish in a fun atmosphere. Seating is a bit tight, and I think 6 is the biggest group they could fit comfortably. The oyster bar selection is fairly deep, very fresh, and the shuckers are happy to tell you about what they have in house. I used to live in the Pacific Northwest, and I'm pretty finicky about oysters, but the guys at the bar got me sorted out with some west coast oysters and even tossed me a huge east coaster to try. The new oyster was great, and something I never would have tried on my own. That's huge, in my book. Seems like most of the people in Jax are friendly and social, but that seems to be the case in most of Denver. Certainly the otehr patrons are not wound up in pretension as can happen in some of the trendy restaurants. Entrees are good sized, and with a salad are plenty for me. I'm a big guy and sometimes I am left wanting. Food always comes out hot, and the wait staff are attentive without being overbearing. There's no rush to get you turned over, so it's a great place to chat before dinner. One thing I always get at Jax is a Cucumber Lemon Press. Great light drink with vodka. Seems to go well with the oysters...also goes right down with the fish.
(4)
Lauren B.

I was sadly let down by this place a little! My ex and I went back when we were still dating under the impression that it was "the best seafood place ever" (from what others have said) and just didn't feel that way at all! Let me walk you through the experience: We were greeted by the hostess, who was pretty lovely, and told us that there would be a long wait. However, there's a pseudo bar on the patio (this was in the summer) that we could sit at right away. Not being too picky, we opted for that option. Well, not only did it take 20 minutes for a waiter to even come to us, but she was (excuse my french) borderline a bitch when she did arrive! I was still unclear of what drink I wanted to order, so she took my ex's drink order and told us she'd come back for mine. A runner gave him his drink, and our waitress didn't come back for ANOTHER 20 minutes to get my drink order! For a place that has such a great reputation, this was highly disappointing!! As the night went on the experience got better...hence the 3 stars over 2. The food was pretty good...but I've had better at nice restaurants that don't necessarily specialize in seafood. Maybe I didn't order the best thing on the menu, but as a seafood lover, I was pretty saddened by the out-ting :(
(3)
Quincy B.

Happy hour is the way to go here! The bartender Timmy is so friendly and watching the barbacks shuck oysters to order is really cool. Its a great date spot and right in the heart of Denver. Love Love Love it
(5)
James H.

Stopped in here for a happy hour, so I can't comment on the food or the food-service, just the bar. Bartender was personable, efficient, and knew his stuff. They have several infusions, their own spiced rum, and a good selection of draft and bottled beers. I started with a Left Hand Milk Stout Nitro. It was poured well and at the proper temperature in the proper glassware. Based on the experience to that point, this is a 4 Start establishment. But then I ordered a "Fat Mary" bloody mary with shrimp, bacon bits, and spices. It was delicious and is my favorite bloody in Denver (and I've had many). That drink alone give this place an extra star... It was that good.
(5)
Green D.

I was in recently and had the steelhead along with the shrimp & grits (and happy hour oysters & gumbo, of course). Everything was excellent!! House white with the oysters & gumbo was great; steelhead and garlic fries was great! Shrimp & grits was great!! And Tim made a bombshell scotch & basil drink! Everything was perfect!!
(5)
Allie N.

Wish I could say that it's as good as the one in boulder, but even still it's a great seafood option downtown. Great atmosphere, location and highly recommended for a seafood fix
(4)
Juan V.

A place has got to be pretty awesome for us to give it 5 Stars. Jax is... AMAZING!!! We love the oysters! Jesse and Josh are two amazing staff members that take care of us. We love the fact that their recommendations are always honest and drinks are strong. Very consistent food quality and service. Please give Jax a try if new to Denver. Skip the place across the street...
(5)
Scott P.

Hot diggity dog! Can you say 'best oysters I've ever had'? Well, if you're me, and you just went to Jax last night, you could. And you would. And you'd be sitting on the ground typing away on your laptop while you did it. Which is exactly what I'm doing right now. Damn. Existential. Anyhow. I'm no n00b to oysters. And these were buttery, briney, meaty goodness. We got some of the British Columbia and Washingtons, and they just went down smoother than angel tears. No need for any garnishes- these badboys were perfect just the way they are. Then came the calamari- a little sad because we didn't get any tentacles, but the sauce that the squid was cooked in was more than consolationary. A few beers, a good conversation with the breathtaking Ethiopian beauty sitting next to me, and I was positively glowing with happiness. Didn't make the oyster-aphrodisiac connection until just now. If I would have gotten a phone number, this place would be five-star status. Yeah, I'm that shallow with my ratings. Eat it.
(4)
Jessica C.

Try everything! My family and I have been plenty of times, always with a reservation. Valet parking is so convenient and you can go before a game. The wait staff is cordial and accommodating. The desserts are divine and the selection of oysters is extreme. My best recommendation is to always try what's fresh off the boat. The fine cuisine is worth coming back for time and again!
(5)
Jill S.

I've been struggling to find great places to take visiting friends and family. Jax was a great place to bring my mom while she was visiting. We had a plate of assorted raw oysters, scallops, the ahi tuna, crawfish hushpuppies, and the butterscotch pudding. The oysters were ok but only because of the cleaning job. The scallops and tuna were outstanding but the real highlight was the butterscotch pudding with homemade marshmallow and popcorn. It was rich, salty and sweet. A perfect ending. The only other miss was the valet who was more concerned about talking to his drunk friend than bringing my car around.
(4)
Andreas H.

Perhaps I am a bit biased when it comes to seafood, being raised close to an ocean and all. While Jax is definitely good, I found that it was not nearly as exciting or delicious as I was hoping and/or expecting. If I want to spend the money, I think I will just save it for the next trip to the east coast.
(3)
Chris K.

Have lived nearby Jax since October but Saturday night was my first visit. I found the service to be excellent as stated and now confirmed from the previous Yelp reviews. The interior of Jax made it feel like I was anywhere but downtown Denver. The specials were a ice change from other seafood restaurants close by and the menu was full of choices that will bring me back to try on future visits. The wine list was exceptional. My dinner was delicious and, again, the service was the best. Cannot be compared to any other downtown establishment!
(5)
Marc D.

Oysters! Oysters!! OYSTERS!!! Yummo. I am a Balti-moron. We grew up on seafood. Oysters, crabs, shrimp, oh my! When I was a kid, we would go out on piers with a chicken neck, a piece of rope, and a butterfly net. That was how we would catch crabs. Here... you catch.... wait, uh... NEVER MIND!!!! Jax opens at 4 PM. If you go for their happy hour (4-6PM every day), I suggest getting there early. AWESOME happy hour specials on oysters, calamari, mussels, gumbo, etc. Might I suggest you stay away from their brown ale mussels. They just aren't very good, and I was a little disappointed as I had not yet had something from Jax that disappointed me. This was the first. Usually, however, I have been very pleased. The dinner menu changes, but everything is fresh, fantastic, and well, some of the best seafood in Denver. They sometime have crab legs, and unlike other "seafood restaurants", these do not taste fishy or soggy. The fresh fish is always a delight, and the calamari is always superb. The bar seems to be filled with characters. Every time I have been there, I meet someone weird and interesting. Might I suggest that you do not friend weirdos who "own an awesome little bar off colfax that we just have to go to right this second" because... well, that is another story (ugh!). Anyway, freshest seafood in Denver, a good selection of oysters, and great drinks. May not be the cheapest place in the world unless it is happy hour, but we DO live in Denver.
(4)
Marie M.

I love Jax! They have an amazing happy hour, with the best oysters in town. They also happen to have the best calamari in town. Everything is fresh (especially for Denver) and the service is amazing. Yes, they had Wham and George Michael playing almost the entire time we were there, but I am a fan, so it didn't bother me (dirty little secret).
(5)
Heather M.

WONDERFUL!!! First let me tell you, we were an hour late for our reservations as traffic was terrible!! We called to let them know, and they said take your time, no worries. We got there, and they had our table waiting for us and sat us right away. Not many places would do that. We went during 5280, and had their 4 course menu, which btw, is a great value for all the food that you get!!! There were 5 choices for the first 3 courses, between us, we had all 5. They were all excellent!!! The dessert was butterscotch bread pudding, which was also great!! (i would love to get the recipe) The service was amazing! Thank you to our waiter Jose. Also thanks to Erik for the extra kind service of holding our table and putting an expensive coat in the office for us too!! They now serve lunch and I am excited to go back and try that, as well as the new steamer bar!!! thanks Jax for and great night!!!!
(5)
Joy G.

One of my favorite restaurants downtown! They have awesome oysters, lobster, halibut, and salmon. They have oyster shooters that are to die for. We actually had our engagement dinner here and the service and food was excellent. Best seafood in Denver!
(4)
Lily T.

I've been to Jax 4 times now and I have never been disappointed. I'm a big seafood fan from the east coast so I've had my fair share of good seafood and Jax comes damn near close. The calamari is probably the best I've had. It's a huge plate, too much for just 2 people really, and the pieces are big. I've had the bluenose, mahi mahi, and their dinner specials before...all were delicious. They have fresh oysters and crab but I don't normally eat those although they do look fresh chillin' (literally) on the ice. The location is on the corner of 17th and Wazee and there's a paid parking lot in the back if you don't feel like searching for a spot. The bar is kind of small, not leaving much room to hang out with large groups. It is a loud dark place with chilll people and crayons to draw on your table while you wait for the food, I like! If you're a big seafood foodie...then definitely try this place out.
(5)
justin d.

1$ adds up quick when you say "4 dozen oysters please" ha ha but hey its a great time and story. I haven't tried anything here but the calamari and i would rate it a 7 and the oysters and either they're fresh or they stink and i have had no stinky ones yet! the service is great sometimes they take a second to catch me ordering a drink but hey there happy hour gets ridiculously packed. so out of my few visits they haven't disappointed me yet
(4)
Larren M.

Wow! I have been by this place a million times and have always said to myself "I wonder what that place is like?" Well last night the lady and I checked it out for the first time. We will definitely be back. Fist of all oyster happy hour 7 days a week? What? Be still my heart :D. $1 per oyster. We got 2 dozen right off the bat. We shared the scallops dish which had a very good risotto with pieces of escargot and sliced asparagus. Absolutely delicious. If you haven't been to Jax Fish House you are missing out on one of the great restaurants in Denver!!!! Cant wait to go back.
(4)
Steven B.

Had a big day so I decided to celebrate and treat myself to some Oysters. There may be other places in Denver with great fresh oysters, but ever since Jax opened it's the only place I go. I had a dozen mixed 'west coast' oysters and my heart was soaring! From the big ones to the little guys, all great. Then I ordered the Arctic Char off the new fall menu and it was one of the best fish dishes I've had in years. A nice big piece of perfectly grilled Char on top of tiny manila clams standing in a chowder of corn, bacon lardons (I think? Whatever, really tasty), edamame beans, topped with a peppery jam! I mean outrageous! Jax always has a list of what is fresh (as in arrived that day) and the wait-staff is always hip to what is good. My server was super friendly, remembered my name and made great recommendations. I often take out-of-town friends to Jax to prove that Denver can have great seafood.
(5)
Lincoln S.

Went to Jax again last night and had to finally write a review. Always consistently great food and fantastic service. The calimari is reason alone to go - a dish that everyone does, but no one quite like Jax. This place will be around forever
(5)
Jonny H.

Truth be told, an oyster is defined by it's simplicity and usually nothing more. But au contraire, for this gastronome; there is nothing quite like the naked, fresh taste of these little bivalves of joy served with a reflexive squeeze of lemon, a few strings of freshly grated horseradish, and a drop or two of sweet and tangy mignonette... slurp, slurp... repeat. You can taste the ocean. You are immediately transported to another place - like the rocky coastline of the Puget Sound or the sublime beauty of Normandy - as you delight in how simply wonderful oyster consumption can be. Celebrating a week of the oyster in Denver may be as far removed from any celebration revered to be one of the greatest feats of culinary pleasure imaginable. How could the average Midwesterner come by a premiere offering of fresh seafood and a full array of farm-raised oysters in Denver? Visit Jax (in Denver or Boulder) and you will be splendidly amazed! I cannot wait for Oyster Week to arrive in March. I will go every year. I will order as many oysters as it is humanely possible to devour. I should go more often, because my buddy Quinn is a server/bartender there -- his service is extraordinaire. I take a huge group of friends along so we can share. Great cocktails. Superb entrees. Freshness abound. Electric bar scene. Do not pass up Jax when your next fresh fish fixation hits ya...
(5)
Chrystal T.

Ok this place does a stellar happy hour if you like oysters or shrimp. The oysters are always fresh and delicious and they have a great variety and for HH they are a buck, if that is not your thing try the peel and eat shrimp, with a perfect bay seasoning for around $10 you get a pound. Plus the drinks are all the rage, strawberries lemonade cocktail is killer. These guys infuse their own vodka so that have several tasty and unique mixes to please any palette, plus cheap PBR on tap. And a few of the bartenders there have been voted Denver's best in recent years...bottom line is fantastic service, good drinks and a great HH
(5)
Emma S.

OK, every time I have a girl friend come to visit Denver I take her to Jax. The bartenders are always hottie pototties, who give lots of attention and flirty banter. Aaron and Josh are staples...always there and always ready to get their flirt on. Adam, the Manager, is a friend from Boulder and is consistently hospitable and welcoming. Oh, and the food and drinks?? AMAZING! Love the mussels... Whenever I walk out of the door, I'm happy, confident, full but not stuffed and sufficiently tipsy.
(5)
Grant H.

Oysters for days!
(5)
Diego A.

Tequila, Beer, Oysters, Crab, All the Bar Crew & Dinning Staff : Well "EXELLENT"
(4)
Joseph H.

Went to Jax for 5280. Wonderful gumbo, awesome blackened catfish, and to die for key lime tart. Noah provided outstanding service and made our night wonderful.
(5)
Mel H.

This is a gluten free review and a review of the 5280 menu. I have been looking forward to trying Jax for some time. One of the friends I went there with has been there several time and had good things to say about them. We had a reservation and were seated right away. The waiter was nice...but curt. Maybe he was having a bad night. I started with the mussels with the Chardonnay and lemon. The sauce was good, a few of the mussels were extremely fishy. One of my party ordered the clams off the regular menu (which I would have tried if they hadn't stuck a piece of bread on top). My friends said the clams were better than the mussels. The mussels were very limited and I was hungry, so I tried to order some soup, but the waiter never got back to me on whether or not is was gluten free, so I decided to drop it. My friend ordered oysters at the beginning of the meal and had to ask the waiter where they were. He looked at her like she had never ordered them, but then brought them soon after. The calamari (which I couldn't eat) was excellent according to everyone at the table. The next course took forever. I ordered the sole, with the house bacon, brussels sprouts, and chestnut cream. It was really, really bland. I was pretty sad about it. The bacon was the only real flavor in it. The catfish and cornbread had a thumbs up (not GF) and I guess the shrimp and linguine were as bland as mine (not GF), unless you eat the capers with it (Ick). I really wanted to salt and pepper mine, but the salt and pepper were open at the top and their were bread crumbs everywhere. The waiter same back to ask us how us was...we mumbled good since there was nothing really wrong with it. The dessert I ordered was the vanilla bean panna cotta and it was bland too, lots of gelatin in it. The key lime tart was mostly uneaten because it was just not very good. The small amount of berries served with the desserts were very good. The waiter comped the oysters and was at the table a lot, he just had bad timing and seemed forgetful. I really wasn't impressed with the food and I would never bring a picky eater here. When you have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance and you eat out, there is always a risk. I had gluten somewhere and was sick. I will not come back.
(3)
Susan D.

We tried the new location in Glendale and loved it. This time I had the Alaskan Bristol Bay salmon and it was about the mildest flavored salmon I've ever had--which is how I like it!
(5)
Jen M.

I was visting Denver and we were looking for a casual place with some good oysters. Jax came up in our searches so we made a reservation and headed there. Our waiter was great! Our meal started with some oysters. We asked our waiter to pick some out for us and they were yummy. For our meals we ended up ordering the special, a medium rare marlin steak. The portion was nice and the price was pretty good. I also had a couple adequately intoxicating manhattans. If I'm ever back in town and I crave fresh fish, I'll be heading to here again.
(5)
Cherie B.

Holy food coma! My brother and I stopped in here late on a Sunday night. We started off with 12 oysters for $12...good deal! They were very tasty and well shucked with minimal shell shards. Then we decided to share a bunch of odds-n-ends...crab cake, ahi tuna carpaccio, green chile cornbread, braised mustard greens and fried Brussels sprouts. I was only able to snag one bite of the crab cake, as bro made that thing his bitch. What I tasted of it was wonderful. The carpaccio was also delicious...thinly sliced tuna, arugula and flavorful housemade hummus. The cornbread was near perfect...just the right amount of moisture and topped with green chiles. I'm a sucker for some good greens...and Jax has STELLAR greens. Perfect bacony flavor...not too salty. While I enjoyed the Brussels sprouts at the time of ingestion, I keep thinking about them and whether or not I ACTUALLY liked them. What they do, is they pull each leafy layer off the veggie and then fry them...leaving them kind of potato chip-esque. They have good flavor, but I was kind of missing the juiciness of that particular veggie. The service here was spot on...everyone we encountered was friendly. Our server offered suggestions on the dishes and when we mentioned that someone was joining us late, she offered something easy from the kitchen even though it had already closed. I might have to hit this place up for happy hour...sounds like it's worth it!
(4)
Jason S.

Super wicked rad happy hour!! Cheap drinks, delicious food, great atmosphere and awesome service!! When I say 'rad' happy hour I'm not just talking about 3 things that are on special where they only give you a 1/2 ounce serving There's quite a variety and the portion size is very generous! We tried the calamari, some oysters (can't remember which ones) and the smothered fries. All full of deliciousness and we left stuffed. Also there are a lot of martinis to choose from, you only need about 2 and you've got your 'buzz on'. There's a patio so it's great to people watch, it's near Coors Field if you're catching a Rockies game, they also have PBR in a can. I have yet to try dinner here, but its on the to-do list. I'll update this review as soon as I do... If their appetizers are any indication how great their food is, I'm super stoked!!
(5)
Jenn D.

Jax is a great little treat in Denver. The atmosphere is laid back and fun with big fish on the walls, exposed brick and a blackboard of the catch of the day. I started with the Caesar salad and instantly fell in love. I will go back just for more. Tilipia with brussel sprouts and bacon as my entree was made for a great dinner. Then followed it up with Butterscotch pudding and Cracker Jacks for dessert. They had a great wine list. We walked in during happy hour and the bar was packed. It is definitely on my list of places to go and enjoy happy hour now!
(4)
Emily B.

My boyfriend was craving seafood last night, so we chose Jax Fish House based on some of the other reviews. The reviews did NOT do it justice. I had one of the TOP 5 meals of my life at Jax Fish House last night. Our experience started off by walking into the lively and energetic atmosphere that is the bar at Jax. It was a gorgeous evening, so we opted to sit on the small patio area in front of the restaurant. We started off with wine a cocktail from their extensive wine and drink list. Try the Cucumber Melon Press if you are looking for a refreshing cocktail on a warm summer night. My boyfriend loves mussels so we started off with an order that were in a delicous butter wine sauce with just the right about of garlic. We were surprised when we discovered a new aquaintance was working at Jax and he kindly sent over an order of their signature calamari. My boyfriend hates calamari, but he gobbled this up. Said it was the best calamari he had ever had. I ordered the Ahi Tuna, which as sushi grade, cooked perfectly and absolutely amazing. It was served with avocados and grapefruits. A delicious seasonal meal. My boyfriend ordered the trout, which was also delicious. It was a tender red trout that had an almost salmon like look and texture. We have been very disappointed with the service we have recieved at many Denver restaurants, since moving here a month ago. However, the service at Jax was the friendliest, most attentive and knowledgable service we have received since we moved. We will definitly be returning to Jax in the future. I understand they have an amazing happy hour and I can't wait to check it out.
(5)
Jenny S.

My roommate insisted we go to Jax for the hot bartenders, I have been back almost every month since for the calamari, the oysters, and sometimes, the hot bartenders! The cucumber lemon press is my drink of choice, their infused vodkas making it out of this world. They make one heck of a dirty martini and the happy hour food and drinks are really reasonable, especially the $1 oysters. I have yet to go to Jax for a full dinner but the calamari is enough to hold me over for now. The mango chili sauce that they serve with it is incredible and has a nice kick to the fruity goodness. It definitely is not what you would expect calamari to be served with, but after having it, I wouldn't change it for the world. Why the four stars my friends? It is a bit pricey, hence the reason for all the happy hours and why I have put off trying their dinner. Nothing that restaurant week won't fix though, and I look forward to it.
(4)
Alura B.

I went to Jax Fish House for the first time last weekend. Overall it was a great experience and I plan to return, give them 4 stars. I had crab legs and they were excellent. My favorite food and I am picky - not the largest portions. Boiled potatoes were very plain - 4 tiny whole new potatoes with skin on. I prefer a baked potato with something on it so it isn't dry & plain:) Also the salad was a half of a head cut in half and served that way - creative but I didn't care for it. Loved the oysters and service was fabulous. Very attentive staff - refilled my drinks everytime before they were near empty. Free dessert was served to the birthday girl. l appreciated the seafood, service and atmosphere. Yes pricey but worth it for the quality fresh seafood. Hope they have better sides...will try others next time. I will rate them a 5 star if I find some great side items.
(4)
Jeremy K.

Jax's Oysters on the half shell were listed as one of the top 100 must eats in Denver, so I gave them a shot (again): Rating: 6 (out of 10) The Skinny: Fresh Oysters are always a favorite of mine. And of anywhere for them in Denver, Jax has the best reputation - freshest oysters, best price, Hosea Rosenberg, etc. It's not that they do anything special per se - in fact it's probably that they shy away from doing anything to ruin this great seafood tradition that keeps people coming back. Having someone in front of you cracking fresh oysters, setting them over ice, and sliding the whole tray over with horseradish, lemon, cocktail sauce, and tobasco doesn't need any frills. Jax has simply established itself as the place in Denver to get this done right. I've got a pic up on the blog in my profile if you'd like to check them out. jko
(3)
Heidi S.

I write this review with a heavy heart because I have been contemplating writing a letter to the management. The ball-n-chain and I went in later last Tuesday evening for a celebration dinner and the waitress could not be bothered with us at all. We were one of three tables. We had to stop her as she zoomed away (after waiting for our drink order to be taken) just to give her our appetizer order (Mussels). Zing, off she went. Meanwhile, throughout our meal, she was quite chatty and attentive with a table of men and with her fellow servers at the food window. Sat with empty drinks and then had our dinner order placed (Halibut cheeks and the lobster BLT) . Zing, off she went. Wait, stop, come back, more drinks please. Dirty plates, sat unfetched. Food was delivered but she didn't come to ask us how our meal was until AFTER we were finished eating. I needed another napkin which, of course, I was never able to ask for. More drinks, not a chance. Food was good but by then I was chapped because I knew the ball-n-chain was going to drop some hard earned coin on me. We laid out almost a bill on a spur of the moment stop, tip included. Not too sure I want to go back. We were dressed nicely, we were polite, we were sober, not sure why we were just disregarded. In this economy, with pay cuts, hours cut, and what not, I will keep my Benjamin's, thank you very much.
(2)
Hans O.

Probably one of the best happy hours in town! This place is crowded really crowded, the restaurant side was completely sold out and the bar almost impossible to walk through. Had to seat close to the bar facing the wall, but even though waiting staff was quick, and super friendly! Oysters - 1 Super fresh, really good! Chicken and craw fish gumbo - 2 Portion is super small, its probably the size of a half bowl. Nonetheless, really good flavors, full of chicken and craw fish. Seafood dynamite - 5 Can't tell the ingredients for the gooey binding creme, but its all combined with chunks of crab, lobster, and shrimp. Shell fish here is not fake its the real stuff, serving is as big as the Chicken and craw fish gumbo. Very tasty. Gumbo cheese fries - 5 Fried were soft, not stale or overly crispy topped off with their gumbo. Really simple but really good. Petite oyster Po Boy - 3 Really petite, smaller than a common slider. They have specials on drinks as well: Well cocktails - 3 Zolorita - 4 Draft Coors Light - 2.50 Cans of PBR - 2 Select Red and White Wine - 4 Oyster Shooters - 3 Infused Vodka - 4 " This menu stated: Thursday - Saturday 4-6pm Happy hour menu; not sure if they have happy hour everyday.
(4)
Brian G.

Man...I dig Jax. It's not what you'd think looking form the outside but it's awesome. Great raw bar with oyster specials and cheap peel and eat shrimp. The surprise here...the burger is amazing. I had it for the first time two days ago and it was all could do not to order another, It's nice when you find these surprises at joint that specializes in one thing but then has a little cruve ball. Staff has a nice casual approach that makes you feel like you've been there a million times before. I especially like the fact that they didn't throw me out after nearly punching the guy that took my bar stool and made a big scene about it. It is possible that I used some choice words and threats about robbing the man the use of his legs. They even bought me a whiskey to calm me down. This place is aces in my book.
(4)
Elizabeth T.

I'm very happy I got to check out this restaurant during my short trip to Denver. It's intimate, casual, and small, so thank goodness there's a bar available to pass the time while you're waiting for a table. YES, it is worth the wait. The oysters are ridiculously fresh. The crab cakes are savory and 95% crab. Besides the ones here, I've only found one other crab cake that did not disappoint. The seasonal fish items change fairly often, so I can't comment too much on these, but most entrees I sampled were fabulous. A few were a tad on the salty side. The proteins ranged the gamut from pork to sole to fish. All of the sides paired well. Sadly, I had no room for dessert, but the 5th course menu is quite extensive.
(4)
Bigg Mike S.

Food tasted great. Very over priced I thought. Crab cakes tasted good, but were only a little bigger than a half dollar coin. Definitely not worth the $13 they cost. Salmon was great, but small for $28. Steak tasted awesome, but over cooked for $36. And I hate that gratuity is added when I am on a separate check.
(3)
Lauren T.

Do not get one of their 'Game day po-boys' I took the bf for his first Jax HH experience. We had gumbo, skimpy serving of buffalo shrimp, and $1 oysters. But of coarse he was still hungry since it was dinner by that time, so I ordered him a po-boy to go. He LOVES po-boys and I thought this would seal the deal as Jax being our friday night dinner spot. We got home and he opened up this 8 inch sub to find 4 inches actually had meat. Im not exaggerating. WTF!?! The po-boys I know, are stuffed so full the meat falls out and u eat it with a fork. WTF WTF WTF. I wish I had gotten a picture of his puny sandwich. I guess I'm so pissed off because this is my BF, he's my eating out buddy, and he will NEVER go back to my favorite restaurant!! He immediately started making some Mac & cheese at home cuz it was the only thing hardy in the house. This is still one of my favorite places, especially the cucumber lemonade. but very sad I will no longer be able to frequent this amazing establishment because of a bread sandwich. :( Would usually have given them 5 stars. But 4 is generous.
(4)
Adam W.

I've been to Jax several times before, but haven't found a spectacular dish. That's not to say Jax is bad, just okay. I tend to judge a restaurant's culinary flair based on its desserts. Not nearly every patron will order dessert, so an impressive dessert menu shows real passion for food in my eyes. The best Jax can conjure up is a grainy butterscotch pudding with stale-tasting cracker 'Jax' -- weak. Beyond that, their drinks are truly embarrassing, especially for a restaurant with a full bar. Their stock vodka is Crystal Palace, the one you bought for $8 when you wanted to get drunk in college - really sad. The $1 oyster happy hour special is a great deal if you like oysters, but I'm not a fan. I think there are plenty of better restaurants in Denver.
(3)
Jonah S.

Jax is a great place to go in Denver. Awesome seafood selection, fun bar and great desserts. Don't miss this Lodo gem.
(5)
Jenn P.

OK OK .... I am a little muddled. 3 stars ... 4 ???? How about a firm 3.5 stars ... yes that works. This was the second stop on the super fun, new friend excursion Heidi, Erin and I embarked on this afternoon. You would need to be dead and buried to NOT have had fun with us. In our defense, and in a rare turn of events, we were by NO means the most obnoxious people there. Go figure. The professional idiots " sharing" the patio with us and one very nearly deafening Heidi, well they made us both giggle and wonder .... what the hell is the matter with people these days. I mean really. The oysters we ordered were scrumptious. I should have ordered more, many many more. They were chilled perfectly and once we reminded our server we needed extra, well everything, ( napkins, forks, lemon and such) things went along swimmingly They were really yummy and I wish I had some right here, right now. So we left thankful to not have to endure our fellow "patioers" on a regular basis and with an assortment of very smallish leaves in our eyes and hair and ears. We had a really fun, laugh out loud, getting to know you, excellent time. For sure.
(3)
Kate G.

Love the happy hour at Jax: cheap oysters and martinis, how can you beat that! Deeeeelicious bloody marys with a mix they make right at the bar using a muddler on fresh cucumbers, tomatoes and jalapenos with salt. They have a big list of infused vodka martinis and cocktails for $3-4 too. My favorite is the cucumber. My other HH food favorites are the gumbo fries and seafood dynamite with spicy sauce drizzled on top. Sometimes the service can be a little off, and I'm sure that's due to how packed this place gets. But you can't get better, cheaper oysters in Denver.
(4)
Courtney B.

A group of us went back to Jax last night for restaurant week. I didn't have a great experience last time but I was open to giving Jax another chance and boy did they do it right! The food was delicious - ordered the lobster blt, couldn't resist - and the services was fantastic. Our server was on top of all our drink and food orders and made the experience top notch. Had a great time and can't wait to go back for more oysters!!
(5)
Doogie H.

Yum! This place is awesome! Great location in Denver! We went with about eight people for the 4th of July. Had reservations and were seated right away. I have to say, this is the best seafood (oysters esp) I've ever had in Denver. The staff was so friendly and knowledgeable on the different types of oysters. It is quite expensive, but great for birthday/special occasions. I can't wait to go back!
(4)
Carol H.

We had a fabulous time for my BF's birthday. Food was wonderful and service fabulous.
(5)
Amy B.

My husband and I love Jax! Their happy hour is the best, the staff is personable and knowledgeable. We come every couple of weeks and snack on oysters, mussels, and other goodies; we enjoy the atmosphere and awesome music. This place is not to be missed!
(5)
Jacque B.

Pros: - Oysters are fantastic... reasonably priced variety dozen... fresh and quite tasty. - Perfect dirty martini - fish was cooked perfectly, just a tad salty - all ages restaurant/bar Cons: - They don't serve lunch! I would be a regular if they did - Wait staff tries a little too hard to be white tablecloth in a bar setting I will be back...
(4)
Chandra W.

Dear Jax, I would like to thank you for having the best oysters in Denver, and while I understand that we are not only a mile above sea-level, but we are also pretty frickin' far away from a coast--yet, dear Jax, you don't let that stop you from delivering fresh seafood served in unpretentious dishes. As you probably know, I particularly enjoy the Kumomoto oysters from the raw bar, and of course, the PBR is always a plus. Your bartenders are fast, friendly, and willing to please; their new-age martinis are done well (and get the job done). I have heard that some are turned off by your loud, trendy clientele, but rest assured that I will not abandon you for such fickle reasons. Jax, this is the real thing, baby. Thanks and Love, Chandra
(4)
Ashley J.

One word. Calamari. Will be back just for the Calamari.
(5)
Danny H.

I came here with coworkers and had a blast. The server knew everything about the menu and had no issues with explaining each dish. The beer selection was great. Even though I'm not a huge seafood fan, I enjoyed all of the appetizers as well as my entree. Dessert was unreal.
(4)
Michael S.

I am from SC. First time here. Trout was fantastic. Service was best ever! Great experience!
(5)
Gina A.

Nothing makes me happier than 4-6 @ Jax. The food, that bar, nice people... LOVE IT. My favorite happy hour!
(5)
Liz A.

What a happy hour! Arrived about 5:15 pm (it's only a couple blocks from my office downtown, so was an easy walk) and it was already pretty packed. Managed to find space inside the bar against the back wall for myself and my 2 buddies, and took a look at the HH menu. Pretty good selection and what caught my eye the most were the $1 oysters and the selection of vodka-infused cocktail options. Ordered myself a drink while I waited for buddies to show up and probably the easiest drink order I've ever placed. Just yelled across the bar "Strawberry Lemonade" and about 10 secs later, it showed up. This lemonade was a delectable mix of strawberry infused vodka with lemonade. So yummy, I had 3 of them before we left that night! :) Friends arrived and we decided to order a couple dozen oysters and the calamari. Oysters were delicious and the calamari had a great flavor to it. My friends really enjoyed the $2.50 Coors Light drafts and I was quite content with my $4 cocktails. Overall, great place for happy hour but get there early, cause it fills up quick!
(4)
Christie C.

I haven't been here in years... My hubby and I went for my birthday. The food was great but the service got worse as the night continued. During our meal my husband order a beer. After the meal the server threw our dessert menu's down and disappeared. We were done, we just wanted the beer we ordered... anyway. They tried to make it up to us... maybe we will go back...The food was amazing!
(2)
Nikki B.

The only reason its not five stars? Slooooow service. Granted it was restaurant week so it was pretty busy for a Monday, but this service was so slow. Luckily, we had three courses to linger over so it wasn't as noticeable as it probably would have, but 1hour and 45 minutes for a meal is more than I can normally spend. While slow our waitress was exceptionally pleasant, helping out with wine suggestions, etc. The 5280 menu was actually quite diverse. I started with the Ceasar salad which was your standard, nothing special. I had the shrimp/linguini pasta due to an undying love of capers and it did not disappoint and then the vanilla dessert. All were really tasty. Overall, this place was really yummy had a great atmosphere and a really sweet waitress. Their restaurant week menu is also definitely worth trying. Random note - the booths are not as long as one might think the four of us were pretty close to each other.
(4)
Greg L.

I've never been to Jax for dinner, but it has one of the best happy hours in all of Denver. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is very lively and fun.
(5)
John S.

Little local place, fun staff, and a great bar. The seafood dynamite is to die for, crab and fish with a spicy cream sauce over it. The oysters are good but a bit pricey. Happy hour is awesome - cheap appetizers, $1 oysters and drink specials. Jax is a must try.
(5)
Laura B.

3 words: Mango Chile Mojo Served with the calamari...YUMO!!! The perfect sweet and spicyness. Goes great with my pineapple infused vodka martini at HH! I need to get back there...........
(4)
Lindsay G.

I grew up about 10 miles south of Philadelphia and, from an early age, never identified that living so close to the ocean was, in regards to fresh seafood, a geographic advantage. I was simply used to an unlimited inventory and never thought to question freshness or quality. There are many geographic advantages to living in the Rocky Mountains; however, I never would have imagined that I could reference, let alone praise, the seafood at one of Denver's fish houses/oyster bars. I give Jax five stars based on my entire experience, from the moment I entered and was upgraded to a much more comfortable table (even though the restaurant was packed), to my final beverage, which was comped because our server felt as if I'd waited too long to receive it. I ordered six oysters, two east coast and four west coast, all of which were briny and fresh. The shrimp and grits were unbelievable (I'm on a mission to find the best shrimp and grits in the US and these were top ten) and the blackened catfish was very fresh, crispy and paired well with beans and rice. I'd recommend Jax for a business dinner, a date, a social gathering or a solo dinner for someone passing through. Overall, the restaurant had great food, satisfying portions, excellent service and a fun ambiance.
(5)
Wes D.

Mmmmm.....oysters!!! If you are in the mood for oysters and seafood, Jax is a must. We recently stopped in for my brother-in-law's birthday (they give you a shirt on your birthday). We had 48 oysters between the four of us and shared 2 entrees. Everything was delicious. Our server was very knowledgeable although a little cheesy (we don't mind). he guided us through the oyster choices and sold us on dessert too (which was fabulous). I highly recommend this place. A few tips: try the lobster BLT and unless you're an expert at oysters let your server guide you.
(5)
Calla T.

Five star for happy hour. I love oyster shots and calamari. They also have some cucumber press drink that is soooo good. Get there early cause it fills up quick - try and get a seat at the bar, the bartenders are awesome and will give you great service. haven't been there outside of happy hour but will update when i do!
(5)
Chris M.

This place rocks! Why is it always busy? Guess? Great service, great food, some of the best oysters anywhere! Wierd that most of the negative reviews are from the 5280 and happy hour crowd (sarcastic). Go here, enjoy and embrace the great seafood (even freshwater fish, despite that dumb dumb review down the list). Always good and very high value. I'm sure if you have been there you know, if not GO!
(5)
Joel H.

Food was amazing! Nick and Quinn took excellent care of us. Will definitely be back next time in Denver.
(5)
jody z.

this review is for happy hour- it's awesome at Jax! like most people have said you can't beat the $1 oysters and infused vodkas...and don't forget oyster shots- essentially a small bloody mary with a slippery little oyster in the bottom of the glass! A must try, and not for the weak ;-) We got there about 5:30 and were able to get a spot on the patio and our server was great! Her name was juliette; she was attentive friendly, and has been there 12 years we found out! If you go I suggest you request to be seated in her section. I used to be a server in college, and I'm very picky about servers and she was fantastic! After a great happy hour we are looking forward to a dinner there in the near future!
(4)
Bryan D.

Consistently good! We ate their Saturday night and everything was awesome, except for the black cod. I had the Hawaiian escalor (sp?) and it was killer! My wife had the diver scallops which were excellent as well. Shelia rocks!
(4)
Jo T.

Oysters for 1.25 at happy hour, enough said. Some great other small bites as well.
(4)
Adam K.

Jax is a very good restaurant. I had a reservation so when we arrived (15 min late) we were seated immediately. The service was impeccable, even though they spilled an entire glass of water on me. I understand that accidents do happen and because of that, they comped us some drinks. The prices are fairly reasonable too. With 4 drinks, an appetizer, a salad, and 2 entrees we got out of there for under $100. I ordered a shrimp dish that left a little to be desired but it was still delicious. My date ordered a whitefish dish that she absolutely loved. I would still say that the one in Boulder is a little bit better but Jax in Denver still deserves 4 stars. There was nothing about the meal that I didn't like and I would return the first chance I got.
(4)
Sherri K.

It was so crowded and unfriendly, we didn't get to try the oyster special that was advertised, nor did we get a drink...or a table, or a chair...or even a hello from a bartender.
(2)
Amanda B.

We went to Jax on a Thursday night with some old friends to catch up.. Even though we were on the later side of the night (9:30, and they close the kitchen at 10:00) we were told to 'take our time, enjoy our cocktails and order when ready.' Our server, Jessica, was friendly, patient and recommended everything we were in the mood for (just didn't know it yet) Food was amazing, service was the best and we left with the notion to come back as often as possible.. I will recommend this place and Jessica to everyone... Thanks!
(5)
Ian R.

Took my girlfriend here in search of great Louisiana style cuisine. Has the feeling of New Orleans more so than Cajun French. We enjoyed the mussels. I also enjoyed the catfish, froglegs and the red beans and rice was really good. Very surprised I haven't been back yet but when you work in the Industry and live off of tips, more than sometimes people thinks it's OK to short you, so it's really hard to dine out and share the wealth with fellow Industry workers.
(4)
Krissy R.

This place was really good! I went here for a work dinner and was excited to see that there were a lot of unique fish options on the menu. The wine selections were plentiful and the service was outstanding. I ordered the pan seared halibut and for dessert I had some peanut butter chocolate pretzel ice cream, as well as some Captain Crunch ice cream (sounds weird but it was delicious). From what I understand, the menu changes every 6 weeks so there are always new options. I would go here again, but keep in mind that it's a little bit pricey-- especially if you order alcohol.
(4)
Michael S.

Review confined to the bar. SMART bartender. My pal and I came here after dinner. My pal is a Tequila guy. Knows a lot of them. I don't. But, I like Tequila. The bartender picked up on my pal's connoissance, and had us sampling the good to great stuff until last call. Forgot to ask the bartender his name. Tall guy, late twenties. Knows what he's doing. Fun.
(4)
Jacob R.

great food, great service. my mother's trout was undercooked in one part and they took both hers and my fathers off the bill. we didn't even ask them to. we just let them know it was slightly undercooked. just a great example of a place going the extra mile for service when not necessary. i will definitely go back. all of the other food was also amazing. i recommend.
(5)
a m.

I should have known better than to order a margarita in Denver! I had heard about this restaurant on Top Chef and made a special trip when I was in Denver. I went there after a Broncos game on a Sunday night and the area was hopping. Our party of three had no reservations and was seated very quickly. The entrance / bar is a cheesy/kitchey decor. The restaurant section consistend of a lot of wooden booths with all of the specials written on a huge chalkboard near the ceiling. My two dining companions are PBR aficionados, so they were happy with their can of beer. I ordered a Skinny Margarita, as I do in other metropolitan areas around the country. When the waitress set it down, all three of us threw our heads back from the smell of alcohol. The margarita was straight tequila with a twist of lime, and tasted like something from a college Harry Buffalo party. The waitress copped an attitude when I ask to "fix it". Even after she returned with the new drink, I couldn't drink it. The Shrimp Eggroll appetizer was good but not memorable. It was served with a jalapeno dipping sauce, which I liked very much. The meal -- all three of us ordered the Cioppino, which was their Sunday night special. The hearty tomato broth was fantastic with a hint of fennel and was ladened with tons of shellfish. I picked through the pasta, as I usually do, digging for the "important stuff". I always order Cioppino or Boulliabaise when it is on the menu, and I rank this up there with one of the best fish stews I have ever eaten. No complaints and it made me forget the poorly mixed cocktail that I had since pushed aside. I would definitely return when I'm in the area and would love to try some of their fresh fish next time. Parking was a surface lot around the corner that charged a few dollars but was unattended when we left.
(4)
Riley W.

I thought the food was good...I'm from Seattle, fresh seafood is actally really, really fresh. There is an oyster farm a few minutes from my house...I just have a hard time believing a restaurant in the middle of the country can produce the same result. The service was great though! Our server was on the ball. They don't deserve 5 starts, but I had a hard time giving them 3 too. The chicken crawdad jambalaya was excellent.
(4)
Monica L.

Wow, what can I even say about this place that will do it justice. Great food, exceptional service and wonderful ambiance. I brought my boyfriend here for our 6 year anniversary as well as his birthday and we were just tickled with our experience. Chris our server, was super down to Earth and developed great rapport with us. Honestly, going to upscale restaurants always makes me feel a little bit uncomfortable because I don't like feeling judged. Not once did I get the sense that I was imposing or being a nuisance or not making my stay here worth the servers time. When we took our order, Chris was quick to offer suggestions and provide his own experience with the food. He even offered us a sample of regional variety of oyster we had never tried so we could taste the difference. He was on point, never missed a chance to get us a drink or to gauge our satisfaction. It became pretty apparent to us that food is only half of the equation when it comes to selecting a restaurant. We all work so hard to make a living. Being able to really fully enjoy going out and experiencing the modern conveniences afforded to us is something very special. We felt like royalty here, and the service is what made that happen. I've never been to Jax prior to this occasion, but I hope to make it a regular occurrence. Why waste my money on mediocre food and service when I know that I can come here and be treated so well in addition to knowing I won't be disappointed with the quality of the food. It is a no brainer. I highly recommend that you make a reservation here.
(5)
Joe B.

I'll start by saying best seafood eatery I've been too. No questions asked.....best. I've been to Jax on several occasions mostly for the happy hour bites and drinks. Some things you can't miss: oysters, curry muscles, hush puppies and the calamari. These items are simply amazing and deadly delicious. If you go, ask for Jose. His service truly exemplifies the definition of service.
(5)
Jerad L.

Great happy hour and atmosphere. Great cocktails and oysters. The rest of the food I've tried (calamari, poke, gumbo fries) is not impressive. But the atmosphere, location, service and oysters keep me coming back time after time. Cool spot.
(4)
Jimmy N.

I'm a fan of Jax, KC location and this one. They just get it, top notch customer service and the most interesting seafood menu. I'm you're in the area and looking for responsibly sourced seafood, look no more. Our server, Sally, was awesome. I hope to come back to visit here soon. Cheers...
(5)
Ashley Rae T.

My first impression of Jax was great. I was visiting family and brought them along so our party was rather large (six). Instead of forcing us to sit outside or wait and make a reservation the manager quickly put together a table for us. Not exactly the easiest task as this place really is a counter bar with table seating. Our server was super attentive and helpful and every table was covered in white craft paper. I'm sure it's meant for easy cleanup but they leave crayons so I had to leave behind a masterpiece. My first drink was the strawberry lemonade ($5: house infused strawberry vodka, lemonade) and while I'm not big on vodka I enjoyed this refreshing take on a summer staple. The lemonade wasn't too tart and the infused vodka had a good strawberry flavor. Next was the gumbo fries which is Jax's version of poutine. I would have liked the fries to be a bit more crispy, but the gumbo was a nice twist. The andouille gave this dish a more hearty base than their regular cup of gumbo, but the flavor was lacking real depth. To round out my visit I tried the bacon fat chicken wings which was sadly the most disappointing dish of the night. I had very high hopes for these wings because bacon = greatness. The wings didn't inherently have a bacon flavor nor did they evoke any bite from the chili sauce. The crÃ¨me fraÃ®che seemed out of place on the actual wing adding nothing of note.
(4)
Harry F.

Liz was our server. Request her. Phenomenal. Great food, great service, great atmosphere. Oysters happy hour is out of this world. Monday night happy hour is all night. I will definitely be back
(5)
Claudine M.

I have no idea why it took me this long to visit Jax, maybe because it was always busy when we stopped by but for good reason- It's super good! We came here for happy hour on a Friday so the place was lively! They have cool decorations like you're under the sea kind of. They have a patio to chill and have food and drinks outside to enjoy the weather. They also have a bar with all the oysters you can see being shucked and prepared. Plus the tables have paper sheets you can actually color with for the kids at hearts! The food and drinks were all delicious! My favorite drink was the strawberry lemonade. We got the $1.5 oysters, chicken wings, salmon poke and the sliders. Ahhhh I love oysters! And this hit the spot for me! So good! The wigs were messy, as it should be and good. Not as crispy as I like but nonetheless amazing. The salmon poke was actually a sweetly dish for me than savory which was very interesting. It came with sticky rice like the ones they use for sushi! Yum! The sliders were great as well! We miraculously had room for coffee and dessert. We had a coffee press and got the s'mores tart. Super rich! It was good but I wish the chocolate was smoother and lighter.
(4)
Jorge M.

Saw the Happy Hour sign and gave it a try. Sat by the raw bar where you see that action taking place. I had a dozen oysters, a small pork belly bite, and dynomite seafood sandwich. The oysters were fresh and shucked in front of you while you wait. They were salty and no brine or sand at all inside. Great with the cocktail and horseradish sauce and lemon. I also had the peel and eat shrimp. They were good and tasty. The restaurant was had plenty of seating inside with additional seating at the bar. It was clean and well kept. The staff was friendly.
(4)
Elyse L.

From reservation to dessert, dining at Jax in LoDo was fantastic! I took my husband there to celebrate a job promotion and when I called to make reservations, I mentioned it. The call taker was very pleasant and friendly and made sure to repeat the reservation time. When we arrived on a Saturday at 5pm, the table was ready for us and it was happy hour-thank goodness! We both indulged in adult beverages and I had the cucumber, lemonade, vodka, and sparkling water cocktail that was so refreshing. We shared three appetizers: curry mussels, fresh oysters, and sockeye salmon poke. The first two were excellent, but the poke was just ok (it rhymes, get it?!). For our entrees we ordered and shared the Arctic Char and a lobster roll with a cornbread skillet side. Omg, they were so tasty and fresh! We were in love with both, but I am a sucker for lobster and loved the generous fresh lobster meat and greens on a toasted, buttery hotdog bun. The corn skillet was so comforting, sweet, and satisfying. The char was very delicate and moist. It was such an amazing dinner for two ex-Floridians who miss seafood! Finally, we ended the meal with a surprise ice cream dessert with a candle to celebrate the work promotion. I can't believe they remembered and even did anything. It was a delicious, sweet end to a great meal...but that isn't all I have to say about the experience. What I noticed is that all of the staff at Jax LoDo help each other out. Our waitress was fantastic, but she wasn't the only person we had meaningful contact with. There was a manager and a server who chatted with us. Everyone looked like they took care of each other and that impressed us. Everything was seamless and professional. We are head over heals for Jax and can't wait to go back for happy hour and dinner again!
(5)
Josh R.

What can I say...... From start to finish this meal was exceptional! The food was incredible, every flavor, every bite carefully planned to perfection. The staff are amazing and the bar is beautifully decorated! Try one of everything, you can't go wrong!
(5)
Anisa R.

Happy Hour review only. Sat outside on patio on a Rockies game night. 24 oysters for $36, 1lb peel and eat shrimp for $12, 2 sides of fries for $3 each and a couple of drinks. All for a low, low price of $98. For Happy Hour!!! The oysters were small east coast, barely worth $1.50 each. Fries were over cooked, shrimp was overdone as well. Drinks were the highlight. Recommend the vanilla Spiced sangria (seasonal) $6 and the strawberry lemonade $5. Would go back for dinner to get quality (albeit expensive) seafood but will go elsewhere for oysters and HH. And service was great.
(3)
Jess H.

I've only been to happy hour, but I was a fan of the seafood on the hh menu (oysters, calamari, and mussels). It wasn't particularly cheap,and if fact, if you're looking to save a buck, this isn't the place. The seafood was fresh, and the servers were helpful and knowledgeable and attentive. I was visiting from out of town, and typically, I wouldn't eat seafood in Denver (because I've lived on the coast for most of my life), but I definitely approve of this place. Pro tip: the mussels in the panang sauce are excellent!
(4)
Tom E.

Last Saturday, I took my buddy out for his birthday. I asked him if he liked seafood (have not had any in a while!). He said yea. So the next part was scoring a reservation. Thanks to the trusty Yelp app, I snagged one for 8:45 that night. We were running right on time, and checked right in. Hang tight on that thought. This place offers valet parking, has (very limited) street parking, and 2 paid lots, if you choose to drive. Being that time on a Saturday night, this place was mobbed. I wish I could emphasize the word "mobbed" more. I saw an occupancy sign that said 97. Hang tight on that thought (I keep jumping the gun, I know). The restaurant itself is a corner unit of a brick building 2 blocks from Union Station. The restaurant is long and narrow. The bar takes up the middle, and there is bar seating all the way up and down. To the left of the bar that wall has booth seating, and to the right wall, more bar seating. There is also a patio, but it was not put in use (cold n windy). After checking in, it was a very crowded area. I kept feeling like I was in everyone's way (which I was). This place is very cozy, to say the least. We were waiting about 10-15 min, and a manager apologized. She ended up buying us some beer (nice!). That kept our buzz going. We finally got seated. There were apologetic about the wait. It was fine, as long as we would get fed. I liked how they had the paper for table"cloth" you could draw on. Trust me, I did. Started off with the small chilled seafood platter. They gave us bibs to wear, I am glad they did! Hacked at that, it was solid. You could tell the seafood was fresh, and not previously frozen. I guess I would hope so for the price! Believe it or not, we were still hungry. Mind you we were pounding drinks during the whole time, I couldn't tell you what I had, I had so many. After that, we were still hungry. We both ended up getting the Jax burger, and some house bread. Yo, after a bunch of seafood, it was awesome! I liked the toppings on the burger and bread was a great booze soaker. I honestly can't remember if we got dessert or not, I do know I got a dessert drink. That was a delicious 1 sipper. All in all, the evening was nice. It wasn't cheap, but worth it. Hell. I even left out of there with the bib on.
(4)
Dave F.

Amazing!!! Start with the calamari and try the gumbo soup. The halibut is small but yummy!
(5)
Colter H.

Great for Happy Hour; not sure about after. Jax offers a great Happy Hour, but it seems to be the only way you can get a meal in without emptying the piggy bank. Some favorites are the Calamari, Seafood Dynomite Sliders, and raw oysters (of course). That said, portion sizes are on the small side, and dinner plates jump to $30+, which seems high for the casual nature of the food and atmosphere. As far as beverages, the drink menu is pretty average, with a typical beer list and a few rotating taps. While the food is ok, I think there are some better options in the area with similar pricing. I would give a confident 3.5 stars if it were an option.
(3)
Tiffany L.

We absolutely loved it here!! Very chill atmosphere, great food, and awesome service. Make sure you definitely get the calamari and Rockefeller oysters, yummy!! Our server Lizzie was awesome and very knowledgeable! I would definitely come back! Oh and happy hour all day and night Mondays!! Side note- don't recommend big groups.. Kind of small. Good for like 4 or less.
(5)
Mona K.

Sat at the bar and ordered oysters at happy hour. Very fresh and extremely affordable! Great with hot sauce. Super crowded around happy hour but the wait isn't long. Will definitely get more oysters next time!
(4)
Jenny P.

I've only come here for Happy Hour which is not a bad deal for all the various types of seafood. They have pretty good drink specials too with cocktails for only $4. My favorite is the Strawberry Lemondae but I'm a sucker for strawberries. You can also get Oyster Shooters for $3 which is actually pretty good considering I'm not a huge fan of tomato juice. For the food, I like Salmon Poke and the chicken wings. My friends really like the mussells but I'm not a huge coconut milk fan but if you are then its delicious! The burger and the hush puppies are also pretty good. All n all, a fun place to go after work for Happy Hour.
(4)
Nika G.

I came to Jax Fish House for my birthday dinner and it turned out to be one of my favorite bday dinners I've ever had! Though the initial impression was not so good because the hostess was MIA for about 10 minutes, the rest of my experience was excellent. The interior reminds me of restaurants in New York - cozy, exposed brick, dim lighting, great background music. I especially loved that the booths were designed to be back to back with other guests, rather than side to side by them - it allowed for a more cozy and romantic experience. Our waitress was incredible, super attentive and helpful. The food was so delicious, and because we were there on a Tuesday we got to indulge in all night happy hour and try out a ton of their menu offerings. The fish was some of the best i've had in Denver. Overall I absolutely loved dining at Jax and can't wait to be back soon.
(5)
Andy E.

One of the best meals I have ever had. Salmon Pastrami Sandwich. Service was amazing. Food off the charts creative. Daniel runs the bar, and is great. They set a new standard. Thank you. Thank you.
(5)
Natalia K.

You can see my latest review with photos here: coloradobites.com/best-hâ€¦ I'm from San Francisco and oysters are my favorite food. There's a few places in Denver that do happy hour oysters, but this is my favorite (and they serve HH oysters during lunch M-F, too). That should say a lot. DRINKS Definitely try the Cucumber Lemon Press. It's refreshing, not too sweet or too bitter, and pretty much perfect ($4 during HH). FOOD You come here for the oysters, and then you stay until you've eaten everything else. THE OYSTERS ARE $1.25 DURING HAPPY HOUR! No one else does that in LoDo anymore (the Kitchen raised prices, and Le Grand closed). Some other things I absolutely love here include: - Peel n' Eat Shrimp (1/2 lb for $12) - they come in a delicious chili powder and spicy mayo sauce for some added flavor - Steamed Mussels (1/2 lb for $8) - definitely try the Panang Curry ones in a thai curry with peanuts and coconut milk; it's delicious and different from the mussels you'll have anywhere else - Clam Chowder - with big steamed clams and bacon, made to order and perfect on a cold day. HAPPY HOUR Every day, 4pm-6pm / $3-4 cocktails and $3-$6 food Oysters: $1.25 during happy hour, or 11:30am-6pm M-F
(5)
Lynda M.

I've been to Jax many times over the years and I can tell you that they have really stepped up their game. The food was the freshest I've ever tasted. The chef pays such close attention to detail that the food has so many very simple but complimentary flavors. This food kind of reminds me of the food I ate growing up near the ocean in the south of France. I mean, even the break had amazing texture. It tasted like REAL food. Not some mass-produced glob of deadness. The gumbo was literally better than any I had tasted in New Orleans, and I'm literally CRAVING to go back asap. My partner had the wedge salad and every little bit of that salad was created with so much attention to detail in the complexity of the flavor. The bacon was amazing, the dressing was house made with the perfect lightness and just the right amount of tang... it was divine. The homemade clam chowder actually was a CHOWDER and not some white chunky mess of slop. Great service, too.
(5)
Shenique T.

Great food and service! Staff are friendly, patient, and knowledgeable. Food is fresh and seasoned to perfection. Definitely an interesting and intriguing menu that pairs a variety of foods! I would definitely visit this establishment again when in town.
(4)
Laura H.

Loved this place! Super cute inside. Outdoor patio too. Food was awesome! The server spilled the calamari on the table and brought us a new one and an extra appetizer on the house. Great service! Would totally recommend this for a happy hour or a nice dinner date.
(5)
Bonnie C.

Amazing Calamari! Enjoyed it with my glass of Prosecco. We just came in for the appetizer and sat at the bar. Great time!
(4)
Daniel P.

Amazing catfish sandwich. After eating this catfish, I really need to go back and lower my Lost Cajon reviews because this is how catfish should be made. Great happy hour specials. Calamari and beers and drinks all excellent. Smores dessert amazing. Amazing service from Noah.
(5)
Brittany S.

We went here for a few pre baseball drinks and snacks. The options for drinks where very good as they make them right in front of you. Also, you can watch them shuck open the oysters, which to me is cool to watch considering we live in CO. The prices are somewhat expensive, but hey thats the cost we pay by living in a land locked state.
(4)
Eric F.

Eat like a king during happy hour. Great drink specials and amazing food. Oyster on the half shell for $1.25. Peel and eat shrimp for $6 with amazing mustard base sauce. Mussels have three options and the sockeye salmon poke is amazing for the price. You will leave here happy for sure between 4 -6.
(5)
Jordan D.

Fantastic food from top to bottom. Chef de Cuisine Sam Pepper prepared some of the best seafood I've eaten in Denver, and I can't wait to return.
(5)
Will D.

Best cold bar seafood in town. Hands down. For a table, reservations are a must. The bar is always full... Go early.
(5)
Andrew R.

I'm quite certain that I will never be returning to Jax. I stopped by for happy hour last week with a few friends after work. Upon arriving we were notified that we would not be permitted to sit at a table until our entire party had arrived (We were 2/4 upon arriving). Being the flexible patrons, and understanding industry professionals, that we are we saw no problem with this, and decided to have a drink at the bar until we were permitted to sit down. After 5 minutes or so the third member of our party arrived. We decided to ask the hostess if we could sit and order food while we waited for our 4th. We were told no. We then explained that it wasn't as though we would be sitting and waiting, we fully intended to enjoy the happy hour menu while we waited. Again we were told no. We then asked what the difference between a 3 and 4 person table was. The hostess, catching on to our logic, then approved of our idea. However, she informed us that the table was, "reserved for a party at 7pm," and that she would need it by then. This comment caught me off guard for a few reasons: 1) It was very rude, 2) There were plenty of open tables, why wouldn't she sit us somewhere else? 2) It was 5:15, and we had already told her we were there to enjoy happy hour. How long do most people, "happy hour" for? So if nothing else, our experience with the dining room management was horrible. If only that had been the end of it... We ordered the calamari, the mussels, the peel 'n eat shrimp, a few sliders, and of course several dozen oysters. -The calamari was actually quite good. I've had a few different versions in Denver that were either over fried, or too greasy. Jax did a nice job with their calamari. -The oysters were fine. They were unimpressive in size, taste, and texture, but for $1.50 a pop I'm not one to complain. -The mussels were a huge disappointment. Soaked in an overly buttery broth that contained bits of bacon, it was clear the restaurant had no interest in showing off their seafood, but instead with disguising it with as much butter and bacon as possible. -The peep 'n eat shrimp were a huge disappointment. They were served at room temperature, and doused in old bay seasoning. They were nicely arranged on the plate, but that was the only high part of them. -The cocktail sauce. When we inquired about cocktail sauce we received a puzzled look from our waitress as she looked down at the saucer in front of us that contained ketchup with a dollop of horseradish. Call me old fashioned, but taking a container of ketchup, adding horseradish sauce, and labeling it, "cocktail sauce" is like mixing vodka and lemonade and calling it a long island ice tea. At this point I was embarrassed for the restaurant. My favorite part of our meal was the fish sliders. Although, I was a little put off when I asked the waitress what kind of fish was in the sliders and she had no idea. Not even a guess. She couldn't even inquire with the kitchen? Or just make something up? I get that a seafood restaurant shouldn't be rated by their happy hour menu, but I mean...seriously? After such a lousy experience at happy hour, and dropping ~$150.00 between the 4 of us, I don't see a reason to return for dinner. The best part of the meal was the beer, and I can get that without being hassled about where to sit somewhere else.
(1)
Khai B.

Excellent food, beautifully presented; staff is friendly and courteous. Love this place. Highly recommended
(5)
Cindy P.

We went for dinner but got there before happy hour was over, so ended up ordering off the happy hour menu. We had the Sockeye Salmon Poke that was incredible. The iceberg wedge, calamari and hush puppies finished out our choices. Everything was outstanding! We even topped it off with the s'more dessert that was absolutely sinful. The waiter was great, too! It was a recommendation from a local, and we were thrilled with our experience.
(5)
Velimir R.

We dined here on a Sunday evening. Only one other table occupied. Food is mediocre and overpriced. We ordered tuna, a burger and fish fillet. Portions are far from generous and the burger bun was chewy. Burger came with chips, similar to Lay's. Server was friendly however and brought us orders quickly.
(2)
Ashley C.

Best happy hour in Denver. Best place for seafood. Their oysters, lobster roll, peel n eat shrimp, mussels, and crab legs are out of this world. Thank you jax. Seriously, thank you. They could make their hh drinks a little more boozie. The sea dog is also outstanding! I want to get the tower next time.
(5)
Michael C.

Loved this place. Went here for a last minute Sunday night date with my wife and we definitely made the right choice. The restaurant has a fun vibe with the decoration and music but the food and service really is the reason to come. The bartender was attentive but not overbearing and the Colorado Trout and Alaskan Halibut dishes were some of the best sea food I've had in quite a while. Topped it all off with a S'mores Tarte prepared right in front of us which was to die for. Highly recommend for sea food downtown in a fun environment.
(5)
Jessie E.

The food and drinks were top of the line along with entertaining oyster shuckers! The only area for improvement I saw during our recent visit was being able to get the bartender's attention; granted, our reservations were on a Saturday evening but there were long intervals in check-ins at the bar. Since we were having a leisurely evening this wasn't much of an issue but we did wind up running late to our next venue. We ordered 1/2 dozen of 2 different styles of oysters and had the calamari along with it. My boyfriend drank the "Peg Leg" and thoroughly enjoyed that cocktail and I had the Malbec. We finished our dinner with the chocolate mousse which also had dehydrated blueberries, granola, and chocolate nibs in it. The mousse was to die for! Amazingly creamy texture, rich flavor, and was a perfect size for two individuals to share. We enjoyed the blueberries as a fruity break to the richness but there was an excessive amount and we wound up picking out the majority of them. Overall an enjoyable dinner and definitely is on our list to return to.
(4)
Cyndi J.

My husband took me here for my birthday dinner. There is valet parking, which I find to be very handy in the city! The staff here is very friendly and professional. I got carded when I ordered my cocktail (the Wonka), and my server noticed that it was my birthday. Without making a big scene, he brought me a birthday dessert with a candle - a warm brownie with chocolate sauce and ice cream, delicious! No one sang to me (thankfully!), but a few of the staff stopped by to say happy birthday. It was a very nice touch. We started with Kumamoto oysters. They were very fresh and delicious. I wish they had served it with a mignonette, though, instead of cocktail sauce, but it was still good. My husband had gazpacho. It was well flavored. We also had the buttermilk bread. I had an almond-crusted halibut with roasted summer root vegetables. The fish was cooked perfectly. The crust was a nice touch. The vegetables were flavorful and a nice compliment. I enjoyed my entire experience here!
(5)
Jonathan B.

This is my new favorite in Denver. Excellent fish. Lively atmosphere. Knowledgeable staff. We had just a great time and had awesome food. Start with the Emersum oysters. These are their proprietary oysters and they are great. We had the pickled sardines too which was an awesome appetizer. My wife's spaghetti dish had the best octopus I have ever had. It was all great. I highly recommend it and I can't wait to go back for happy hour.
(5)
Joe W.

Best calamari I've ever had. Spicy and savory sauces are excellent. Fun atmosphere with nice ascetics.
(4)
Elizabeth K.

Jax is pumping with a young professional vibe. The atmosphere is sophisticated and hot with energy. The centerpiece is the mandatory fish tank filled with a plethora of neon tropical fish jetting in and out of a coral background. The food is delectable starting with extraordinary oysters, Peanut Oil Seared Hamachi, and Sriracha Shrimp Eggrolls. The Prince Edward Island Mussels are a unique rarity to savor with a devilishly hot red curry cream sauce that will make your eyes water and your taste buds scream for more. * The one fluke to forget to order is the oyster shooter. A concoction of bad bloody marry mix and too much tobacco is sure to make you queasy before you reach the last slimy slurp- Yuck! The Summer Specialties include a Deep South spin-off of Mississippi Catfish served blacked or fried, Watercress Pesto Crusted Jumbo Scallops and Prawns drenched in a delicate lemoncello syrup-Yummy and Panko Crusted Halibut accented by a chili-soy shrimp cake, cilantro sesame cream, and enveloped in a yazu-cherry compote. -Very sophisticated. The raw bar features Peel and Eat Shrimp, too meticulous to try and a disastrous decision leading to a first date folly. The suggestion for an accomplished impression is the Chilled Seafood Sampler Platters, which highlight a display of crab, lobster, oysters, and mussels with a minimal amount of peel and eat crustaceans. Also and elegant selection, the Lobster and Alaskan King Crab which can only be exquisite but will bruise the wallet to the waiter's delight. The service is smooth with a steady evolution of food and an accomplished style not always found in modern dining. There is no cappuccino but coffee will do and the Cappuccino Creme Brule is a sweet and smoky substitute. Jax Fish House is a trendy must go if you enjoy oceanic delicacies. P.S. Jax boasts in bold on their menu, "Jax Fish House proudly supports fisheries and purveyors that are environmentally conscious and fish legally from sustainable waters."-A statement which one can only applaud.
(4)
Jay N.

This was my favorite Denver restaurant for years, so perhaps last night's average meal was simply an off-night for the kitchen. Service was great, and we shared a wonderful bottle of wine I'd never seen before. The pumpkin soup was far too thick and flavorless and the cod overwhelmed with a rich cream or butter sauce. I'll surely try the restaurant again.
(3)
Steven M.

Great service, great food. Nothing speaks of Jax better or more simply.
(5)
Too S.

My fiance and I went here to celebrate our anniversary. We made reservations for a Friday on OpenTable.com . They did try to sit us at a table in the back in the middle of the server station which we declined and were promptly sat at an intimate table by the window. It was the end of October so the Alaskan King Crab had just arrived fresh. Steep at $55 for a cluster which was two claw legs and the body but the BEST CRAB I HAVE EVER HAD. The seasonal menu also just changed. We shared the Shrimp and Grits which had this yummy smoked pork flavored kale and the Jax Oysters that had these marinated local mushrooms that were to die for. Great service, affordable drinks. Will definately be back!
(5)
Nate T.

Overall I think this is a great choice for seafood and/or atmosphere downtown. I would consider the food to be above average, and the atmosphere to be excellent. This is a fun place if you just want to sit at the bar for happy hour, grab a few drinks and oysters. Who knows, maybe that will roll into dinner. I like the calamari, the lobster BLT, and the fish tank located behind the bar. Maybe I'm a sucker, but the decor in the place is pretty good, and I promise you that I usually don't notice those things.
(4)
Winston C.

Jax is probably some of the best seafood in Denver. They have a really good happy hour and the entrees are creative. Their salmon was fresh and unique and the portion was large relative to what it cost. I thought the service could have been better, it was a little slow and the restaurant wasn't that busy. I would go back again, but eat at the bar.
(3)
Penny H.

When I was in college in Boulder (many moons ago), Jax on the West End of Pearl Street was my favorite place to make my dad take me for lunch when he was in town for business. Fast forward, I still love Jax. Although I have experienced the attitude exhibited by the host staff(and ended up across the street at McCormick's due to it), that has not been the case in any of my last visits. Dinner last night was with two girlfriends before one left to go to Canada for 8 weeks. The service was excellent - not rushed or overdone but just right. We ordered oysters and our waiter made a great recommendation for a variety that none of us had tried and quite enjoyed. Main course: I would highly recommend the steelhead. It was wonderful!!! As a Southerner by birth, I usually order the catfish (either blackened or fried), but I went out on a limb and was not disappointed. Overall, I love the atmosphere, they have oysters and lots of them, the food is consistently innovative and yummy, and if they have it, try the sangria sorbet - delish!!
(5)
Nhoi O.

Good food. The atmosphere was a bit dark.
(4)
Jim B.

Fresh fish is not normally what one thinks when visiting Denver. Jax was good. I had the Marlin which was on special tonight and was nicely ( very rare) prepared though they would do well to sharpen the knives that they serve with it. Our table shared some mixed raw seafood starters. The oyster , was pretty good for what you get in the US even though the oysters obviously had a ways to travel to get there. Another in our party had the scallops which were also very nice.
(3)
peter s.

This place is the best in Denver when it comes to fresh seafood. Whether you are looking for Kumamotos or Crablegs I wouldn't go anywhere else. I celebrate every special occasion I can here with a pound of the most flavorful peel and eat shrimp I've had anywhere. I couldn't recommend it more.
(5)
Tasha N.

My boyfriend and I love oysters so when we saw this restaurant while in Denver on vacation we popped in. We only had 45 minutes before our dinner date across town but figured it was only oysters, it shouldn't take too long. We were seated right away at the bar and our order of a dozen oysters and two glasses of water were taken right away. And then we waited and waited. As we waited we watched one of the chefs cook as his prep station was right in front of us. I felt like I was watching a live version of Chopped. So much fun to watch him cook. Anyway, another waiter came over and asked if we had been helped. We stated we were waiting for our waters and oysters. Immediately two glasses of water appeared and our new waiter apologized "two glasses of water shouldn't take that long". When our oysters appeared we started talking to the chef working in front of us. We mentioned we had dinner plans across town but would be back after for another round of oysters and wanted to know how the ceviche tasted. Much to our surprise he gave us each a small sample. The food was delicious and I am very sad we didn't make it back for more. This is a must on your tour of Denver!
(5)
Michael E.

Jax Fish house is my go to place when I want fresh cold water oysters. Still new to Denver I am sure there is others. The place is loud and boisterous but the sound is from the joy of good food and sharing a meal with another. They understand reservations and have been seated within a short period every time. Service is good. I have stayed with oysters and king crab the times I have gone but they are the reason I go. Food to me is an enjoyable part of the day and being able to use my hands with the oysters and breaking up the crab gives a primal joy. Decent wine list. The next time I have a hunger for seafood I will be back a JAX
(4)
Chip W.

Second time the wife and I headed to Jax for the Oysters Happy Hour...just as good the second time. I am not an oyster fan, but my wife wolfed down 18 pretty fast...I had the chicken crawfish gumbo...yum...fries were decent, slightly undercooked. Bartenders were friendly and efficient....
(5)
Jeff J.

Good fish house, they make their own rum. Spicy but good. Good local seafood house, not too touristy
(4)
James W.

A buddy of mine worked across the street from this place. I'd meet him on Fridays and we'd chat, drink martinis, and suck down a dozen or so oysters. The first place I had oysters and to date they're some of the best. Hell, I even live in Seattle now and I have yet to find a place that's as good as Jax's.
(5)
Tom C.

Fun, Easy, Good Food!
(5)
James H.

Drinks, oysters and pork chops - a fantastic selection. Great array of raw and cooked oysters, the pork chop was incredible. Great service as well
(4)
Carrie R.

This place was apparently so concerned with looking hip and hiring good-looking people that they forgot that the most important part of being a restaurant isn't image, it's *food.* I can't review the food, because I never got any! Read on... The atmosphere was uncomfortable and snooty. A not-so-cheerful hostess sat us at a slightly sticky table surrounded by loud, pretentious, over-boozed clientele as we waited and waited and waited for some server to acknowledge us or someone to bring us water. As we sat there looking at the menu, we realized that no one was going to make us pay that much money to eat stuff that just didn't sound that good as we got treated like crud. So we walked out, never to return again. Just as no one noticed that we sat there for 20 minutes looking hungry and thirsty, no one noticed that we left looking angry and indignant. So maybe they do serve great oysters, but I'll never know. You couldn't pay me to step foot in there again. There's other fish in the sea, even if there's barely any other seafood in LoDo.
(1)
jon s.

My girlfriend and I were wondering around downtown last week and stumbled upon Jax. Needless to say I was anything but disappointed. They had Oysters and Shrimp on special for Happy Hour. Extreamley Tasty might I add. They also had a few specialty beers that were pretty cheap considering they were micro-brewed. I will return here and recommend trying this place out. The staff was laid back and fun to be around.
(4)
Archer D.

In the spirit of full disclosure, I did grow up on the Chesapeake Bay, which in my biased view has the best seafood in the world. Nice restaurant, good food, very over priced for middle of the road seafood. I would normally chalk the over priced seafood to being located in a land locked state, but Oceanaire (a chain, so embarrassing) not only had better seafood, ambiance, and prices. The biggest rip off is the shell fish platter, priced at a insane $120, with quality on par with red lobster (or at least what I assume they would have red lobster) Everything else is more reasonable, but still overpriced for what you get.
(2)
Beth H.

Very good but we like seafood somewhat more plain than the way it is prepared here. That being said, the calamari is amazing - just make sure to ask for the sauces on the side. The spicy sauce is HOT!
(4)
Elizabeth H.

I love seafood, and this is by far the worst I've had in Denver. I probably would have enjoyed Red Lobster more (and that says a lot)
(2)
Dana M.

peel n eat shrimp..... I dream about it!!!
(5)
Marisa M.

While I have never actually sat down at a table and eaten at Jax, I have frequented their happy hour many times and it is great. We always order the fried calamari (perfectly cooked and in a delicious sauce), oyster shooters (very tasty and recently grew to almost martini sized portions), and their strawberry lemonade cocktails (refreshing and well made). The crown jewel of the happy hour is the oysters. The oysters are always fresh and have been very large in size as of late. A dozen tends to be more than enough and rings in at only $12. The bar area does get crowded and I recommend making it there by 4 on the weekends and running out the office door at 5 if you plan on going there during the week.
(5)
JR R.

Perfect.... If you like week-old fish and egregious service! What a disappointment. Was greeted by the smell of poorly stored fish and a smug hostess. Food was bland at best, and with respect to the oysters and clams, bordering on rancid. The only good news.... My friends and I managed to avoid food poisoning.... Somehow! Planning on Jax, do yourself a favor and go across the street to McCormacks. The food, and especially the service, is worlds better.
(1)
Suz A.

I don't know if this public knowledge but the Lodo Jax has a very impressive wine list. Just AWESOME! Thanks Jax for turning us onto some super cool wines.
(5)
Ambur C.

The husband and I decided to visit the infamous happy hour at Jax...on a Tuesday. We got there right around 4p (happy hour is from 4-6), and found a high-top table to sit at. Our server was fantastic -- in fact, I'd even go so far as to call him the benchmark for the industry. Attentive without being obtrusive, knowledgeable, and an extremely approachable personality. Phew! Now let's talk about the food. Absolutely fantastic -- happy hour offers calamari, oysters, mussels, buffalo shrimp, gumbo... all for around $4 (oysters are $1 ea). We had the calamari and both flavors of mussels (red curry sauce and a traditional white wine/lemon/garlic sauce). Everything was fabulous! $2 PBRs, $3.00 wells, $4 house wines, $2.50 Coors Light.... best happy hour I've had all day. :)
(4)
Michelle S.

Happy Hour was awesome. After going to the Rockies game we hit up a few happy hours and this was by far my favorite. First off you can't beat $1 oysters! They were delicious and we had one oyster that was really 3 so we got a bonus :) I started off with a cucumber infused vodka mixed with lemonade and soda. It was so refreshing and I couldn't taste anything but cucumber, yum! After that I had a mango tango which is made with a house infused pineapple tequila, this just tasted like an awesome margarita. We also had 1/2 a pound of shrimp and they were seasoned really well and were delicious. The staff behind the bar was awesome, everyone was happy and having a good time and chatted with us for a little. I guessed what the infused vodka was next to the cucumber one and scored big points because apparently no one every gets it right. I know that I will be back here as often as I can manage to get to a happy hour because I had so much fun!
(5)
Ryan F.

Great atmosphere, service was as good as you can expect. Menu was really interesting, and had some twists on your normal fish house standbyes. Food was delicious.
(4)
Anthony J.

Sat at the bar and really enjoyed this spot. Great oyster selection, sampler plates, and friendly service (what a concept). We went with the malpeque oysters, lobster tail, crab legs, and shrimp sampler. Perfect for two people. Cocktails were solid, pour good have been stiffer..but I am a lush so consider the source. Little crowded at the bar, but that's a good sign right? All in all a great spot for seafood and a cocktail or seven.
(4)
Jay J.

Great seafood, knowledgable staff, best dining experience we've had in Colorado.
(5)
Kelsey C.

Jax is amazing. I have been going here for years and it never disappoints me! The fish is fresh and delicious and the salads are to die for. I love oysters and this place has on the best. One can choose from east coast or west coast (my favorite) and the staff knows everything about each choice. Basically, you won't be disappointed. Even if you're not a huge fan of fish, the salads and other items will have you salivating. Just GO THERE!
(5)
JourneyCC C.

Great atmosphere, not always the seafood selection you want (Like what seafood place doesn't have salmon, halibut, or swordfish).....anyway, the hostess greeted us well and our server was funny and hailed us a cab when we left. The online reservation was nice feature. Food is upper class, original and a slight walk off the beaten path without being bizarre. Definitely going back here!
(4)
Andrew G.

This will be brief as the 'man' doesn't appreciate me writing reviews on 'his time'. Took a first date for dinner. The service was excellent (when I made my reservation, I told them this was a special night...they went well out of their way to make it so). At times the pretentious atmosphere can get in the way of the overall experience, but this time...it was all good. The fare was also excellent, they gave us a special appetizer we didn't ask for and that wasn't on the menu (for the special night)...very very tender scallops. We both had the Mahi Mahi, again pretty good for being landlocked at 5200 ft. Overall, they made the meal and the night memorable...take your date and ask for some extra attention and your night will start out just right.
(4)
John H.

Its this simple: When you walk in the door, the bartender knows what you want without having to say anything and your drink gets to your seat before you do. You can't put a price on that kind of service.
(4)
Dana K.

After reading many reviews of Jax, decided to give it a try with some associates from work, and overall glad I did. Like the previous writer getting a waiter to actually take our order was a bit of a struggle at first, although he became more attentive after that rough start. Made it just in time for happy hour, which was worth the rush. Definitely one of the best I've been to in while, especially because of the oysters. Be forewarned while they have a good variety of oysters on the menu, only one is available at the their happy hour price, $1 apiece, the rest we all pretty pricey. Three of us went with a dozen of the happy hour special Chesapeakes, and a dozen of several other types from both coasts for comparison. Personally I preferred the Chesapeakes, so save your money. For dinner we went with the Cold Shellfish sampler. This was more than ample for three. No one could agree on a particular bottle of wine, and there was a great selection of wines by the glass choices so everyone came away happy. All in all, I can't wait to go back, although I'll bring a whistle next time to call the waiter.
(4)
Kristi M.

Went here last Sat night and had a great evening! No reservations, sat at the bar for cocktails and an appetizer of crab cakes. They were delicious! And great to watch the oyster shuckers at the raw bar. Then we were seated and enjoyed a reasonably priced, delicious bottle of wine and the special fish - baramundi - and it was amazing. My fiance had the pork chop which was also great - not amazing - but good. The service was good, food was delicious and ambiance was well-worth our wait. We will definately bring guests here in the future.
(4)
Kyoko W.

From my other reviews, you've probably gathered that I REALLY like, no, love my oysters. When I was moving here many years ago, I thought of the prospect of no oysters and decided not to pout since I would still have sashimi. Thought about that for a bit more and then, I started to pout. It took a few years but I finally found Jax and I have not looked back. Yeah, the oyster happy hour may be fun, but for the real sit down, forget about those and look to the Pacific Northwest oysters they have on their regular oyster menu. It is always pretty extensive for the selections and the staff is AMAZING! They know their oysters and all of the intricacies of flavor, brine, and all of the good stuff. If you're not into oysters, there are a whole bunch of other goodies on the menu - we love the crab cakes after our oysters. Of course they have the peel and eat shrimp and crab and lobster and all sorts of other yummy morsels to dine on. I have been told that the burger for your non-seafood guest is really tasty as well. They also understand the needs of freaks like me who really love their seafood naked. If you insist on a sauce or gelee or other condiment, please present it to the side. I really don't mean to be a stinkhead about that kind of stuff, but it just comes down to one thing: I really love seafood and I want to taste it in all of its glory, not hiding behind some a sauce (don't worry chef, I do still taste the food as you wanted it presented, but I do, most of the time, just go back to the naked food). Maybe this is why I love oysters so much. They come with their own jus and seasoning. No need for lemon or mignonettes... So, if you grew up near the ocean and you need your fix of the sea in this land locked state, go down to Jax, sit at the bar, have some drinks and dive in to the best selections of oysters (and seafood) in town!
(5)
Taryn F.

I've repeatedly tried to experience Jax during happy hour, but it's always too busy for my taste. I hate pushing myself up to the bar in a restaurant (but I'll do it in a dive). But, I had to get in. It's mere steps from home, a lovely walk and supposedly boasted awesome seafood/beer atmosphere. So, I devised a dirty plan to enter the famed spot with my partner in hand around 7:15 pm on a Saturday night. No reservations (I hear Bourdain chanting mantra in my head). Instead, I plotted for bar space. Tables are great, but I've been a bar nugget for many years and I enjoy the intimate space you can create between yourself, the food, a drink and your companion. Plus, it's easier to get another drink and it works well when ordering appetizer after appetizer. My hubzo is from Boston and his one well-defined palate is for seafood. He was born cracking fish legs open (in Fenway Park). Jax is a New Orleans joint, which adds a touch of flair you don't find at the lobster shacks on the way to the Cape. We left home with just enough time to enter between what I assumed would be regular reservation timing. I was delighted to walk in and see bar space. Very little, but it was there. We immediately grabbed two seats outside the see-through oyster freezer at the bar. I had my regular vodka martini and hubzo was thrilled to find PBR cans on the menu. We ordered a pound of mussels with sake/lemongrass/thai sauce alongside a batch of fries. The mussels in red curry cream would have been a mistake -- we'll try that next time. Service was very good. That's not praise I readily give out, either. Being an NYC transplant, I'm used to terrible service and jerk-offs dropping my food on the table. Our food arrived promptly, steaming hot, and was DELICIOUS. We blew threw it and considered calamari, but knowing we'll soon be regulars, saved some surprises. I can't wait to go back for more.
(4)
Tom W.

Fantastic seafood. Knowledgeable staff. Know their oysters. We usually split a couple dozen oysters and an appetizer or two. Try the crab cake. Best oysters you're likely to find 1,000 miles away from any oceans.
(5)
Aimee M.

Ate a late dinner here last Wednesday during a convention. Their Oysters kick bum and the bartender made me a perfect/delicious dirty martini with blue cheese stuffed olives while we were waiting for a table. We had Calamari which was crispy, perfectly cooked and came with two spiffy-yummy sauces on the plate. I got a bowl of the Green Curry soup with SMOKED mussels in it. It was delectable! While the food was perfect, our server was very slow and somewhat inattentive. When the server was with us, he was nice, just didn't check in very much and we were left with empty drinks and such for periods of time. We still had a snazzy time with great eats.
(3)
Jeff V.

I went to this place just last night for an early birthday extravaganza that my friends were throwing me, I enjoyed both the food and the staff. Everyone was very nice and I even got birthday greetings from the chefs in the kitchen. The food was also really good, not spectacular, but it kept me happy enough that I would enjoy going there again and revisiting the place. Try to scallops or steelhead! both delcious and good alternatives if you aren't droned into thinking tuna is the shiny staple to seafood dining.
(4)
Sammy J.

As an out-of-towner staying on 16th and just cruising around, Jax looked like the spot to be. It was fairly packed at the Tuesday happy-hour ($1 oyster specials) with an age-mixed crowd and so I popped in. So glad that I did. Since I was flying solo, I just saddled up to the bar, which is oval and allows for plenty of seating. Sit down dining looked pleasant as well. Only one TV was available for viewing in the bar area and it was off to the side so as to not dominate the red-brick and metal work aesthetics. And tastefully, the sound was OFF -- YAY!!! Art was gold-framed prints and some original pieces. Place is dimly lit, though there are large windows and outside patio seating options. Bar staff was on it and kept my Kettle1 martinis flowing just the way I like. I ordered the mussels in garlic/lemon/chard broth, a heaping bowl and cooked to perfection -- definitely an excellent deal on the menu. I followed this with a half-dozen western grilled oysters which also were delectable. I did feel somewhat guilty about eating seafood in land-locked Denver, 1000 miles from the nearest coast, knowing that the carbon footprint of the Bay Area seafood I was enjoying was larger than normal. However, it was very FRESH, well-presented and reasonably priced. I would recommend this establishment to ANYONE coming into Denver and staying in the downtown area.
(5)
Kali E.

The whole time I lived in Denver, people told me I should try Jax. For various reasons, it took me 2 years to finally get around to it. Once there, I was kicking myself for not getting to Jax sooner. Of course, part of the issue is that Jax is in LoDo, and, whenever possible, I avoided LoDo like the plague (especially during hockey season...oy vey!). So, if you're going on a Saturday night, make a reservation. Better yet, go for an early dinner and go mid-week. The food is fantastic (it helps if you like fish) and the service is wonderful. This place is a billion times better than McCormick's. If you want fish in LoDo (and aren't on a Wahoo's budget), Jax is the place.
(4)
Gregory P.

I ate here for the first time on a Tuesday night; and it was still a full house all night. Its a great little restuarant that was still able to handle our party of 6 in less than a 1/2 hour of time at the bar. The service was great, and the food was awesome. The west coast oysters were some of the best ive ever had, and the calamari was moist and delicious. The Ahi Tuna was my main course and it met my expectations, and had I made room, desert sounded wonderful as well. My only complaint is the noise! I couldn't hear anyone and they couldn't hear me.
(4)
Kristin A.

This place is awesome! Great food, great atmosphere, great employees! I had interaction with Josh the bartender, Jared the manager, and Nick the waiter and they were all very nice and accommodating!
(5)
Greg T.

I always get a kick out of hearing when somebody asks "what's the best Italian food you've ever had", and I hear "olive garden" (I could visualize an Italian with a tear drop running down his cheek.), or whats the best seafood and I hear "Red Lobster"?!? What the hell, that just kills me and it's slightly sad to hear because those places aren't all that bad for what it is, but to say it's the best is to say that your high school years was also the peak time of your life. Since I love food, I've definitely sought out good seafood restaurants, and I'd say that Jax is one of the best, if not "the best" place to go for seafood in Denver (I have had a couple dishes that were a hit-or-miss, but that's bound to happen). The Story Behind my 1st Trip to Jax is funny: If it weren't for my best little sarcastic witty girl next door friend Jenny, I probably wouldn't have had as good of a time at Jax because it's how we wound up at Jax which is the funniest part of the story. She was out booz'n it up the previous week like she would normally do several days of the week in downtown Denver when she wound up at an event where they were giving out prizes for a benefit. When the guy was calling out the numbers on the tickets they had given out earlier in the night, nobody had claimed the $100 gift certificate to Jax, so she ran up there and screamed in excitement "it's me, i won!!". The guy asked for her ticket, and quickly realized it wasn't the right number, yet he probably just said "aww what the hell" to my drunken little buddy (she's cute). At first I thought it was kind of shady how she went about it, but after eating at Jax, I had to put my morals a side and say "That's my Jenny!!". FYI - Total bill $120+ a $60 tip for the waiter.
(4)
D C G.

The food is okay, like Cheesecake Factory okay. But for the price, it's really not worth it. The staff is very nice, but that doesn't make the "okay" food any better. I had blackened catfish, which was not as good as Gumbo's. My husband had the seared tuna, and that was absolutely flavorless (it came with an unimpressive spaghetti meat sauce). The #1 selling drink was a mojito with a splash of orange juice. We did like the calamari, but not enough to go back just for that. Our dessert (a key-lime curd with blue berries) wasn't to-die-for, but the arrangement was interesting (had a taffy thing inside). The bill was $115, including tip.
(3)
barry s.

food was good, but too expensive. our waitress was drunk or stoned or both. she forgot more than she remembered and dumped my wife's drink on the table. she tried to sell us the seafood sampler appetizer for mkt price. glad we asked how much is was before almost getting it. $155 !!!??? wtf is on the platter? bj coupons? seriously offensive pricing for average food.
(3)
Denver R.

I have tried JAX at lest three times over the past few years. I generally sit at the bar for my dinner and drinks. The service is pretty good, but nothing exceptional. The bartender is sometimes too busy making drink orders for the dining room to take good care of the people at the bar. While the food here is usually good, the prices are way too high....especially for the portions you get. If you are looking for a high-falutin, high priced fish house to impress your date, well this is it. There are other places downtown that have the same, if not better, food at much more reasonable prices. I mean, come on guys....I am paying alot of money for an appetizer portion!
(2)
Shiho F.

I think this is one of my favorite places to go for happy hour and I've only been here a couple times. They offer inexpensive oysters and good strong cocktails. I really like the crowd and the service is pretty good. When someone asks me where they can find seafood in Denver, Jax is the only place that comes to mind. I had a mind-blowing experience at the one in Boulder a while back. I had dinner there and I loved the food and remember enjoying some infused vodka. That got me on a vodka infusing kick for a month or 2. You should try it, super fun, pretty to look at and tastes amazing!
(4)
Dan B.

So as we are walking in and my mother who has been a vegetarian for over 15 years says "I think I might try some fish tonight" We walked in, and even though we were 10 minutes early for our reservation we were taken right to the table. On the way one of the servers pointed out the Sea Anemone in the take that had a half digested bright yellow fish in it. So much for mom eating fish...We started with oysters and per our servers reccomendation we had some east and some west coast ones. They were both fresh, and distinct in their flavor and texture. Caser Salad was next, it was light and fresh and not too heavy which I like. I went with the sea scallops which were huge and perfectly cooked. I also loved the risotto and the crispy escargot. Because it was my birthday I got a t shirt (american apparel!) and the entire table got dessert and coffee for free. ALl in all a perfect birthday celebration with my family. I can't wait to go back next time I am in Denver, did someone say oyster happy hour???
(5)
Kelly M.

Took my boyfriend, a seafood fanatic, there for his birthday. Was surprised when we walked in that it was a bit more casual than I expected but the food more than made up for the lack of romantic ambiance. The waiter recommended the crab cakes appetizer which I normally am not a fan of, they were out of this world. We also had a delicous Tuna Poki, super fresh and delicious. Our entrees were also outstanding. I left being surprised that I hadn't heard more hub-bub around Denver about Jax, I had heard the Boulder location was excellent but Denver is also a winner. Very loud, lively atmosphere coming from the bar area at the entrance and lovely exposed brick. The service was also great. Overall, we had a delightful evening and would return.
(4)
Analisa F.

As I walked into Jax Fish House in Lodo I was greeted by the sounds of some rowdy patrons and the smell of basil given off from the signature basil martini. Blocks from Coors Field, Rockies fans were enjoying the famous happy hour specials and oysters. It was a beautiful fall day so the patio in the back was open and a slight breeze could be felt and the canvas umbrellas shaded me from the setting sun. Some unusual upbeat music was setting the mood for this Denver hot spot. The server was over in a prompt fashion and got the show started with some drinks and an order of fried calamari in "mango-chile mojo" and baked lime aioli (AMAZING!). The night went smoothly and the special of Hawaiian escolar over sweet potato hash was just what the server described: buttery fish heaven. Ending the night with Colorado palisade peaches served over summer lemon cake was perfect. Jax is definitely deserving of its title as one of the hot spots of Denver known for seafood and contemporary cocktails.
(5)
sarah b.

half price east coast oysters daily from 4-6, along with a mean happy hour deal on some yummy summer drinks & other items like gumbo & calamari. $2 PBRs too. go on a sunday - the bartender & oyster shucker are nice, attentive guys. i wouldn't go on a fri/sat night to this place, because there's just too many goody goody denver types in spots in that area.
(4)
melissa h.

Visiting Denver (from San Diego) and in search of a good seafood place, we were sent to Jax. While the bar area isn't anything exciting, what was pleasantly surprising was how knowledgeable our waitress was regarding every seafood item on the menu. Her recommendations were spot on and delicious. She mentioned the menu changes often based upon what is locally and seasonally available, so I also salute their "sustainability" efforts.
(4)
Ashley R.

Waited almost 1.5 hrs for our reservation - but the amazing calamari totally made up for it.
(4)
j w.

i love this place! the server with the hoop earing is the best. the food is always soooo good. such a great, comfortable atmosphere, and the seafood is so fresh for being in denver. last time i was here they had a great happy hour menu and we ordered a bunch of small plates. and they got my cocktail perfect.
(4)
Andrew G.

Everyone must try their calamari. This small fish house never fails to impress. After 13 years of returning here I am still always happy to return.
(5)
Travis C.

Went here with my folks on Saturday night. The ambiance and layout was cool, many around seemed to be on dates. Lots of custom made drinks and I had the Jax Mule which was really good. We had the oysters and crab cakes for appetizers which were ok. Entrees were good.
(3)
Lan V.

Jax is my go to place for happy hour. Their fruit infused vodka drinks are fantastic and are well-priced. The bartenders make the drinks pretty strong too, so don't drink them too fast :). The food items on the happy hour menu at the Denver location have less variety and higher prices than the Boulder location. No peel and eat shrimp deal? How sad. Nonetheless, the calamari, oysters and gumbo with fries were delicious. The location is pretty small, so try to make reservations. Or, if you're planning on sitting near the bar, be prepared to get cozy with the people you sit next to because the seating is pretty compact.
(4)
Alli M.

Best restaurant in Denver. Phenomenal staff, great food, killer atmosphere. I literally go here at least once a week... Oh and here's a tip - never skip dessert - the cookies and bourbon milk is the greatest night cap ever.
(5)
Peter H.

Almost always a packed house, Jax is one of my favorite happy hours in Boulder, but surprisingly, the deals were not as good in Denver. The oysters were fantastic as always and service is friendly and attentive. We ordered some calamari, oysters and had a few drinks. The strawberry lemonade is one of their best and they definitely don't skimp on the delicious in house infused vodka.
(4)
Mindi U.

Best meal we have had in a long time...outstanding service...entertaining bar...would be back tomorrow if I could!
(5)
Rocky T.

Great food. Exceptional service. Free valet parking. Killer happy hour. And hands down the BEST Ol'Fashion. EVER!
(5)
Andrea K.

Dropped in for happy hour (4-6 daily) the other night...though we have been here many many times before. The HH has changed over the years but Jax still pumps out some delicious drinks and tasty fare. We opted for the mussels with the CURRY preparation- which I highly recommend. It needed some cilantro but I sucked up the broth just the same. No shame. We also got the gumbo fries which is yummy comfort food but they require a dousing of hot sauce to be their most enjoyable. For drinks, I recommend the WEST GARDEN. It is a fantastic cocktail. Wine is overpriced even at $5 because it's a stingy pour and a small glass. The wine itself is OK. Hubs had the Mango Tango but it was too sweet. Still, I think Jax supplies some of the more creative drinks available in Denver and they're a bargain at happy hour.
(4)
Brian A.

Wonderful food great atmosphere,one of the best places in town to seat on the bar and get dinner or lunch,just get a good spot and enjoy the show.. bartender mixing drinks oysters on ice food preparation in front of you ,and it's all good and delicious.
(5)
Tanner M.

When we came in for the usual late night HH, and hey said it was no longer!! However, they accommodated us in the way that we came in for the HH, and hooked up the drink special and gave us some of the amazing bread! Great experience late night.
(5)
Sarah S.

3 on Service. 5 on the Burger. 2 on the Crab Cake. 5 on the bread appetizer. So I went here tonight on special occasion and I was pretty disappointed with the service. And .... I'm very easy with service, it doesn't need to be exquisite, however everyone was off beat and there was about three mistakes just at our table alone. None of which... required any fixing or ruined the meal. The bread appetizer is a must-get. It's friggen the best bread and butter you'll ever have. Or maybe it isn't, but it's the best I'VE had. The Jax Burger was fantastic, only thing I did wrong was order it Medium Well, it was a little dry, coulda used some saucyness, but again that's my bad. Fantastic fries and burger. The bacon is mouth watering. The crab cake was horrible. Two of the people I was with ordered it and it was about the size of my palm and it was $16. I do, understand, that it is.... probably expensive and fine dining etc. But the burger was $15, and other sea-food entrees were still yet cheaper and larger and more robust. This is all coming from someone who doesn't eat much sea food and ordered a burger. Great restaurant, great menu, poor cakes, strange service. So it's just A-OK.
(3)
William M.

Small atmosphere but well worth the wait or even eat at the bar. Started off with 1/2 dozen Kushi Oysters. Fantastic. Followed by a bowel of NE Clam Chowder. I would rate it as the best chowder I had. It was certainly very good. Totally recommend to anyone who has a flavor for raw bar
(5)
Danielle R.

This place is really tasty! And very affordable if you want something on the lighter side. I ordered the peel and eat shrimp to share a friend, there were way too many of them. Then ordered the mussels in curry sauce on top of rice noodes, think it's like $11!!!! Very tasty. Their specialty crafted cocktails is where it's at! I was sticker shocked compared to drink prices in South Florida!!! Great looking men here too at the bar and behind it! Great spot for LNO!!!!
(5)
Kristal A.

I love Jax, we went there for our anniversary. The service was amazing, the food was amazing. Oysters are just the best.
(5)
Kimberly S.

Delicious, fresh food excellently prepared. Great bar selection. Love the way they've made an awkward space make sense and feel cozy. Great choice for dinner!
(4)
M B.

A while ago I was a regular at this spot, once a week visits regular. I was there before the renovation, and after. Sadly I must say - I guess all great things come to an end in the restaurant world too. My trip tonight came from a new friend that loved seafood - and me not having been here in a while I thought this is where I'd take them. It was underwhelming to say the least. This place used to have a delicious and innovative spark. Tonight the service was spotty and slow, the dinner wasn't bad, but at $24 for my plate it wasn't good either. The cocktails were meh and apparently no one could make an Irish Coffee for dessert (although Coffee, Baileys, and Whiskey are all available at the bar - which they gave me in that order and I put together on my own). All in all I hate to say I've made my last trip to Jax LoDo. But at least I have the memories.
(2)
Sarah V.

There are two things on the menu that are meats other than fish but I was here for a business dinner and I didn't pick the spot, so I went with it. I got a burger and so did the girl next to me, she didn't like seafood either. The burger was really thick, baseball style, and mine was cooked well. It was very, very charcoal flavored, but the bread was awesome! We also got the cobbler for dessert and it was really good, a bit more ice cream and a few less peaches would have made this girl happier, but it was good overall. The special lemonades were really good, but you only get two refills, so if you order it make sure to say "light ice" of your drink will be 90% ice with 10% lemonade.
(3)
Joe H.

So doggone good! Love the atmosphere, the food, especially love the happy hour specials. It's a bit spendy, so it's an occasional treat. But what a treat!
(4)
Gina C.

LOVE this place!!! Went to Jax for Valentines Day dinner, and although we waited 30 minutes past our reservation time, the fixed price dinner was well worth the wait. Staff were extremely friendly and courteous, and the food was "lick your plate clean" awesome! The oysters were fresh beyond belief and every aspect of our dinner was excellent. The chef did a terrific job of coupling wines with each dish: we particularly enjoyed the monkfish, which was cooked to perfection. I highly recommend Jax: the atmosphere is pleasant, the menu offers a nice variety of seafood, and the customer service was beyond our expectations. We'll definitely return!
(5)
Anne C.

I've been to Jax in the past, and had wonderful experiences...but Saturday was not really among them. I don't think it's a great sign when you go in for dinner, but only stay for drinks and oysters.... I did have an amazing drink, a grassy gimlet, that had grass vodka, arugula, cucumber and lime. As beautiful as it was delicious. The oysters were really good too...but the dinner menu lacked for us. We couldn't find one thing on their that we would enjoy eating. I actually recall having that issue before, and the specials menu saved us. Not that night though,with their grilled oyster special. I mean I'm sure I'll go back, probably to their new location to check it out....but I really hope they change their menu in the meantime. Fried oyster and grit dishes plus sides that seem so complex you have to pull out your phone to google them don't really do it for me. Sorry Jax, hopefully next time?
(3)
janice n.

This place has been here 20 years. It is not easy to have great staff and consistently good quality seafood in a land lock state. Keep it up jax still my favorite oysters and happy hour.
(5)
Steve E.

We are going there for happy hour after work today. I heard a rumor that they had a great happy hour. They DON'T. What planet are these bar owners/managers from who think that $1 off regularly priced drafts makes for a happy hour. It is just and insult. They have good food, though. I have been there NOT during happy hour.
(3)
Laura G.

Ordered the crab duo and these were possibly the best crablegs I have ever eaten! The legs were super meaty and even though the menu said 1 pound, it had to be way more than that. Service was excellent and the bread/sides/cocktails were awesome. I will definitely be returning here whenever I am in the area!
(5)
Michael B.

Nice place with excellent service. We had king crab, salads, cioppino, and snow crab. Waitress was very knowledgable and attentive.
(4)
Kendra W.

Such a great happy hour!! I got a PILE of mussels ($6), seafood cakes ($3, which they explained to me was basically bits of fish they couldn't use in a fillet), half a dozen oysters ($7) and a tea vodka cocktail ($4). Yes, all for just me...all super fresh...and all for under $20. Pretty awesome.
(4)
Diana W.

Came here again last night. It was 6pm on a Saturday and the place already had a 1.5 hour wait...thank god for reservations! Make them my friends. Started off with a half order of their seafood platter. So freaking fresh. Lobster pieces, shrimp, huge oysters, mussels. It ain't cheap ($77) for an appetizer but it was delicious and worth it. My entree was the lobster tail that came with dumplings. The dumpling wrappers were kind of dry which was disappointing but that didn't stop me from eating it all. My friend ordered and devoured her lobster BLT. I had no problem helping her finish her fries. Thick cut and salty! What really makes Jax stand out is their friendly service. Our waitress was so attentive and friendly. We actually came back because the manager gave us a gift card last time for making us wait "too long" for our reserved table. You can't beat service like that. I will shout from the roof top how wonderful dining here is. You really feel like it's a treat when you come here.
(4)
Aniece S.

Great service and food. Very fresh and friendly. We were here for a business trip and came a few times
(5)
Victor V.

Stopped in about 6:30p for a pre-theater cocktail and snack. Ordered 6 oysters on the half shell. They were meaty and tasty and $3.50 each! OUCH! I then ordered steak tartar. It was served with a raw quail egg on top, a swipe of Dijon mustard and toast points. It was well seasoned with just a hint of minced jalapeÃ±o. Very nice. I ordered a glass of their house Riesling that was a little dry but went well with my meal. After I received my check, $46, I noticed that they offered a lobster roll for $24 . . . maybe next time. Jax is a little pricey but very good.
(4)
Kirk G.

No disappointments because no expectations. I had the lobster roll. Not very exciting. Quite a few pieces of lobster thrown between what I thought was 2 slices of toaster white bread. The so called sauce was runny and ran out of the sandwich when I lifted it. I'm going to stop. It just wasn't good. The service was good though. I sat at the bar. Oh and the cornbread pan fired oysters were small and really had no flavor at all. B&G in Boston, don't worry your still the best.
(3)
Christopher T.

I visited the Ft. Collins location and loved the service food and drinks. I forget what I got but a year later having just moved to Denver I know that I need to visit the restaurant again.
(5)
Michelle V.

Great oysters, sliders & gumbo fries. Great pre-game treat. Enjoy when there. Sullivan for dessert is great as well after the game.
(4)
Sarah N.

We popped in for Happy Hour yesterday, and nearly everything was perfect. Jose was the consummate server in his knowledge, attitude, and efficiency. Our raw Emersum oysters were tasty - it had been a long time since I've had oysters, and I liked how these arrived on a platter filled with ice with a small wedge of lemon, and a dipping cup of sauce. We also got the delicious Seafood Dynamite and a warm and lovable order of Imogene's Baked Bread. The bread is only $3 (worth it) and came out like puffy leaves with a smear of creamy butter. The entrees were very good (Grouper Cheeks and Grilled Cobia), but I thought the cheeks were a tad on the dry side. The vegetables that the fishes were laid upon also seemed a bit too greasy and not as refined as I expected. My accompanying grilled broccoli was different- I loved how the char brought out a sweetness that overrode any bitterness of the cruciferous vegetable. Drinks are fabulous. My Jax Strawberry Lemonade was divine. The Cucumber Lemon Press tasted more vodka-y, and had no sweetness, but it was also pretty darn good. The alcohol-free Ginger Beer was excellent. It's served cold but not with ice, just as the Jax guy who makes it recommends. There was already a line at 4PM before the doors opened on Sunday. By the time we left around 5:30, the place was full. Fun atmosphere!
(4)
Kate K.

Yum, yum and YUM! We've been into Jax a couple of times for happy hour and it does not disappoint. We stopped in about 2 weeks ago while we were wandering around downtown and got there about 5 minutes before they opened. You know there's got to be something good when you arrive before opening and there's already a fairly long line to get in. We waited in line and ran to the bar (along with everyone else) to grab seats. He had some oysters, and we split a sea dog and had some drinks. I never thought I would rave about a hot dog - but WOW - this was a great damn hot dog! On previous visits we've tried the gumbo fries and the peel n eat shrimp. Both were also awesome. I can't wait to get back here for dinner one of those days.
(4)
Anya B.

We came in on a Tuesday night and were told that there will be a 45 minute wait because we had no reservations, but that we could eat at the bar and I am glad we did. Not only did we get to taste the wonderful offerings from their menu but also got to enjoy watching them being made by an awesome chef who was working his magic behind the inner end of the bar. Unfortunately, his name escapes me (they do serve good drinks ;) but the memories of his delicious dishes will stay with me for a long, long time! We had Tuna Poke which was very good, Steamed Muscles with tomatoes and chorizos which were delicious and the Shrimp and Crawfish gumbo which was out of this world fantastic! Seriously, it was the best gumbo I have ever had and I had gumbo in New Orleans! The only thing that rubbed me the wrong way was the fact when we walked in the restaurant the hostess was nowhere to be found and so we were just standing there, waiting to be noticed until a friendly bartender saw us from behind the bar and said that the hostess will be right there. When she finally showed up more than 5 minutes later we were offered no apologies for her not being where she should have been. But hey, who cares about her: we got to eat the BEST Gumbo and we are sure to be back here the next time we are in Denver!
(5)
Will L.

The food is unbelievable! Me and my girlfriend got the trout and mahi mahi then split it and it was so fresh and tasty.
(5)
Jeanne J.

The Best Seafood in Denver!!! Always fresh and oh so yummy!!! We went down for Mothers Day and was so glad we did :) we got there early and waited for them to open. Everything was fresh and just the way it should be :) This place is a must!!!
(5)
Gary M.

I've been looking for good seafood in Denver for a while and this place does it well. Crab platter is great for the crab lovers! Happy hour is a steal with 4 dollar cocktails btw
(4)
Jaime L.

Delicate fresh pollack dredged in cornmeal and lightly fried for a crispy crust, topped with a crunchy fresh cabbage slaw and a subtle aioli, then layered between two slices of toasted buttermilk bread. Sounds too simple but that is what makes the fried fish sandwich at Jax Fish House so damn tasty. When you have great ingredients, you do not need fancy preparations or showy presentations; you let the food shine and the sandwich I ate last week at Jax (now open for lunch after a major renovation and expansion of the space) was simple and finger-licking-good. Tim Harris, the best bartender in town in my book, suggested I add a squeeze of lemon to my fish and he was 100% the recommendation The addition of lemon added the right amount of acidity to the sandwich and really elevated the taste of each ingredient. perfect sandwich made better... who knew. All I know is I will back, soon and often for this sammie alone.
(5)
Josh d.

3 stars is not to say this place is bad, or mediocre. Quite the opposite really... I rather enjoy coming here. 3 stars is just to say (A-OK!)... Fresh Oysters, are fresh Oysters... Unless the good people at Jax, farm the oysters themselves, I find it hard to give more credit to them as a dispensary (If they in fact, do have a hand in farming them, I will be happy to change my rating). That said, their cooked food is pretty good - I wouldn't call it special, but I have yet to find myself disappointed (3.5 stars?). The service is always friendly (3.5) and their bartenders are fun to chat with when dining alone, at the bar (4). Oh. And I can see oyster eating contests with some friends, in the near future... They have happy hour oysters, for $1.25 a shell... Unfortunately, these oysters just aren't as good as the ones on their regular menu... But they're fresh.
(3)
Jeremiah S.

Absolutely love Jax. I haven't lived in Colorado for 12 years but every time I come to town I always go to Jax and I'm never disappointed. Love the remodel they did (was told it was over a year ago). They have an amazing wine list and the best calamari appetizer around. The bread is also amazing. If you want the best seafood spot in Denver you have to go to Jax.
(5)
Eduardo N.

This place is really good if you want oysters and a good time to relax and kick back. I would recommend coming during happy hour because those oysters are to die for! The service was decent because its fish and take a while to make, esp. If it's this good.
(4)
Thaddius B.

My favorite seafood restaurant in Denver and one of my favorite restaurants in general. Great place to grab some happy hour drinks and items from the raw bar the prices are great during happy hour. The calamari maybe the best I have ever had and I have eaten it many times, and love the oyster selection. If you go with an entree I have never been disappointed in the chefs ever changing menu. They put a some unique combinations together that always seem to make me happy. Also, the bartenders are awesome, some of the best in town. I have yet to try it for lunch, since they started doing lunches but look forward to it.
(5)
Cliff B.

Been to Jax many times, normally just for a happy hour drink. The peel and eat shrimp is fantastic and comes with some sort of cream sauce that is a great alternative if you're not in the mood for cocktail sauce.
(5)
Lydia L.

Love Jax! Great Oysters and the best calamari!
(5)
david s.

Great drinks and oysters! Josh aka Junior makes the freshest cocktails with infused spices and roots!
(5)
Dan C.

Okay, yes, this place is pricey. But wow, the food is phenomenal. I had the gumbo, and my wife had a kale salad. We split the buttermilk bread. Everything was amazing. And the service is great. They are all very attentive, even though the place is slammed most of the time. The cooks took time to chat with us, and the wait staff was there at the drop of a hat to address any of our needs. Be ready to drop some coin, but also be ready to leave this place satisfied.
(5)
Amy H.

I came for my birthday dinner. Everything I had was delicious! The staff was very helpful and friendly! Great suggestions! My friend did not like his meal. The management was very concerned, immediately brought a menu and was eager to please the customer with a new entree. I'm speaking for the whole crew when I say 110%. Go! Go whenever you can! A++++++ Thank you Jax!
(5)
Kelly N.

Horrible experience overall. A group of us came in for National Oyster's Day. We made the reservation at 5:30 pm for a party of 7 (free oysters were from 5:30 pm - to 6:30 pm). We were supposed to get 6 oysters per person. We waited for an hour and finally the oysters came out. They only gave us 24 oysters and when we asked the waiter about the others, he came up with an iniquitous excuse that they were "probably" out. We also ordered appetizers and entrees and to my disappointment, the dishes were pretentious and overpriced. The flavors were frankly, bland and on par with what I can get at Chili's at best. It's safe to say that none of us will be back.
(1)
Mike A.

Imagine my disappointment when I found out that this restaurant was not owned by the character from Mortal Kombat. What a let down. They made up for it with a nice menu, good fish, and really good oysters. I came with my lady friend and our mutual friend. We ordered a dozen oysters, half Kumomoto and half Emersum. The latter are apparently proprietary to Jax. They've got a big write up about it on the back of the menu and I read it, so I can authoritatively say that these are in fact Jax-exclusive oysters, according to the menu and no other source of information. The Kumomotos were better, but the Emersums were about 5x larger. So, net net, I liked the Emersums better because I was H-U-N-G-R-Y yep I spelled it out to emphasize the hunger, ahem, the H-U-N-G-E-R. My lady ordered a bowl of soup because she has a stomach the size of an ice cube. Oh, and a side of the Himalayan Red Rice, which was really, really good. The friend who will remain nameless ordered the Lobster Club, which came with big fries that I very much liked and she didn't seem to care about. Cool. More for me. But who cares about them. Me. This is about me. I ordered the Sturgeon. It was hella good and I'm not even from Northern California, get it? It was a fairly small portion, so if you're hungry like I mentioned I was, you might be let down. The only way I made it through the meal without ordering more was by eating everyone else's food. My drink was an Old Fashioned. Decent. What else. Valet parking ends at 10:30pm and if you leave the restaurant and come back at 10:25 and stand outside the door and wait for a few minutes, no one comes and tells you that the valet left early. So bring a jacket.
(4)
Katrina T.

I know I am a couple days late with this but either way they treated us wonderfully and the food was amazing.I wish I remembered the name of our server to tell you all but either way they went out of their way to make sure we knew the specials what was in them and just a huge detail list.Also we accidently left our card there and they called me withing moments of us leaving to make sure we got it.just a wonderful place for a date night all around.
(5)
Julie C.

We were finally exploring restaurants downtown with relatives and we were so glad they took us to Jax's! It's in the Lodo area and it was fun to see the old mercantile buildings. It is an upscale area now with many restaurants to choose from. Our family brought their baby with so this was a good choice. The place had a cool happy vibe but it was big enough and not too noisy. The server was very friendly and let us know we only had 5 minutes to get an order in before happy hour was over! Our party had calamari and oyster appetizers. I have avoided eating much fish since leaving California, but I was not disappointed in the halibut! It tasted so fresh and I think I will have to go back for more, even though it is expensive! The cornbread looked amazing and I'll have to get that next time when I'm not avoiding bread. Will definitely be back Jax!
(4)
Jeffrey C.

Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar 1539 17th St, Denver, CO 80202 goo.gl/maps/kj9tV We had dinner at Jax fish house and oyster bar in Denver last night. We made reservations for four at 830. We made our way across town and found two public parking areas within a block of the restaurant. There is outdoor seating available as well. We arrived early and found the hostess friendly as our table wasn't ready she suggested we make our way thru and hang out at the bar. The restaurant has a corner space that is compact and a bit noisy but it adds to the ambience. We tried a signature cocktail called the "Mexican standoff" which is a mixture of jalapeÃ±o infused herradura silver tequila, sombra mezcal, cilantro, lime, agave nectar. It was the perfect amount of heat, sweet and tangy. Being a big gulf coast seafood lover I had to try the oysters. I guess my expectations were a little tall as the briney jewels were $3+ each. They tasted great but were were tiny and might have been flash frozen, shipped in from the east coast. Last time I checked there's no coastal waters around here. For entrees we shared the peel and eat shrimp which were served cold and spicy with a tangy creole mustard. The grilled ahi tuna was delicious and served with fried brussels sprouts, grilled yukon golds, pickled hearts of palm, pan fried cayenne peanuts and red bell peppers. The manager Eric and our server John were both friendly, knowledgable and prompt in their handling of transferring from the bar to the table. The dinner service was fairly quick and very accurate. All in all a good Time was had by all and I would definitely go back! Urban Cowgill
(4)
Lauren M.

I had dinner here on a Thursday night before a show at the Paramount. When I arrived, the maÃ®tre d' was incredibly sweet and friendly. I was seated and the server, Jessica, promptly greeted me and brought me the wine I requested after explaining the blend to me - her attention to detail was a nice touch. We shared oysters (my first time having them - the special kumquat sauce was amazing) and the delicious bread with honey butter (really good, but didn't need it), along with the tuna poke (so flavorful and fresh). I ordered the braised octopus - squid ink tagliatelle (with Jessica again providing helpful feedback on the content and flavor of the dish. My friend's mahi mahi looked delicious (and he loved it). We also shared the key lime pie for dessert (not my favorite, but I generally prefer chocolate anyway). I really can't say enough about the excellent service - my friend and I both have hospitality backgrounds and we couldn't stop talking about how friendly and attentive all of the staff was - they seemed to work so well as a team and our waters were always refilled and plates removed in a timely manner. I'm surprised by reviewers who comment that the meals are pricey - my octopus entrÃ©e was $19, I believe (less than double the cost of a fast casual entrÃ©e). I thought it was a great value for the quality, and I'd say that $20 per entrÃ©e is middle-of-the-road in terms of price. Overall, the meal was incredible, and I'll be back for both the food and the service.
(5)
Marilyn S.

Basing this on happy hour: great newly remodeled bar, cool patio, great drink and apps prices, excellent service, good ambiance. Trying dinner next!
(5)
Joe D.

3 1/2 really. Been here before and always thought the food was pretty good. The fresh baked bread to order is a nice touch. I had the crab cake and cioppino. The crab cake had a nice cook but was a bit too moist with mayonnaise or something to hold it together. I prefer a straight lump crab cake with less crap. The cioppino was good but the broth needs a little flavor. Have the one at Scoma's in SF and see what a flavorful base is like. Nice vibe and good service. Will go back but will order something else.
(3)
Paul L.

Good but pricey. It was busy and all the food served looked good. But to be honest, I'd go somewhere else before going back here.
(4)
Kate T.

I love Jax's Happy Hour, mainly because of their fantastic oysters, which you can get for 1.25 a pop - pretty good for the great quality. Their drinks are delicious too. It is a bit expensive and can be very crowded since it's a smaller space, but other then that this place is great. I usually sit up at the bar and the service is good there, even though it is always packed. The food is always fantastic, and its a fun place to get your seafood fix! Get there early for Happy Hour, because it sure does fill up.
(4)
Kristen N.

You may think that finding good seafood in Colorado is next to impossible and up until last week, I thought the same thing. But, after stopping in for lunch at Jax, I now know better. Way better. Fellow yelper, Shannon C. and I scooted up to the bar to enjoy our lunch and I so glad we did! The bartender was super friendly and you get to watch the guy prepping made-to-order clam chowders and pokes. Because we were right there, seeing the beautiful dishes being sent out, we had to order both a poke and a New England clam chowder. We added a lobster roll to our "sharing" order as well. ALL were amazing!! I could not stop talking about how good all the food was as I stuffing it in my mouth. It was not a pretty picture. But I couldn't help myself, the food was that good. The poke was so fresh and tasty, the chowder was great-not too thick, not too heavy, but the lobster roll was by far the star of the meal for both myself and Shannon C. The roll was buttery, soft and warm. And the lobster stuffing was light (not heavy with mayo-yay!) and so tasty. The lobster pieces were gigantic as well! The cocktails were yummy, the food was great and the service was spectacular. I can't wait to go back.
(5)
Liz P.

One of the best happy hours in Denver! The cucumber lemon press is perfect for a summer evening and the food is cheap and delicious. Don't miss it!
(4)
MileHigh J.

Really enjoyed the peel and eat shrimp. Loved the new renovated space. But the surfaces are hard, so the acoustics are harsh and the room is very loud. Too loud. With a game on the televisions and the drinking crowd cheering, the room felt more like a sports bar than a good restaurant.
(3)
Sarah M.

Service was great. Food was overpriced and pretty awful. Seriously don't come here. I just cried over an over cooked over priced mahi mahi. They have skillet desserts like an effing BJs #pazzokie #fail
(1)
Jessica J.

Ate here on a Saturday night to celebrate a friends 30th Bday and loved every minute of it. Jose, our waiter, was awesome and very helpful in helping us pick our meals. Like a lot of the other posts, you wouldn't think there would be a great seafood restaurant in the middle of a state that does not touch the ocean but it was just as good as some of the seafood I've had in Florida. Likes: - the ambience is nice with the low lighting and has a buzzing atmosphere - the bar in the middle of the restaurant looked like an awesome place to sit if reservations are not made = the famous Raw Bar - the calamari and Imogene's buttermilk bread with honey butter as an appetizer is a must - the crab cake had amazing large chunks of crab... not overtaken with the bread mixture - the halibut was cooked to perfection, crispy top with a flaky melt in your mouth bottom - the scallop crudo was paired perfectly with thinly sliced roasted red beets and lemon - the peach cobbler with an oatmeal crisp top was a little bowl of warm gooey goodness - even the green salad was amazing with the candied pecans! Not really dislikes...: - the key lime pie was good but the basil syrup kind of through me off - the Moscow Mule was good after I squeezed a few extra limes into it... made a little on the strong side for me I highly recommend this place. I will definitely be returning back to this restaurant.
(4)
Sarah M.

This place was mediocre. Super disappointed. We had friends in from out of town and were looking forward to it, frankly, it was embarrassing. The oysters were gritty, salad was soggy and the service was a joke! I could have cooked a better meal at home with seafood from Safeway. For the price we paid, these guys should do better. I've heard great things about this place so maybe we caught them on a bad night but I won't be going back to give a 2nd chance.
(2)
Susan H.

We hadn't been to Jax since it was either remodeled? or has new ownership? But we've been twice in the past month and we are STOKED. Love the new open floor plan and long (oyster, duh) bar. We sit at the bar, and the bartenders are like a free floor show! They are all witty and friendly, and more importantly, SPOT ON. The last time I went, I just mentioned out loud to The Man that I was going to order a certain drink, and it magically appeared in front of me. I HADN'T EVEN ORDERED IT YET!!! Awesome. We usually order a few things off the happy hour menu, and they are always gorgeous. Get whatever they have as a special of the day, you won't be disappointed. Jax is tasty, vibrant, and fun. You feel cool just being there!!
(5)
Mike L.

I loved this place! We came here after being turned away at Ocean Prime (they had advertised a Half Price Oyster Happy Hour, which they did not honor). Jax is a great place to meet friends after work Downtown, if you all like seafood. The oysters were freshly shucked, and the Bloody Marys were strong and well-dressed. The waitresses were friendly and attentive, even though the place is full at this time. Jax provides something indefinable, ineffable: fun.
(4)
Cynthia L.

Oysters here are the absolute BEST! Various types and most do sell out quickly. Dined here for dinner and recommendations are highly recommended; especially if you would like a table top. Every time in passing, found this establishment to be very busy. Food was fresh and presented decently. For appetizers, we had the Calamari and Jumbo Lump Blue Crab Cakes. Calamari was not overcooked and Blue Crab Cakes had actual big pieces of crab in them. Our entrees consisted of the Maine lobster roll and Pan Roasted Halibut, both were equally were prepared and tasty. Ambiance is good and can be a bit loud at times. Service is wonderful and helpful for recommendations. I would definitely recommend this place and would dine here again, when visiting.
(4)
Carmen C.

Wow. Fresh seafood...who woulda thunk it when you're sandwiched between the Rockies and thousands of miles away from the Atlantic. I came here on the recommendation of a colleague who used to live in Denver, and good thing too! We popped in for a quick snack before a Nuggets game back in January. We enjoyed the clam chowder, a dozen oysters, shrimp, and the king crab legs. I was floored by how good the food was here. The layout had been recently updated (we got to Denver just days after they reopened) and they have a great raw bar at the center of the restaurant. Very impressed. I just wish they opened earlier on weekends.
(5)
Amanda G.

This review is only for the happy hour. But the happy hour is fabulous, I have no idea why you would feel the need to go there for any other (less happy) hour. Both the food and the drinks are very happily prices from 4-6p nightly. We stopped by on Sunday and had a cucumber infused vodka drink, a bowl of gumbo, a couple oysters, calamari, and an order of mussels...all for under $23. The two of us both left stuffed to the, ahm, gills. :) At $3 for a heaping bowl the happy hour gumbo might be the best deal in town. I was really impressed with everything, we'll definitely be back.
(5)
Emily J.

I have only been to Jax for happy hour and loved it. I am an oyster fanatic so I was especially excited about the inexpensive oysters available. My friend and I also got the calamari which was expertly fried and served with a great dipping sauce. We sat at the bar and got great service and great drinks served to us by a very friendly bar tender. I would suggest the Jax Mule: a traditional Moscow mule but with Jax's very own house made ginger beer, which is delicious and spicy in a gingery way. I would love to come back here and sit on the patio now that the weather is better! Only reason I didn't give them 5 stars is because the host was really surly to us. Perhaps he was having a bad day, we all do. Lucky for him the rest of my experience almost made up for it!
(4)
Vanessa C.

Oysters are awesome!
(5)
Matthew M.

JAX is a real cool spot in the heart of LODO. We came to JAX with some friends that weren't able to try it out last time they were in town. My buddy created a nice oyster sampler and his girlfriend had the lobster roll. They both spoke very highly of their food. My other friend tried a burger and said it was one of the best burgers he'd ever had. Me and my fiancÃ© shared the boiled shrimp and mussels. Both were very good. The cocktails were also very tasty. If the portions were a little bigger and the drinks were a little cheaper, I'd probably given JAX 5 stars.
(4)
Michael R.

I've eaten at Jax 4 or 5 times and each experience has been worth remembering. Our latest trip started with a half dozen oysters (as usual) and they were great. Followed that up with grouper cheeks and cobia, all cooked perfectly. The house bread is worth getting as well to sop up whatever remaining sauce you might have. The servers were attentive and friendly. The only thing that bothered us was the layout has completely changed. They've extended the bar so it takes up nearly the entire room. The problem is that now every single person eating there feels like they are in the way and will get bumped repeatedly. Not nearly as romantic as it could be, and used to be, for such an expensive meal.
(4)
Dustin S.

Went there on a Thursday night, place was just about full but they sat us right away at the oyster bar. We had a fantastic experience. Many of the excellent dishes we ordered were expertly prepared right in front of us by our chef Alex, who also engaged us in pleasant conversation while he cooked. We shared everything ordering plate after plate, highlights include the oysters (of course), the clam chowder, caviar (yes they have caviar - awesome), gumbo, lobster roll and some other dishes. Everything we ate was top notch. The service was very friendly and fun, playing along with our somewhat rowdy group. Their drinks are also prepared expertly. I had a Rye Old Fashioned and it was made with one large rock just like you would get at a high end craft-cocktails place, the taste was perfect - I did not expect this at an oyster bar. Bottom-line this place exceeded our expectations in almost every way. Highly recommended!
(5)
Duane M.

Spent my birthday here for the second time in 3 years. I like the food, love the happy hour oysters. The staff here is very attentive and very good. I really need to try just happy hour here because I have a hard time with the prices...$21 for catfish and $28 for trout is just a little too spendy for me, even though the food is good. Go enjoy some good food!!
(3)
Jose B.

If your looking for oysters this is a good stop. I wouldn't say the best but it's up there. I really like the patio in the cherry creek location. It definitely has a great sunset view. Very impressive. Service has only been okay. I'd rather sit at the bar then In the dinning room. Every time I go in I feel like there's always a group of staff chatting away and not being attentive to their guests (unless ur a regular)(not cool). Also The host loves her cell phone that's for sure... Wish I could give it more stars but service is key in any restaurant!.
(3)
T. R.

I totally agree with everyone else on the oysters - Jax always has a great selection and they are fresh and tasty. Also agreed on the creative drink menu - completely love it. However, the dinner menu can really be hit or miss. Their regular menu is pretty succinct and it can be hard to find entrees, especially once you've been a few times and have tried the main dishes. It really comes down to whether the specials are great or not. We've been plenty of times when the specials have been amazing. However, we've been a number of times when the specials are severely limited and it's been tough to find anything interesting beyond appetizers and oysters. it seems as though that it happening more often in our recent visits, thus the 3 rating. Another major reason for the 3 is that the restaurant is really difficult to navigate. I know they just remodeled, but it is extremely tight. Just getting in and out of the booths to come in and leave is like navigating I-25 at 5pm. You're always competing with waiters and other diners to go up and down the rows and when you're sitting down people often have to lean into your booth a little to let people pass. Not an ideal space. And if you have to use the restroom - god be with you.
(3)
Akane B.

Came here after a long day of snowmobiling. One of the most brutal days of my life. MY LIFE! Being outside for a long period of time whilst going 25 mph in single digit weather can suck the life out of you. As my lifeless body strolled into Jax, I was greeted with a fun, lively atmosphere. The waitstaff was friendly and helpful. This place was perfect to knock me out of my comatose state. Now, the food. We started with the oysters. Yum. I ordered the Lobster Club for my entree. Yum again. It was accompanied with fries. Yum three times. And my friends who ordered various sides and a seafood entree also said yum. So yums all around. Anyways, highly recommend. Especially if you've been beaten up by mother nature 2-3 hours prior.
(4)
Dave S.

Tried Jax for the first time this weekend and i was pretty impressed. We had 6 people in our party so we shared several different appetizers. Clam chowder, mussels, 3 types of oysters and calamari. All were very good and our waitress was awesome! She was very knowledgeable and gave us great service! My only complaint was that my Grilled Red Snapper Fillet that i ordered for my entree was over cooked. It was cooked 'well' and i like my grilled fish almost 'rare'. I cant be mad about it though because i didn't specify i wanted it rare so i cant really get mad about that. All in all the quality for the food and the service were both very good. Would go back for sure!
(4)
Leonard E.

This is a good place if you're into the healthier style of seafood. They don't even serve french fries. What they serve does taste great though. A little pricey. Great beer selection. I discovered my current favorite beer here, Mama's Yella Pils. I know the name sounds funny, but it's a smooth & tasty brew. Great atmosphere and service. Update: Okay, I was set straight about fries here. They do have them. They've got a quality management team here(especially Kelli) to go along with the great food & service and folks should check them out. BTW, I had the lobster roll. It was delicious!
(3)
Jennifer B.

Took Sam here last night for his Birthday dinner. He has a tradition to eat seafood on his Birthday. Being the excellent girlfriend I am I had to take him for a great seafood experience using my "Yelp Intelligence". I made Open Table reservations here for 7pm. We arrived promptly at 7pm and were greeted pleasantly by the two hostesses, and they wished Sam a happy birthday (i put that in our reservation). We were seated immediately, the water boy came and provided water (duh) and a plate of bread with olive oil. We liked the bread soo much we ate two plates of bread. Our waiter, Jared was over shortly there after to help with drink and menu decisions. He was very informative about that oysters of the day and the raw bar. I wish we could have partaked, we're not really oyster people yet. That's going to require some work I believe. Sam had the Third Rail (seasonal drink) which consisted of buffalo trace bourbon, benedictine, house bitters, Jax ginger beer. I took a sip and was pleasantly surprised how much I could taste the ginger beer. It was great and to there credit if you need a buzz you only need one. I had the Bonita Applebum, leopold apple whiskey, domaine canton, chartreuse, cardamon bitters, izze sparkling apple. I really enjoyed the drink and can't wait to come back and try more of the Mixologists creations. For dinner, appetizers consisted of the Crab Cake and Ahi Tuna Tartar. For entrees, Poached Lobster and Pan Seared Scallops. Crab Cake = Sam says almost the best he ever had. I grabbed some fork fulls and wish I ordered the crab cake as well. The sherry cream was delectable. Ahi Tuna = It wasn't my favorite, it was good. Not exactly sure what else to say. It wasn't bad, just not great. I would rate it as a 3. Poached Lobster = Sam wouldn't let me have a taste of the lobster but he devoured the lobster succulent bite after succulent bite. It was also served with shrimp/pork dumplings with a complimenting dipping sauce. I wish I had a plate solely comprised of these dumplings. Seared Scallops = Perfectly seared and soft, melt in your mouth on the inside. Served with cauliflower puree and red win braised cabbage with bacon lardons. I wanted 50 scallops, they were amazing and every flavor on the plate paired so perfectly with each nibble. To my surprise, they brought out a chocolate cake with a candle for Sam's birthday, very nice touch. It was the Sticky chocolate cake served with pecan saltine brittle, and bourbon butterscotch ice cream. We scraped the plate clean we liked it so much. The food was delicate and perfectly seasoned. The price was totally worth it and I have a feeling we will be back again in the near future.
(4)
Tony M.

Nice to have a place I can reliably take people who mean something to me and never have it disappoint. Even the crowd at the front is cool....it is worth it to watch the bar crew rock and roll. The "kid" with the tie is a rare commodity....first one I would hire if I opened a place. The food is out of this world and worth the hefty tab....it is one place I just say the hell with the $$ and just order what I feel like....it's always that good. The oysters are what I judge others by all over the US. If I ever get stupid rich....I am going to make this my own personal kitchen!
(5)
Lee P.

I was in Denver for work and had no idea where to eat, the hotel I was staying at recommended this place. I sat at the bar and had a few beers, they had a decent selection of local brews and a great happy hour. For dinner, I got a half dozen hama hama oysters...they were huge but tasted great. They had 6 selections, all from west or east coast. The oysters are kind of pricey, but they are well worth it. I also ordered the Salmon entree, it was a good portion size since I try not to overeat and feel terrible. Tasted great and the vegetables that were with it were good as well.
(5)
Alison F.

High energy, my go to in land locked Denver for seafood. Scallops and chocolate martini top my list, followed closely by calamari w/ spicy sweet sauce. Parking isn't always easy, there's valet sometimes, and it's crowded - but it's definitely worth the effort!
(5)
Dana L.

Nice vibe and great food. Had the chowdah, poke and lobstah roll. Zach who's the line cool at the bar does a wicked good job prepping all your food. Come here for a good time.
(4)
Kelly R.

Holy Moly! Well, per my previous review I stated that I thought we had been charged twice for out bill! Come to find the prices listed for the oysters were for 1/2 dozen, not a dozen..So in short we spent $72 on oysters alone! One expensive happy hour ($140 + tip for two people), but...all worth it. Seemed reasonable after all the drinks. (Will just have to eat Ramen for the next few days to compensate) :)
(4)
JJ N.

Good Drinks, Great Service, attractive clientele, and awesome seafood! I haven't had oysters in a while and god only knows what types I had but all and everyone were great! Yummy
(5)
Susan B.

My husband and I ate here a couple of years ago. We loved it then and we love it now. Still serving fresh and delicious seafood (oysters and scallops on this visit along with the Ahi tuna) and service was excellent. Thanks, Jax!
(5)
Sarah W.

Boyfriend and I decided to stop in at Jax for a quick drink before meeting friends for dinner. We arrived a the tail end of happy hour - at 5:45. The place was packed, not a seat to be had at the bar and standing room only on the patio. We carved out a spot and looked over the drink menu. The happy hour deals themselves were great - drinks were all under $5 and several different appetizers in the same range. They also have $1 oysters. We decided on drinks and planned to get a few oysters. Here is where the problem began. We patiently waited on the patio while servers went back and forth to several other groups (some at tables, some standing like us) taking orders and delivering food. After about 10 minutes of us standing there, a waitress who was not our server came over to collect our drink order. We put in for drinks and were told they would be out shortly. In the mean time, our actual waiter came over to check in. At this point it was 6:00 - the time that happy hour ends. We asked if he could get our oyster order in under the happy hour price and he said yes - which was nice. Shortly after we got our drinks - mine was a refreshing cucumber infused vodka drink - delicious! We waited for our oysters to come, but nothing. At 6:15 we asked for our bill (we were meeting friends at 6:30), we wanted to be able to take off as soon as we finished the oysters. The bill came, drinks were finished, it was 6:20 and still no oysters. I don't know about you, but if I had a special on oysters for happy hour I would make damn sure that I would be able to provide the quickly to guests. At 6:25, I had my purse in hand and we were ready to walk out the door. The oysters arrived - finally. We gulped them all down and ran out the door. I can't comment to the quality of the oysters, but I can say that the whole experience was not great. I expected a lot more.
(2)
Turok ..

It was a warm Friday evening on September 21st. I had arrived at Jax Fish House and sitting across from me was Aphrodite herself. She was stunning and as I looked into her eyes I had realized that this was the pinnacle of beauty and overall enticement. That was until my Grilled Sturgeon in Peppercorn Glazed Reduction Sauce had arrived and I was soon seing double! Have my eyes deceived me?! Had my deepest fantasies been tricked with a double wammy of passionate bombardment? That'l be a YES!! Check please!!!!! DURP!!!!
(5)
Frank N.

Some of the best happy hour deals in town. The seafood is goo and the beers are local. It's the place I take my friends to for good CO beers, seafood, and good vibes.
(4)
Sebastian R.

I had a jumbo crab cake. I have had better ones, the portion was small and a little bit on the taste less side. For dessert I had the pan fried berries, it tasted like burned berries. I tasted the German chocolate cake and it was amazing, next time will do that one. Coffee was probably one of the best I have had on a restaurant! Ohh and the house butter bread was really good too
(3)
Lynn W.

I was so excited to go to Jax because Hosea had won Top Chef - and it did not disappoint! The food was really good and the cocktails were fabulous. The calamari was spot-on, the oysters were good, and the bacon braised greens were soo yummy. The spiked strawberry lemonade was my favorite.
(4)
Lindsay A.

Oh Jax, how I love thee. Your happy hour is one of the best in Denver, and your food is divine. I have been to Jax on a couple different occasions, both being during happy hour. When you walk in the door, people say hi to you and let you know how long it will be for a seat. When sat, a server comes over right away and asks if you have any questions about anything before you order. The staff is voted one of the best in Denver for a reason, they are very friendly, helpful, and you can really tell that they love their job. All the drinks I have tried here have been amazing. I usually try some kind of girly martini or strawberry-infused vodka and fresh lemonade. And they are pretty darn cheap during happy hour. The food is also delicious. As I said before, we have only gone for happy hour so they have a special food menu for happy hour where everything is marked down significantly. The peel and eat shrimp is fresh and comes with delicious sauce on the side for dipping. If I remember correctly(martinis may affect your memory) the sauce had curry. The boyfriend and I left nice and buzzed with a tab of a whopping $30. Since our service is always so great, we usually leave the tip based more on what our tab would have normally been, most of them are that good!
(5)
Katie R.

I've become a happy hour fiend. it's true. I can ALWAYS count on Jax to cure my oyster, calimari & fish cravings, my desire to soak up some vitiamin D on the patio and quench my thirst with some delicious cocktails [mango tango anyone?]. hands down...one of the best happy hours i've seen. -$1 oysters...beware, you might turned on! -$4 cocktails [happy hour all night long on wednesdays!] -awesome service! ALWAYS :)
(4)
Korina A.

The only reason we were coming here was for he conch ceviche, good thing I called because they no longer have it in their menu. Take it off the menu then please... Not going to go here to eat
(1)
Andy S.

I really like the atmosphere of this place because it's small. Even if it's not crowded, it still feels like you're somewhere cool. The food is delicious. Right now they're donating some oyster revenue to the flood victims.
(5)
Renu D.

It takes great courage or incredible Yelp reviews for me to go eat sea food in a land locked place. In this case it was the yelp reviews!! So Thank You Yelpers!! We started out with the cast iron blue crab cake! OMG! It was Delicious. I know that really doesn't tell you much, but pardon me. I was in a flavor heaven when I ate that and did not think about anything else. It was served in a tiny cast iron pan.. piping hot!! On a cold winter night that just set the evening on a warm and cozy note. We followed it up with some snow crab, Blackened catfish and pan seared scallops. My daughter loved the crab she had ordered and pointed out that it did not smell funny. Which in older people language means, it was fresh. We loved the other two dishes as well, but would have preferred the blackened fish not to be too blackened. But over all, good dishes with great flavors. A nice selection of cocktails. We tried a couple of them and they were very nice. And top it all - Very attentive and friendly service.
(4)
Kathryn H.

My partner and I headed to Jax for her birthday last night and I must say it was really wonderful. From the moment we walked in, and were told we looked fabulous, by the front of the house (manager?) man, to the service, food, and birthday ice cream--it was all just very nice. I had been to Jax in Boulder, but never the one in LoDo, and they are like two completely different restaurants, with the one in Denver being far superior, IMHO. So we do not know a lot about fish/sea food, but our server steered us in the right path. I never really had oysters before, and had no idea what or how to order them, so our server put a sampler of some of their oysters of the night together for us. They were tasty--it's always good to try new things. Then the server informed us of the fresh King Crab special. We were there for crab, and we got it--chilled! I have never had chilled crab, but that was the recommendation from the server, so we went with it. We also got three sides: spinach, broccoli, and grits (ooey, cheesy, creamy grits.) It was a lot of food, but we made it through all of it pretty well-just took home a small portion of the sides. The server brought out the only gluten free dessert--mocha ice cream, which my partner loves! The couple at the table next to us sang with me. All-in-all, a really lovely evening.
(4)
Stephanie M.

Often visit their southern location but was downtown so stopped in. Service was great.. quickly greeted and was consistently checked up on. Oysters on happy hour cant be beat!! The Calamari also should always be tried, freshest Ive ever tasted.
(4)
Marissa W.

Not sure what the hype is all about. We came here because a friend recommended it to us. We were excited about the oysters, mostly. The oysters were fine. But the other food we had during happy hour were at best so-so. The hot dog thing was very disappointing, as were the gumbo fries. The service was so-so as well. Our waiter was a bit lukewarm and his suggestions were actually pretty not tasty at all.
(3)
Fay H.

Great happy hour drinks and $1.25 oysters. The renovation didn't do much good for the location. If you sit in the bar (on the short side) plan on getting whacked each time someone passes by. It would be worth it though to eat those oysters all night long though.
(3)
Glenn H.

Jax was lots of fun. Great food and great service.
(5)
Johnny U.

After a horrible experience a while back I swore I would never go back to Jax. See my earlier reviews. Well last night my wife and I decided to try Jax again. We hadn't Been in since the remodel. The owner Adam was the sole reason we decided to go. He genuinely cared. Everyone deserves a second chance right? We made a reservation and were a little early. The host said no problem and grabbed menues just as the phone rang. He answered it, and asked the caller to please hold. Well, the caller rambled. The host made eye contact with us while still being polite to the caller. We could see his predicament. After being seated, Jon was our waiter. Nice, responsive, and funny at times. We started with oysters, ( great as I remember ) calamari ( Tender, lightly breaded. The sauces were a very nice compliment) and the curry mussels. ( i love curry, and was excited & anxious to see how the two went together. ) we added a touch of lime and as non traditional mussels; well let's say we ordered a loaf of their homemade bread to soak up the sauce. Whole peanuts were a nice surprise as we hit the bottom of the bowl. I was looking forward to the seared Tuna I had grown to love at Jax, but it was missing. ( I did notice it was on there New Years eve menu) I'm hoping it's a seasonal thing. It's that good! Being weary of ordering trout out....mushy if not prepared perfectly. I was going to put them to the test, but saw a lobster risotto. The description was just what we were looking for. Jon our waiter was honest when asked if he tried it yet. " No was his reply" he told us Jax makes a special for the staff to try. I like that idea. The staff knows the dish. Jon came back and told us he had tried it and it was very good. We were glad to hear so, being we already ordered it. So, we are very glad we returned to Jax. The remodel makes for a lively experience to all. The staff very good. Food delicious, and a fun atmosphere. The past issues are no more. We had a fun time, a wonderful dinner, and a great night. Thank You Jax........and Adam.
(4)
Julie H.

I love seafood and especially oysters. I also have a deep appreciation for creativity, quality and consistency. Jax comes through every time. I rate Jax above all the other seafood places downtown for a few reasons including food and service (ask if Quinn is working). But I really love the feel of Jax. It's original, unassuming, and cool. They have a large bar space where you can eat too. Go in for Oyster Happy Hour. I always start with at least a half dozen of whatever the freshest oysters they have for the day along with one of the yummy mixed drinks. Depending on the size of the group, I also like to have the cucumber avocado gazpacho whenever I am here because it's amazing. Bring someone with you and share the scallops or lobster BLT. I wish I have ever saved room for dessert because they sound awesome.
(4)
Lorem I.

Jax is one of the few restaurants in Denver that make eating seafood with no ocean around feel safe.
(5)
Allison L.

Since I was traveling alone for work, I just wanted a yummy easy place to go and since this was roughly 1 block from my hotel and served seafood I was sold. As I wandered in, the hostess looks at me and I say "it's just me, can I sit at the bar?" She happily smiled "Of course! It's full service." EXCELLENT! So I make my way over and plot down on a bar stool. This place is awesome, you can sign their walls, see how many oysters they shucked in the last month and gaze lovingly at the their in house liquors they make...i.e. Strawberry vodka and many others. As I'm gazing around, the bartender hands me a drink menu and I order. The Strawberry vodka, obviously. I then look at the actual food menu, since Tina needs her food. I order the shrimp po boy, because well that's what I got hungry for the second I saw it. The bartenders says "nice choice." Yay. So my food is delivered to me about 10 minutes later and it looks absolutely ridiculous! The sandwich is wrapped in paper, the cole slaw looks to die for and the fries smell divine. I have no idea where to start. So I pick up my fork and dig into the cole slaw. OMG! STOP! OMG! Crisp and fresh, tossed with some kind of vinegar and oil. Deelish. The fries a little oily for me, but still, they were delicious. Now. The Po Boy. Absolutely and positively one of the BEST I've ever had. (Nothing can top local NOLA Po's...just saying). About 50 shrimp in my sammy, fresh warm bread, yummy remoulade, fresh lettuce and tomatoes! I ate the entire thing. When the bartender took my plate after I had licked it clean, he goes "pretty terrible huh?" I replied "Worst food ever." I can tell this stuff is fresh and its made to order. Another bar tender the whole time was shucking oysters, and as soon as a plate was done, they went out. So, it's good to know shucked oysters aren't sitting out all day. Friendly service, fantastic food and just all around great place Downtown Denver!
(4)
Marissa S.

The bread appetizer was delicious and my mom enjoyed her halibut entree...my tuna entree on the other hand was mediocre at best. I'm not sure if it was the tuna itself or the vegetables and potatoes it was served over but the entire dish was just extremely greasy...to the point that it was unappetizing. And to top off the evening, while I was contemplating the dessert menu one of the bus boys spilled an entire glass of ice water directly in my lap, all over the table, and on to my iPhone. I had plans to do other things that night, but had to end up returning home because it was so uncomfortable walking around with my dress absolutely soaked. Needless to say I didn't get dessert. Understandably, accidents happen, but what was upsetting is the fact that I barely got an insincere "oh sorry"...no accommodations were made for the considerable inconvenience I was just offered "a rag" if I wanted to dry off. Unfortunately I don't think I'll be back.
(2)
Sam E.

Absolutely love the atmosphere. If you can make happy hour, amazing cocktail deals and cheap delicious snack items! Maybe not for a special occasion per se, depending on your budget, but food is good for price albeit a bit small depending on dinner entree. I actually do love this place though for the vibe, their service (genuine people) and their seafood!
(5)
Safford B.

We've been to the Jax in LoDo countless times over the last few years and always walk away happy. Generally speaking, we order a handful of our favorite appetizers to share around the table in lieu of entrees, since we think they're more creative, though that's certainly not meant to reflect poorly on the entrees, since they're good as well. If oysters are in season, you must start there. The bad thing about being in Denver is that I can't walk out my door and grab oysters out of my back yard. The good thing about being in Denver is that we can get really fresh oysters by air from both coasts, which means Jax always has a great selection. From there, we go to the peel and eat shrimp, which is sold by the 1/2 pound. You really could make a meal of this stuff on its own if you ordered enough of it. The shrimp is tossed in a Cajun rub and then served with a Cajun mustard sauce and traditional cocktail sauce. You can eat yourself sick on this stuff it's so good. By the way, if you do like their shrimp, be sure to order a "Fat Mary" for your cocktail. It's a bloody mary with bacon, bleu-cheese stuffed olives, and a couple of the shrimp on top. One of the best cocktails I've ever had. The calamari is also a winner. It's really tender--as in you don't necessarily need a knife to cut it--and is served with lime aioli and a mango-chile sauce. Jax's gumbo has shredded chicken, locally-made andouille, and crawfish. It's rich, but not too spicy, and has a really nice balance of flavors. A few of the other starters I probably would give a miss, because they're really not as good as the others: marinated blue marlin and rock shrimp hash. If you're up for a splurge, order some of the king crab legs. When we ordered them, they had been flown in earlier that day from Alaska and were some of the best crab legs we'd ever had. They're pricey, but worth it. Jax also serves cioppino and paella on select nights. Given how good everything else is, we're going to coordinate our next trip around one of these specialty nights.
(4)
Gladys C.

Best.seafood.in .Denver!!!! One of my all time fav dishes is cioppino and jax absolutely aced the dish! The portion was huugggge and I had this giant, Alaska king sized crab leg in my cioppino! I was in seafood heaven! We also got some oysters to share as an app and it was really fresh and tasty as well. our server was friendly, helpful and really attentive, which made it one of the best dining experiences I have had in Denver. Overall everyone was really happy with their dishes. I will absolutely come back for more seafood next time! Can't wait!
(5)
Maribeth T.

Great service and food. I had the lobster roll-perfectly toasted roll with great lobster salad which was heavy on the lobster. YUM The homemade bread with butter is worth the extra $3. It is absolutely delicious. My dining partner had the salmon with soba noodles and miso broth-she also enjoyed her meal. Very fun, lively atmosphere. Will definitely visit again when in Denver.
(5)
Anna N.

Oysters... I could eat these all day! The seafood salad was so refreshing and delicious! Also, did you know they make their own ginger beer? The moscow mule was great! I am really looking forward to the opening of the Cherry Creek location :)
(5)
julie n.

I've been to Jax for happy hour and it's great. $1 oysters and great drink specials. Went to Jax for dinner during Denver's 5280 restaurant week. Two 3 course meals for $52.80 and was disappointed. Boyfriend ordered salad, catfish, and brownie with ice cream. Salad was large and fresh. Catfish was slim and portion was very very small. Brownie was rich and good. I ordered crawfish gumbo, seafood spaghetti, and key lime pie. There was not 1 crawfish tail in my bowl and the soup was cold. The pasta was runny and lacked the seafood (1 shrimp, 1 scallop, 2 mussels, 2 clams, and some really slimy, tough squid). I did not eat the key lime pie but boyfriend said it was not good. It did come with a sprinkle of fresh fruit. And the service was slow! The food came out fast (which explains the temperature) but the waitress must have had too many tables in her section. It wasn't that busy either, it was Monday night. Granted, we went to get a good deal during restaurant week but it was not worth the money...$70 after tip. We would have been better off ordering off the menu. The catfish would have been $21 and the salad would have been $8. But at least then, the catfish would have been a real meal. What we paid for was more appetizer size. The waitress informed me that the portions are smaller on the $52.80 menu. I thought it was going to be a good deal but it failed miserably.
(2)
Eunah K.

My family and I were on a 10 day road trip and we stayed in Denver for 2 days. We visited downtown and walked around for a bit before coming across Jax. What got us was the happy hour sign ($1.25 oysters!!) but turns out we had missed happy hour. We still went in and ate because my parents wanted oysters. The waiter we had was more than welcoming and very outgoing. We ordered some Emerson oysters and their peel and eat shrimp! It was fabulous. Their mango lemonade is to die for also! When we were leaving, their manager, or he seemed to be the manager from our perspective, had ran across the restaurant to shake our hands and to say goodbye. We had a great first experience so we decided to revisit the next night. The second experience was, as well, fantastic! The same gentleman who greeted us as we left last night, Marshall, had greeted us again when we entered the restaurant. After we ordered, he brought us a variation of oysters and they were absolutely delicious! Their calamari was cooked perfectly and the sauce that came with it, complimented the calamari amazingly. Another gentleman, seemed to be high up in their restaurant as well, approached us after our oysters and thanked us for revisiting their restaurant. This definitely showed us that they cared about their customers! We had a great experience both times we ate there! & they have great service!
(5)
S P.

Don't order Mule, home brew ginger beer is overwhelming compared to most places. Bartender was unfriendly when we mentioned it. One drink them we moved elsewhere.
(2)
Allison O.

My group had a great meal at this restaurant and service was outstanding. We had the oysters and our server provided excellent information on the selections to help make choices. One of our meals did not meet our expectations and the staff immediately offered to replace the dish with another option. The replacement was delicious and we were very happy with the willingness to replace the meal at no charge. They went above and beyond to make sure our food and experience was outstanding.
(5)
laura h.

I wish I could give Jax an extra 1/2 star. The quality of the seafood is always excellent. The preparation is good - not ohmigod perfection but good, as one would expect from a higher-end restaurant. Prices can be a bit steep, in my opinion, compared to other restaurants that offer comparable quality and preparation of product. Parking for this location sucks. I will admit that I am a little weird, and very cheap, when it comes to parking, and generally avoid downtown for this reason, but I think they should offer validation. Service is fine. The atmosphere can be a little loud for my taste. My real problem with Jax is that the menu is really hit-or-miss for me. I'm just not a fan or Creole and Cajun food, and their menu leans heavily on these. A majority of their regular menu items include pork, which I don't eat. I've been fortunate with some of their specials, but I've also had nights there when I was hard-pressed to find anything to order. If their menu items appeal to you, I would say they will probably be well-prepared, but when friends suggest Jax for a dinner out, I now say I would prefer to eat elsewhere. Sorry, Jax. BTW, I used to have better luck with the Boulder location's menu, but not anymore. The Volcano Cake is to die for, though. Edit: After reading this review, one of the managers kindly messaged me with an invitation to give Jax another try, and to let her know if I came in. I thought this was great. Unfortunately, I didn't get back to her promptly, and now her message is gone. Don't understand that - ??? - but, know that they do read these reviews.
(2)
Cheyne M.

Fun, fun atmosphere and EXCELLENT food. I ordered the Colorado Trout and it was so f#cking good. Also ordered the grits and a bunch of oysters -- again, awesome. A fun place to eat and party and enjoy fresh and authentic seafood in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains! Highly recommend by fish everywhere (especially those who like to drink).
(4)
Scott B.

Made a reservation for 2 at 6:30pm last night. The person who was booking asked if it was a special occasion, and I said it was, but we were keeping it on the down low. Arrived on time and were seated at one of the smallest tables I have ever been seated at. Not too special at all. Ordered 1/2 doz. oysters, that were super fresh and briney. The came with the standard horseradish, and cocktail sauce, plus a red wine sauce and a cider sauce. Not too thrilled with the red wine nor the cider, but I like just a little lemon and horseradish, so no complaints there. My wife got the trout, and I picked the grouper. She was the winner. The trout was fresh, juicy and bigger than the plate. I didn't try her sides, but the red rice looked and was reportedly delicious. My grouper on the other hand was dry, and a bit on the smallish side. Although my fish was certainly unimpressive, my sides were awesome, with a ricotta ravioli and amazing pesto. There were some chips as well as a schmear of some delicious reddish sauce, that certainly helped with the dry grouper. The service was great, and eventually they did offer to move us to a larger table. We were settled in already, and did not make the switch. I just think it is inexcuable to seat anyone at such a tiny table, especially on a special occasion. When you are paying nearly $30/plate, I think you shouldn't have to battle with keeping your food on the table, and being butted right up against the next one. We will not be back for dinner. Maybe happy hour, as the oysters were good, and the happy hour prices seem much more reasonable.
(3)
Nick C.

It just so happened that they were holding an all day happy hour on the 4th of July, and with the weather canceling any chances of outdoor activities, we decided what better way to enjoy ourselves than with cheap drinks and seafood with no time constraints. The all day happy hour mirrored the happy hour that runs daily from 4 to 6. How can one go wrong with cheap food items as gumbo, oysters, mussels, crispy crab claws and drinks including specialized cocktails and wine? Happy hour is held at the bar which is right by the entrance. This confined space along with heavy traffic can make for a lot of chaos, which there certainly was this afternoon. With the chaos around the bar, it can be a bit difficult getting the attention of the staff to take orders, however, when the request is made, the food comes fast. We ended up ordering a dozen and a half oysters at $1 an oyster, doesn't get much better than that, but also tried the gumbo $3 and the mussels $5. Beer options during happy hour are pretty limited, coors light the only draft, so we ordered beers not on the HH menu. Don't get me wrong, the cocktail items on the HH menu looked good, but what goes better than oysters and a few beers? Their food offerings for HH are certainly appealing, however, a bit skimpy in size. Keep in mind that if you are looking to get a sufficient meal, it's gonna add up, but hey, did I tell you they have dollar oysters?
(3)
David T.

Well, I really don't have a lot to add to what others have said. Haven't had dinner here for a couple of years but I stop by for my happy hour oyster fix pretty often. If you crave the freshest assortment of raw oysters in town - this is definitely the place. I have no idea how many they go through in a day but it's a LOT. If you're going to eat raw sea foods you want to eat them someplace that does a lot of volume to make sure they haven't been sitting around. Lively (maybe sometimes a little too lively - it gets LOUD) bar scene and oysters served the way that God intended - shucked right in front of you, placed on ice and sided with the traditional accompaniments of horseradish, cocktail sauce and lemon (all unnecessary if you ask me).
(4)
Melissa H.

Jax still kicks ass. If you haven't tried the strawberry infused vodka, do so right away. Get it served straight up chilled - delicious and sweet. I love that they have two quality gentleman as their bartenders. They are quick, polite, efficient, and knowledgeable about all sorts of cocktails. They have a quality that I find lacking in a lot of bartenders. Get there early for happy hour starting at 4pm and you can get drink specials for $4, a few small dishes for $4-$6 and $1 oysters.
(4)
Amy O.

I have no complaints at all. Lunch was great for both service and food. I had the gazpacho and the burger. Both were excellent which is a big deal considering their specialty is seafood.
(5)
Matthew R.

It was outstanding. The oysters were perfect, the crab fresh, the scallops divine. Bring your checkbook but it's worth every dime.
(5)
Darika S.

Have been twice now for happy hour. And it does get crowded too, but you get the HH specials anywhere in the restaurant. Once you walk in the fresh shellfish looks so good. Four dollars drinks is also a great deal. And please get the calamari. Get two orders if you want. Nice meaty strips of calamari with rings and tentacles and two sauces. The hush puppies, which aren't described are slightly sweet balls of goodness. They are stuffed with some kind of hot seafood salad. You can also get oysters for $1.25 each if that's your sorda thing. The wings were crispy, a decent wing, but I may pass next time. Service was great, especially Noah, a waiter. He kept checking on us and kept bringing the drinks!
(5)
shahd s.

Awesome oyster happy hour! Get the slider they are so good!! If i come back to denver ill definitely be coming back here!
(5)
Monica L.

I was notified by management that they've fixed any tasting issues with the dishes I've mentioned in my previous review. My boyfriend and I will definitely be back to try again!
(4)
Mary M.

Great experience! Jose was our server and he was great! Incredibly knowledgeable about the menu, professional ect. We started with the bread and peel and eat shrimp. Both great. I had the ahi tuna- it was good, but not amazing. Husband had the lobster roll and maple fries and he basically licked the plate. We shared the German chocolate cake- it was good. Great service, food and experience!
(5)
Frank C.

Love this place, get ready to drop some coin.. but you will have a great time and enjoy some quality food. I have been several times and have always been impressed on the freshness of the fish and oysters. Also a great place for happy hour with a group of friends.
(4)
Viola P.

Nice service. Fresh food! Fair price! This place is downtown Denver. The food is super freaky fresh and the price is fair. We liked it a lot. Very nice place to go. During busy hrs, it may be hard to find a parking spot on the street.
(5)
Karly K.

I have always had a great time when I go to Jax. I love oysters, as do a few of my friends, so we make a point to come here. The staff is friendly and helpful with recommendations, and the atmosphere is fun and lively. Rating: 5 stars Good For: happy hour, dinner, oysters, groups, date night
(5)
Kara H.

Love this place! I have eaten here on several occasions, but it was my last trip in that really encouraged me to write this review and give Jax the kudos it deserves. A girlfriend and I went in on Saturday for happy hour, planning on having a party of 5. We got seated immediately but waited....and waited....and waited for the rest of our party. Finally, after 90 minutes, everyone showed up and we ended up being 7 instead of 5. Noah, our server, was AWESOME! He was so kind the whole time and didn't rush us or get impatient that we were taking up a large table with only two of us. He even happily got us extra chairs so we could all crowd around the table once everyone finally showed up. Jax always has great service and amazing food, but Noah was truly fantastic.
(5)
Phillip R.

Mediocre raw bar by coastal standards, however that's not really a surprise. What's truly unacceptable is that they had us wait for 50minutes on a 730 reservation. That's absurd.
(1)
Melissa C.

This place is great and you need to go here. The staff and service is exceptional, never rushed and friendly. They have fantastic happy hour specials and just really good food. So glad we finally tried it. They have a creative new menu, great music and positive atmosphere. The lobster roll is killer. One of my new favorites.
(5)
Rob W.

We ate dinner here last night. We sat on the patio and the weather was perfect. The food on the other hand was so so. We started with a half pound of shrimp cocktail. This was the best part of the meal. The shrimp were cooked perfectly and the seasoning was just right. We also ordered a few cocktails. The cocktails were tasty and reasonably priced. $6 for each of the cocktails. I ordered the "today's special" for dinner. It was a curry grouper. For starters the curry was so strong that it drowned out any other flavors the dish might have had. The worst part of the meal was that the fillet of grouper was badly burt. I was shocked they even served it to me. I'm not the kind of person to send food back but I really should have. I will most likely try this place again as I feel it could have potential. But this time was a miss for Jax. If I was rating this place on employee attractiveness, they would have gotten a 5 star!!
(2)
Thomas W.

The Happy Hour specials are a great deal. The raw oysters are excellent, and the gumbo was of top quality. I love the atmosphere and friendly service. The crab cake is not a Maryland crabcake, but was packed with backfin crab. The New England Clam chowder had a great presentation with real clams, but was not worth the $12 price tag in my opinion. I did not enjoy the pie a la mode with bacon. I am a bacon lover, but do not want it in my ice cream. The 4 stars is for the Happy Hour bargain!
(4)
Alistair C.

True perfect manhattans. Calamari is nice but tastes a bit soggy. Otherwise flavor is nice and creamy/spicy when the aoli is blends with the red pepper. Oysters are fun and light. Staff is very knowledgable- a pleasure.
(5)
Crystal P.

The oysters were good, but that was it. Everything else was just ok and WAY overpriced. The place is cramped and you could call it cozy but the waitstaff didn't look to be enjoying it. I might go back for a happy hour but not for their pricey dinner.
(2)
Jeremy M.

Just had a wonderful light meal of oysters, tried all on the menu they were amazing.. The bacon Stilton blue salad was probably the best salad I've ever had. Finally the service was very good. Not only for me but there was a large group, spending big money & the manager was polishing glasses & ensuring this group were getting what they paid for.. I don't give it 5 stars bc it's casual & I sat at the bar.. It's a 5 star , casual place with awesome food & good service.. If u like good food eat here!
(4)
Patricia Y.

So delicious! Great atmosphere, excellent menu choices (it was so hard to choose). I was only in Denver for a short visit and dined at Jax on the recommendation of a friend who had lived in Denver more than 5 years ago. The food was absolutely fantastic! The next time I am in Denver, I will definitely be heading back.
(5)
Brittany S.

My favorite place to grab a drink and oysters! This place is small and seafood heavy, but very good fresh seafood and oysters.
(4)
Scott B.

Jax has by far the best Oysters in Colorado. Their service is excellent, ambiance excellent and the quality of the food is unsurpassed. If you are looking for mussels, oysters, and general seafood this is The place. Love it!
(5)
Bob H.

Great food and service. The fish is fresh and cooked well. Best seafood in Denver. Flown in daily.
(5)
Lisa K.

This is by far one of my favorite happy hours in Denver. They have great (and affordable) drinks. Many made with their house infused booze. I am partial to the strawberry lemonade and cucumber lemon press. So refreshing on a hot day. They also have some great happy hour snacks. Of course oysters on the half shell... which my BF is a total fan of. I, on the other hand, can't pass up the sea dog. It sounds so bizarre in writing, but it is totally awesome. Give it a try! I don't think I have eaten dinner at Jax since back in the late 90's... but it was amazing. I imagine it still is and someday we will check it out for a special occasion. But for now, this is one of our go to happy hour (or two) spots.
(4)
Randy S.

I saw the other reviews and based on them decided to dine here. The restaurant is nice wirh a long bar running down the middle. They had a special on oysters and i assumed they would not be served if they were not good. I order a half dozen of the special and another six for $20. The special oysters were rotten. I notified the bartender and he took them off my bill. I have never before been served a rotten oyster. But this did break the rule of oysters only in months with r and in not in a Landlocked state. But still they should not serve these because of the food posioning risk. No alarm from bartender he just asked me if i was going to finish them...NO. He must have been high. I also ordered the halibut and hot greens. Greens were good but were $6 and came out ten minutes before my entree. Halibut arrived and looked good but upon further exploration it was apparent that it was raw. Halibut sushi? Never heard of it. So the kitchen is slipping as well. I dont eat raw halibut just like rotten oysters. I brought this to the attention of the waiter and he took the plate to the manager. The manager came by and said sorry you didnt like your halibut. Sorry you dont know how to cook halibut. Rotten oysters and raw halibut all in one dining experience. Six oysters a bowl of hot greens and a beer, forty bucks. Lots of great places in denver, this is not one of them.
(2)
Kyle F.

Good food! Oysters were delicious and the garlic fries are fantastic!! I was a little disappointed with our entrees though. It was not lost on us that the fries were the best part of our meal at a seafood restaurant. Service was good, bartenders were friendly and knowledgeable though we did have to flag them down a few times. We will be back Jax!!
(4)
Shelene G.

Chef Eric does it again on New Years. Amazing ham hock soup, sea bass, a five course meal to die for. Thank you for making our New Years. Looking forward to your 2015 flavor creations. Also special thanks to our server Jose who always makes us feel at home. Happy New Year to the Jax team.
(5)
Carl P.

What can I say everything was amazing possibly one of the best restaurants I've ever dined in, from cocktails to food it was superb and the service amazing
(5)
Riza H. C.

Saturday June 15th 2013. Had the CRAB BOIL FEAST that evening with a couple of friends who are also celebrating one of our friends' birthday. Our reservation was at 18:00hrs for a PARTY of 9. I came in early as to see the happenings of what Jax Fish House has to offer. Right after entering this establishment I was seated at the Bar nearest to the "FISH TANK" waiting for the Birthday Party to arrive. Like about 10 minutes of waiting, I was then ushered all the way back to be seated nearest to the KITCHEN on the Right Wing of this establishment were all our table and seats ready for our CRAB BOIL FEAST. Yes, our table were ready for us, filled with all the essential items for the CRAB Boil Feast, with wooden mallets, little buckets, plastic bibs, crab/lobster crackers for everyone. There are also crayons if you need to doodle while waiting for your party. Our lovely server by the name of Jessica, handled our table professionally. AFTER THE EXTENSION PROJECT, that Jax Fish House had recently to this location, Man this place was indeed bustling with alot of patrons I might add. If I am not mistaken on that Saturday evening, there were also the ROCKIES GAMEs etc etc.. Furthermore it was also the weekend, Duh! Everyone had the melted butter, horseradish and cocktail sauce. Our Crab Boil contains, several Lemons, Corns, Sausages, Potatoes, Dungeness Crabs, King Crab Legs, Lots and Lots of Shrimp and Crawfish. All were seasoned to perfection. While feasting if our little "shell buckets" were filled, several servers will empty them for you. We also had many refills of Melted Butter, Horseradish Sauce and Cocktail Sauce that evening. Everyone was indeed "STUFFED" with the CRAB BOIL FEAST and we even had plenty of leftovers when the "damage" were done. Since it was my friends birthday, she decide to had the leftovers packed for her too. We also brought along a Birthday Cake and Jax Fish House was kind enough to hold the Birthday cake in their fridge until the evening was almost over. Remember each CRAB BOIL FEAST will cost you $45 per person. The Service and The Food on which Jax Fish House had offered that evening received 3.5 STARS in my books, in which I'll round it to 4 STARS. Might return when needed either during HH or even during Dinner hours with Hubs or my other friends. With everyone had their fair share of beverages, sodas, coffee, tea, Beer, Wine and other beverages, the total cost of our Dinner was about $625 inclusive of tax and 18% Gratuity. @130/2013
(4)
Ronald G.

When a experience all comes together it is truly remembered. Jax has succeeded! We will be returning soon!
(5)
Kali F.

Bravo!! What an amazing experience! Happy hour is superb. The oysters are perfection. The calamari is delish. The service at the bar is out of this world. Awesome! Ketchup with oysters a little strange, however. Heinz? I hope not...
(5)
Chris H.

OK, I have to start this review by saying I don't eat sea food. NONE. Notta. Zero. Zilch. But, my wife loves sea food. So we are always looking for a good sea food place that she will love and that has something on the menu that I can tolerate. Well, Jax fits that bill perfectly. She loves their sea food and she said her mussels were great. In addition they have a VERY good hamburger that I love. I only wish that their root beer was still draft instead of fountain. They used to make their own draft root beer. We also had their cookies for dessert and they came with "spiked" milk that was 1/3 milk, 1/3 ice cream and 1/3 booze. Well worth getting!!!
(4)
Rachel D.

Five stars for the location, atmosphere, and servers! We had a couple of really fun, friendly guys helping us out and really enjoyed the overall layout of the restaurant. The bar was a cozy nautical theme and they had great happy hour prices, overall really glad I stopped by here. Had to bring down the review a little because the oysters were so-so. Great presentation but not a ton of flavor, and some seemed small and shriveled in their shell. I had the pink lemonade happy hour cocktail which didn't taste incredible- couldn't tell if there was any alcohol in there, but even so, the drink itself wasn't something I'd want to try again.
(3)
Sean H.

The best seafood available in Denver (or Boulder). Parking is easy with valet, oysters are great and they have their own wine that is excellent. I've had numerous dishes, which are inventive and cooked amazingly. Add in some crayons for some cocktail inspired art and you can't do much better.
(5)
Roxi O.

Great food, great service, yummy brunch. Got the grilled romaine salmon salad - really good! Oysters on special for $1.25 - get in my belly. Bloody Mary - 5 bucks on Sundays. Do it.
(4)
Amy J.

I love this place! We visited on a weekend trip to Denver during Restaurant Week in Lower Downtown (LoDo). We only stopped in for Happy Hour, not dinner, but we grabbed seats at the bar on a cold, sunny day and ordered $1.25 oysters, the Smoked Mackerel Rillette with crackers, and even got a tasting from the guy behind the bar of some of the Cold Smoked Albacore Tuna Crudo he was making - DELICIOUS. The staff members were super friendly, the kind of people you want to sit down and chat with, and offered awesome recommendations from the menu. Everything looked extremely fresh and you really just can't go wrong stopping in this place - especially during Happy Hour!!
(5)
Molly B.

Do yourself a favor and order the lobster roll. I know, I know, lobster in a landlocked state? 2,500 miles away from the source? Yes, really. And I'm from MAINE! I grew up eating lobster weekly. It's that good - all claw meat, very little filler. I ate here with 12 other people and we pretty much ordered the entire menu, but the lobster roll was hands down the best. Also, check out the bourbon milk & cookies - it's more like a milkshake (and probably would sell better if they called it such), thick sweet and creamy. Denver seems to have a total hard-on for bourbon, and in this particular concoction it's a winner. The coconut cream pie, on the other hand, was disappointing. Couldn't taste coconut at all and the crust was really hard. But all in all, a great, lively spot with teriffic food.
(4)
Allyson M.

One of the best happy hours in Denver! The oysters on the half shell, clam chowder, and calamari are all delicious and I usually go for an extra-dry martini or one of their specialty drinks. The new counter allows for more bar seating and is always action-packed and good for people-watching. Anytime after happy hour it can get pricey, but it's worth the money if you want a night filled with good seafood!
(4)
Carly B.

What a pleasant surprise! I guess I didn't quite understand what Jax was which is why it never crossed my mind as a place I'd like to visit. Actually, I always thought Jax was that "Jazz at Jacks" place in the Denver Pavillions. Shows how much I pay attention. I met some former coworkers here on Friday afternoon for happy hour at the bar. This place was packed and happening. They boast a great HH cocktail list (a steal at $4 a piece) which distracted me from what is likely an impressive draft beer list, judging by the tap handles: Funkwerks, Dogfish Head, Denver Beer Co and more. But I couldn't bring myself away from the West Garden cocktail with green tea infused vodka, agave, lemon and soda. Like a not-so-sweet Arnold Palmer. My friend and I shared HH calamari ($6) and mussels ($6). The calamari was probably some of the best I've ever had. I guess you can't really call me a connoisseur as calamari's deep fried/rubbery textury doesn't do much for me but this version was not rubbery at all, had a perfect non-greasy breading and lots of thick pieces. The creamy garlicky and sweet and sour sauces they were served over complimented the calamari well. The mussels had a great panang curry broth. When we requested more bread for the broth, they brought out a hot buttery loaf of bread (with honey butter which I alternated with the curry broth for a bread topping). While I don't work downtown, the light rail/mall ride takes me right to this happening spot in a hard to park area. Yet another reason to duck out early on a Friday.
(4)
Rachel B.

Chad is the best server ever. Very accommodating to indecisive people. It was my birthday and he made it very special. Chad, you're a ten in my book. But you're beard is an 11.
(5)
Veronica C.

The place gets an extra star for the happy hour oysters. They are really fresh, wonderful, and affordable (during happy hour). *note: one choice of oyster is offered at happy hour, however it's excellent. There is a colorful fish tank and a table beside it near the entrance. The staff is always really nice to me even when I come dressed casual by myself with a baby. The tables have paper with crayons. Pay the $3 for the honey bread. Even if you are gluten-free, make an exception and taste it. Oysters, bread, soup were great. Bowl of clams were fine but very small portion for $16. I've tried the mojito twice here and both times it was okay without being exceptional (hie thee to Rioja for mojitos) and cost about $7 (not available on their limited happy hour drink menu). I come for the oysters, ambiance, and great service.
(4)
Sonja C.

This place has been a favorite of mine for quite some time now. Went in last night and our sever, Lizzie, was the best. We weren't fans of the tuna crudo and, without hesitation, she apologized and offered to bring us something else. We had declined her offer, and brought something to the table anyway! JAX gets it.
(5)
ElizabethAnn B.

WOW. SO for someone scared of oysters after a bad date experience... the $1.50 Emerson oysters were on the money.... Bartender was awesome and will MOST DEFINITELY return.
(5)
Emilee C.

Love this place! I have been a few times it is consistant everytime! Great service and amazing food! I had the blackend catfish and I still dream about that meal . They have a wonderful happy hour from 4-6 everyday. $1.25 oysters!!! Hello! They offer more food on the happy hour menu as well... Salmon Pate, YES PLEASE! Great happy hour beer prices and martinis! Jax is a great place. Denver staple.
(5)
Alison F.

High energy, my go to in land locked Denver for seafood. Scallops and chocolate martini top my list, followed closely by calamari w/ spicy sweet sauce. Parking isn't always easy, there's valet sometimes, and it's crowded - but it's definitely worth the effort!
(5)
Sarah W.

Boyfriend and I decided to stop in at Jax for a quick drink before meeting friends for dinner. We arrived a the tail end of happy hour - at 5:45. The place was packed, not a seat to be had at the bar and standing room only on the patio. We carved out a spot and looked over the drink menu. The happy hour deals themselves were great - drinks were all under $5 and several different appetizers in the same range. They also have $1 oysters. We decided on drinks and planned to get a few oysters. Here is where the problem began. We patiently waited on the patio while servers went back and forth to several other groups (some at tables, some standing like us) taking orders and delivering food. After about 10 minutes of us standing there, a waitress who was not our server came over to collect our drink order. We put in for drinks and were told they would be out shortly. In the mean time, our actual waiter came over to check in. At this point it was 6:00 - the time that happy hour ends. We asked if he could get our oyster order in under the happy hour price and he said yes - which was nice. Shortly after we got our drinks - mine was a refreshing cucumber infused vodka drink - delicious! We waited for our oysters to come, but nothing. At 6:15 we asked for our bill (we were meeting friends at 6:30), we wanted to be able to take off as soon as we finished the oysters. The bill came, drinks were finished, it was 6:20 and still no oysters. I don't know about you, but if I had a special on oysters for happy hour I would make damn sure that I would be able to provide the quickly to guests. At 6:25, I had my purse in hand and we were ready to walk out the door. The oysters arrived - finally. We gulped them all down and ran out the door. I can't comment to the quality of the oysters, but I can say that the whole experience was not great. I expected a lot more.
(2)
Turok ..

It was a warm Friday evening on September 21st. I had arrived at Jax Fish House and sitting across from me was Aphrodite herself. She was stunning and as I looked into her eyes I had realized that this was the pinnacle of beauty and overall enticement. That was until my Grilled Sturgeon in Peppercorn Glazed Reduction Sauce had arrived and I was soon seing double! Have my eyes deceived me?! Had my deepest fantasies been tricked with a double wammy of passionate bombardment? That'l be a YES!! Check please!!!!! DURP!!!!
(5)
Frank N.

Some of the best happy hour deals in town. The seafood is goo and the beers are local. It's the place I take my friends to for good CO beers, seafood, and good vibes.
(4)
Sebastian R.

I had a jumbo crab cake. I have had better ones, the portion was small and a little bit on the taste less side. For dessert I had the pan fried berries, it tasted like burned berries. I tasted the German chocolate cake and it was amazing, next time will do that one. Coffee was probably one of the best I have had on a restaurant! Ohh and the house butter bread was really good too
(3)
Lynn W.

I was so excited to go to Jax because Hosea had won Top Chef - and it did not disappoint! The food was really good and the cocktails were fabulous. The calamari was spot-on, the oysters were good, and the bacon braised greens were soo yummy. The spiked strawberry lemonade was my favorite.
(4)
Julie H.

I love seafood and especially oysters. I also have a deep appreciation for creativity, quality and consistency. Jax comes through every time. I rate Jax above all the other seafood places downtown for a few reasons including food and service (ask if Quinn is working). But I really love the feel of Jax. It's original, unassuming, and cool. They have a large bar space where you can eat too. Go in for Oyster Happy Hour. I always start with at least a half dozen of whatever the freshest oysters they have for the day along with one of the yummy mixed drinks. Depending on the size of the group, I also like to have the cucumber avocado gazpacho whenever I am here because it's amazing. Bring someone with you and share the scallops or lobster BLT. I wish I have ever saved room for dessert because they sound awesome.
(4)
Lorem I.

Jax is one of the few restaurants in Denver that make eating seafood with no ocean around feel safe.
(5)
Dana L.

Nice vibe and great food. Had the chowdah, poke and lobstah roll. Zach who's the line cool at the bar does a wicked good job prepping all your food. Come here for a good time.
(4)
Kelly R.

Holy Moly! Well, per my previous review I stated that I thought we had been charged twice for out bill! Come to find the prices listed for the oysters were for 1/2 dozen, not a dozen..So in short we spent $72 on oysters alone! One expensive happy hour ($140 + tip for two people), but...all worth it. Seemed reasonable after all the drinks. (Will just have to eat Ramen for the next few days to compensate) :)
(4)
Allison L.

Since I was traveling alone for work, I just wanted a yummy easy place to go and since this was roughly 1 block from my hotel and served seafood I was sold. As I wandered in, the hostess looks at me and I say "it's just me, can I sit at the bar?" She happily smiled "Of course! It's full service." EXCELLENT! So I make my way over and plot down on a bar stool. This place is awesome, you can sign their walls, see how many oysters they shucked in the last month and gaze lovingly at the their in house liquors they make...i.e. Strawberry vodka and many others. As I'm gazing around, the bartender hands me a drink menu and I order. The Strawberry vodka, obviously. I then look at the actual food menu, since Tina needs her food. I order the shrimp po boy, because well that's what I got hungry for the second I saw it. The bartenders says "nice choice." Yay. So my food is delivered to me about 10 minutes later and it looks absolutely ridiculous! The sandwich is wrapped in paper, the cole slaw looks to die for and the fries smell divine. I have no idea where to start. So I pick up my fork and dig into the cole slaw. OMG! STOP! OMG! Crisp and fresh, tossed with some kind of vinegar and oil. Deelish. The fries a little oily for me, but still, they were delicious. Now. The Po Boy. Absolutely and positively one of the BEST I've ever had. (Nothing can top local NOLA Po's...just saying). About 50 shrimp in my sammy, fresh warm bread, yummy remoulade, fresh lettuce and tomatoes! I ate the entire thing. When the bartender took my plate after I had licked it clean, he goes "pretty terrible huh?" I replied "Worst food ever." I can tell this stuff is fresh and its made to order. Another bar tender the whole time was shucking oysters, and as soon as a plate was done, they went out. So, it's good to know shucked oysters aren't sitting out all day. Friendly service, fantastic food and just all around great place Downtown Denver!
(4)
Marissa S.

The bread appetizer was delicious and my mom enjoyed her halibut entree...my tuna entree on the other hand was mediocre at best. I'm not sure if it was the tuna itself or the vegetables and potatoes it was served over but the entire dish was just extremely greasy...to the point that it was unappetizing. And to top off the evening, while I was contemplating the dessert menu one of the bus boys spilled an entire glass of ice water directly in my lap, all over the table, and on to my iPhone. I had plans to do other things that night, but had to end up returning home because it was so uncomfortable walking around with my dress absolutely soaked. Needless to say I didn't get dessert. Understandably, accidents happen, but what was upsetting is the fact that I barely got an insincere "oh sorry"...no accommodations were made for the considerable inconvenience I was just offered "a rag" if I wanted to dry off. Unfortunately I don't think I'll be back.
(2)
Sam E.

Absolutely love the atmosphere. If you can make happy hour, amazing cocktail deals and cheap delicious snack items! Maybe not for a special occasion per se, depending on your budget, but food is good for price albeit a bit small depending on dinner entree. I actually do love this place though for the vibe, their service (genuine people) and their seafood!
(5)
Safford B.

We've been to the Jax in LoDo countless times over the last few years and always walk away happy. Generally speaking, we order a handful of our favorite appetizers to share around the table in lieu of entrees, since we think they're more creative, though that's certainly not meant to reflect poorly on the entrees, since they're good as well. If oysters are in season, you must start there. The bad thing about being in Denver is that I can't walk out my door and grab oysters out of my back yard. The good thing about being in Denver is that we can get really fresh oysters by air from both coasts, which means Jax always has a great selection. From there, we go to the peel and eat shrimp, which is sold by the 1/2 pound. You really could make a meal of this stuff on its own if you ordered enough of it. The shrimp is tossed in a Cajun rub and then served with a Cajun mustard sauce and traditional cocktail sauce. You can eat yourself sick on this stuff it's so good. By the way, if you do like their shrimp, be sure to order a "Fat Mary" for your cocktail. It's a bloody mary with bacon, bleu-cheese stuffed olives, and a couple of the shrimp on top. One of the best cocktails I've ever had. The calamari is also a winner. It's really tender--as in you don't necessarily need a knife to cut it--and is served with lime aioli and a mango-chile sauce. Jax's gumbo has shredded chicken, locally-made andouille, and crawfish. It's rich, but not too spicy, and has a really nice balance of flavors. A few of the other starters I probably would give a miss, because they're really not as good as the others: marinated blue marlin and rock shrimp hash. If you're up for a splurge, order some of the king crab legs. When we ordered them, they had been flown in earlier that day from Alaska and were some of the best crab legs we'd ever had. They're pricey, but worth it. Jax also serves cioppino and paella on select nights. Given how good everything else is, we're going to coordinate our next trip around one of these specialty nights.
(4)
Gladys C.

Best.seafood.in .Denver!!!! One of my all time fav dishes is cioppino and jax absolutely aced the dish! The portion was huugggge and I had this giant, Alaska king sized crab leg in my cioppino! I was in seafood heaven! We also got some oysters to share as an app and it was really fresh and tasty as well. our server was friendly, helpful and really attentive, which made it one of the best dining experiences I have had in Denver. Overall everyone was really happy with their dishes. I will absolutely come back for more seafood next time! Can't wait!
(5)
Maribeth T.

Great service and food. I had the lobster roll-perfectly toasted roll with great lobster salad which was heavy on the lobster. YUM The homemade bread with butter is worth the extra $3. It is absolutely delicious. My dining partner had the salmon with soba noodles and miso broth-she also enjoyed her meal. Very fun, lively atmosphere. Will definitely visit again when in Denver.
(5)
Anna N.

Oysters... I could eat these all day! The seafood salad was so refreshing and delicious! Also, did you know they make their own ginger beer? The moscow mule was great! I am really looking forward to the opening of the Cherry Creek location :)
(5)
julie n.

I've been to Jax for happy hour and it's great. $1 oysters and great drink specials. Went to Jax for dinner during Denver's 5280 restaurant week. Two 3 course meals for $52.80 and was disappointed. Boyfriend ordered salad, catfish, and brownie with ice cream. Salad was large and fresh. Catfish was slim and portion was very very small. Brownie was rich and good. I ordered crawfish gumbo, seafood spaghetti, and key lime pie. There was not 1 crawfish tail in my bowl and the soup was cold. The pasta was runny and lacked the seafood (1 shrimp, 1 scallop, 2 mussels, 2 clams, and some really slimy, tough squid). I did not eat the key lime pie but boyfriend said it was not good. It did come with a sprinkle of fresh fruit. And the service was slow! The food came out fast (which explains the temperature) but the waitress must have had too many tables in her section. It wasn't that busy either, it was Monday night. Granted, we went to get a good deal during restaurant week but it was not worth the money...$70 after tip. We would have been better off ordering off the menu. The catfish would have been $21 and the salad would have been $8. But at least then, the catfish would have been a real meal. What we paid for was more appetizer size. The waitress informed me that the portions are smaller on the $52.80 menu. I thought it was going to be a good deal but it failed miserably.
(2)
Eunah K.

My family and I were on a 10 day road trip and we stayed in Denver for 2 days. We visited downtown and walked around for a bit before coming across Jax. What got us was the happy hour sign ($1.25 oysters!!) but turns out we had missed happy hour. We still went in and ate because my parents wanted oysters. The waiter we had was more than welcoming and very outgoing. We ordered some Emerson oysters and their peel and eat shrimp! It was fabulous. Their mango lemonade is to die for also! When we were leaving, their manager, or he seemed to be the manager from our perspective, had ran across the restaurant to shake our hands and to say goodbye. We had a great first experience so we decided to revisit the next night. The second experience was, as well, fantastic! The same gentleman who greeted us as we left last night, Marshall, had greeted us again when we entered the restaurant. After we ordered, he brought us a variation of oysters and they were absolutely delicious! Their calamari was cooked perfectly and the sauce that came with it, complimented the calamari amazingly. Another gentleman, seemed to be high up in their restaurant as well, approached us after our oysters and thanked us for revisiting their restaurant. This definitely showed us that they cared about their customers! We had a great experience both times we ate there! & they have great service!
(5)
S P.

Don't order Mule, home brew ginger beer is overwhelming compared to most places. Bartender was unfriendly when we mentioned it. One drink them we moved elsewhere.
(2)
Allison O.

My group had a great meal at this restaurant and service was outstanding. We had the oysters and our server provided excellent information on the selections to help make choices. One of our meals did not meet our expectations and the staff immediately offered to replace the dish with another option. The replacement was delicious and we were very happy with the willingness to replace the meal at no charge. They went above and beyond to make sure our food and experience was outstanding.
(5)
laura h.

I wish I could give Jax an extra 1/2 star. The quality of the seafood is always excellent. The preparation is good - not ohmigod perfection but good, as one would expect from a higher-end restaurant. Prices can be a bit steep, in my opinion, compared to other restaurants that offer comparable quality and preparation of product. Parking for this location sucks. I will admit that I am a little weird, and very cheap, when it comes to parking, and generally avoid downtown for this reason, but I think they should offer validation. Service is fine. The atmosphere can be a little loud for my taste. My real problem with Jax is that the menu is really hit-or-miss for me. I'm just not a fan or Creole and Cajun food, and their menu leans heavily on these. A majority of their regular menu items include pork, which I don't eat. I've been fortunate with some of their specials, but I've also had nights there when I was hard-pressed to find anything to order. If their menu items appeal to you, I would say they will probably be well-prepared, but when friends suggest Jax for a dinner out, I now say I would prefer to eat elsewhere. Sorry, Jax. BTW, I used to have better luck with the Boulder location's menu, but not anymore. The Volcano Cake is to die for, though. Edit: After reading this review, one of the managers kindly messaged me with an invitation to give Jax another try, and to let her know if I came in. I thought this was great. Unfortunately, I didn't get back to her promptly, and now her message is gone. Don't understand that - ??? - but, know that they do read these reviews.
(2)
Cheyne M.

Fun, fun atmosphere and EXCELLENT food. I ordered the Colorado Trout and it was so f#cking good. Also ordered the grits and a bunch of oysters -- again, awesome. A fun place to eat and party and enjoy fresh and authentic seafood in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains! Highly recommend by fish everywhere (especially those who like to drink).
(4)
Scott B.

Made a reservation for 2 at 6:30pm last night. The person who was booking asked if it was a special occasion, and I said it was, but we were keeping it on the down low. Arrived on time and were seated at one of the smallest tables I have ever been seated at. Not too special at all. Ordered 1/2 doz. oysters, that were super fresh and briney. The came with the standard horseradish, and cocktail sauce, plus a red wine sauce and a cider sauce. Not too thrilled with the red wine nor the cider, but I like just a little lemon and horseradish, so no complaints there. My wife got the trout, and I picked the grouper. She was the winner. The trout was fresh, juicy and bigger than the plate. I didn't try her sides, but the red rice looked and was reportedly delicious. My grouper on the other hand was dry, and a bit on the smallish side. Although my fish was certainly unimpressive, my sides were awesome, with a ricotta ravioli and amazing pesto. There were some chips as well as a schmear of some delicious reddish sauce, that certainly helped with the dry grouper. The service was great, and eventually they did offer to move us to a larger table. We were settled in already, and did not make the switch. I just think it is inexcuable to seat anyone at such a tiny table, especially on a special occasion. When you are paying nearly $30/plate, I think you shouldn't have to battle with keeping your food on the table, and being butted right up against the next one. We will not be back for dinner. Maybe happy hour, as the oysters were good, and the happy hour prices seem much more reasonable.
(3)
JJ N.

Good Drinks, Great Service, attractive clientele, and awesome seafood! I haven't had oysters in a while and god only knows what types I had but all and everyone were great! Yummy
(5)
Susan B.

My husband and I ate here a couple of years ago. We loved it then and we love it now. Still serving fresh and delicious seafood (oysters and scallops on this visit along with the Ahi tuna) and service was excellent. Thanks, Jax!
(5)
Fay H.

Great happy hour drinks and $1.25 oysters. The renovation didn't do much good for the location. If you sit in the bar (on the short side) plan on getting whacked each time someone passes by. It would be worth it though to eat those oysters all night long though.
(3)
Glenn H.

Jax was lots of fun. Great food and great service.
(5)
Nick C.

It just so happened that they were holding an all day happy hour on the 4th of July, and with the weather canceling any chances of outdoor activities, we decided what better way to enjoy ourselves than with cheap drinks and seafood with no time constraints. The all day happy hour mirrored the happy hour that runs daily from 4 to 6. How can one go wrong with cheap food items as gumbo, oysters, mussels, crispy crab claws and drinks including specialized cocktails and wine? Happy hour is held at the bar which is right by the entrance. This confined space along with heavy traffic can make for a lot of chaos, which there certainly was this afternoon. With the chaos around the bar, it can be a bit difficult getting the attention of the staff to take orders, however, when the request is made, the food comes fast. We ended up ordering a dozen and a half oysters at $1 an oyster, doesn't get much better than that, but also tried the gumbo $3 and the mussels $5. Beer options during happy hour are pretty limited, coors light the only draft, so we ordered beers not on the HH menu. Don't get me wrong, the cocktail items on the HH menu looked good, but what goes better than oysters and a few beers? Their food offerings for HH are certainly appealing, however, a bit skimpy in size. Keep in mind that if you are looking to get a sufficient meal, it's gonna add up, but hey, did I tell you they have dollar oysters?
(3)
David T.

Well, I really don't have a lot to add to what others have said. Haven't had dinner here for a couple of years but I stop by for my happy hour oyster fix pretty often. If you crave the freshest assortment of raw oysters in town - this is definitely the place. I have no idea how many they go through in a day but it's a LOT. If you're going to eat raw sea foods you want to eat them someplace that does a lot of volume to make sure they haven't been sitting around. Lively (maybe sometimes a little too lively - it gets LOUD) bar scene and oysters served the way that God intended - shucked right in front of you, placed on ice and sided with the traditional accompaniments of horseradish, cocktail sauce and lemon (all unnecessary if you ask me).
(4)
Jenna J.

Awesome service! I LOVE their Clam Chowder
(4)
Melissa H.

Jax still kicks ass. If you haven't tried the strawberry infused vodka, do so right away. Get it served straight up chilled - delicious and sweet. I love that they have two quality gentleman as their bartenders. They are quick, polite, efficient, and knowledgeable about all sorts of cocktails. They have a quality that I find lacking in a lot of bartenders. Get there early for happy hour starting at 4pm and you can get drink specials for $4, a few small dishes for $4-$6 and $1 oysters.
(4)
Amy O.

I have no complaints at all. Lunch was great for both service and food. I had the gazpacho and the burger. Both were excellent which is a big deal considering their specialty is seafood.
(5)
Matthew R.

It was outstanding. The oysters were perfect, the crab fresh, the scallops divine. Bring your checkbook but it's worth every dime.
(5)
Emilee C.

Love this place! I have been a few times it is consistant everytime! Great service and amazing food! I had the blackend catfish and I still dream about that meal . They have a wonderful happy hour from 4-6 everyday. $1.25 oysters!!! Hello! They offer more food on the happy hour menu as well... Salmon Pate, YES PLEASE! Great happy hour beer prices and martinis! Jax is a great place. Denver staple.
(5)
Elizabeth D.

This review is based on their happy hour special. My boyfriend and I come here for a treat from time to time for their happy hour special. He loves oysters, and they are only $1.25 per oyster during the special. Also select drinks and appetizers are half priced. Calamari is my favorite, though not your traditional calamari severed with red sauce. The oysters are very good for being in a land locked state. They get fresh products flown in every day, so I imagine their happy hour is to get rid of yesterday's leftovers before they spoil. I give them 4 stars because I've only had the happy hour, the regular dinner oysters could be better for all I know. The service is very great, which is to be expected for a place like this (always busy). If I ever come here for dinner I know I won't be let down, I will just have to expect to pay a little more.
(4)
Travis B.

Food was great. Atmosphere was fun. Go with the crab legs, the buttermilk bread, and the tequila jalapeno drink and you won't be disappointed.
(4)
Cee R.

Ok I love seafood, but this place came up way short. We didn't do the oysters but I tried the in house made cola. That being strange tasting and flat. Moved on to order the lobster roll, and if you ever had a legit lobster roll you would understand this was not even close to being on par. Dry and uneventful in the palette! The toast it was on was the best thing about the sandwich ... And I must have missed all the tail meat; mine was all claw. Also a buddy we were with had a side order of French fries and it was 6 dollars when you can buy a burger with fries for 9 bucks. Nice place to go, but only if you enjoy throwing your money away.
(2)
Angela R.

The service was very good. However, I was not a fan of the food at all. For a restaurant with the name "Fish" in it, I would have expected an extensive list of fish to choose from. Instead, they basically have oysters, calimari, clams, and other things that not everyone loves. I just wanted some straight up fish! Also, the noise level was extremely loud, and the tables were so crowded that our waiter could barely take our order when other people needed to pass by. I definitely will not be going back.
(1)
Eric J.

Drink beer it's cold, eat soup it's made fresh.
(4)
cindy b.

Jax is fun. It's so lively you can even have fun here if you are a teetoler. I've never been here when the place wasn't hopping; heck sometimes the street outside is hopping. It's small so at peak dinner hour there's a wait. Don't go expecting to stroll right to the table. Part of the fun is ordering one of their tasty beverages, alcoholic or not, at the bar. Dinner reservations for four at 7 on a Wednesday night was no exception--allowing for spillover St. Patrick's celebrants. We came expecting a treat and got it. Three kind of raw oysters from all over, mussels, and those blue crab cakes that I could make a meal on. Keep your hands off my crab cakes! I also went for the cold king crab with two sauces. I like the way the horseradish is pooled in the ketchup for the squeamish (I love horseradish just for the thrill of it, any way), and the second sauce was very good but not necessary. The crab was perfect and needed no garnish, and a stupendous portion. The fried catfish, the shrimp cocktail (it was ordered as an entree for a light eater, but it was over half a pound so beware), and the surf and turf were all fabulous. A big plus is the seafood here is always served fresh up and hot, harder to achieve than you'd think. Since we were eating "light" (seafood in its pure form is pretty darned low fat); we went for coffee and dessert. The ice cream was exceptional and the Cappuccino cheese cake suburb. Even the NY purist thought it exceptional. Oh, the drinks. The regular Bloody Mary was downscale, coming with an olive instead of my requisite celery. They want you to order the deluxe, I guess. The Vodka and tonic was with Absolute--definitely a plus for a novice drinker to learn that alcohol is to be enjoyed, not swilled, and the wine list will have to be explored another time. There is quite a tasty drink menu but this place could also live up to a very very nice white. For that overall quality consistency, and the service (not hovering but completely satisfying) I give it a five in its seafood category. Wouldn't mind if my guests this week wanted to go again!
(5)
Ingrid S.

I love this place! Love the owner and the staff! They are always so welcoming and friendly and compassionate and wanting to service those I bring in. For a long time I search for a great seafood place that wasn't a chain and that's how I stumbled upon Jax's I am loyal to Jax's and am able to only come about once a year as the price is that high but the food is fresh, seafood is flown in daily and if you don't like something they will fix it. Just a good all around place that if you live here or not you gotta try, it well worth the money, if you go mid afternoon, mid week you will have a better chance of not having to wait a long time for a table.
(4)
Randy T.

The service and food were amazing. We went out for my wife's birthday and did it right. The service was spectacular, not just from our waiter, but from the entire staff. The food was amazing. The oysters (Shigoku and Rocky Points) were top notch, pricey, but well worth it. I would highly recommend the the Shigoku. We also had the blue marlin appetizer. It is a ceviche of sorts and, yet again, was fantastic! For dinner we split the grouper cheeks. It was a large enough portion to split and we loved it. Great combination with the homemade ravioli and pesto. Desert, the waiter gave my wife her choice from the menu on him for her birthday. A little gesture that goes a long way. We had the Colorado peach cobbler. It was good. The ginger whip cream was a bit powerful, but it was still good. We would probably get something different next time.
(5)
Jenny P.

Salmon was not good.... However the shrimp linguine is superb. It wasn't too buttery, but had the right flavor. Oysters are always good and depending on when you get it, it can be extremely pricey. It's a nice casual place to dine at for a date. My boyfriend and I enjoyed the overall ambiance. Clean and fishy ( it is Jax Fish House anyways). Service was ok. Took awhile to get my check, but that just means more time to drink.
(3)
Brandi M.

Calamari was frickin perfect.
(5)
Ric Y.

My friend had his birthday dinner here. He billed it as the best sea food in Denver, but I have to say I was pretty disappointed. I really liked the atmosphere, despite the fishy smell by the bar - hey, it's a sea food place! I ordered the lobster for around $30 bucks and got about 4 bites of a lobster tail that was overcooked, 3 questionable pork/shrimp dumplings, and an inedible leaf salad. I would have been happier eating at red lobster. Everything I had was "meh" at best, and after the meal I was still hungry - I kept eating bread. I actually got more food at a food truck about an hour after I ate. The waitress was pretty pushy, and constantly trying to up-sell everything. I swear she rolled her eyes at me when I didn't order anther drink. I felt like the portions were ridiculous for the price, and the food was mediocre at best don't waste your time or money..
(2)
Rob W.

Stumbled upon this place on a quick visit to Denver. Expections were not that high as I didnt expect much from a seafood joint in the Rockies! We were plesantly suprised by a fantastic meal. We sampled a few oyesters, which were very fresh and accompanied by some good dipping sauces. They had a nice seasonal menu and some nice cocktails. Overall I would be sure to add this to my list of places to return in the future.
(4)
Erik H.

Great atmosphere and awesome seafood! I had never been before but a coworker had recommended. No disappointment. Made a reservation via yelp and was kindly treated by the great staff. Although I didn't know the food would have a modern twist on some traditional dishes, my guessed and I were most pleased.
(5)
Brenda F.

The face lift is great. Fourth two seat bar with Botha on the side. The new menu looks great to. Can't wait for our dinner to come out.
(5)
Linda V.

My husband took me to Jax for my birthday. The folks at the door were so accomodating and friendly given that we were running a tad late for our reservation. (Rockies fireworks game had downtown packed more than usual.) The service was outstanding! The server suggested the special (whole striped bass). It was fantastic. My husband ordered the salmon and he enjoyed it very much. The cocktail prices seemed a bit high. All in all, it was a great night out and wonderful dining experience. We will be back!
(4)
Shenna J.

Best Seafood place in Denver! I'm from SWFL so I know good seafood. They have an awesome happy hour if you're trying to save some $$$. I always get the peel-and-eat shrimp! I'm not an oyster fan but my bf loves them. Make sure to get the calamari too!
(5)
Erin M.

This was the second stop for Wednesday Night Happy Hour. The place was nice enough. We started out on one side of the patio and moved over when the douche bag brigade paraded in. So Jenn, Heidi and I ordered our PBR's and a dozen oysters. The oysters were fresh and tasted like they were born in a month with an R. But the douche bags kept it going. I kept thinking I'd look over and see a collar popped but I just saw a group of guys that looked like they needed a bath.. or to be hosed down thoroughly.. today. The service was so-so and other than the leaves flying in my eyes/mouth and the douchebags at the end of the patio it was pretty cool!
(3)
Erin J.

I went to Jax Fish House for Mardi Gras and had a great time. We hung out at the bar which was very festive with live music. The bartenders were very friendly and the drinks were very tasty. I tried the oysters and the Lobster BLT, both were delicious and very fresh. I definitely would like to go back to dine in their dining area.
(4)
Jennifer M.

Winner, winner oysters for dinner! And, order a glass of Oyster Bay Sauv Blanc and life is really good. This place is fantastic and fun for happy hour. Mike, the shucker, will treat you well at the bar. Service, ambiance, food and drinks are two thumbs up!
(5)
Jay K.

I love Jax's! I live in another land-locked foodie town but this place, hands down, has the best raw oysters! Added bonus was the happy hour - my friend loved the $3 dollar martini's made with a great well gin (Booth's). Their cooked seafood is also delicious and their bar menu was fun. I have been served several times by Noah and he never disappoints. The host was also charming but I can't remember his name.
(4)
Clarice C.

came for happy hour the other day and OMG probably one of the best happy hour's i've been to! i hear it's always pretty busy so you have to get here early but it was snowing outside so me and my friend were able to get a seat at the bar very easily. Josh, the bartender, was awesome. he recommended a couple drinks but we ended up trying all of the infused vodkas which were all delicious. there was strawberry, blueberry, cucumber and green tea. the food was bomb.com we started with the gumbo fries, and calamari. so delicious. normally, i order calamari for the fried batter but this calamari was about the actual squid. the sauce they use for the calamari is also great. it tasted so fresh. the food was so good, we wanted more and ended up ordering the seafood dynamite and sea dog too! this restaurant was just super cute in general. it even smells like you are by the ocean!! awesome location. saw many other things on the menu i am dying to try. i will for sure be coming back.
(5)
Joolia C.

MMMMMMMMMMMmmMMmMmMMmMmMmMM! So place was PACKED. But luckily there was an itty bitty table my friend&i were able to squeeze into- YAY. starter- raw oysters (from seattle?) first time having oysters. DEF an experience. Not too bad at all. My oyster loving friend claimed they were one of the best tasting places he's ever had. Meals- Can't remember the names... One was from a daily special, a special fish dish we'll call it, and the friend ordered some fish dish off the menu. Bottom line- both were DELICIOUS! MmMmMmMmM yummy yummy I could've eaten both of them by myself. Especially with the bottle of wine, it was just great. Recommendations- MAKE RESERVATIONS if you're going on a busy night/holiday that place was nonstop packed.
(4)
Lola F.

I really enjoyed Jax Fish House! Right off the bat, excellent service when my boyfriend and I came in at 8:30 on a Friday and the wait was 1.5 hours. Right away the maitre d' got us a pretty great seat at the chef's counter and even grabbed an extra seat to accommodate us. The service was excellent, the drinks were great, and my steamed mussels were delicious! Only thing is that the our order of oysters took like 40 minutes to get out to us. The waiter told us the shucker was running behind.... Either way, I was kept good and tipsy by our attentive waiter, food was great, and atmosphere was lively and warm. Great night!
(5)
Andrew F.

Went there for lunch. Seemed expensive and mediocre. I had the salmon sandwich. The sandwich was small but good but the fries were mediocre. Overall many of the lunch dishes (~$20) seemed expensive. Service was excellent.
(3)
Clara L.

My parents and I had dinner here for my mom's bday back in July. Our waitress was very helpful in answering our various questions about the menu and made sure our beverage glasses were full. I ordered the grouper cheeks, and my parents got the salmon and trout entress. Overall, it was a good meal, but I guess with all these 4 and 5 star reviews on yelp, I was expecting more. I guess I'll give it 3.5 stars...
(3)
Miki L.

I'm from Hawaii. I am a fish snob. Very glad to say that I found a wonderful seafood spot. A few starter notes... Jax has a tempting raw bar, includes shrimp, mussels, crab legs and who know what else. They also have a competent bar, which is also home to the raw bar, so there's lots to see. Jax offers a very decent selection of wine, all fairly priced. And most impressively, every single staff member who I cam in contact with was friendly and helpful. As for my meal... Enjoyed fresh oysters (Kumamoto and Penn Cover) as a starter. Started with a half dozen. They were so tasty, ordered another set. Served simply with a piece of lemon, malt vinegar and some mild tomatoe sauce with fresh, hot horse radish. My entree... A lightly fried, delicately coated piece of cod, perfectly cooked, very moist. Sitting on top of sauteed chard and served with a side of polenta. Total comfort food. Juliette, our very competent server talked me into dessert. Hard to choose between the options, but finally settled for the Sticky Chocolate Cake with a brown ale sauce, bourbon ice cream and chocolate toffee sauce. Married with a rich cup of Joe, it was heaven. I'd recommend that you make reservations. Or go, hoping to settle in for a long night of happiness at the bar!
(4)
Donna A.

Great lobster roll and fantastic service!!
(5)
Geoff C.

Really solid seafood joint with a good balance of raw bar, fish and crab entrees, and non-seafood entrees for those who have yet to be converted. Crab cakes were poor...mushy with little to no lump crab...not worth your time. Mussels in green curry sauce were really good and with their great bread a tasty way to kick off the meal. Steelhead filet was fresh and cooked to perfection. The potato risotto was way too creamy and detracted from the dish but I was already happy. Super helpful staff and a good vibe too boot.
(4)
Alisha A.

I came from San Francisco for a wedding and was unable to locate my friends, who were all at the rehearsal dinner. I had been given a list of local restaurants and based on the Yelp reviews, and I came here to drown my sorrows. This place was JUST what I needed! The food was really incredible- from start to finish. All the oysters were fantastic, and the guys at the bar did a great job in steering me towards a fabulous selection. I'm still dreaming about that avocado cucumber gazpacho with ceviche, as well as the DELICIOUS grilled octopus. Seriously. That was really some of the best octopus I've ever had. Did I mention the cocktails? And the prosecco? It was one of the best spontaneous meals I've ever had when traveling, and I would come back in a heartbeat. Jax, thank you so much for turning my weekend around. You rocked my world!
(5)
Amanda B.

It's been a while since eating at Jax. We were trying to catch a quick bite prior to a concert-unfortunately, we didn't have reservations. Luckily, we found a place at the bar. We were hoping for the tuna poke but they had just run out so we decided to try the conch ceviche. It was delicious. My date decided to try the miso salmon, of course I had to sample it and it was also wonderful. I had the crab cake, I have to say it wasn't quite as good as the other items we tried but it was good, just not sure I would order it again. The service was excellent and our cocktails were also quite good.
(4)
Melissa N.

Have been twice and am sure wont go back for dinner anymore. Happy hour maybe. Service was bad both times . The "gulf shrimp" $15 salad had 1 shrimp on it. Lame.
(3)
Jim T.

Let's start this whole thing off with the funniest oyster joke in the universe: Q: What do you get when you cross an epileptic oyster shucker and a prostitute with diarrhea? A: Someone who shucks between the fits! Bwahaha - oh, never mind. If you mention the work Jax without oysters in the same sentence, you should be banned from the space. I have a thing about shellfish - I love it, whether it be blue crabs, scallops, oysters - you name it. So, if you're one of those queasy folks who doesn't like oysters, or needs someone to twist your arm - just leave them. Seriously. Leave them for people who love them. Jax has the best oysters in town, not the best I've ever had, but best in town. And usually many varieties at a time. Let George and Ira Gershwin sum it up: You say oysters and I say ersters, So I'll have the oysters and cancel the ersters..... Let's call the whole thing off! What they say about guys who eat oysters is true. Solid 4+.
(4)
Kristine S.

Wow! This place did not disappoint. From the service to the food!!?! Excellent. Happy hour best time to go. Try cucumber cocktail, streamed mussels and calamari.
(4)
Sara C.

The service was a little slow but the food was great. It's hard to find good seafood in Denver, but this place has it!
(4)
Alyssa C.

I came here with my parents for my mom's bday and we had a great time. Vibe is fun and uplifting. The resturant lends you to feel as if you are in a fish tank with cool lighting and swanky colors, and a cool fish tank in the center. We ordered some great items - oysters (dad said they were some of the best he's had), cesar salad (really good!), corn chowder (amazing). I got the snapper (special of the day) and my dad got the sturgen. I thought the snapper was good, the sturgen - eigh average. Our server raved about it, I wasn't too sure. The only thing we didn't like was the house farm salad with tuna. I think we should have gone with the tomato salad, but took the server's advice - the house farm salad was pretty average. We finished with the chocolate cake - which i would reccomend, a delish tasty treat! I'd go back, but it wasn't to die for.
(4)
Lee P.

I was in Denver for work and had no idea where to eat, the hotel I was staying at recommended this place. I sat at the bar and had a few beers, they had a decent selection of local brews and a great happy hour. For dinner, I got a half dozen hama hama oysters...they were huge but tasted great. They had 6 selections, all from west or east coast. The oysters are kind of pricey, but they are well worth it. I also ordered the Salmon entree, it was a good portion size since I try not to overeat and feel terrible. Tasted great and the vegetables that were with it were good as well.
(5)
Lindsay A.

Oh Jax, how I love thee. Your happy hour is one of the best in Denver, and your food is divine. I have been to Jax on a couple different occasions, both being during happy hour. When you walk in the door, people say hi to you and let you know how long it will be for a seat. When sat, a server comes over right away and asks if you have any questions about anything before you order. The staff is voted one of the best in Denver for a reason, they are very friendly, helpful, and you can really tell that they love their job. All the drinks I have tried here have been amazing. I usually try some kind of girly martini or strawberry-infused vodka and fresh lemonade. And they are pretty darn cheap during happy hour. The food is also delicious. As I said before, we have only gone for happy hour so they have a special food menu for happy hour where everything is marked down significantly. The peel and eat shrimp is fresh and comes with delicious sauce on the side for dipping. If I remember correctly(martinis may affect your memory) the sauce had curry. The boyfriend and I left nice and buzzed with a tab of a whopping $30. Since our service is always so great, we usually leave the tip based more on what our tab would have normally been, most of them are that good!
(5)
Katie R.

I've become a happy hour fiend. it's true. I can ALWAYS count on Jax to cure my oyster, calimari & fish cravings, my desire to soak up some vitiamin D on the patio and quench my thirst with some delicious cocktails [mango tango anyone?]. hands down...one of the best happy hours i've seen. -$1 oysters...beware, you might turned on! -$4 cocktails [happy hour all night long on wednesdays!] -awesome service! ALWAYS :)
(4)
Korina A.

The only reason we were coming here was for he conch ceviche, good thing I called because they no longer have it in their menu. Take it off the menu then please... Not going to go here to eat
(1)
Andy S.

I really like the atmosphere of this place because it's small. Even if it's not crowded, it still feels like you're somewhere cool. The food is delicious. Right now they're donating some oyster revenue to the flood victims.
(5)
Renu D.

It takes great courage or incredible Yelp reviews for me to go eat sea food in a land locked place. In this case it was the yelp reviews!! So Thank You Yelpers!! We started out with the cast iron blue crab cake! OMG! It was Delicious. I know that really doesn't tell you much, but pardon me. I was in a flavor heaven when I ate that and did not think about anything else. It was served in a tiny cast iron pan.. piping hot!! On a cold winter night that just set the evening on a warm and cozy note. We followed it up with some snow crab, Blackened catfish and pan seared scallops. My daughter loved the crab she had ordered and pointed out that it did not smell funny. Which in older people language means, it was fresh. We loved the other two dishes as well, but would have preferred the blackened fish not to be too blackened. But over all, good dishes with great flavors. A nice selection of cocktails. We tried a couple of them and they were very nice. And top it all - Very attentive and friendly service.
(4)
Kathryn H.

My partner and I headed to Jax for her birthday last night and I must say it was really wonderful. From the moment we walked in, and were told we looked fabulous, by the front of the house (manager?) man, to the service, food, and birthday ice cream--it was all just very nice. I had been to Jax in Boulder, but never the one in LoDo, and they are like two completely different restaurants, with the one in Denver being far superior, IMHO. So we do not know a lot about fish/sea food, but our server steered us in the right path. I never really had oysters before, and had no idea what or how to order them, so our server put a sampler of some of their oysters of the night together for us. They were tasty--it's always good to try new things. Then the server informed us of the fresh King Crab special. We were there for crab, and we got it--chilled! I have never had chilled crab, but that was the recommendation from the server, so we went with it. We also got three sides: spinach, broccoli, and grits (ooey, cheesy, creamy grits.) It was a lot of food, but we made it through all of it pretty well-just took home a small portion of the sides. The server brought out the only gluten free dessert--mocha ice cream, which my partner loves! The couple at the table next to us sang with me. All-in-all, a really lovely evening.
(4)
Stephanie M.

Often visit their southern location but was downtown so stopped in. Service was great.. quickly greeted and was consistently checked up on. Oysters on happy hour cant be beat!! The Calamari also should always be tried, freshest Ive ever tasted.
(4)
Marissa W.

Not sure what the hype is all about. We came here because a friend recommended it to us. We were excited about the oysters, mostly. The oysters were fine. But the other food we had during happy hour were at best so-so. The hot dog thing was very disappointing, as were the gumbo fries. The service was so-so as well. Our waiter was a bit lukewarm and his suggestions were actually pretty not tasty at all.
(3)
Green D.

I was in recently and had the steelhead along with the shrimp & grits (and happy hour oysters & gumbo, of course). Everything was excellent!! House white with the oysters & gumbo was great; steelhead and garlic fries was great! Shrimp & grits was great!! And Tim made a bombshell scotch & basil drink! Everything was perfect!!
(5)
Chris K.

Have lived nearby Jax since October but Saturday night was my first visit. I found the service to be excellent as stated and now confirmed from the previous Yelp reviews. The interior of Jax made it feel like I was anywhere but downtown Denver. The specials were a ice change from other seafood restaurants close by and the menu was full of choices that will bring me back to try on future visits. The wine list was exceptional. My dinner was delicious and, again, the service was the best. Cannot be compared to any other downtown establishment!
(5)
Johnny U.

After a horrible experience a while back I swore I would never go back to Jax. See my earlier reviews. Well last night my wife and I decided to try Jax again. We hadn't Been in since the remodel. The owner Adam was the sole reason we decided to go. He genuinely cared. Everyone deserves a second chance right? We made a reservation and were a little early. The host said no problem and grabbed menues just as the phone rang. He answered it, and asked the caller to please hold. Well, the caller rambled. The host made eye contact with us while still being polite to the caller. We could see his predicament. After being seated, Jon was our waiter. Nice, responsive, and funny at times. We started with oysters, ( great as I remember ) calamari ( Tender, lightly breaded. The sauces were a very nice compliment) and the curry mussels. ( i love curry, and was excited & anxious to see how the two went together. ) we added a touch of lime and as non traditional mussels; well let's say we ordered a loaf of their homemade bread to soak up the sauce. Whole peanuts were a nice surprise as we hit the bottom of the bowl. I was looking forward to the seared Tuna I had grown to love at Jax, but it was missing. ( I did notice it was on there New Years eve menu) I'm hoping it's a seasonal thing. It's that good! Being weary of ordering trout out....mushy if not prepared perfectly. I was going to put them to the test, but saw a lobster risotto. The description was just what we were looking for. Jon our waiter was honest when asked if he tried it yet. " No was his reply" he told us Jax makes a special for the staff to try. I like that idea. The staff knows the dish. Jon came back and told us he had tried it and it was very good. We were glad to hear so, being we already ordered it. So, we are very glad we returned to Jax. The remodel makes for a lively experience to all. The staff very good. Food delicious, and a fun atmosphere. The past issues are no more. We had a fun time, a wonderful dinner, and a great night. Thank You Jax........and Adam.
(4)
Steve M.

Stopped here for some oysters and a few drinks before a work event. Great stuff. Did the around the world wit the oysters. Great way to get to know what different oysters taste like. To my surprise there is a BIG difference between them. From the larger to smaller sizes they also have a taste range from earthy, to very briny. Great little bar. they also make their own spiced rum, which was very very good. I'll be back here for sure.
(4)
Keith N.

Where's the ocean? I have mixed feelings... I'm going to try it again when the summer menu arrives. I went here for fish and the only ocean fish they offered were tuna and tillapia (snore). I know I'm in Colorado, but I generally don't like freshwater fish and hoped Jax might have more to offer. Pros: - Great service - Creative presentations - Unique flavor combinations - Fresh oysters (3 different kinds) - Crayons! Cons: - Fish selection - Cramped dining area - No "catch of the day" - Pricey Give me grouper, halibut, mahi, sword, monk, snapper, anything other than trout, catfish and steelhead. Just my opinion.
(3)
Tim H.

Great fresh fish in a fun atmosphere. Seating is a bit tight, and I think 6 is the biggest group they could fit comfortably. The oyster bar selection is fairly deep, very fresh, and the shuckers are happy to tell you about what they have in house. I used to live in the Pacific Northwest, and I'm pretty finicky about oysters, but the guys at the bar got me sorted out with some west coast oysters and even tossed me a huge east coaster to try. The new oyster was great, and something I never would have tried on my own. That's huge, in my book. Seems like most of the people in Jax are friendly and social, but that seems to be the case in most of Denver. Certainly the otehr patrons are not wound up in pretension as can happen in some of the trendy restaurants. Entrees are good sized, and with a salad are plenty for me. I'm a big guy and sometimes I am left wanting. Food always comes out hot, and the wait staff are attentive without being overbearing. There's no rush to get you turned over, so it's a great place to chat before dinner. One thing I always get at Jax is a Cucumber Lemon Press. Great light drink with vodka. Seems to go well with the oysters...also goes right down with the fish.
(4)
Lauren B.

I was sadly let down by this place a little! My ex and I went back when we were still dating under the impression that it was "the best seafood place ever" (from what others have said) and just didn't feel that way at all! Let me walk you through the experience: We were greeted by the hostess, who was pretty lovely, and told us that there would be a long wait. However, there's a pseudo bar on the patio (this was in the summer) that we could sit at right away. Not being too picky, we opted for that option. Well, not only did it take 20 minutes for a waiter to even come to us, but she was (excuse my french) borderline a bitch when she did arrive! I was still unclear of what drink I wanted to order, so she took my ex's drink order and told us she'd come back for mine. A runner gave him his drink, and our waitress didn't come back for ANOTHER 20 minutes to get my drink order! For a place that has such a great reputation, this was highly disappointing!! As the night went on the experience got better...hence the 3 stars over 2. The food was pretty good...but I've had better at nice restaurants that don't necessarily specialize in seafood. Maybe I didn't order the best thing on the menu, but as a seafood lover, I was pretty saddened by the out-ting :(
(3)
Quincy B.

Happy hour is the way to go here! The bartender Timmy is so friendly and watching the barbacks shuck oysters to order is really cool. Its a great date spot and right in the heart of Denver. Love Love Love it
(5)
James H.

Stopped in here for a happy hour, so I can't comment on the food or the food-service, just the bar. Bartender was personable, efficient, and knew his stuff. They have several infusions, their own spiced rum, and a good selection of draft and bottled beers. I started with a Left Hand Milk Stout Nitro. It was poured well and at the proper temperature in the proper glassware. Based on the experience to that point, this is a 4 Start establishment. But then I ordered a "Fat Mary" bloody mary with shrimp, bacon bits, and spices. It was delicious and is my favorite bloody in Denver (and I've had many). That drink alone give this place an extra star... It was that good.
(5)
Scott P.

Hot diggity dog! Can you say 'best oysters I've ever had'? Well, if you're me, and you just went to Jax last night, you could. And you would. And you'd be sitting on the ground typing away on your laptop while you did it. Which is exactly what I'm doing right now. Damn. Existential. Anyhow. I'm no n00b to oysters. And these were buttery, briney, meaty goodness. We got some of the British Columbia and Washingtons, and they just went down smoother than angel tears. No need for any garnishes- these badboys were perfect just the way they are. Then came the calamari- a little sad because we didn't get any tentacles, but the sauce that the squid was cooked in was more than consolationary. A few beers, a good conversation with the breathtaking Ethiopian beauty sitting next to me, and I was positively glowing with happiness. Didn't make the oyster-aphrodisiac connection until just now. If I would have gotten a phone number, this place would be five-star status. Yeah, I'm that shallow with my ratings. Eat it.
(4)
Jessica C.

Try everything! My family and I have been plenty of times, always with a reservation. Valet parking is so convenient and you can go before a game. The wait staff is cordial and accommodating. The desserts are divine and the selection of oysters is extreme. My best recommendation is to always try what's fresh off the boat. The fine cuisine is worth coming back for time and again!
(5)
Jill S.

I've been struggling to find great places to take visiting friends and family. Jax was a great place to bring my mom while she was visiting. We had a plate of assorted raw oysters, scallops, the ahi tuna, crawfish hushpuppies, and the butterscotch pudding. The oysters were ok but only because of the cleaning job. The scallops and tuna were outstanding but the real highlight was the butterscotch pudding with homemade marshmallow and popcorn. It was rich, salty and sweet. A perfect ending. The only other miss was the valet who was more concerned about talking to his drunk friend than bringing my car around.
(4)
Andreas H.

Perhaps I am a bit biased when it comes to seafood, being raised close to an ocean and all. While Jax is definitely good, I found that it was not nearly as exciting or delicious as I was hoping and/or expecting. If I want to spend the money, I think I will just save it for the next trip to the east coast.
(3)
Allie N.

Wish I could say that it's as good as the one in boulder, but even still it's a great seafood option downtown. Great atmosphere, location and highly recommended for a seafood fix
(4)
Juan V.

A place has got to be pretty awesome for us to give it 5 Stars. Jax is... AMAZING!!! We love the oysters! Jesse and Josh are two amazing staff members that take care of us. We love the fact that their recommendations are always honest and drinks are strong. Very consistent food quality and service. Please give Jax a try if new to Denver. Skip the place across the street...
(5)
Marc D.

Oysters! Oysters!! OYSTERS!!! Yummo. I am a Balti-moron. We grew up on seafood. Oysters, crabs, shrimp, oh my! When I was a kid, we would go out on piers with a chicken neck, a piece of rope, and a butterfly net. That was how we would catch crabs. Here... you catch.... wait, uh... NEVER MIND!!!! Jax opens at 4 PM. If you go for their happy hour (4-6PM every day), I suggest getting there early. AWESOME happy hour specials on oysters, calamari, mussels, gumbo, etc. Might I suggest you stay away from their brown ale mussels. They just aren't very good, and I was a little disappointed as I had not yet had something from Jax that disappointed me. This was the first. Usually, however, I have been very pleased. The dinner menu changes, but everything is fresh, fantastic, and well, some of the best seafood in Denver. They sometime have crab legs, and unlike other "seafood restaurants", these do not taste fishy or soggy. The fresh fish is always a delight, and the calamari is always superb. The bar seems to be filled with characters. Every time I have been there, I meet someone weird and interesting. Might I suggest that you do not friend weirdos who "own an awesome little bar off colfax that we just have to go to right this second" because... well, that is another story (ugh!). Anyway, freshest seafood in Denver, a good selection of oysters, and great drinks. May not be the cheapest place in the world unless it is happy hour, but we DO live in Denver.
(4)
Marie M.

I love Jax! They have an amazing happy hour, with the best oysters in town. They also happen to have the best calamari in town. Everything is fresh (especially for Denver) and the service is amazing. Yes, they had Wham and George Michael playing almost the entire time we were there, but I am a fan, so it didn't bother me (dirty little secret).
(5)
Heather M.

WONDERFUL!!! First let me tell you, we were an hour late for our reservations as traffic was terrible!! We called to let them know, and they said take your time, no worries. We got there, and they had our table waiting for us and sat us right away. Not many places would do that. We went during 5280, and had their 4 course menu, which btw, is a great value for all the food that you get!!! There were 5 choices for the first 3 courses, between us, we had all 5. They were all excellent!!! The dessert was butterscotch bread pudding, which was also great!! (i would love to get the recipe) The service was amazing! Thank you to our waiter Jose. Also thanks to Erik for the extra kind service of holding our table and putting an expensive coat in the office for us too!! They now serve lunch and I am excited to go back and try that, as well as the new steamer bar!!! thanks Jax for and great night!!!!
(5)
Joy G.

One of my favorite restaurants downtown! They have awesome oysters, lobster, halibut, and salmon. They have oyster shooters that are to die for. We actually had our engagement dinner here and the service and food was excellent. Best seafood in Denver!
(4)
Lily T.

I've been to Jax 4 times now and I have never been disappointed. I'm a big seafood fan from the east coast so I've had my fair share of good seafood and Jax comes damn near close. The calamari is probably the best I've had. It's a huge plate, too much for just 2 people really, and the pieces are big. I've had the bluenose, mahi mahi, and their dinner specials before...all were delicious. They have fresh oysters and crab but I don't normally eat those although they do look fresh chillin' (literally) on the ice. The location is on the corner of 17th and Wazee and there's a paid parking lot in the back if you don't feel like searching for a spot. The bar is kind of small, not leaving much room to hang out with large groups. It is a loud dark place with chilll people and crayons to draw on your table while you wait for the food, I like! If you're a big seafood foodie...then definitely try this place out.
(5)
justin d.

1$ adds up quick when you say "4 dozen oysters please" ha ha but hey its a great time and story. I haven't tried anything here but the calamari and i would rate it a 7 and the oysters and either they're fresh or they stink and i have had no stinky ones yet! the service is great sometimes they take a second to catch me ordering a drink but hey there happy hour gets ridiculously packed. so out of my few visits they haven't disappointed me yet
(4)
Larren M.

Wow! I have been by this place a million times and have always said to myself "I wonder what that place is like?" Well last night the lady and I checked it out for the first time. We will definitely be back. Fist of all oyster happy hour 7 days a week? What? Be still my heart :D. $1 per oyster. We got 2 dozen right off the bat. We shared the scallops dish which had a very good risotto with pieces of escargot and sliced asparagus. Absolutely delicious. If you haven't been to Jax Fish House you are missing out on one of the great restaurants in Denver!!!! Cant wait to go back.
(4)
Steven B.

Had a big day so I decided to celebrate and treat myself to some Oysters. There may be other places in Denver with great fresh oysters, but ever since Jax opened it's the only place I go. I had a dozen mixed 'west coast' oysters and my heart was soaring! From the big ones to the little guys, all great. Then I ordered the Arctic Char off the new fall menu and it was one of the best fish dishes I've had in years. A nice big piece of perfectly grilled Char on top of tiny manila clams standing in a chowder of corn, bacon lardons (I think? Whatever, really tasty), edamame beans, topped with a peppery jam! I mean outrageous! Jax always has a list of what is fresh (as in arrived that day) and the wait-staff is always hip to what is good. My server was super friendly, remembered my name and made great recommendations. I often take out-of-town friends to Jax to prove that Denver can have great seafood.
(5)
Lincoln S.

Went to Jax again last night and had to finally write a review. Always consistently great food and fantastic service. The calimari is reason alone to go - a dish that everyone does, but no one quite like Jax. This place will be around forever
(5)
Jonny H.

Truth be told, an oyster is defined by it's simplicity and usually nothing more. But au contraire, for this gastronome; there is nothing quite like the naked, fresh taste of these little bivalves of joy served with a reflexive squeeze of lemon, a few strings of freshly grated horseradish, and a drop or two of sweet and tangy mignonette... slurp, slurp... repeat. You can taste the ocean. You are immediately transported to another place - like the rocky coastline of the Puget Sound or the sublime beauty of Normandy - as you delight in how simply wonderful oyster consumption can be. Celebrating a week of the oyster in Denver may be as far removed from any celebration revered to be one of the greatest feats of culinary pleasure imaginable. How could the average Midwesterner come by a premiere offering of fresh seafood and a full array of farm-raised oysters in Denver? Visit Jax (in Denver or Boulder) and you will be splendidly amazed! I cannot wait for Oyster Week to arrive in March. I will go every year. I will order as many oysters as it is humanely possible to devour. I should go more often, because my buddy Quinn is a server/bartender there -- his service is extraordinaire. I take a huge group of friends along so we can share. Great cocktails. Superb entrees. Freshness abound. Electric bar scene. Do not pass up Jax when your next fresh fish fixation hits ya...
(5)
Chrystal T.

Ok this place does a stellar happy hour if you like oysters or shrimp. The oysters are always fresh and delicious and they have a great variety and for HH they are a buck, if that is not your thing try the peel and eat shrimp, with a perfect bay seasoning for around $10 you get a pound. Plus the drinks are all the rage, strawberries lemonade cocktail is killer. These guys infuse their own vodka so that have several tasty and unique mixes to please any palette, plus cheap PBR on tap. And a few of the bartenders there have been voted Denver's best in recent years...bottom line is fantastic service, good drinks and a great HH
(5)
Emma S.

OK, every time I have a girl friend come to visit Denver I take her to Jax. The bartenders are always hottie pototties, who give lots of attention and flirty banter. Aaron and Josh are staples...always there and always ready to get their flirt on. Adam, the Manager, is a friend from Boulder and is consistently hospitable and welcoming. Oh, and the food and drinks?? AMAZING! Love the mussels... Whenever I walk out of the door, I'm happy, confident, full but not stuffed and sufficiently tipsy.
(5)
Grant H.

Oysters for days!
(5)
Doogie H.

Yum! This place is awesome! Great location in Denver! We went with about eight people for the 4th of July. Had reservations and were seated right away. I have to say, this is the best seafood (oysters esp) I've ever had in Denver. The staff was so friendly and knowledgeable on the different types of oysters. It is quite expensive, but great for birthday/special occasions. I can't wait to go back!
(4)
Carol H.

We had a fabulous time for my BF's birthday. Food was wonderful and service fabulous.
(5)
Mel H.

This is a gluten free review and a review of the 5280 menu. I have been looking forward to trying Jax for some time. One of the friends I went there with has been there several time and had good things to say about them. We had a reservation and were seated right away. The waiter was nice...but curt. Maybe he was having a bad night. I started with the mussels with the Chardonnay and lemon. The sauce was good, a few of the mussels were extremely fishy. One of my party ordered the clams off the regular menu (which I would have tried if they hadn't stuck a piece of bread on top). My friends said the clams were better than the mussels. The mussels were very limited and I was hungry, so I tried to order some soup, but the waiter never got back to me on whether or not is was gluten free, so I decided to drop it. My friend ordered oysters at the beginning of the meal and had to ask the waiter where they were. He looked at her like she had never ordered them, but then brought them soon after. The calamari (which I couldn't eat) was excellent according to everyone at the table. The next course took forever. I ordered the sole, with the house bacon, brussels sprouts, and chestnut cream. It was really, really bland. I was pretty sad about it. The bacon was the only real flavor in it. The catfish and cornbread had a thumbs up (not GF) and I guess the shrimp and linguine were as bland as mine (not GF), unless you eat the capers with it (Ick). I really wanted to salt and pepper mine, but the salt and pepper were open at the top and their were bread crumbs everywhere. The waiter same back to ask us how us was...we mumbled good since there was nothing really wrong with it. The dessert I ordered was the vanilla bean panna cotta and it was bland too, lots of gelatin in it. The key lime tart was mostly uneaten because it was just not very good. The small amount of berries served with the desserts were very good. The waiter comped the oysters and was at the table a lot, he just had bad timing and seemed forgetful. I really wasn't impressed with the food and I would never bring a picky eater here. When you have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance and you eat out, there is always a risk. I had gluten somewhere and was sick. I will not come back.
(3)
Susan D.

We tried the new location in Glendale and loved it. This time I had the Alaskan Bristol Bay salmon and it was about the mildest flavored salmon I've ever had--which is how I like it!
(5)
Jen M.

I was visting Denver and we were looking for a casual place with some good oysters. Jax came up in our searches so we made a reservation and headed there. Our waiter was great! Our meal started with some oysters. We asked our waiter to pick some out for us and they were yummy. For our meals we ended up ordering the special, a medium rare marlin steak. The portion was nice and the price was pretty good. I also had a couple adequately intoxicating manhattans. If I'm ever back in town and I crave fresh fish, I'll be heading to here again.
(5)
Cherie B.

Holy food coma! My brother and I stopped in here late on a Sunday night. We started off with 12 oysters for $12...good deal! They were very tasty and well shucked with minimal shell shards. Then we decided to share a bunch of odds-n-ends...crab cake, ahi tuna carpaccio, green chile cornbread, braised mustard greens and fried Brussels sprouts. I was only able to snag one bite of the crab cake, as bro made that thing his bitch. What I tasted of it was wonderful. The carpaccio was also delicious...thinly sliced tuna, arugula and flavorful housemade hummus. The cornbread was near perfect...just the right amount of moisture and topped with green chiles. I'm a sucker for some good greens...and Jax has STELLAR greens. Perfect bacony flavor...not too salty. While I enjoyed the Brussels sprouts at the time of ingestion, I keep thinking about them and whether or not I ACTUALLY liked them. What they do, is they pull each leafy layer off the veggie and then fry them...leaving them kind of potato chip-esque. They have good flavor, but I was kind of missing the juiciness of that particular veggie. The service here was spot on...everyone we encountered was friendly. Our server offered suggestions on the dishes and when we mentioned that someone was joining us late, she offered something easy from the kitchen even though it had already closed. I might have to hit this place up for happy hour...sounds like it's worth it!
(4)
Jason S.

Super wicked rad happy hour!! Cheap drinks, delicious food, great atmosphere and awesome service!! When I say 'rad' happy hour I'm not just talking about 3 things that are on special where they only give you a 1/2 ounce serving There's quite a variety and the portion size is very generous! We tried the calamari, some oysters (can't remember which ones) and the smothered fries. All full of deliciousness and we left stuffed. Also there are a lot of martinis to choose from, you only need about 2 and you've got your 'buzz on'. There's a patio so it's great to people watch, it's near Coors Field if you're catching a Rockies game, they also have PBR in a can. I have yet to try dinner here, but its on the to-do list. I'll update this review as soon as I do... If their appetizers are any indication how great their food is, I'm super stoked!!
(5)
Diego A.

Tequila, Beer, Oysters, Crab, All the Bar Crew & Dinning Staff : Well "EXELLENT"
(4)
Joseph H.

Went to Jax for 5280. Wonderful gumbo, awesome blackened catfish, and to die for key lime tart. Noah provided outstanding service and made our night wonderful.
(5)
Jenn D.

Jax is a great little treat in Denver. The atmosphere is laid back and fun with big fish on the walls, exposed brick and a blackboard of the catch of the day. I started with the Caesar salad and instantly fell in love. I will go back just for more. Tilipia with brussel sprouts and bacon as my entree was made for a great dinner. Then followed it up with Butterscotch pudding and Cracker Jacks for dessert. They had a great wine list. We walked in during happy hour and the bar was packed. It is definitely on my list of places to go and enjoy happy hour now!
(4)
Emily B.

My boyfriend was craving seafood last night, so we chose Jax Fish House based on some of the other reviews. The reviews did NOT do it justice. I had one of the TOP 5 meals of my life at Jax Fish House last night. Our experience started off by walking into the lively and energetic atmosphere that is the bar at Jax. It was a gorgeous evening, so we opted to sit on the small patio area in front of the restaurant. We started off with wine a cocktail from their extensive wine and drink list. Try the Cucumber Melon Press if you are looking for a refreshing cocktail on a warm summer night. My boyfriend loves mussels so we started off with an order that were in a delicous butter wine sauce with just the right about of garlic. We were surprised when we discovered a new aquaintance was working at Jax and he kindly sent over an order of their signature calamari. My boyfriend hates calamari, but he gobbled this up. Said it was the best calamari he had ever had. I ordered the Ahi Tuna, which as sushi grade, cooked perfectly and absolutely amazing. It was served with avocados and grapefruits. A delicious seasonal meal. My boyfriend ordered the trout, which was also delicious. It was a tender red trout that had an almost salmon like look and texture. We have been very disappointed with the service we have recieved at many Denver restaurants, since moving here a month ago. However, the service at Jax was the friendliest, most attentive and knowledgable service we have received since we moved. We will definitly be returning to Jax in the future. I understand they have an amazing happy hour and I can't wait to check it out.
(5)
Jenny S.

My roommate insisted we go to Jax for the hot bartenders, I have been back almost every month since for the calamari, the oysters, and sometimes, the hot bartenders! The cucumber lemon press is my drink of choice, their infused vodkas making it out of this world. They make one heck of a dirty martini and the happy hour food and drinks are really reasonable, especially the $1 oysters. I have yet to go to Jax for a full dinner but the calamari is enough to hold me over for now. The mango chili sauce that they serve with it is incredible and has a nice kick to the fruity goodness. It definitely is not what you would expect calamari to be served with, but after having it, I wouldn't change it for the world. Why the four stars my friends? It is a bit pricey, hence the reason for all the happy hours and why I have put off trying their dinner. Nothing that restaurant week won't fix though, and I look forward to it.
(4)
Alura B.

I went to Jax Fish House for the first time last weekend. Overall it was a great experience and I plan to return, give them 4 stars. I had crab legs and they were excellent. My favorite food and I am picky - not the largest portions. Boiled potatoes were very plain - 4 tiny whole new potatoes with skin on. I prefer a baked potato with something on it so it isn't dry & plain:) Also the salad was a half of a head cut in half and served that way - creative but I didn't care for it. Loved the oysters and service was fabulous. Very attentive staff - refilled my drinks everytime before they were near empty. Free dessert was served to the birthday girl. l appreciated the seafood, service and atmosphere. Yes pricey but worth it for the quality fresh seafood. Hope they have better sides...will try others next time. I will rate them a 5 star if I find some great side items.
(4)
Jeremy K.

Jax's Oysters on the half shell were listed as one of the top 100 must eats in Denver, so I gave them a shot (again): Rating: 6 (out of 10) The Skinny: Fresh Oysters are always a favorite of mine. And of anywhere for them in Denver, Jax has the best reputation - freshest oysters, best price, Hosea Rosenberg, etc. It's not that they do anything special per se - in fact it's probably that they shy away from doing anything to ruin this great seafood tradition that keeps people coming back. Having someone in front of you cracking fresh oysters, setting them over ice, and sliding the whole tray over with horseradish, lemon, cocktail sauce, and tobasco doesn't need any frills. Jax has simply established itself as the place in Denver to get this done right. I've got a pic up on the blog in my profile if you'd like to check them out. jko
(3)
Heidi S.

I write this review with a heavy heart because I have been contemplating writing a letter to the management. The ball-n-chain and I went in later last Tuesday evening for a celebration dinner and the waitress could not be bothered with us at all. We were one of three tables. We had to stop her as she zoomed away (after waiting for our drink order to be taken) just to give her our appetizer order (Mussels). Zing, off she went. Meanwhile, throughout our meal, she was quite chatty and attentive with a table of men and with her fellow servers at the food window. Sat with empty drinks and then had our dinner order placed (Halibut cheeks and the lobster BLT) . Zing, off she went. Wait, stop, come back, more drinks please. Dirty plates, sat unfetched. Food was delivered but she didn't come to ask us how our meal was until AFTER we were finished eating. I needed another napkin which, of course, I was never able to ask for. More drinks, not a chance. Food was good but by then I was chapped because I knew the ball-n-chain was going to drop some hard earned coin on me. We laid out almost a bill on a spur of the moment stop, tip included. Not too sure I want to go back. We were dressed nicely, we were polite, we were sober, not sure why we were just disregarded. In this economy, with pay cuts, hours cut, and what not, I will keep my Benjamin's, thank you very much.
(2)
Hans O.

Probably one of the best happy hours in town! This place is crowded really crowded, the restaurant side was completely sold out and the bar almost impossible to walk through. Had to seat close to the bar facing the wall, but even though waiting staff was quick, and super friendly! Oysters - 1 Super fresh, really good! Chicken and craw fish gumbo - 2 Portion is super small, its probably the size of a half bowl. Nonetheless, really good flavors, full of chicken and craw fish. Seafood dynamite - 5 Can't tell the ingredients for the gooey binding creme, but its all combined with chunks of crab, lobster, and shrimp. Shell fish here is not fake its the real stuff, serving is as big as the Chicken and craw fish gumbo. Very tasty. Gumbo cheese fries - 5 Fried were soft, not stale or overly crispy topped off with their gumbo. Really simple but really good. Petite oyster Po Boy - 3 Really petite, smaller than a common slider. They have specials on drinks as well: Well cocktails - 3 Zolorita - 4 Draft Coors Light - 2.50 Cans of PBR - 2 Select Red and White Wine - 4 Oyster Shooters - 3 Infused Vodka - 4 " This menu stated: Thursday - Saturday 4-6pm Happy hour menu; not sure if they have happy hour everyday.
(4)
Brian G.

Man...I dig Jax. It's not what you'd think looking form the outside but it's awesome. Great raw bar with oyster specials and cheap peel and eat shrimp. The surprise here...the burger is amazing. I had it for the first time two days ago and it was all could do not to order another, It's nice when you find these surprises at joint that specializes in one thing but then has a little cruve ball. Staff has a nice casual approach that makes you feel like you've been there a million times before. I especially like the fact that they didn't throw me out after nearly punching the guy that took my bar stool and made a big scene about it. It is possible that I used some choice words and threats about robbing the man the use of his legs. They even bought me a whiskey to calm me down. This place is aces in my book.
(4)
Elizabeth T.

I'm very happy I got to check out this restaurant during my short trip to Denver. It's intimate, casual, and small, so thank goodness there's a bar available to pass the time while you're waiting for a table. YES, it is worth the wait. The oysters are ridiculously fresh. The crab cakes are savory and 95% crab. Besides the ones here, I've only found one other crab cake that did not disappoint. The seasonal fish items change fairly often, so I can't comment too much on these, but most entrees I sampled were fabulous. A few were a tad on the salty side. The proteins ranged the gamut from pork to sole to fish. All of the sides paired well. Sadly, I had no room for dessert, but the 5th course menu is quite extensive.
(4)
Bigg Mike S.

Food tasted great. Very over priced I thought. Crab cakes tasted good, but were only a little bigger than a half dollar coin. Definitely not worth the $13 they cost. Salmon was great, but small for $28. Steak tasted awesome, but over cooked for $36. And I hate that gratuity is added when I am on a separate check.
(3)
Lauren T.

Do not get one of their 'Game day po-boys' I took the bf for his first Jax HH experience. We had gumbo, skimpy serving of buffalo shrimp, and $1 oysters. But of coarse he was still hungry since it was dinner by that time, so I ordered him a po-boy to go. He LOVES po-boys and I thought this would seal the deal as Jax being our friday night dinner spot. We got home and he opened up this 8 inch sub to find 4 inches actually had meat. Im not exaggerating. WTF!?! The po-boys I know, are stuffed so full the meat falls out and u eat it with a fork. WTF WTF WTF. I wish I had gotten a picture of his puny sandwich. I guess I'm so pissed off because this is my BF, he's my eating out buddy, and he will NEVER go back to my favorite restaurant!! He immediately started making some Mac & cheese at home cuz it was the only thing hardy in the house. This is still one of my favorite places, especially the cucumber lemonade. but very sad I will no longer be able to frequent this amazing establishment because of a bread sandwich. :( Would usually have given them 5 stars. But 4 is generous.
(4)
Adam W.

I've been to Jax several times before, but haven't found a spectacular dish. That's not to say Jax is bad, just okay. I tend to judge a restaurant's culinary flair based on its desserts. Not nearly every patron will order dessert, so an impressive dessert menu shows real passion for food in my eyes. The best Jax can conjure up is a grainy butterscotch pudding with stale-tasting cracker 'Jax' -- weak. Beyond that, their drinks are truly embarrassing, especially for a restaurant with a full bar. Their stock vodka is Crystal Palace, the one you bought for $8 when you wanted to get drunk in college - really sad. The $1 oyster happy hour special is a great deal if you like oysters, but I'm not a fan. I think there are plenty of better restaurants in Denver.
(3)
Jonah S.

Jax is a great place to go in Denver. Awesome seafood selection, fun bar and great desserts. Don't miss this Lodo gem.
(5)
Jenn P.

OK OK .... I am a little muddled. 3 stars ... 4 ???? How about a firm 3.5 stars ... yes that works. This was the second stop on the super fun, new friend excursion Heidi, Erin and I embarked on this afternoon. You would need to be dead and buried to NOT have had fun with us. In our defense, and in a rare turn of events, we were by NO means the most obnoxious people there. Go figure. The professional idiots " sharing" the patio with us and one very nearly deafening Heidi, well they made us both giggle and wonder .... what the hell is the matter with people these days. I mean really. The oysters we ordered were scrumptious. I should have ordered more, many many more. They were chilled perfectly and once we reminded our server we needed extra, well everything, ( napkins, forks, lemon and such) things went along swimmingly They were really yummy and I wish I had some right here, right now. So we left thankful to not have to endure our fellow "patioers" on a regular basis and with an assortment of very smallish leaves in our eyes and hair and ears. We had a really fun, laugh out loud, getting to know you, excellent time. For sure.
(3)
Kate G.

Love the happy hour at Jax: cheap oysters and martinis, how can you beat that! Deeeeelicious bloody marys with a mix they make right at the bar using a muddler on fresh cucumbers, tomatoes and jalapenos with salt. They have a big list of infused vodka martinis and cocktails for $3-4 too. My favorite is the cucumber. My other HH food favorites are the gumbo fries and seafood dynamite with spicy sauce drizzled on top. Sometimes the service can be a little off, and I'm sure that's due to how packed this place gets. But you can't get better, cheaper oysters in Denver.
(4)
Courtney B.

A group of us went back to Jax last night for restaurant week. I didn't have a great experience last time but I was open to giving Jax another chance and boy did they do it right! The food was delicious - ordered the lobster blt, couldn't resist - and the services was fantastic. Our server was on top of all our drink and food orders and made the experience top notch. Had a great time and can't wait to go back for more oysters!!
(5)
Amy B.

My husband and I love Jax! Their happy hour is the best, the staff is personable and knowledgeable. We come every couple of weeks and snack on oysters, mussels, and other goodies; we enjoy the atmosphere and awesome music. This place is not to be missed!
(5)
Jacque B.

Pros: - Oysters are fantastic... reasonably priced variety dozen... fresh and quite tasty. - Perfect dirty martini - fish was cooked perfectly, just a tad salty - all ages restaurant/bar Cons: - They don't serve lunch! I would be a regular if they did - Wait staff tries a little too hard to be white tablecloth in a bar setting I will be back...
(4)
Chandra W.

Dear Jax, I would like to thank you for having the best oysters in Denver, and while I understand that we are not only a mile above sea-level, but we are also pretty frickin' far away from a coast--yet, dear Jax, you don't let that stop you from delivering fresh seafood served in unpretentious dishes. As you probably know, I particularly enjoy the Kumomoto oysters from the raw bar, and of course, the PBR is always a plus. Your bartenders are fast, friendly, and willing to please; their new-age martinis are done well (and get the job done). I have heard that some are turned off by your loud, trendy clientele, but rest assured that I will not abandon you for such fickle reasons. Jax, this is the real thing, baby. Thanks and Love, Chandra
(4)
Ashley J.

One word. Calamari. Will be back just for the Calamari.
(5)
Danny H.

I came here with coworkers and had a blast. The server knew everything about the menu and had no issues with explaining each dish. The beer selection was great. Even though I'm not a huge seafood fan, I enjoyed all of the appetizers as well as my entree. Dessert was unreal.
(4)
Liz A.

What a happy hour! Arrived about 5:15 pm (it's only a couple blocks from my office downtown, so was an easy walk) and it was already pretty packed. Managed to find space inside the bar against the back wall for myself and my 2 buddies, and took a look at the HH menu. Pretty good selection and what caught my eye the most were the $1 oysters and the selection of vodka-infused cocktail options. Ordered myself a drink while I waited for buddies to show up and probably the easiest drink order I've ever placed. Just yelled across the bar "Strawberry Lemonade" and about 10 secs later, it showed up. This lemonade was a delectable mix of strawberry infused vodka with lemonade. So yummy, I had 3 of them before we left that night! :) Friends arrived and we decided to order a couple dozen oysters and the calamari. Oysters were delicious and the calamari had a great flavor to it. My friends really enjoyed the $2.50 Coors Light drafts and I was quite content with my $4 cocktails. Overall, great place for happy hour but get there early, cause it fills up quick!
(4)
Christie C.

I haven't been here in years... My hubby and I went for my birthday. The food was great but the service got worse as the night continued. During our meal my husband order a beer. After the meal the server threw our dessert menu's down and disappeared. We were done, we just wanted the beer we ordered... anyway. They tried to make it up to us... maybe we will go back...The food was amazing!
(2)
Nikki B.

The only reason its not five stars? Slooooow service. Granted it was restaurant week so it was pretty busy for a Monday, but this service was so slow. Luckily, we had three courses to linger over so it wasn't as noticeable as it probably would have, but 1hour and 45 minutes for a meal is more than I can normally spend. While slow our waitress was exceptionally pleasant, helping out with wine suggestions, etc. The 5280 menu was actually quite diverse. I started with the Ceasar salad which was your standard, nothing special. I had the shrimp/linguini pasta due to an undying love of capers and it did not disappoint and then the vanilla dessert. All were really tasty. Overall, this place was really yummy had a great atmosphere and a really sweet waitress. Their restaurant week menu is also definitely worth trying. Random note - the booths are not as long as one might think the four of us were pretty close to each other.
(4)
Greg L.

I've never been to Jax for dinner, but it has one of the best happy hours in all of Denver. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is very lively and fun.
(5)
John S.

Little local place, fun staff, and a great bar. The seafood dynamite is to die for, crab and fish with a spicy cream sauce over it. The oysters are good but a bit pricey. Happy hour is awesome - cheap appetizers, $1 oysters and drink specials. Jax is a must try.
(5)
Laura B.

3 words: Mango Chile Mojo Served with the calamari...YUMO!!! The perfect sweet and spicyness. Goes great with my pineapple infused vodka martini at HH! I need to get back there...........
(4)
Michael S.

I am from SC. First time here. Trout was fantastic. Service was best ever! Great experience!
(5)
Gina A.

Nothing makes me happier than 4-6 @ Jax. The food, that bar, nice people... LOVE IT. My favorite happy hour!
(5)
Krissy R.

This place was really good! I went here for a work dinner and was excited to see that there were a lot of unique fish options on the menu. The wine selections were plentiful and the service was outstanding. I ordered the pan seared halibut and for dessert I had some peanut butter chocolate pretzel ice cream, as well as some Captain Crunch ice cream (sounds weird but it was delicious). From what I understand, the menu changes every 6 weeks so there are always new options. I would go here again, but keep in mind that it's a little bit pricey-- especially if you order alcohol.
(4)
Lindsay G.

I grew up about 10 miles south of Philadelphia and, from an early age, never identified that living so close to the ocean was, in regards to fresh seafood, a geographic advantage. I was simply used to an unlimited inventory and never thought to question freshness or quality. There are many geographic advantages to living in the Rocky Mountains; however, I never would have imagined that I could reference, let alone praise, the seafood at one of Denver's fish houses/oyster bars. I give Jax five stars based on my entire experience, from the moment I entered and was upgraded to a much more comfortable table (even though the restaurant was packed), to my final beverage, which was comped because our server felt as if I'd waited too long to receive it. I ordered six oysters, two east coast and four west coast, all of which were briny and fresh. The shrimp and grits were unbelievable (I'm on a mission to find the best shrimp and grits in the US and these were top ten) and the blackened catfish was very fresh, crispy and paired well with beans and rice. I'd recommend Jax for a business dinner, a date, a social gathering or a solo dinner for someone passing through. Overall, the restaurant had great food, satisfying portions, excellent service and a fun ambiance.
(5)
Wes D.

Mmmmm.....oysters!!! If you are in the mood for oysters and seafood, Jax is a must. We recently stopped in for my brother-in-law's birthday (they give you a shirt on your birthday). We had 48 oysters between the four of us and shared 2 entrees. Everything was delicious. Our server was very knowledgeable although a little cheesy (we don't mind). he guided us through the oyster choices and sold us on dessert too (which was fabulous). I highly recommend this place. A few tips: try the lobster BLT and unless you're an expert at oysters let your server guide you.
(5)
Calla T.

Five star for happy hour. I love oyster shots and calamari. They also have some cucumber press drink that is soooo good. Get there early cause it fills up quick - try and get a seat at the bar, the bartenders are awesome and will give you great service. haven't been there outside of happy hour but will update when i do!
(5)
Chris M.

This place rocks! Why is it always busy? Guess? Great service, great food, some of the best oysters anywhere! Wierd that most of the negative reviews are from the 5280 and happy hour crowd (sarcastic). Go here, enjoy and embrace the great seafood (even freshwater fish, despite that dumb dumb review down the list). Always good and very high value. I'm sure if you have been there you know, if not GO!
(5)
Joel H.

Food was amazing! Nick and Quinn took excellent care of us. Will definitely be back next time in Denver.
(5)
jody z.

this review is for happy hour- it's awesome at Jax! like most people have said you can't beat the $1 oysters and infused vodkas...and don't forget oyster shots- essentially a small bloody mary with a slippery little oyster in the bottom of the glass! A must try, and not for the weak ;-) We got there about 5:30 and were able to get a spot on the patio and our server was great! Her name was juliette; she was attentive friendly, and has been there 12 years we found out! If you go I suggest you request to be seated in her section. I used to be a server in college, and I'm very picky about servers and she was fantastic! After a great happy hour we are looking forward to a dinner there in the near future!
(4)
Bryan D.

Consistently good! We ate their Saturday night and everything was awesome, except for the black cod. I had the Hawaiian escalor (sp?) and it was killer! My wife had the diver scallops which were excellent as well. Shelia rocks!
(4)
Jo T.

Oysters for 1.25 at happy hour, enough said. Some great other small bites as well.
(4)
Adam K.

Jax is a very good restaurant. I had a reservation so when we arrived (15 min late) we were seated immediately. The service was impeccable, even though they spilled an entire glass of water on me. I understand that accidents do happen and because of that, they comped us some drinks. The prices are fairly reasonable too. With 4 drinks, an appetizer, a salad, and 2 entrees we got out of there for under $100. I ordered a shrimp dish that left a little to be desired but it was still delicious. My date ordered a whitefish dish that she absolutely loved. I would still say that the one in Boulder is a little bit better but Jax in Denver still deserves 4 stars. There was nothing about the meal that I didn't like and I would return the first chance I got.
(4)
Sherri K.

It was so crowded and unfriendly, we didn't get to try the oyster special that was advertised, nor did we get a drink...or a table, or a chair...or even a hello from a bartender.
(2)
Amanda B.

We went to Jax on a Thursday night with some old friends to catch up.. Even though we were on the later side of the night (9:30, and they close the kitchen at 10:00) we were told to 'take our time, enjoy our cocktails and order when ready.' Our server, Jessica, was friendly, patient and recommended everything we were in the mood for (just didn't know it yet) Food was amazing, service was the best and we left with the notion to come back as often as possible.. I will recommend this place and Jessica to everyone... Thanks!
(5)
Ian R.

Took my girlfriend here in search of great Louisiana style cuisine. Has the feeling of New Orleans more so than Cajun French. We enjoyed the mussels. I also enjoyed the catfish, froglegs and the red beans and rice was really good. Very surprised I haven't been back yet but when you work in the Industry and live off of tips, more than sometimes people thinks it's OK to short you, so it's really hard to dine out and share the wealth with fellow Industry workers.
(4)
Michael S.

Review confined to the bar. SMART bartender. My pal and I came here after dinner. My pal is a Tequila guy. Knows a lot of them. I don't. But, I like Tequila. The bartender picked up on my pal's connoissance, and had us sampling the good to great stuff until last call. Forgot to ask the bartender his name. Tall guy, late twenties. Knows what he's doing. Fun.
(4)
Jacob R.

great food, great service. my mother's trout was undercooked in one part and they took both hers and my fathers off the bill. we didn't even ask them to. we just let them know it was slightly undercooked. just a great example of a place going the extra mile for service when not necessary. i will definitely go back. all of the other food was also amazing. i recommend.
(5)
a m.

I should have known better than to order a margarita in Denver! I had heard about this restaurant on Top Chef and made a special trip when I was in Denver. I went there after a Broncos game on a Sunday night and the area was hopping. Our party of three had no reservations and was seated very quickly. The entrance / bar is a cheesy/kitchey decor. The restaurant section consistend of a lot of wooden booths with all of the specials written on a huge chalkboard near the ceiling. My two dining companions are PBR aficionados, so they were happy with their can of beer. I ordered a Skinny Margarita, as I do in other metropolitan areas around the country. When the waitress set it down, all three of us threw our heads back from the smell of alcohol. The margarita was straight tequila with a twist of lime, and tasted like something from a college Harry Buffalo party. The waitress copped an attitude when I ask to "fix it". Even after she returned with the new drink, I couldn't drink it. The Shrimp Eggroll appetizer was good but not memorable. It was served with a jalapeno dipping sauce, which I liked very much. The meal -- all three of us ordered the Cioppino, which was their Sunday night special. The hearty tomato broth was fantastic with a hint of fennel and was ladened with tons of shellfish. I picked through the pasta, as I usually do, digging for the "important stuff". I always order Cioppino or Boulliabaise when it is on the menu, and I rank this up there with one of the best fish stews I have ever eaten. No complaints and it made me forget the poorly mixed cocktail that I had since pushed aside. I would definitely return when I'm in the area and would love to try some of their fresh fish next time. Parking was a surface lot around the corner that charged a few dollars but was unattended when we left.
(4)
Riley W.

I thought the food was good...I'm from Seattle, fresh seafood is actally really, really fresh. There is an oyster farm a few minutes from my house...I just have a hard time believing a restaurant in the middle of the country can produce the same result. The service was great though! Our server was on the ball. They don't deserve 5 starts, but I had a hard time giving them 3 too. The chicken crawdad jambalaya was excellent.
(4)
Elizabeth K.

Jax is pumping with a young professional vibe. The atmosphere is sophisticated and hot with energy. The centerpiece is the mandatory fish tank filled with a plethora of neon tropical fish jetting in and out of a coral background. The food is delectable starting with extraordinary oysters, Peanut Oil Seared Hamachi, and Sriracha Shrimp Eggrolls. The Prince Edward Island Mussels are a unique rarity to savor with a devilishly hot red curry cream sauce that will make your eyes water and your taste buds scream for more. * The one fluke to forget to order is the oyster shooter. A concoction of bad bloody marry mix and too much tobacco is sure to make you queasy before you reach the last slimy slurp- Yuck! The Summer Specialties include a Deep South spin-off of Mississippi Catfish served blacked or fried, Watercress Pesto Crusted Jumbo Scallops and Prawns drenched in a delicate lemoncello syrup-Yummy and Panko Crusted Halibut accented by a chili-soy shrimp cake, cilantro sesame cream, and enveloped in a yazu-cherry compote. -Very sophisticated. The raw bar features Peel and Eat Shrimp, too meticulous to try and a disastrous decision leading to a first date folly. The suggestion for an accomplished impression is the Chilled Seafood Sampler Platters, which highlight a display of crab, lobster, oysters, and mussels with a minimal amount of peel and eat crustaceans. Also and elegant selection, the Lobster and Alaskan King Crab which can only be exquisite but will bruise the wallet to the waiter's delight. The service is smooth with a steady evolution of food and an accomplished style not always found in modern dining. There is no cappuccino but coffee will do and the Cappuccino Creme Brule is a sweet and smoky substitute. Jax Fish House is a trendy must go if you enjoy oceanic delicacies. P.S. Jax boasts in bold on their menu, "Jax Fish House proudly supports fisheries and purveyors that are environmentally conscious and fish legally from sustainable waters."-A statement which one can only applaud.
(4)
Jay N.

This was my favorite Denver restaurant for years, so perhaps last night's average meal was simply an off-night for the kitchen. Service was great, and we shared a wonderful bottle of wine I'd never seen before. The pumpkin soup was far too thick and flavorless and the cod overwhelmed with a rich cream or butter sauce. I'll surely try the restaurant again.
(3)
Steven M.

Great service, great food. Nothing speaks of Jax better or more simply.
(5)
Too S.

My fiance and I went here to celebrate our anniversary. We made reservations for a Friday on OpenTable.com . They did try to sit us at a table in the back in the middle of the server station which we declined and were promptly sat at an intimate table by the window. It was the end of October so the Alaskan King Crab had just arrived fresh. Steep at $55 for a cluster which was two claw legs and the body but the BEST CRAB I HAVE EVER HAD. The seasonal menu also just changed. We shared the Shrimp and Grits which had this yummy smoked pork flavored kale and the Jax Oysters that had these marinated local mushrooms that were to die for. Great service, affordable drinks. Will definately be back!
(5)
James W.

A buddy of mine worked across the street from this place. I'd meet him on Fridays and we'd chat, drink martinis, and suck down a dozen or so oysters. The first place I had oysters and to date they're some of the best. Hell, I even live in Seattle now and I have yet to find a place that's as good as Jax's.
(5)
Tom C.

Fun, Easy, Good Food!
(5)
James H.

Drinks, oysters and pork chops - a fantastic selection. Great array of raw and cooked oysters, the pork chop was incredible. Great service as well
(4)
Carrie R.

This place was apparently so concerned with looking hip and hiring good-looking people that they forgot that the most important part of being a restaurant isn't image, it's *food.* I can't review the food, because I never got any! Read on... The atmosphere was uncomfortable and snooty. A not-so-cheerful hostess sat us at a slightly sticky table surrounded by loud, pretentious, over-boozed clientele as we waited and waited and waited for some server to acknowledge us or someone to bring us water. As we sat there looking at the menu, we realized that no one was going to make us pay that much money to eat stuff that just didn't sound that good as we got treated like crud. So we walked out, never to return again. Just as no one noticed that we sat there for 20 minutes looking hungry and thirsty, no one noticed that we left looking angry and indignant. So maybe they do serve great oysters, but I'll never know. You couldn't pay me to step foot in there again. There's other fish in the sea, even if there's barely any other seafood in LoDo.
(1)
jon s.

My girlfriend and I were wondering around downtown last week and stumbled upon Jax. Needless to say I was anything but disappointed. They had Oysters and Shrimp on special for Happy Hour. Extreamley Tasty might I add. They also had a few specialty beers that were pretty cheap considering they were micro-brewed. I will return here and recommend trying this place out. The staff was laid back and fun to be around.
(4)
Archer D.

In the spirit of full disclosure, I did grow up on the Chesapeake Bay, which in my biased view has the best seafood in the world. Nice restaurant, good food, very over priced for middle of the road seafood. I would normally chalk the over priced seafood to being located in a land locked state, but Oceanaire (a chain, so embarrassing) not only had better seafood, ambiance, and prices. The biggest rip off is the shell fish platter, priced at a insane $120, with quality on par with red lobster (or at least what I assume they would have red lobster) Everything else is more reasonable, but still overpriced for what you get.
(2)
Beth H.

Very good but we like seafood somewhat more plain than the way it is prepared here. That being said, the calamari is amazing - just make sure to ask for the sauces on the side. The spicy sauce is HOT!
(4)
Elizabeth H.

I love seafood, and this is by far the worst I've had in Denver. I probably would have enjoyed Red Lobster more (and that says a lot)
(2)
Marisa M.

While I have never actually sat down at a table and eaten at Jax, I have frequented their happy hour many times and it is great. We always order the fried calamari (perfectly cooked and in a delicious sauce), oyster shooters (very tasty and recently grew to almost martini sized portions), and their strawberry lemonade cocktails (refreshing and well made). The crown jewel of the happy hour is the oysters. The oysters are always fresh and have been very large in size as of late. A dozen tends to be more than enough and rings in at only $12. The bar area does get crowded and I recommend making it there by 4 on the weekends and running out the office door at 5 if you plan on going there during the week.
(5)
JR R.

Perfect.... If you like week-old fish and egregious service! What a disappointment. Was greeted by the smell of poorly stored fish and a smug hostess. Food was bland at best, and with respect to the oysters and clams, bordering on rancid. The only good news.... My friends and I managed to avoid food poisoning.... Somehow! Planning on Jax, do yourself a favor and go across the street to McCormacks. The food, and especially the service, is worlds better.
(1)
Suz A.

I don't know if this public knowledge but the Lodo Jax has a very impressive wine list. Just AWESOME! Thanks Jax for turning us onto some super cool wines.
(5)
Ambur C.

The husband and I decided to visit the infamous happy hour at Jax...on a Tuesday. We got there right around 4p (happy hour is from 4-6), and found a high-top table to sit at. Our server was fantastic -- in fact, I'd even go so far as to call him the benchmark for the industry. Attentive without being obtrusive, knowledgeable, and an extremely approachable personality. Phew! Now let's talk about the food. Absolutely fantastic -- happy hour offers calamari, oysters, mussels, buffalo shrimp, gumbo... all for around $4 (oysters are $1 ea). We had the calamari and both flavors of mussels (red curry sauce and a traditional white wine/lemon/garlic sauce). Everything was fabulous! $2 PBRs, $3.00 wells, $4 house wines, $2.50 Coors Light.... best happy hour I've had all day. :)
(4)
Jeff V.

I went to this place just last night for an early birthday extravaganza that my friends were throwing me, I enjoyed both the food and the staff. Everyone was very nice and I even got birthday greetings from the chefs in the kitchen. The food was also really good, not spectacular, but it kept me happy enough that I would enjoy going there again and revisiting the place. Try to scallops or steelhead! both delcious and good alternatives if you aren't droned into thinking tuna is the shiny staple to seafood dining.
(4)
Kristin A.

This place is awesome! Great food, great atmosphere, great employees! I had interaction with Josh the bartender, Jared the manager, and Nick the waiter and they were all very nice and accommodating!
(5)
Michelle S.

Happy Hour was awesome. After going to the Rockies game we hit up a few happy hours and this was by far my favorite. First off you can't beat $1 oysters! They were delicious and we had one oyster that was really 3 so we got a bonus :) I started off with a cucumber infused vodka mixed with lemonade and soda. It was so refreshing and I couldn't taste anything but cucumber, yum! After that I had a mango tango which is made with a house infused pineapple tequila, this just tasted like an awesome margarita. We also had 1/2 a pound of shrimp and they were seasoned really well and were delicious. The staff behind the bar was awesome, everyone was happy and having a good time and chatted with us for a little. I guessed what the infused vodka was next to the cucumber one and scored big points because apparently no one every gets it right. I know that I will be back here as often as I can manage to get to a happy hour because I had so much fun!
(5)
Ryan F.

Great atmosphere, service was as good as you can expect. Menu was really interesting, and had some twists on your normal fish house standbyes. Food was delicious.
(4)
Anthony J.

Sat at the bar and really enjoyed this spot. Great oyster selection, sampler plates, and friendly service (what a concept). We went with the malpeque oysters, lobster tail, crab legs, and shrimp sampler. Perfect for two people. Cocktails were solid, pour good have been stiffer..but I am a lush so consider the source. Little crowded at the bar, but that's a good sign right? All in all a great spot for seafood and a cocktail or seven.
(4)
Jay J.

Great seafood, knowledgable staff, best dining experience we've had in Colorado.
(5)
Kelsey C.

Jax is amazing. I have been going here for years and it never disappoints me! The fish is fresh and delicious and the salads are to die for. I love oysters and this place has on the best. One can choose from east coast or west coast (my favorite) and the staff knows everything about each choice. Basically, you won't be disappointed. Even if you're not a huge fan of fish, the salads and other items will have you salivating. Just GO THERE!
(5)
JourneyCC C.

Great atmosphere, not always the seafood selection you want (Like what seafood place doesn't have salmon, halibut, or swordfish).....anyway, the hostess greeted us well and our server was funny and hailed us a cab when we left. The online reservation was nice feature. Food is upper class, original and a slight walk off the beaten path without being bizarre. Definitely going back here!
(4)
Andrew G.

This will be brief as the 'man' doesn't appreciate me writing reviews on 'his time'. Took a first date for dinner. The service was excellent (when I made my reservation, I told them this was a special night...they went well out of their way to make it so). At times the pretentious atmosphere can get in the way of the overall experience, but this time...it was all good. The fare was also excellent, they gave us a special appetizer we didn't ask for and that wasn't on the menu (for the special night)...very very tender scallops. We both had the Mahi Mahi, again pretty good for being landlocked at 5200 ft. Overall, they made the meal and the night memorable...take your date and ask for some extra attention and your night will start out just right.
(4)
Dana K.

After reading many reviews of Jax, decided to give it a try with some associates from work, and overall glad I did. Like the previous writer getting a waiter to actually take our order was a bit of a struggle at first, although he became more attentive after that rough start. Made it just in time for happy hour, which was worth the rush. Definitely one of the best I've been to in while, especially because of the oysters. Be forewarned while they have a good variety of oysters on the menu, only one is available at the their happy hour price, $1 apiece, the rest we all pretty pricey. Three of us went with a dozen of the happy hour special Chesapeakes, and a dozen of several other types from both coasts for comparison. Personally I preferred the Chesapeakes, so save your money. For dinner we went with the Cold Shellfish sampler. This was more than ample for three. No one could agree on a particular bottle of wine, and there was a great selection of wines by the glass choices so everyone came away happy. All in all, I can't wait to go back, although I'll bring a whistle next time to call the waiter.
(4)
Kristi M.

Went here last Sat night and had a great evening! No reservations, sat at the bar for cocktails and an appetizer of crab cakes. They were delicious! And great to watch the oyster shuckers at the raw bar. Then we were seated and enjoyed a reasonably priced, delicious bottle of wine and the special fish - baramundi - and it was amazing. My fiance had the pork chop which was also great - not amazing - but good. The service was good, food was delicious and ambiance was well-worth our wait. We will definately bring guests here in the future.
(4)
Shiho F.

I think this is one of my favorite places to go for happy hour and I've only been here a couple times. They offer inexpensive oysters and good strong cocktails. I really like the crowd and the service is pretty good. When someone asks me where they can find seafood in Denver, Jax is the only place that comes to mind. I had a mind-blowing experience at the one in Boulder a while back. I had dinner there and I loved the food and remember enjoying some infused vodka. That got me on a vodka infusing kick for a month or 2. You should try it, super fun, pretty to look at and tastes amazing!
(4)
Kyoko W.

From my other reviews, you've probably gathered that I REALLY like, no, love my oysters. When I was moving here many years ago, I thought of the prospect of no oysters and decided not to pout since I would still have sashimi. Thought about that for a bit more and then, I started to pout. It took a few years but I finally found Jax and I have not looked back. Yeah, the oyster happy hour may be fun, but for the real sit down, forget about those and look to the Pacific Northwest oysters they have on their regular oyster menu. It is always pretty extensive for the selections and the staff is AMAZING! They know their oysters and all of the intricacies of flavor, brine, and all of the good stuff. If you're not into oysters, there are a whole bunch of other goodies on the menu - we love the crab cakes after our oysters. Of course they have the peel and eat shrimp and crab and lobster and all sorts of other yummy morsels to dine on. I have been told that the burger for your non-seafood guest is really tasty as well. They also understand the needs of freaks like me who really love their seafood naked. If you insist on a sauce or gelee or other condiment, please present it to the side. I really don't mean to be a stinkhead about that kind of stuff, but it just comes down to one thing: I really love seafood and I want to taste it in all of its glory, not hiding behind some a sauce (don't worry chef, I do still taste the food as you wanted it presented, but I do, most of the time, just go back to the naked food). Maybe this is why I love oysters so much. They come with their own jus and seasoning. No need for lemon or mignonettes... So, if you grew up near the ocean and you need your fix of the sea in this land locked state, go down to Jax, sit at the bar, have some drinks and dive in to the best selections of oysters (and seafood) in town!
(5)
John H.

Its this simple: When you walk in the door, the bartender knows what you want without having to say anything and your drink gets to your seat before you do. You can't put a price on that kind of service.
(4)
melissa h.

Visiting Denver (from San Diego) and in search of a good seafood place, we were sent to Jax. While the bar area isn't anything exciting, what was pleasantly surprising was how knowledgeable our waitress was regarding every seafood item on the menu. Her recommendations were spot on and delicious. She mentioned the menu changes often based upon what is locally and seasonally available, so I also salute their "sustainability" efforts.
(4)
Ashley R.

Waited almost 1.5 hrs for our reservation - but the amazing calamari totally made up for it.
(4)
j w.

i love this place! the server with the hoop earing is the best. the food is always soooo good. such a great, comfortable atmosphere, and the seafood is so fresh for being in denver. last time i was here they had a great happy hour menu and we ordered a bunch of small plates. and they got my cocktail perfect.
(4)
Taryn F.

I've repeatedly tried to experience Jax during happy hour, but it's always too busy for my taste. I hate pushing myself up to the bar in a restaurant (but I'll do it in a dive). But, I had to get in. It's mere steps from home, a lovely walk and supposedly boasted awesome seafood/beer atmosphere. So, I devised a dirty plan to enter the famed spot with my partner in hand around 7:15 pm on a Saturday night. No reservations (I hear Bourdain chanting mantra in my head). Instead, I plotted for bar space. Tables are great, but I've been a bar nugget for many years and I enjoy the intimate space you can create between yourself, the food, a drink and your companion. Plus, it's easier to get another drink and it works well when ordering appetizer after appetizer. My hubzo is from Boston and his one well-defined palate is for seafood. He was born cracking fish legs open (in Fenway Park). Jax is a New Orleans joint, which adds a touch of flair you don't find at the lobster shacks on the way to the Cape. We left home with just enough time to enter between what I assumed would be regular reservation timing. I was delighted to walk in and see bar space. Very little, but it was there. We immediately grabbed two seats outside the see-through oyster freezer at the bar. I had my regular vodka martini and hubzo was thrilled to find PBR cans on the menu. We ordered a pound of mussels with sake/lemongrass/thai sauce alongside a batch of fries. The mussels in red curry cream would have been a mistake -- we'll try that next time. Service was very good. That's not praise I readily give out, either. Being an NYC transplant, I'm used to terrible service and jerk-offs dropping my food on the table. Our food arrived promptly, steaming hot, and was DELICIOUS. We blew threw it and considered calamari, but knowing we'll soon be regulars, saved some surprises. I can't wait to go back for more.
(4)
Tom W.

Fantastic seafood. Knowledgeable staff. Know their oysters. We usually split a couple dozen oysters and an appetizer or two. Try the crab cake. Best oysters you're likely to find 1,000 miles away from any oceans.
(5)
Aimee M.

Ate a late dinner here last Wednesday during a convention. Their Oysters kick bum and the bartender made me a perfect/delicious dirty martini with blue cheese stuffed olives while we were waiting for a table. We had Calamari which was crispy, perfectly cooked and came with two spiffy-yummy sauces on the plate. I got a bowl of the Green Curry soup with SMOKED mussels in it. It was delectable! While the food was perfect, our server was very slow and somewhat inattentive. When the server was with us, he was nice, just didn't check in very much and we were left with empty drinks and such for periods of time. We still had a snazzy time with great eats.
(3)
Winston C.

Jax is probably some of the best seafood in Denver. They have a really good happy hour and the entrees are creative. Their salmon was fresh and unique and the portion was large relative to what it cost. I thought the service could have been better, it was a little slow and the restaurant wasn't that busy. I would go back again, but eat at the bar.
(3)
Sammy J.

As an out-of-towner staying on 16th and just cruising around, Jax looked like the spot to be. It was fairly packed at the Tuesday happy-hour ($1 oyster specials) with an age-mixed crowd and so I popped in. So glad that I did. Since I was flying solo, I just saddled up to the bar, which is oval and allows for plenty of seating. Sit down dining looked pleasant as well. Only one TV was available for viewing in the bar area and it was off to the side so as to not dominate the red-brick and metal work aesthetics. And tastefully, the sound was OFF -- YAY!!! Art was gold-framed prints and some original pieces. Place is dimly lit, though there are large windows and outside patio seating options. Bar staff was on it and kept my Kettle1 martinis flowing just the way I like. I ordered the mussels in garlic/lemon/chard broth, a heaping bowl and cooked to perfection -- definitely an excellent deal on the menu. I followed this with a half-dozen western grilled oysters which also were delectable. I did feel somewhat guilty about eating seafood in land-locked Denver, 1000 miles from the nearest coast, knowing that the carbon footprint of the Bay Area seafood I was enjoying was larger than normal. However, it was very FRESH, well-presented and reasonably priced. I would recommend this establishment to ANYONE coming into Denver and staying in the downtown area.
(5)
Kali E.

The whole time I lived in Denver, people told me I should try Jax. For various reasons, it took me 2 years to finally get around to it. Once there, I was kicking myself for not getting to Jax sooner. Of course, part of the issue is that Jax is in LoDo, and, whenever possible, I avoided LoDo like the plague (especially during hockey season...oy vey!). So, if you're going on a Saturday night, make a reservation. Better yet, go for an early dinner and go mid-week. The food is fantastic (it helps if you like fish) and the service is wonderful. This place is a billion times better than McCormick's. If you want fish in LoDo (and aren't on a Wahoo's budget), Jax is the place.
(4)
Gregory P.

I ate here for the first time on a Tuesday night; and it was still a full house all night. Its a great little restuarant that was still able to handle our party of 6 in less than a 1/2 hour of time at the bar. The service was great, and the food was awesome. The west coast oysters were some of the best ive ever had, and the calamari was moist and delicious. The Ahi Tuna was my main course and it met my expectations, and had I made room, desert sounded wonderful as well. My only complaint is the noise! I couldn't hear anyone and they couldn't hear me.
(4)
Nate T.

Overall I think this is a great choice for seafood and/or atmosphere downtown. I would consider the food to be above average, and the atmosphere to be excellent. This is a fun place if you just want to sit at the bar for happy hour, grab a few drinks and oysters. Who knows, maybe that will roll into dinner. I like the calamari, the lobster BLT, and the fish tank located behind the bar. Maybe I'm a sucker, but the decor in the place is pretty good, and I promise you that I usually don't notice those things.
(4)
Greg T.

I always get a kick out of hearing when somebody asks "what's the best Italian food you've ever had", and I hear "olive garden" (I could visualize an Italian with a tear drop running down his cheek.), or whats the best seafood and I hear "Red Lobster"?!? What the hell, that just kills me and it's slightly sad to hear because those places aren't all that bad for what it is, but to say it's the best is to say that your high school years was also the peak time of your life. Since I love food, I've definitely sought out good seafood restaurants, and I'd say that Jax is one of the best, if not "the best" place to go for seafood in Denver (I have had a couple dishes that were a hit-or-miss, but that's bound to happen). The Story Behind my 1st Trip to Jax is funny: If it weren't for my best little sarcastic witty girl next door friend Jenny, I probably wouldn't have had as good of a time at Jax because it's how we wound up at Jax which is the funniest part of the story. She was out booz'n it up the previous week like she would normally do several days of the week in downtown Denver when she wound up at an event where they were giving out prizes for a benefit. When the guy was calling out the numbers on the tickets they had given out earlier in the night, nobody had claimed the $100 gift certificate to Jax, so she ran up there and screamed in excitement "it's me, i won!!". The guy asked for her ticket, and quickly realized it wasn't the right number, yet he probably just said "aww what the hell" to my drunken little buddy (she's cute). At first I thought it was kind of shady how she went about it, but after eating at Jax, I had to put my morals a side and say "That's my Jenny!!". FYI - Total bill $120+ a $60 tip for the waiter.
(4)
D C G.

The food is okay, like Cheesecake Factory okay. But for the price, it's really not worth it. The staff is very nice, but that doesn't make the "okay" food any better. I had blackened catfish, which was not as good as Gumbo's. My husband had the seared tuna, and that was absolutely flavorless (it came with an unimpressive spaghetti meat sauce). The #1 selling drink was a mojito with a splash of orange juice. We did like the calamari, but not enough to go back just for that. Our dessert (a key-lime curd with blue berries) wasn't to-die-for, but the arrangement was interesting (had a taffy thing inside). The bill was $115, including tip.
(3)
barry s.

food was good, but too expensive. our waitress was drunk or stoned or both. she forgot more than she remembered and dumped my wife's drink on the table. she tried to sell us the seafood sampler appetizer for mkt price. glad we asked how much is was before almost getting it. $155 !!!??? wtf is on the platter? bj coupons? seriously offensive pricing for average food.
(3)
Denver R.

I have tried JAX at lest three times over the past few years. I generally sit at the bar for my dinner and drinks. The service is pretty good, but nothing exceptional. The bartender is sometimes too busy making drink orders for the dining room to take good care of the people at the bar. While the food here is usually good, the prices are way too high....especially for the portions you get. If you are looking for a high-falutin, high priced fish house to impress your date, well this is it. There are other places downtown that have the same, if not better, food at much more reasonable prices. I mean, come on guys....I am paying alot of money for an appetizer portion!
(2)
Dan B.

So as we are walking in and my mother who has been a vegetarian for over 15 years says "I think I might try some fish tonight" We walked in, and even though we were 10 minutes early for our reservation we were taken right to the table. On the way one of the servers pointed out the Sea Anemone in the take that had a half digested bright yellow fish in it. So much for mom eating fish...We started with oysters and per our servers reccomendation we had some east and some west coast ones. They were both fresh, and distinct in their flavor and texture. Caser Salad was next, it was light and fresh and not too heavy which I like. I went with the sea scallops which were huge and perfectly cooked. I also loved the risotto and the crispy escargot. Because it was my birthday I got a t shirt (american apparel!) and the entire table got dessert and coffee for free. ALl in all a perfect birthday celebration with my family. I can't wait to go back next time I am in Denver, did someone say oyster happy hour???
(5)
Kelly M.

Took my boyfriend, a seafood fanatic, there for his birthday. Was surprised when we walked in that it was a bit more casual than I expected but the food more than made up for the lack of romantic ambiance. The waiter recommended the crab cakes appetizer which I normally am not a fan of, they were out of this world. We also had a delicous Tuna Poki, super fresh and delicious. Our entrees were also outstanding. I left being surprised that I hadn't heard more hub-bub around Denver about Jax, I had heard the Boulder location was excellent but Denver is also a winner. Very loud, lively atmosphere coming from the bar area at the entrance and lovely exposed brick. The service was also great. Overall, we had a delightful evening and would return.
(4)
Analisa F.

As I walked into Jax Fish House in Lodo I was greeted by the sounds of some rowdy patrons and the smell of basil given off from the signature basil martini. Blocks from Coors Field, Rockies fans were enjoying the famous happy hour specials and oysters. It was a beautiful fall day so the patio in the back was open and a slight breeze could be felt and the canvas umbrellas shaded me from the setting sun. Some unusual upbeat music was setting the mood for this Denver hot spot. The server was over in a prompt fashion and got the show started with some drinks and an order of fried calamari in "mango-chile mojo" and baked lime aioli (AMAZING!). The night went smoothly and the special of Hawaiian escolar over sweet potato hash was just what the server described: buttery fish heaven. Ending the night with Colorado palisade peaches served over summer lemon cake was perfect. Jax is definitely deserving of its title as one of the hot spots of Denver known for seafood and contemporary cocktails.
(5)
Dana M.

peel n eat shrimp..... I dream about it!!!
(5)
sarah b.

half price east coast oysters daily from 4-6, along with a mean happy hour deal on some yummy summer drinks & other items like gumbo & calamari. $2 PBRs too. go on a sunday - the bartender & oyster shucker are nice, attentive guys. i wouldn't go on a fri/sat night to this place, because there's just too many goody goody denver types in spots in that area.
(4)
Penny H.

When I was in college in Boulder (many moons ago), Jax on the West End of Pearl Street was my favorite place to make my dad take me for lunch when he was in town for business. Fast forward, I still love Jax. Although I have experienced the attitude exhibited by the host staff(and ended up across the street at McCormick's due to it), that has not been the case in any of my last visits. Dinner last night was with two girlfriends before one left to go to Canada for 8 weeks. The service was excellent - not rushed or overdone but just right. We ordered oysters and our waiter made a great recommendation for a variety that none of us had tried and quite enjoyed. Main course: I would highly recommend the steelhead. It was wonderful!!! As a Southerner by birth, I usually order the catfish (either blackened or fried), but I went out on a limb and was not disappointed. Overall, I love the atmosphere, they have oysters and lots of them, the food is consistently innovative and yummy, and if they have it, try the sangria sorbet - delish!!
(5)
Nhoi O.

Good food. The atmosphere was a bit dark.
(4)
Jim B.

Fresh fish is not normally what one thinks when visiting Denver. Jax was good. I had the Marlin which was on special tonight and was nicely ( very rare) prepared though they would do well to sharpen the knives that they serve with it. Our table shared some mixed raw seafood starters. The oyster , was pretty good for what you get in the US even though the oysters obviously had a ways to travel to get there. Another in our party had the scallops which were also very nice.
(3)
peter s.

This place is the best in Denver when it comes to fresh seafood. Whether you are looking for Kumamotos or Crablegs I wouldn't go anywhere else. I celebrate every special occasion I can here with a pound of the most flavorful peel and eat shrimp I've had anywhere. I couldn't recommend it more.
(5)
Tasha N.

My boyfriend and I love oysters so when we saw this restaurant while in Denver on vacation we popped in. We only had 45 minutes before our dinner date across town but figured it was only oysters, it shouldn't take too long. We were seated right away at the bar and our order of a dozen oysters and two glasses of water were taken right away. And then we waited and waited. As we waited we watched one of the chefs cook as his prep station was right in front of us. I felt like I was watching a live version of Chopped. So much fun to watch him cook. Anyway, another waiter came over and asked if we had been helped. We stated we were waiting for our waters and oysters. Immediately two glasses of water appeared and our new waiter apologized "two glasses of water shouldn't take that long". When our oysters appeared we started talking to the chef working in front of us. We mentioned we had dinner plans across town but would be back after for another round of oysters and wanted to know how the ceviche tasted. Much to our surprise he gave us each a small sample. The food was delicious and I am very sad we didn't make it back for more. This is a must on your tour of Denver!
(5)
Michael E.

Jax Fish house is my go to place when I want fresh cold water oysters. Still new to Denver I am sure there is others. The place is loud and boisterous but the sound is from the joy of good food and sharing a meal with another. They understand reservations and have been seated within a short period every time. Service is good. I have stayed with oysters and king crab the times I have gone but they are the reason I go. Food to me is an enjoyable part of the day and being able to use my hands with the oysters and breaking up the crab gives a primal joy. Decent wine list. The next time I have a hunger for seafood I will be back a JAX
(4)
Chip W.

Second time the wife and I headed to Jax for the Oysters Happy Hour...just as good the second time. I am not an oyster fan, but my wife wolfed down 18 pretty fast...I had the chicken crawfish gumbo...yum...fries were decent, slightly undercooked. Bartenders were friendly and efficient....
(5)
Jeff J.

Good fish house, they make their own rum. Spicy but good. Good local seafood house, not too touristy
(4)
Monica L.

I was notified by management that they've fixed any tasting issues with the dishes I've mentioned in my previous review. My boyfriend and I will definitely be back to try again!
(4)
Mary M.

Great experience! Jose was our server and he was great! Incredibly knowledgeable about the menu, professional ect. We started with the bread and peel and eat shrimp. Both great. I had the ahi tuna- it was good, but not amazing. Husband had the lobster roll and maple fries and he basically licked the plate. We shared the German chocolate cake- it was good. Great service, food and experience!
(5)
Andrew G.

Everyone must try their calamari. This small fish house never fails to impress. After 13 years of returning here I am still always happy to return.
(5)
Darika S.

Have been twice now for happy hour. And it does get crowded too, but you get the HH specials anywhere in the restaurant. Once you walk in the fresh shellfish looks so good. Four dollars drinks is also a great deal. And please get the calamari. Get two orders if you want. Nice meaty strips of calamari with rings and tentacles and two sauces. The hush puppies, which aren't described are slightly sweet balls of goodness. They are stuffed with some kind of hot seafood salad. You can also get oysters for $1.25 each if that's your sorda thing. The wings were crispy, a decent wing, but I may pass next time. Service was great, especially Noah, a waiter. He kept checking on us and kept bringing the drinks!
(5)
Lan V.

Jax is my go to place for happy hour. Their fruit infused vodka drinks are fantastic and are well-priced. The bartenders make the drinks pretty strong too, so don't drink them too fast :). The food items on the happy hour menu at the Denver location have less variety and higher prices than the Boulder location. No peel and eat shrimp deal? How sad. Nonetheless, the calamari, oysters and gumbo with fries were delicious. The location is pretty small, so try to make reservations. Or, if you're planning on sitting near the bar, be prepared to get cozy with the people you sit next to because the seating is pretty compact.
(4)
Alli M.

Best restaurant in Denver. Phenomenal staff, great food, killer atmosphere. I literally go here at least once a week... Oh and here's a tip - never skip dessert - the cookies and bourbon milk is the greatest night cap ever.
(5)
Peter H.

Almost always a packed house, Jax is one of my favorite happy hours in Boulder, but surprisingly, the deals were not as good in Denver. The oysters were fantastic as always and service is friendly and attentive. We ordered some calamari, oysters and had a few drinks. The strawberry lemonade is one of their best and they definitely don't skimp on the delicious in house infused vodka.
(4)
Mindi U.

Best meal we have had in a long time...outstanding service...entertaining bar...would be back tomorrow if I could!
(5)
Rocky T.

Great food. Exceptional service. Free valet parking. Killer happy hour. And hands down the BEST Ol'Fashion. EVER!
(5)
Travis C.

Went here with my folks on Saturday night. The ambiance and layout was cool, many around seemed to be on dates. Lots of custom made drinks and I had the Jax Mule which was really good. We had the oysters and crab cakes for appetizers which were ok. Entrees were good.
(3)
Andrea K.

Dropped in for happy hour (4-6 daily) the other night...though we have been here many many times before. The HH has changed over the years but Jax still pumps out some delicious drinks and tasty fare. We opted for the mussels with the CURRY preparation- which I highly recommend. It needed some cilantro but I sucked up the broth just the same. No shame. We also got the gumbo fries which is yummy comfort food but they require a dousing of hot sauce to be their most enjoyable. For drinks, I recommend the WEST GARDEN. It is a fantastic cocktail. Wine is overpriced even at $5 because it's a stingy pour and a small glass. The wine itself is OK. Hubs had the Mango Tango but it was too sweet. Still, I think Jax supplies some of the more creative drinks available in Denver and they're a bargain at happy hour.
(4)
Brian A.

Wonderful food great atmosphere,one of the best places in town to seat on the bar and get dinner or lunch,just get a good spot and enjoy the show.. bartender mixing drinks oysters on ice food preparation in front of you ,and it's all good and delicious.
(5)
Tanner M.

When we came in for the usual late night HH, and hey said it was no longer!! However, they accommodated us in the way that we came in for the HH, and hooked up the drink special and gave us some of the amazing bread! Great experience late night.
(5)
Sarah S.

3 on Service. 5 on the Burger. 2 on the Crab Cake. 5 on the bread appetizer. So I went here tonight on special occasion and I was pretty disappointed with the service. And .... I'm very easy with service, it doesn't need to be exquisite, however everyone was off beat and there was about three mistakes just at our table alone. None of which... required any fixing or ruined the meal. The bread appetizer is a must-get. It's friggen the best bread and butter you'll ever have. Or maybe it isn't, but it's the best I'VE had. The Jax Burger was fantastic, only thing I did wrong was order it Medium Well, it was a little dry, coulda used some saucyness, but again that's my bad. Fantastic fries and burger. The bacon is mouth watering. The crab cake was horrible. Two of the people I was with ordered it and it was about the size of my palm and it was $16. I do, understand, that it is.... probably expensive and fine dining etc. But the burger was $15, and other sea-food entrees were still yet cheaper and larger and more robust. This is all coming from someone who doesn't eat much sea food and ordered a burger. Great restaurant, great menu, poor cakes, strange service. So it's just A-OK.
(3)
William M.

Small atmosphere but well worth the wait or even eat at the bar. Started off with 1/2 dozen Kushi Oysters. Fantastic. Followed by a bowel of NE Clam Chowder. I would rate it as the best chowder I had. It was certainly very good. Totally recommend to anyone who has a flavor for raw bar
(5)
Kimberly S.

Delicious, fresh food excellently prepared. Great bar selection. Love the way they've made an awkward space make sense and feel cozy. Great choice for dinner!
(4)
M B.

A while ago I was a regular at this spot, once a week visits regular. I was there before the renovation, and after. Sadly I must say - I guess all great things come to an end in the restaurant world too. My trip tonight came from a new friend that loved seafood - and me not having been here in a while I thought this is where I'd take them. It was underwhelming to say the least. This place used to have a delicious and innovative spark. Tonight the service was spotty and slow, the dinner wasn't bad, but at $24 for my plate it wasn't good either. The cocktails were meh and apparently no one could make an Irish Coffee for dessert (although Coffee, Baileys, and Whiskey are all available at the bar - which they gave me in that order and I put together on my own). All in all I hate to say I've made my last trip to Jax LoDo. But at least I have the memories.
(2)
Sarah V.

There are two things on the menu that are meats other than fish but I was here for a business dinner and I didn't pick the spot, so I went with it. I got a burger and so did the girl next to me, she didn't like seafood either. The burger was really thick, baseball style, and mine was cooked well. It was very, very charcoal flavored, but the bread was awesome! We also got the cobbler for dessert and it was really good, a bit more ice cream and a few less peaches would have made this girl happier, but it was good overall. The special lemonades were really good, but you only get two refills, so if you order it make sure to say "light ice" of your drink will be 90% ice with 10% lemonade.
(3)
Joe H.

So doggone good! Love the atmosphere, the food, especially love the happy hour specials. It's a bit spendy, so it's an occasional treat. But what a treat!
(4)
Gina C.

LOVE this place!!! Went to Jax for Valentines Day dinner, and although we waited 30 minutes past our reservation time, the fixed price dinner was well worth the wait. Staff were extremely friendly and courteous, and the food was "lick your plate clean" awesome! The oysters were fresh beyond belief and every aspect of our dinner was excellent. The chef did a terrific job of coupling wines with each dish: we particularly enjoyed the monkfish, which was cooked to perfection. I highly recommend Jax: the atmosphere is pleasant, the menu offers a nice variety of seafood, and the customer service was beyond our expectations. We'll definitely return!
(5)
Anne C.

I've been to Jax in the past, and had wonderful experiences...but Saturday was not really among them. I don't think it's a great sign when you go in for dinner, but only stay for drinks and oysters.... I did have an amazing drink, a grassy gimlet, that had grass vodka, arugula, cucumber and lime. As beautiful as it was delicious. The oysters were really good too...but the dinner menu lacked for us. We couldn't find one thing on their that we would enjoy eating. I actually recall having that issue before, and the specials menu saved us. Not that night though,with their grilled oyster special. I mean I'm sure I'll go back, probably to their new location to check it out....but I really hope they change their menu in the meantime. Fried oyster and grit dishes plus sides that seem so complex you have to pull out your phone to google them don't really do it for me. Sorry Jax, hopefully next time?
(3)
janice n.

This place has been here 20 years. It is not easy to have great staff and consistently good quality seafood in a land lock state. Keep it up jax still my favorite oysters and happy hour.
(5)
Steve E.

We are going there for happy hour after work today. I heard a rumor that they had a great happy hour. They DON'T. What planet are these bar owners/managers from who think that $1 off regularly priced drafts makes for a happy hour. It is just and insult. They have good food, though. I have been there NOT during happy hour.
(3)
Laura G.

Ordered the crab duo and these were possibly the best crablegs I have ever eaten! The legs were super meaty and even though the menu said 1 pound, it had to be way more than that. Service was excellent and the bread/sides/cocktails were awesome. I will definitely be returning here whenever I am in the area!
(5)
Diana W.

Came here again last night. It was 6pm on a Saturday and the place already had a 1.5 hour wait...thank god for reservations! Make them my friends. Started off with a half order of their seafood platter. So freaking fresh. Lobster pieces, shrimp, huge oysters, mussels. It ain't cheap ($77) for an appetizer but it was delicious and worth it. My entree was the lobster tail that came with dumplings. The dumpling wrappers were kind of dry which was disappointing but that didn't stop me from eating it all. My friend ordered and devoured her lobster BLT. I had no problem helping her finish her fries. Thick cut and salty! What really makes Jax stand out is their friendly service. Our waitress was so attentive and friendly. We actually came back because the manager gave us a gift card last time for making us wait "too long" for our reserved table. You can't beat service like that. I will shout from the roof top how wonderful dining here is. You really feel like it's a treat when you come here.
(4)
Aniece S.

Great service and food. Very fresh and friendly. We were here for a business trip and came a few times
(5)
Victor V.

Stopped in about 6:30p for a pre-theater cocktail and snack. Ordered 6 oysters on the half shell. They were meaty and tasty and $3.50 each! OUCH! I then ordered steak tartar. It was served with a raw quail egg on top, a swipe of Dijon mustard and toast points. It was well seasoned with just a hint of minced jalapeÃ±o. Very nice. I ordered a glass of their house Riesling that was a little dry but went well with my meal. After I received my check, $46, I noticed that they offered a lobster roll for $24 . . . maybe next time. Jax is a little pricey but very good.
(4)
Kirk G.

No disappointments because no expectations. I had the lobster roll. Not very exciting. Quite a few pieces of lobster thrown between what I thought was 2 slices of toaster white bread. The so called sauce was runny and ran out of the sandwich when I lifted it. I'm going to stop. It just wasn't good. The service was good though. I sat at the bar. Oh and the cornbread pan fired oysters were small and really had no flavor at all. B&G in Boston, don't worry your still the best.
(3)
Christopher T.

I visited the Ft. Collins location and loved the service food and drinks. I forget what I got but a year later having just moved to Denver I know that I need to visit the restaurant again.
(5)
Michelle V.

Great oysters, sliders & gumbo fries. Great pre-game treat. Enjoy when there. Sullivan for dessert is great as well after the game.
(4)
Sarah N.

We popped in for Happy Hour yesterday, and nearly everything was perfect. Jose was the consummate server in his knowledge, attitude, and efficiency. Our raw Emersum oysters were tasty - it had been a long time since I've had oysters, and I liked how these arrived on a platter filled with ice with a small wedge of lemon, and a dipping cup of sauce. We also got the delicious Seafood Dynamite and a warm and lovable order of Imogene's Baked Bread. The bread is only $3 (worth it) and came out like puffy leaves with a smear of creamy butter. The entrees were very good (Grouper Cheeks and Grilled Cobia), but I thought the cheeks were a tad on the dry side. The vegetables that the fishes were laid upon also seemed a bit too greasy and not as refined as I expected. My accompanying grilled broccoli was different- I loved how the char brought out a sweetness that overrode any bitterness of the cruciferous vegetable. Drinks are fabulous. My Jax Strawberry Lemonade was divine. The Cucumber Lemon Press tasted more vodka-y, and had no sweetness, but it was also pretty darn good. The alcohol-free Ginger Beer was excellent. It's served cold but not with ice, just as the Jax guy who makes it recommends. There was already a line at 4PM before the doors opened on Sunday. By the time we left around 5:30, the place was full. Fun atmosphere!
(4)
Kate K.

Yum, yum and YUM! We've been into Jax a couple of times for happy hour and it does not disappoint. We stopped in about 2 weeks ago while we were wandering around downtown and got there about 5 minutes before they opened. You know there's got to be something good when you arrive before opening and there's already a fairly long line to get in. We waited in line and ran to the bar (along with everyone else) to grab seats. He had some oysters, and we split a sea dog and had some drinks. I never thought I would rave about a hot dog - but WOW - this was a great damn hot dog! On previous visits we've tried the gumbo fries and the peel n eat shrimp. Both were also awesome. I can't wait to get back here for dinner one of those days.
(4)
Anya B.

We came in on a Tuesday night and were told that there will be a 45 minute wait because we had no reservations, but that we could eat at the bar and I am glad we did. Not only did we get to taste the wonderful offerings from their menu but also got to enjoy watching them being made by an awesome chef who was working his magic behind the inner end of the bar. Unfortunately, his name escapes me (they do serve good drinks ;) but the memories of his delicious dishes will stay with me for a long, long time! We had Tuna Poke which was very good, Steamed Muscles with tomatoes and chorizos which were delicious and the Shrimp and Crawfish gumbo which was out of this world fantastic! Seriously, it was the best gumbo I have ever had and I had gumbo in New Orleans! The only thing that rubbed me the wrong way was the fact when we walked in the restaurant the hostess was nowhere to be found and so we were just standing there, waiting to be noticed until a friendly bartender saw us from behind the bar and said that the hostess will be right there. When she finally showed up more than 5 minutes later we were offered no apologies for her not being where she should have been. But hey, who cares about her: we got to eat the BEST Gumbo and we are sure to be back here the next time we are in Denver!
(5)
Michael B.

Nice place with excellent service. We had king crab, salads, cioppino, and snow crab. Waitress was very knowledgable and attentive.
(4)
Kendra W.

Such a great happy hour!! I got a PILE of mussels ($6), seafood cakes ($3, which they explained to me was basically bits of fish they couldn't use in a fillet), half a dozen oysters ($7) and a tea vodka cocktail ($4). Yes, all for just me...all super fresh...and all for under $20. Pretty awesome.
(4)
Will L.

The food is unbelievable! Me and my girlfriend got the trout and mahi mahi then split it and it was so fresh and tasty.
(5)
Jeanne J.

The Best Seafood in Denver!!! Always fresh and oh so yummy!!! We went down for Mothers Day and was so glad we did :) we got there early and waited for them to open. Everything was fresh and just the way it should be :) This place is a must!!!
(5)
Gary M.

I've been looking for good seafood in Denver for a while and this place does it well. Crab platter is great for the crab lovers! Happy hour is a steal with 4 dollar cocktails btw
(4)
Jaime L.

Delicate fresh pollack dredged in cornmeal and lightly fried for a crispy crust, topped with a crunchy fresh cabbage slaw and a subtle aioli, then layered between two slices of toasted buttermilk bread. Sounds too simple but that is what makes the fried fish sandwich at Jax Fish House so damn tasty. When you have great ingredients, you do not need fancy preparations or showy presentations; you let the food shine and the sandwich I ate last week at Jax (now open for lunch after a major renovation and expansion of the space) was simple and finger-licking-good. Tim Harris, the best bartender in town in my book, suggested I add a squeeze of lemon to my fish and he was 100% the recommendation The addition of lemon added the right amount of acidity to the sandwich and really elevated the taste of each ingredient. perfect sandwich made better... who knew. All I know is I will back, soon and often for this sammie alone.
(5)
Josh d.

3 stars is not to say this place is bad, or mediocre. Quite the opposite really... I rather enjoy coming here. 3 stars is just to say (A-OK!)... Fresh Oysters, are fresh Oysters... Unless the good people at Jax, farm the oysters themselves, I find it hard to give more credit to them as a dispensary (If they in fact, do have a hand in farming them, I will be happy to change my rating). That said, their cooked food is pretty good - I wouldn't call it special, but I have yet to find myself disappointed (3.5 stars?). The service is always friendly (3.5) and their bartenders are fun to chat with when dining alone, at the bar (4). Oh. And I can see oyster eating contests with some friends, in the near future... They have happy hour oysters, for $1.25 a shell... Unfortunately, these oysters just aren't as good as the ones on their regular menu... But they're fresh.
(3)
Jeremiah S.

Absolutely love Jax. I haven't lived in Colorado for 12 years but every time I come to town I always go to Jax and I'm never disappointed. Love the remodel they did (was told it was over a year ago). They have an amazing wine list and the best calamari appetizer around. The bread is also amazing. If you want the best seafood spot in Denver you have to go to Jax.
(5)
Eduardo N.

This place is really good if you want oysters and a good time to relax and kick back. I would recommend coming during happy hour because those oysters are to die for! The service was decent because its fish and take a while to make, esp. If it's this good.
(4)
Cliff B.

Been to Jax many times, normally just for a happy hour drink. The peel and eat shrimp is fantastic and comes with some sort of cream sauce that is a great alternative if you're not in the mood for cocktail sauce.
(5)
Lydia L.

Love Jax! Great Oysters and the best calamari!
(5)
david s.

Great drinks and oysters! Josh aka Junior makes the freshest cocktails with infused spices and roots!
(5)
Dan C.

Okay, yes, this place is pricey. But wow, the food is phenomenal. I had the gumbo, and my wife had a kale salad. We split the buttermilk bread. Everything was amazing. And the service is great. They are all very attentive, even though the place is slammed most of the time. The cooks took time to chat with us, and the wait staff was there at the drop of a hat to address any of our needs. Be ready to drop some coin, but also be ready to leave this place satisfied.
(5)
Amy H.

I came for my birthday dinner. Everything I had was delicious! The staff was very helpful and friendly! Great suggestions! My friend did not like his meal. The management was very concerned, immediately brought a menu and was eager to please the customer with a new entree. I'm speaking for the whole crew when I say 110%. Go! Go whenever you can! A++++++ Thank you Jax!
(5)
Thaddius B.

My favorite seafood restaurant in Denver and one of my favorite restaurants in general. Great place to grab some happy hour drinks and items from the raw bar the prices are great during happy hour. The calamari maybe the best I have ever had and I have eaten it many times, and love the oyster selection. If you go with an entree I have never been disappointed in the chefs ever changing menu. They put a some unique combinations together that always seem to make me happy. Also, the bartenders are awesome, some of the best in town. I have yet to try it for lunch, since they started doing lunches but look forward to it.
(5)
Kelly N.

Horrible experience overall. A group of us came in for National Oyster's Day. We made the reservation at 5:30 pm for a party of 7 (free oysters were from 5:30 pm - to 6:30 pm). We were supposed to get 6 oysters per person. We waited for an hour and finally the oysters came out. They only gave us 24 oysters and when we asked the waiter about the others, he came up with an iniquitous excuse that they were "probably" out. We also ordered appetizers and entrees and to my disappointment, the dishes were pretentious and overpriced. The flavors were frankly, bland and on par with what I can get at Chili's at best. It's safe to say that none of us will be back.
(1)
Mike A.

Imagine my disappointment when I found out that this restaurant was not owned by the character from Mortal Kombat. What a let down. They made up for it with a nice menu, good fish, and really good oysters. I came with my lady friend and our mutual friend. We ordered a dozen oysters, half Kumomoto and half Emersum. The latter are apparently proprietary to Jax. They've got a big write up about it on the back of the menu and I read it, so I can authoritatively say that these are in fact Jax-exclusive oysters, according to the menu and no other source of information. The Kumomotos were better, but the Emersums were about 5x larger. So, net net, I liked the Emersums better because I was H-U-N-G-R-Y yep I spelled it out to emphasize the hunger, ahem, the H-U-N-G-E-R. My lady ordered a bowl of soup because she has a stomach the size of an ice cube. Oh, and a side of the Himalayan Red Rice, which was really, really good. The friend who will remain nameless ordered the Lobster Club, which came with big fries that I very much liked and she didn't seem to care about. Cool. More for me. But who cares about them. Me. This is about me. I ordered the Sturgeon. It was hella good and I'm not even from Northern California, get it? It was a fairly small portion, so if you're hungry like I mentioned I was, you might be let down. The only way I made it through the meal without ordering more was by eating everyone else's food. My drink was an Old Fashioned. Decent. What else. Valet parking ends at 10:30pm and if you leave the restaurant and come back at 10:25 and stand outside the door and wait for a few minutes, no one comes and tells you that the valet left early. So bring a jacket.
(4)
Katrina T.

I know I am a couple days late with this but either way they treated us wonderfully and the food was amazing.I wish I remembered the name of our server to tell you all but either way they went out of their way to make sure we knew the specials what was in them and just a huge detail list.Also we accidently left our card there and they called me withing moments of us leaving to make sure we got it.just a wonderful place for a date night all around.
(5)
Duane M.

Spent my birthday here for the second time in 3 years. I like the food, love the happy hour oysters. The staff here is very attentive and very good. I really need to try just happy hour here because I have a hard time with the prices...$21 for catfish and $28 for trout is just a little too spendy for me, even though the food is good. Go enjoy some good food!!
(3)
Julie C.

We were finally exploring restaurants downtown with relatives and we were so glad they took us to Jax's! It's in the Lodo area and it was fun to see the old mercantile buildings. It is an upscale area now with many restaurants to choose from. Our family brought their baby with so this was a good choice. The place had a cool happy vibe but it was big enough and not too noisy. The server was very friendly and let us know we only had 5 minutes to get an order in before happy hour was over! Our party had calamari and oyster appetizers. I have avoided eating much fish since leaving California, but I was not disappointed in the halibut! It tasted so fresh and I think I will have to go back for more, even though it is expensive! The cornbread looked amazing and I'll have to get that next time when I'm not avoiding bread. Will definitely be back Jax!
(4)
Jeffrey C.

Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar 1539 17th St, Denver, CO 80202 goo.gl/maps/kj9tV We had dinner at Jax fish house and oyster bar in Denver last night. We made reservations for four at 830. We made our way across town and found two public parking areas within a block of the restaurant. There is outdoor seating available as well. We arrived early and found the hostess friendly as our table wasn't ready she suggested we make our way thru and hang out at the bar. The restaurant has a corner space that is compact and a bit noisy but it adds to the ambience. We tried a signature cocktail called the "Mexican standoff" which is a mixture of jalapeÃ±o infused herradura silver tequila, sombra mezcal, cilantro, lime, agave nectar. It was the perfect amount of heat, sweet and tangy. Being a big gulf coast seafood lover I had to try the oysters. I guess my expectations were a little tall as the briney jewels were $3+ each. They tasted great but were were tiny and might have been flash frozen, shipped in from the east coast. Last time I checked there's no coastal waters around here. For entrees we shared the peel and eat shrimp which were served cold and spicy with a tangy creole mustard. The grilled ahi tuna was delicious and served with fried brussels sprouts, grilled yukon golds, pickled hearts of palm, pan fried cayenne peanuts and red bell peppers. The manager Eric and our server John were both friendly, knowledgable and prompt in their handling of transferring from the bar to the table. The dinner service was fairly quick and very accurate. All in all a good Time was had by all and I would definitely go back! Urban Cowgill
(4)
Sarah M.

This place was mediocre. Super disappointed. We had friends in from out of town and were looking forward to it, frankly, it was embarrassing. The oysters were gritty, salad was soggy and the service was a joke! I could have cooked a better meal at home with seafood from Safeway. For the price we paid, these guys should do better. I've heard great things about this place so maybe we caught them on a bad night but I won't be going back to give a 2nd chance.
(2)
Lauren M.

I had dinner here on a Thursday night before a show at the Paramount. When I arrived, the maÃ®tre d' was incredibly sweet and friendly. I was seated and the server, Jessica, promptly greeted me and brought me the wine I requested after explaining the blend to me - her attention to detail was a nice touch. We shared oysters (my first time having them - the special kumquat sauce was amazing) and the delicious bread with honey butter (really good, but didn't need it), along with the tuna poke (so flavorful and fresh). I ordered the braised octopus - squid ink tagliatelle (with Jessica again providing helpful feedback on the content and flavor of the dish. My friend's mahi mahi looked delicious (and he loved it). We also shared the key lime pie for dessert (not my favorite, but I generally prefer chocolate anyway). I really can't say enough about the excellent service - my friend and I both have hospitality backgrounds and we couldn't stop talking about how friendly and attentive all of the staff was - they seemed to work so well as a team and our waters were always refilled and plates removed in a timely manner. I'm surprised by reviewers who comment that the meals are pricey - my octopus entrÃ©e was $19, I believe (less than double the cost of a fast casual entrÃ©e). I thought it was a great value for the quality, and I'd say that $20 per entrÃ©e is middle-of-the-road in terms of price. Overall, the meal was incredible, and I'll be back for both the food and the service.
(5)
Marilyn S.

Basing this on happy hour: great newly remodeled bar, cool patio, great drink and apps prices, excellent service, good ambiance. Trying dinner next!
(5)
Joe D.

3 1/2 really. Been here before and always thought the food was pretty good. The fresh baked bread to order is a nice touch. I had the crab cake and cioppino. The crab cake had a nice cook but was a bit too moist with mayonnaise or something to hold it together. I prefer a straight lump crab cake with less crap. The cioppino was good but the broth needs a little flavor. Have the one at Scoma's in SF and see what a flavorful base is like. Nice vibe and good service. Will go back but will order something else.
(3)
Paul L.

Good but pricey. It was busy and all the food served looked good. But to be honest, I'd go somewhere else before going back here.
(4)
Kate T.

I love Jax's Happy Hour, mainly because of their fantastic oysters, which you can get for 1.25 a pop - pretty good for the great quality. Their drinks are delicious too. It is a bit expensive and can be very crowded since it's a smaller space, but other then that this place is great. I usually sit up at the bar and the service is good there, even though it is always packed. The food is always fantastic, and its a fun place to get your seafood fix! Get there early for Happy Hour, because it sure does fill up.
(4)
Kristen N.

You may think that finding good seafood in Colorado is next to impossible and up until last week, I thought the same thing. But, after stopping in for lunch at Jax, I now know better. Way better. Fellow yelper, Shannon C. and I scooted up to the bar to enjoy our lunch and I so glad we did! The bartender was super friendly and you get to watch the guy prepping made-to-order clam chowders and pokes. Because we were right there, seeing the beautiful dishes being sent out, we had to order both a poke and a New England clam chowder. We added a lobster roll to our "sharing" order as well. ALL were amazing!! I could not stop talking about how good all the food was as I stuffing it in my mouth. It was not a pretty picture. But I couldn't help myself, the food was that good. The poke was so fresh and tasty, the chowder was great-not too thick, not too heavy, but the lobster roll was by far the star of the meal for both myself and Shannon C. The roll was buttery, soft and warm. And the lobster stuffing was light (not heavy with mayo-yay!) and so tasty. The lobster pieces were gigantic as well! The cocktails were yummy, the food was great and the service was spectacular. I can't wait to go back.
(5)
Liz P.

One of the best happy hours in Denver! The cucumber lemon press is perfect for a summer evening and the food is cheap and delicious. Don't miss it!
(4)
MileHigh J.

Really enjoyed the peel and eat shrimp. Loved the new renovated space. But the surfaces are hard, so the acoustics are harsh and the room is very loud. Too loud. With a game on the televisions and the drinking crowd cheering, the room felt more like a sports bar than a good restaurant.
(3)
Sarah M.

Service was great. Food was overpriced and pretty awful. Seriously don't come here. I just cried over an over cooked over priced mahi mahi. They have skillet desserts like an effing BJs #pazzokie #fail
(1)
Jessica J.

Ate here on a Saturday night to celebrate a friends 30th Bday and loved every minute of it. Jose, our waiter, was awesome and very helpful in helping us pick our meals. Like a lot of the other posts, you wouldn't think there would be a great seafood restaurant in the middle of a state that does not touch the ocean but it was just as good as some of the seafood I've had in Florida. Likes: - the ambience is nice with the low lighting and has a buzzing atmosphere - the bar in the middle of the restaurant looked like an awesome place to sit if reservations are not made = the famous Raw Bar - the calamari and Imogene's buttermilk bread with honey butter as an appetizer is a must - the crab cake had amazing large chunks of crab... not overtaken with the bread mixture - the halibut was cooked to perfection, crispy top with a flaky melt in your mouth bottom - the scallop crudo was paired perfectly with thinly sliced roasted red beets and lemon - the peach cobbler with an oatmeal crisp top was a little bowl of warm gooey goodness - even the green salad was amazing with the candied pecans! Not really dislikes...: - the key lime pie was good but the basil syrup kind of through me off - the Moscow Mule was good after I squeezed a few extra limes into it... made a little on the strong side for me I highly recommend this place. I will definitely be returning back to this restaurant.
(4)
Susan H.

We hadn't been to Jax since it was either remodeled? or has new ownership? But we've been twice in the past month and we are STOKED. Love the new open floor plan and long (oyster, duh) bar. We sit at the bar, and the bartenders are like a free floor show! They are all witty and friendly, and more importantly, SPOT ON. The last time I went, I just mentioned out loud to The Man that I was going to order a certain drink, and it magically appeared in front of me. I HADN'T EVEN ORDERED IT YET!!! Awesome. We usually order a few things off the happy hour menu, and they are always gorgeous. Get whatever they have as a special of the day, you won't be disappointed. Jax is tasty, vibrant, and fun. You feel cool just being there!!
(5)
Mike L.

I loved this place! We came here after being turned away at Ocean Prime (they had advertised a Half Price Oyster Happy Hour, which they did not honor). Jax is a great place to meet friends after work Downtown, if you all like seafood. The oysters were freshly shucked, and the Bloody Marys were strong and well-dressed. The waitresses were friendly and attentive, even though the place is full at this time. Jax provides something indefinable, ineffable: fun.
(4)
Cynthia L.

Oysters here are the absolute BEST! Various types and most do sell out quickly. Dined here for dinner and recommendations are highly recommended; especially if you would like a table top. Every time in passing, found this establishment to be very busy. Food was fresh and presented decently. For appetizers, we had the Calamari and Jumbo Lump Blue Crab Cakes. Calamari was not overcooked and Blue Crab Cakes had actual big pieces of crab in them. Our entrees consisted of the Maine lobster roll and Pan Roasted Halibut, both were equally were prepared and tasty. Ambiance is good and can be a bit loud at times. Service is wonderful and helpful for recommendations. I would definitely recommend this place and would dine here again, when visiting.
(4)
Carmen C.

Wow. Fresh seafood...who woulda thunk it when you're sandwiched between the Rockies and thousands of miles away from the Atlantic. I came here on the recommendation of a colleague who used to live in Denver, and good thing too! We popped in for a quick snack before a Nuggets game back in January. We enjoyed the clam chowder, a dozen oysters, shrimp, and the king crab legs. I was floored by how good the food was here. The layout had been recently updated (we got to Denver just days after they reopened) and they have a great raw bar at the center of the restaurant. Very impressed. I just wish they opened earlier on weekends.
(5)
Amanda G.

This review is only for the happy hour. But the happy hour is fabulous, I have no idea why you would feel the need to go there for any other (less happy) hour. Both the food and the drinks are very happily prices from 4-6p nightly. We stopped by on Sunday and had a cucumber infused vodka drink, a bowl of gumbo, a couple oysters, calamari, and an order of mussels...all for under $23. The two of us both left stuffed to the, ahm, gills. :) At $3 for a heaping bowl the happy hour gumbo might be the best deal in town. I was really impressed with everything, we'll definitely be back.
(5)
Emily J.

I have only been to Jax for happy hour and loved it. I am an oyster fanatic so I was especially excited about the inexpensive oysters available. My friend and I also got the calamari which was expertly fried and served with a great dipping sauce. We sat at the bar and got great service and great drinks served to us by a very friendly bar tender. I would suggest the Jax Mule: a traditional Moscow mule but with Jax's very own house made ginger beer, which is delicious and spicy in a gingery way. I would love to come back here and sit on the patio now that the weather is better! Only reason I didn't give them 5 stars is because the host was really surly to us. Perhaps he was having a bad day, we all do. Lucky for him the rest of my experience almost made up for it!
(4)
Vanessa C.

Oysters are awesome!
(5)
Matthew M.

JAX is a real cool spot in the heart of LODO. We came to JAX with some friends that weren't able to try it out last time they were in town. My buddy created a nice oyster sampler and his girlfriend had the lobster roll. They both spoke very highly of their food. My other friend tried a burger and said it was one of the best burgers he'd ever had. Me and my fiancÃ© shared the boiled shrimp and mussels. Both were very good. The cocktails were also very tasty. If the portions were a little bigger and the drinks were a little cheaper, I'd probably given JAX 5 stars.
(4)
Michael R.

I've eaten at Jax 4 or 5 times and each experience has been worth remembering. Our latest trip started with a half dozen oysters (as usual) and they were great. Followed that up with grouper cheeks and cobia, all cooked perfectly. The house bread is worth getting as well to sop up whatever remaining sauce you might have. The servers were attentive and friendly. The only thing that bothered us was the layout has completely changed. They've extended the bar so it takes up nearly the entire room. The problem is that now every single person eating there feels like they are in the way and will get bumped repeatedly. Not nearly as romantic as it could be, and used to be, for such an expensive meal.
(4)
Dustin S.

Went there on a Thursday night, place was just about full but they sat us right away at the oyster bar. We had a fantastic experience. Many of the excellent dishes we ordered were expertly prepared right in front of us by our chef Alex, who also engaged us in pleasant conversation while he cooked. We shared everything ordering plate after plate, highlights include the oysters (of course), the clam chowder, caviar (yes they have caviar - awesome), gumbo, lobster roll and some other dishes. Everything we ate was top notch. The service was very friendly and fun, playing along with our somewhat rowdy group. Their drinks are also prepared expertly. I had a Rye Old Fashioned and it was made with one large rock just like you would get at a high end craft-cocktails place, the taste was perfect - I did not expect this at an oyster bar. Bottom-line this place exceeded our expectations in almost every way. Highly recommended!
(5)
Tony M.

Nice to have a place I can reliably take people who mean something to me and never have it disappoint. Even the crowd at the front is cool....it is worth it to watch the bar crew rock and roll. The "kid" with the tie is a rare commodity....first one I would hire if I opened a place. The food is out of this world and worth the hefty tab....it is one place I just say the hell with the $$ and just order what I feel like....it's always that good. The oysters are what I judge others by all over the US. If I ever get stupid rich....I am going to make this my own personal kitchen!
(5)
Leonard E.

This is a good place if you're into the healthier style of seafood. They don't even serve french fries. What they serve does taste great though. A little pricey. Great beer selection. I discovered my current favorite beer here, Mama's Yella Pils. I know the name sounds funny, but it's a smooth & tasty brew. Great atmosphere and service. Update: Okay, I was set straight about fries here. They do have them. They've got a quality management team here(especially Kelli) to go along with the great food & service and folks should check them out. BTW, I had the lobster roll. It was delicious!
(3)
Josh R.

What can I say...... From start to finish this meal was exceptional! The food was incredible, every flavor, every bite carefully planned to perfection. The staff are amazing and the bar is beautifully decorated! Try one of everything, you can't go wrong!
(5)
Anisa R.

Happy Hour review only. Sat outside on patio on a Rockies game night. 24 oysters for $36, 1lb peel and eat shrimp for $12, 2 sides of fries for $3 each and a couple of drinks. All for a low, low price of $98. For Happy Hour!!! The oysters were small east coast, barely worth $1.50 each. Fries were over cooked, shrimp was overdone as well. Drinks were the highlight. Recommend the vanilla Spiced sangria (seasonal) $6 and the strawberry lemonade $5. Would go back for dinner to get quality (albeit expensive) seafood but will go elsewhere for oysters and HH. And service was great.
(3)
Monica L.

Wow, what can I even say about this place that will do it justice. Great food, exceptional service and wonderful ambiance. I brought my boyfriend here for our 6 year anniversary as well as his birthday and we were just tickled with our experience. Chris our server, was super down to Earth and developed great rapport with us. Honestly, going to upscale restaurants always makes me feel a little bit uncomfortable because I don't like feeling judged. Not once did I get the sense that I was imposing or being a nuisance or not making my stay here worth the servers time. When we took our order, Chris was quick to offer suggestions and provide his own experience with the food. He even offered us a sample of regional variety of oyster we had never tried so we could taste the difference. He was on point, never missed a chance to get us a drink or to gauge our satisfaction. It became pretty apparent to us that food is only half of the equation when it comes to selecting a restaurant. We all work so hard to make a living. Being able to really fully enjoy going out and experiencing the modern conveniences afforded to us is something very special. We felt like royalty here, and the service is what made that happen. I've never been to Jax prior to this occasion, but I hope to make it a regular occurrence. Why waste my money on mediocre food and service when I know that I can come here and be treated so well in addition to knowing I won't be disappointed with the quality of the food. It is a no brainer. I highly recommend that you make a reservation here.
(5)
Ashley Rae T.

My first impression of Jax was great. I was visiting family and brought them along so our party was rather large (six). Instead of forcing us to sit outside or wait and make a reservation the manager quickly put together a table for us. Not exactly the easiest task as this place really is a counter bar with table seating. Our server was super attentive and helpful and every table was covered in white craft paper. I'm sure it's meant for easy cleanup but they leave crayons so I had to leave behind a masterpiece. My first drink was the strawberry lemonade ($5: house infused strawberry vodka, lemonade) and while I'm not big on vodka I enjoyed this refreshing take on a summer staple. The lemonade wasn't too tart and the infused vodka had a good strawberry flavor. Next was the gumbo fries which is Jax's version of poutine. I would have liked the fries to be a bit more crispy, but the gumbo was a nice twist. The andouille gave this dish a more hearty base than their regular cup of gumbo, but the flavor was lacking real depth. To round out my visit I tried the bacon fat chicken wings which was sadly the most disappointing dish of the night. I had very high hopes for these wings because bacon = greatness. The wings didn't inherently have a bacon flavor nor did they evoke any bite from the chili sauce. The crÃ¨me fraÃ®che seemed out of place on the actual wing adding nothing of note.
(4)
Harry F.

Liz was our server. Request her. Phenomenal. Great food, great service, great atmosphere. Oysters happy hour is out of this world. Monday night happy hour is all night. I will definitely be back
(5)
Claudine M.

I have no idea why it took me this long to visit Jax, maybe because it was always busy when we stopped by but for good reason- It's super good! We came here for happy hour on a Friday so the place was lively! They have cool decorations like you're under the sea kind of. They have a patio to chill and have food and drinks outside to enjoy the weather. They also have a bar with all the oysters you can see being shucked and prepared. Plus the tables have paper sheets you can actually color with for the kids at hearts! The food and drinks were all delicious! My favorite drink was the strawberry lemonade. We got the $1.5 oysters, chicken wings, salmon poke and the sliders. Ahhhh I love oysters! And this hit the spot for me! So good! The wigs were messy, as it should be and good. Not as crispy as I like but nonetheless amazing. The salmon poke was actually a sweetly dish for me than savory which was very interesting. It came with sticky rice like the ones they use for sushi! Yum! The sliders were great as well! We miraculously had room for coffee and dessert. We had a coffee press and got the s'mores tart. Super rich! It was good but I wish the chocolate was smoother and lighter.
(4)
Jorge M.

Saw the Happy Hour sign and gave it a try. Sat by the raw bar where you see that action taking place. I had a dozen oysters, a small pork belly bite, and dynomite seafood sandwich. The oysters were fresh and shucked in front of you while you wait. They were salty and no brine or sand at all inside. Great with the cocktail and horseradish sauce and lemon. I also had the peel and eat shrimp. They were good and tasty. The restaurant was had plenty of seating inside with additional seating at the bar. It was clean and well kept. The staff was friendly.
(4)
Elyse L.

From reservation to dessert, dining at Jax in LoDo was fantastic! I took my husband there to celebrate a job promotion and when I called to make reservations, I mentioned it. The call taker was very pleasant and friendly and made sure to repeat the reservation time. When we arrived on a Saturday at 5pm, the table was ready for us and it was happy hour-thank goodness! We both indulged in adult beverages and I had the cucumber, lemonade, vodka, and sparkling water cocktail that was so refreshing. We shared three appetizers: curry mussels, fresh oysters, and sockeye salmon poke. The first two were excellent, but the poke was just ok (it rhymes, get it?!). For our entrees we ordered and shared the Arctic Char and a lobster roll with a cornbread skillet side. Omg, they were so tasty and fresh! We were in love with both, but I am a sucker for lobster and loved the generous fresh lobster meat and greens on a toasted, buttery hotdog bun. The corn skillet was so comforting, sweet, and satisfying. The char was very delicate and moist. It was such an amazing dinner for two ex-Floridians who miss seafood! Finally, we ended the meal with a surprise ice cream dessert with a candle to celebrate the work promotion. I can't believe they remembered and even did anything. It was a delicious, sweet end to a great meal...but that isn't all I have to say about the experience. What I noticed is that all of the staff at Jax LoDo help each other out. Our waitress was fantastic, but she wasn't the only person we had meaningful contact with. There was a manager and a server who chatted with us. Everyone looked like they took care of each other and that impressed us. Everything was seamless and professional. We are head over heals for Jax and can't wait to go back for happy hour and dinner again!
(5)
Tom E.

Last Saturday, I took my buddy out for his birthday. I asked him if he liked seafood (have not had any in a while!). He said yea. So the next part was scoring a reservation. Thanks to the trusty Yelp app, I snagged one for 8:45 that night. We were running right on time, and checked right in. Hang tight on that thought. This place offers valet parking, has (very limited) street parking, and 2 paid lots, if you choose to drive. Being that time on a Saturday night, this place was mobbed. I wish I could emphasize the word "mobbed" more. I saw an occupancy sign that said 97. Hang tight on that thought (I keep jumping the gun, I know). The restaurant itself is a corner unit of a brick building 2 blocks from Union Station. The restaurant is long and narrow. The bar takes up the middle, and there is bar seating all the way up and down. To the left of the bar that wall has booth seating, and to the right wall, more bar seating. There is also a patio, but it was not put in use (cold n windy). After checking in, it was a very crowded area. I kept feeling like I was in everyone's way (which I was). This place is very cozy, to say the least. We were waiting about 10-15 min, and a manager apologized. She ended up buying us some beer (nice!). That kept our buzz going. We finally got seated. There were apologetic about the wait. It was fine, as long as we would get fed. I liked how they had the paper for table"cloth" you could draw on. Trust me, I did. Started off with the small chilled seafood platter. They gave us bibs to wear, I am glad they did! Hacked at that, it was solid. You could tell the seafood was fresh, and not previously frozen. I guess I would hope so for the price! Believe it or not, we were still hungry. Mind you we were pounding drinks during the whole time, I couldn't tell you what I had, I had so many. After that, we were still hungry. We both ended up getting the Jax burger, and some house bread. Yo, after a bunch of seafood, it was awesome! I liked the toppings on the burger and bread was a great booze soaker. I honestly can't remember if we got dessert or not, I do know I got a dessert drink. That was a delicious 1 sipper. All in all, the evening was nice. It wasn't cheap, but worth it. Hell. I even left out of there with the bib on.
(4)
Dave F.

Amazing!!! Start with the calamari and try the gumbo soup. The halibut is small but yummy!
(5)
Colter H.

Great for Happy Hour; not sure about after. Jax offers a great Happy Hour, but it seems to be the only way you can get a meal in without emptying the piggy bank. Some favorites are the Calamari, Seafood Dynomite Sliders, and raw oysters (of course). That said, portion sizes are on the small side, and dinner plates jump to $30+, which seems high for the casual nature of the food and atmosphere. As far as beverages, the drink menu is pretty average, with a typical beer list and a few rotating taps. While the food is ok, I think there are some better options in the area with similar pricing. I would give a confident 3.5 stars if it were an option.
(3)
Tiffany L.

We absolutely loved it here!! Very chill atmosphere, great food, and awesome service. Make sure you definitely get the calamari and Rockefeller oysters, yummy!! Our server Lizzie was awesome and very knowledgeable! I would definitely come back! Oh and happy hour all day and night Mondays!! Side note- don't recommend big groups.. Kind of small. Good for like 4 or less.
(5)
Joe B.

I'll start by saying best seafood eatery I've been too. No questions asked.....best. I've been to Jax on several occasions mostly for the happy hour bites and drinks. Some things you can't miss: oysters, curry muscles, hush puppies and the calamari. These items are simply amazing and deadly delicious. If you go, ask for Jose. His service truly exemplifies the definition of service.
(5)
Jerad L.

Great happy hour and atmosphere. Great cocktails and oysters. The rest of the food I've tried (calamari, poke, gumbo fries) is not impressive. But the atmosphere, location, service and oysters keep me coming back time after time. Cool spot.
(4)
Jimmy N.

I'm a fan of Jax, KC location and this one. They just get it, top notch customer service and the most interesting seafood menu. I'm you're in the area and looking for responsibly sourced seafood, look no more. Our server, Sally, was awesome. I hope to come back to visit here soon. Cheers...
(5)
Jess H.

I've only been to happy hour, but I was a fan of the seafood on the hh menu (oysters, calamari, and mussels). It wasn't particularly cheap,and if fact, if you're looking to save a buck, this isn't the place. The seafood was fresh, and the servers were helpful and knowledgeable and attentive. I was visiting from out of town, and typically, I wouldn't eat seafood in Denver (because I've lived on the coast for most of my life), but I definitely approve of this place. Pro tip: the mussels in the panang sauce are excellent!
(4)
Mona K.

Sat at the bar and ordered oysters at happy hour. Very fresh and extremely affordable! Great with hot sauce. Super crowded around happy hour but the wait isn't long. Will definitely get more oysters next time!
(4)
Jenny P.

I've only come here for Happy Hour which is not a bad deal for all the various types of seafood. They have pretty good drink specials too with cocktails for only $4. My favorite is the Strawberry Lemondae but I'm a sucker for strawberries. You can also get Oyster Shooters for $3 which is actually pretty good considering I'm not a huge fan of tomato juice. For the food, I like Salmon Poke and the chicken wings. My friends really like the mussells but I'm not a huge coconut milk fan but if you are then its delicious! The burger and the hush puppies are also pretty good. All n all, a fun place to go after work for Happy Hour.
(4)
Shenique T.

Great food and service! Staff are friendly, patient, and knowledgeable. Food is fresh and seasoned to perfection. Definitely an interesting and intriguing menu that pairs a variety of foods! I would definitely visit this establishment again when in town.
(4)
Laura H.

Loved this place! Super cute inside. Outdoor patio too. Food was awesome! The server spilled the calamari on the table and brought us a new one and an extra appetizer on the house. Great service! Would totally recommend this for a happy hour or a nice dinner date.
(5)
Nika G.

I came to Jax Fish House for my birthday dinner and it turned out to be one of my favorite bday dinners I've ever had! Though the initial impression was not so good because the hostess was MIA for about 10 minutes, the rest of my experience was excellent. The interior reminds me of restaurants in New York - cozy, exposed brick, dim lighting, great background music. I especially loved that the booths were designed to be back to back with other guests, rather than side to side by them - it allowed for a more cozy and romantic experience. Our waitress was incredible, super attentive and helpful. The food was so delicious, and because we were there on a Tuesday we got to indulge in all night happy hour and try out a ton of their menu offerings. The fish was some of the best i've had in Denver. Overall I absolutely loved dining at Jax and can't wait to be back soon.
(5)
Andy E.

One of the best meals I have ever had. Salmon Pastrami Sandwich. Service was amazing. Food off the charts creative. Daniel runs the bar, and is great. They set a new standard. Thank you. Thank you.
(5)
Natalia K.

You can see my latest review with photos here: coloradobites.com/best-hâ€¦ I'm from San Francisco and oysters are my favorite food. There's a few places in Denver that do happy hour oysters, but this is my favorite (and they serve HH oysters during lunch M-F, too). That should say a lot. DRINKS Definitely try the Cucumber Lemon Press. It's refreshing, not too sweet or too bitter, and pretty much perfect ($4 during HH). FOOD You come here for the oysters, and then you stay until you've eaten everything else. THE OYSTERS ARE $1.25 DURING HAPPY HOUR! No one else does that in LoDo anymore (the Kitchen raised prices, and Le Grand closed). Some other things I absolutely love here include: - Peel n' Eat Shrimp (1/2 lb for $12) - they come in a delicious chili powder and spicy mayo sauce for some added flavor - Steamed Mussels (1/2 lb for $8) - definitely try the Panang Curry ones in a thai curry with peanuts and coconut milk; it's delicious and different from the mussels you'll have anywhere else - Clam Chowder - with big steamed clams and bacon, made to order and perfect on a cold day. HAPPY HOUR Every day, 4pm-6pm / $3-4 cocktails and $3-$6 food Oysters: $1.25 during happy hour, or 11:30am-6pm M-F
(5)
Lynda M.

I've been to Jax many times over the years and I can tell you that they have really stepped up their game. The food was the freshest I've ever tasted. The chef pays such close attention to detail that the food has so many very simple but complimentary flavors. This food kind of reminds me of the food I ate growing up near the ocean in the south of France. I mean, even the break had amazing texture. It tasted like REAL food. Not some mass-produced glob of deadness. The gumbo was literally better than any I had tasted in New Orleans, and I'm literally CRAVING to go back asap. My partner had the wedge salad and every little bit of that salad was created with so much attention to detail in the complexity of the flavor. The bacon was amazing, the dressing was house made with the perfect lightness and just the right amount of tang... it was divine. The homemade clam chowder actually was a CHOWDER and not some white chunky mess of slop. Great service, too.
(5)
Bonnie C.

Amazing Calamari! Enjoyed it with my glass of Prosecco. We just came in for the appetizer and sat at the bar. Great time!
(4)
Daniel P.

Amazing catfish sandwich. After eating this catfish, I really need to go back and lower my Lost Cajon reviews because this is how catfish should be made. Great happy hour specials. Calamari and beers and drinks all excellent. Smores dessert amazing. Amazing service from Noah.
(5)
Jessie E.

The food and drinks were top of the line along with entertaining oyster shuckers! The only area for improvement I saw during our recent visit was being able to get the bartender's attention; granted, our reservations were on a Saturday evening but there were long intervals in check-ins at the bar. Since we were having a leisurely evening this wasn't much of an issue but we did wind up running late to our next venue. We ordered 1/2 dozen of 2 different styles of oysters and had the calamari along with it. My boyfriend drank the "Peg Leg" and thoroughly enjoyed that cocktail and I had the Malbec. We finished our dinner with the chocolate mousse which also had dehydrated blueberries, granola, and chocolate nibs in it. The mousse was to die for! Amazingly creamy texture, rich flavor, and was a perfect size for two individuals to share. We enjoyed the blueberries as a fruity break to the richness but there was an excessive amount and we wound up picking out the majority of them. Overall an enjoyable dinner and definitely is on our list to return to.
(4)
Cyndi J.

My husband took me here for my birthday dinner. There is valet parking, which I find to be very handy in the city! The staff here is very friendly and professional. I got carded when I ordered my cocktail (the Wonka), and my server noticed that it was my birthday. Without making a big scene, he brought me a birthday dessert with a candle - a warm brownie with chocolate sauce and ice cream, delicious! No one sang to me (thankfully!), but a few of the staff stopped by to say happy birthday. It was a very nice touch. We started with Kumamoto oysters. They were very fresh and delicious. I wish they had served it with a mignonette, though, instead of cocktail sauce, but it was still good. My husband had gazpacho. It was well flavored. We also had the buttermilk bread. I had an almond-crusted halibut with roasted summer root vegetables. The fish was cooked perfectly. The crust was a nice touch. The vegetables were flavorful and a nice compliment. I enjoyed my entire experience here!
(5)
Jonathan B.

This is my new favorite in Denver. Excellent fish. Lively atmosphere. Knowledgeable staff. We had just a great time and had awesome food. Start with the Emersum oysters. These are their proprietary oysters and they are great. We had the pickled sardines too which was an awesome appetizer. My wife's spaghetti dish had the best octopus I have ever had. It was all great. I highly recommend it and I can't wait to go back for happy hour.
(5)
Joe W.

Best calamari I've ever had. Spicy and savory sauces are excellent. Fun atmosphere with nice ascetics.
(4)
shahd s.

Awesome oyster happy hour! Get the slider they are so good!! If i come back to denver ill definitely be coming back here!
(5)
Frank C.

Love this place, get ready to drop some coin.. but you will have a great time and enjoy some quality food. I have been several times and have always been impressed on the freshness of the fish and oysters. Also a great place for happy hour with a group of friends.
(4)
Viola P.

Nice service. Fresh food! Fair price! This place is downtown Denver. The food is super freaky fresh and the price is fair. We liked it a lot. Very nice place to go. During busy hrs, it may be hard to find a parking spot on the street.
(5)
Karly K.

I have always had a great time when I go to Jax. I love oysters, as do a few of my friends, so we make a point to come here. The staff is friendly and helpful with recommendations, and the atmosphere is fun and lively. Rating: 5 stars Good For: happy hour, dinner, oysters, groups, date night
(5)
Kara H.

Love this place! I have eaten here on several occasions, but it was my last trip in that really encouraged me to write this review and give Jax the kudos it deserves. A girlfriend and I went in on Saturday for happy hour, planning on having a party of 5. We got seated immediately but waited....and waited....and waited for the rest of our party. Finally, after 90 minutes, everyone showed up and we ended up being 7 instead of 5. Noah, our server, was AWESOME! He was so kind the whole time and didn't rush us or get impatient that we were taking up a large table with only two of us. He even happily got us extra chairs so we could all crowd around the table once everyone finally showed up. Jax always has great service and amazing food, but Noah was truly fantastic.
(5)
Rob W.

We ate dinner here last night. We sat on the patio and the weather was perfect. The food on the other hand was so so. We started with a half pound of shrimp cocktail. This was the best part of the meal. The shrimp were cooked perfectly and the seasoning was just right. We also ordered a few cocktails. The cocktails were tasty and reasonably priced. $6 for each of the cocktails. I ordered the "today's special" for dinner. It was a curry grouper. For starters the curry was so strong that it drowned out any other flavors the dish might have had. The worst part of the meal was that the fillet of grouper was badly burt. I was shocked they even served it to me. I'm not the kind of person to send food back but I really should have. I will most likely try this place again as I feel it could have potential. But this time was a miss for Jax. If I was rating this place on employee attractiveness, they would have gotten a 5 star!!
(2)
Thomas W.

The Happy Hour specials are a great deal. The raw oysters are excellent, and the gumbo was of top quality. I love the atmosphere and friendly service. The crab cake is not a Maryland crabcake, but was packed with backfin crab. The New England Clam chowder had a great presentation with real clams, but was not worth the $12 price tag in my opinion. I did not enjoy the pie a la mode with bacon. I am a bacon lover, but do not want it in my ice cream. The 4 stars is for the Happy Hour bargain!
(4)
Alistair C.

True perfect manhattans. Calamari is nice but tastes a bit soggy. Otherwise flavor is nice and creamy/spicy when the aoli is blends with the red pepper. Oysters are fun and light. Staff is very knowledgable- a pleasure.
(5)
Crystal P.

The oysters were good, but that was it. Everything else was just ok and WAY overpriced. The place is cramped and you could call it cozy but the waitstaff didn't look to be enjoying it. I might go back for a happy hour but not for their pricey dinner.
(2)
Jeremy M.

Just had a wonderful light meal of oysters, tried all on the menu they were amazing.. The bacon Stilton blue salad was probably the best salad I've ever had. Finally the service was very good. Not only for me but there was a large group, spending big money & the manager was polishing glasses & ensuring this group were getting what they paid for.. I don't give it 5 stars bc it's casual & I sat at the bar.. It's a 5 star , casual place with awesome food & good service.. If u like good food eat here!
(4)
Patricia Y.

So delicious! Great atmosphere, excellent menu choices (it was so hard to choose). I was only in Denver for a short visit and dined at Jax on the recommendation of a friend who had lived in Denver more than 5 years ago. The food was absolutely fantastic! The next time I am in Denver, I will definitely be heading back.
(5)
Brittany S.

My favorite place to grab a drink and oysters! This place is small and seafood heavy, but very good fresh seafood and oysters.
(4)
Phillip R.

Mediocre raw bar by coastal standards, however that's not really a surprise. What's truly unacceptable is that they had us wait for 50minutes on a 730 reservation. That's absurd.
(1)
Melissa C.

This place is great and you need to go here. The staff and service is exceptional, never rushed and friendly. They have fantastic happy hour specials and just really good food. So glad we finally tried it. They have a creative new menu, great music and positive atmosphere. The lobster roll is killer. One of my new favorites.
(5)
Scott B.

Jax has by far the best Oysters in Colorado. Their service is excellent, ambiance excellent and the quality of the food is unsurpassed. If you are looking for mussels, oysters, and general seafood this is The place. Love it!
(5)
Bob H.

Great food and service. The fish is fresh and cooked well. Best seafood in Denver. Flown in daily.
(5)
Lisa K.

This is by far one of my favorite happy hours in Denver. They have great (and affordable) drinks. Many made with their house infused booze. I am partial to the strawberry lemonade and cucumber lemon press. So refreshing on a hot day. They also have some great happy hour snacks. Of course oysters on the half shell... which my BF is a total fan of. I, on the other hand, can't pass up the sea dog. It sounds so bizarre in writing, but it is totally awesome. Give it a try! I don't think I have eaten dinner at Jax since back in the late 90's... but it was amazing. I imagine it still is and someday we will check it out for a special occasion. But for now, this is one of our go to happy hour (or two) spots.
(4)
Randy S.

I saw the other reviews and based on them decided to dine here. The restaurant is nice wirh a long bar running down the middle. They had a special on oysters and i assumed they would not be served if they were not good. I order a half dozen of the special and another six for $20. The special oysters were rotten. I notified the bartender and he took them off my bill. I have never before been served a rotten oyster. But this did break the rule of oysters only in months with r and in not in a Landlocked state. But still they should not serve these because of the food posioning risk. No alarm from bartender he just asked me if i was going to finish them...NO. He must have been high. I also ordered the halibut and hot greens. Greens were good but were $6 and came out ten minutes before my entree. Halibut arrived and looked good but upon further exploration it was apparent that it was raw. Halibut sushi? Never heard of it. So the kitchen is slipping as well. I dont eat raw halibut just like rotten oysters. I brought this to the attention of the waiter and he took the plate to the manager. The manager came by and said sorry you didnt like your halibut. Sorry you dont know how to cook halibut. Rotten oysters and raw halibut all in one dining experience. Six oysters a bowl of hot greens and a beer, forty bucks. Lots of great places in denver, this is not one of them.
(2)
Kyle F.

Good food! Oysters were delicious and the garlic fries are fantastic!! I was a little disappointed with our entrees though. It was not lost on us that the fries were the best part of our meal at a seafood restaurant. Service was good, bartenders were friendly and knowledgeable though we did have to flag them down a few times. We will be back Jax!!
(4)
Shelene G.

Chef Eric does it again on New Years. Amazing ham hock soup, sea bass, a five course meal to die for. Thank you for making our New Years. Looking forward to your 2015 flavor creations. Also special thanks to our server Jose who always makes us feel at home. Happy New Year to the Jax team.
(5)
Carl P.

What can I say everything was amazing possibly one of the best restaurants I've ever dined in, from cocktails to food it was superb and the service amazing
(5)
Riza H. C.

Saturday June 15th 2013. Had the CRAB BOIL FEAST that evening with a couple of friends who are also celebrating one of our friends' birthday. Our reservation was at 18:00hrs for a PARTY of 9. I came in early as to see the happenings of what Jax Fish House has to offer. Right after entering this establishment I was seated at the Bar nearest to the "FISH TANK" waiting for the Birthday Party to arrive. Like about 10 minutes of waiting, I was then ushered all the way back to be seated nearest to the KITCHEN on the Right Wing of this establishment were all our table and seats ready for our CRAB BOIL FEAST. Yes, our table were ready for us, filled with all the essential items for the CRAB Boil Feast, with wooden mallets, little buckets, plastic bibs, crab/lobster crackers for everyone. There are also crayons if you need to doodle while waiting for your party. Our lovely server by the name of Jessica, handled our table professionally. AFTER THE EXTENSION PROJECT, that Jax Fish House had recently to this location, Man this place was indeed bustling with alot of patrons I might add. If I am not mistaken on that Saturday evening, there were also the ROCKIES GAMEs etc etc.. Furthermore it was also the weekend, Duh! Everyone had the melted butter, horseradish and cocktail sauce. Our Crab Boil contains, several Lemons, Corns, Sausages, Potatoes, Dungeness Crabs, King Crab Legs, Lots and Lots of Shrimp and Crawfish. All were seasoned to perfection. While feasting if our little "shell buckets" were filled, several servers will empty them for you. We also had many refills of Melted Butter, Horseradish Sauce and Cocktail Sauce that evening. Everyone was indeed "STUFFED" with the CRAB BOIL FEAST and we even had plenty of leftovers when the "damage" were done. Since it was my friends birthday, she decide to had the leftovers packed for her too. We also brought along a Birthday Cake and Jax Fish House was kind enough to hold the Birthday cake in their fridge until the evening was almost over. Remember each CRAB BOIL FEAST will cost you $45 per person. The Service and The Food on which Jax Fish House had offered that evening received 3.5 STARS in my books, in which I'll round it to 4 STARS. Might return when needed either during HH or even during Dinner hours with Hubs or my other friends. With everyone had their fair share of beverages, sodas, coffee, tea, Beer, Wine and other beverages, the total cost of our Dinner was about $625 inclusive of tax and 18% Gratuity. @130/2013
(4)
Ronald G.

When a experience all comes together it is truly remembered. Jax has succeeded! We will be returning soon!
(5)
Kali F.

Bravo!! What an amazing experience! Happy hour is superb. The oysters are perfection. The calamari is delish. The service at the bar is out of this world. Awesome! Ketchup with oysters a little strange, however. Heinz? I hope not...
(5)
Chris H.

OK, I have to start this review by saying I don't eat sea food. NONE. Notta. Zero. Zilch. But, my wife loves sea food. So we are always looking for a good sea food place that she will love and that has something on the menu that I can tolerate. Well, Jax fits that bill perfectly. She loves their sea food and she said her mussels were great. In addition they have a VERY good hamburger that I love. I only wish that their root beer was still draft instead of fountain. They used to make their own draft root beer. We also had their cookies for dessert and they came with "spiked" milk that was 1/3 milk, 1/3 ice cream and 1/3 booze. Well worth getting!!!
(4)
Rachel D.

Five stars for the location, atmosphere, and servers! We had a couple of really fun, friendly guys helping us out and really enjoyed the overall layout of the restaurant. The bar was a cozy nautical theme and they had great happy hour prices, overall really glad I stopped by here. Had to bring down the review a little because the oysters were so-so. Great presentation but not a ton of flavor, and some seemed small and shriveled in their shell. I had the pink lemonade happy hour cocktail which didn't taste incredible- couldn't tell if there was any alcohol in there, but even so, the drink itself wasn't something I'd want to try again.
(3)
Sean H.

The best seafood available in Denver (or Boulder). Parking is easy with valet, oysters are great and they have their own wine that is excellent. I've had numerous dishes, which are inventive and cooked amazingly. Add in some crayons for some cocktail inspired art and you can't do much better.
(5)
Roxi O.

Great food, great service, yummy brunch. Got the grilled romaine salmon salad - really good! Oysters on special for $1.25 - get in my belly. Bloody Mary - 5 bucks on Sundays. Do it.
(4)
Amy J.

I love this place! We visited on a weekend trip to Denver during Restaurant Week in Lower Downtown (LoDo). We only stopped in for Happy Hour, not dinner, but we grabbed seats at the bar on a cold, sunny day and ordered $1.25 oysters, the Smoked Mackerel Rillette with crackers, and even got a tasting from the guy behind the bar of some of the Cold Smoked Albacore Tuna Crudo he was making - DELICIOUS. The staff members were super friendly, the kind of people you want to sit down and chat with, and offered awesome recommendations from the menu. Everything looked extremely fresh and you really just can't go wrong stopping in this place - especially during Happy Hour!!
(5)
Brittany S.

We went here for a few pre baseball drinks and snacks. The options for drinks where very good as they make them right in front of you. Also, you can watch them shuck open the oysters, which to me is cool to watch considering we live in CO. The prices are somewhat expensive, but hey thats the cost we pay by living in a land locked state.
(4)
Molly B.

Do yourself a favor and order the lobster roll. I know, I know, lobster in a landlocked state? 2,500 miles away from the source? Yes, really. And I'm from MAINE! I grew up eating lobster weekly. It's that good - all claw meat, very little filler. I ate here with 12 other people and we pretty much ordered the entire menu, but the lobster roll was hands down the best. Also, check out the bourbon milk & cookies - it's more like a milkshake (and probably would sell better if they called it such), thick sweet and creamy. Denver seems to have a total hard-on for bourbon, and in this particular concoction it's a winner. The coconut cream pie, on the other hand, was disappointing. Couldn't taste coconut at all and the crust was really hard. But all in all, a great, lively spot with teriffic food.
(4)
Allyson M.

One of the best happy hours in Denver! The oysters on the half shell, clam chowder, and calamari are all delicious and I usually go for an extra-dry martini or one of their specialty drinks. The new counter allows for more bar seating and is always action-packed and good for people-watching. Anytime after happy hour it can get pricey, but it's worth the money if you want a night filled with good seafood!
(4)
Carly B.

What a pleasant surprise! I guess I didn't quite understand what Jax was which is why it never crossed my mind as a place I'd like to visit. Actually, I always thought Jax was that "Jazz at Jacks" place in the Denver Pavillions. Shows how much I pay attention. I met some former coworkers here on Friday afternoon for happy hour at the bar. This place was packed and happening. They boast a great HH cocktail list (a steal at $4 a piece) which distracted me from what is likely an impressive draft beer list, judging by the tap handles: Funkwerks, Dogfish Head, Denver Beer Co and more. But I couldn't bring myself away from the West Garden cocktail with green tea infused vodka, agave, lemon and soda. Like a not-so-sweet Arnold Palmer. My friend and I shared HH calamari ($6) and mussels ($6). The calamari was probably some of the best I've ever had. I guess you can't really call me a connoisseur as calamari's deep fried/rubbery textury doesn't do much for me but this version was not rubbery at all, had a perfect non-greasy breading and lots of thick pieces. The creamy garlicky and sweet and sour sauces they were served over complimented the calamari well. The mussels had a great panang curry broth. When we requested more bread for the broth, they brought out a hot buttery loaf of bread (with honey butter which I alternated with the curry broth for a bread topping). While I don't work downtown, the light rail/mall ride takes me right to this happening spot in a hard to park area. Yet another reason to duck out early on a Friday.
(4)
Rachel B.

Chad is the best server ever. Very accommodating to indecisive people. It was my birthday and he made it very special. Chad, you're a ten in my book. But you're beard is an 11.
(5)
Veronica C.

The place gets an extra star for the happy hour oysters. They are really fresh, wonderful, and affordable (during happy hour). *note: one choice of oyster is offered at happy hour, however it's excellent. There is a colorful fish tank and a table beside it near the entrance. The staff is always really nice to me even when I come dressed casual by myself with a baby. The tables have paper with crayons. Pay the $3 for the honey bread. Even if you are gluten-free, make an exception and taste it. Oysters, bread, soup were great. Bowl of clams were fine but very small portion for $16. I've tried the mojito twice here and both times it was okay without being exceptional (hie thee to Rioja for mojitos) and cost about $7 (not available on their limited happy hour drink menu). I come for the oysters, ambiance, and great service.
(4)
Sonja C.

This place has been a favorite of mine for quite some time now. Went in last night and our sever, Lizzie, was the best. We weren't fans of the tuna crudo and, without hesitation, she apologized and offered to bring us something else. We had declined her offer, and brought something to the table anyway! JAX gets it.
(5)
ElizabethAnn B.

WOW. SO for someone scared of oysters after a bad date experience... the $1.50 Emerson oysters were on the money.... Bartender was awesome and will MOST DEFINITELY return.
(5)
Eric F.

Eat like a king during happy hour. Great drink specials and amazing food. Oyster on the half shell for $1.25. Peel and eat shrimp for $6 with amazing mustard base sauce. Mussels have three options and the sockeye salmon poke is amazing for the price. You will leave here happy for sure between 4 -6.
(5)
Jordan D.

Fantastic food from top to bottom. Chef de Cuisine Sam Pepper prepared some of the best seafood I've eaten in Denver, and I can't wait to return.
(5)
Will D.

Best cold bar seafood in town. Hands down. For a table, reservations are a must. The bar is always full... Go early.
(5)
Andrew R.

I'm quite certain that I will never be returning to Jax. I stopped by for happy hour last week with a few friends after work. Upon arriving we were notified that we would not be permitted to sit at a table until our entire party had arrived (We were 2/4 upon arriving). Being the flexible patrons, and understanding industry professionals, that we are we saw no problem with this, and decided to have a drink at the bar until we were permitted to sit down. After 5 minutes or so the third member of our party arrived. We decided to ask the hostess if we could sit and order food while we waited for our 4th. We were told no. We then explained that it wasn't as though we would be sitting and waiting, we fully intended to enjoy the happy hour menu while we waited. Again we were told no. We then asked what the difference between a 3 and 4 person table was. The hostess, catching on to our logic, then approved of our idea. However, she informed us that the table was, "reserved for a party at 7pm," and that she would need it by then. This comment caught me off guard for a few reasons: 1) It was very rude, 2) There were plenty of open tables, why wouldn't she sit us somewhere else? 2) It was 5:15, and we had already told her we were there to enjoy happy hour. How long do most people, "happy hour" for? So if nothing else, our experience with the dining room management was horrible. If only that had been the end of it... We ordered the calamari, the mussels, the peel 'n eat shrimp, a few sliders, and of course several dozen oysters. -The calamari was actually quite good. I've had a few different versions in Denver that were either over fried, or too greasy. Jax did a nice job with their calamari. -The oysters were fine. They were unimpressive in size, taste, and texture, but for $1.50 a pop I'm not one to complain. -The mussels were a huge disappointment. Soaked in an overly buttery broth that contained bits of bacon, it was clear the restaurant had no interest in showing off their seafood, but instead with disguising it with as much butter and bacon as possible. -The peep 'n eat shrimp were a huge disappointment. They were served at room temperature, and doused in old bay seasoning. They were nicely arranged on the plate, but that was the only high part of them. -The cocktail sauce. When we inquired about cocktail sauce we received a puzzled look from our waitress as she looked down at the saucer in front of us that contained ketchup with a dollop of horseradish. Call me old fashioned, but taking a container of ketchup, adding horseradish sauce, and labeling it, "cocktail sauce" is like mixing vodka and lemonade and calling it a long island ice tea. At this point I was embarrassed for the restaurant. My favorite part of our meal was the fish sliders. Although, I was a little put off when I asked the waitress what kind of fish was in the sliders and she had no idea. Not even a guess. She couldn't even inquire with the kitchen? Or just make something up? I get that a seafood restaurant shouldn't be rated by their happy hour menu, but I mean...seriously? After such a lousy experience at happy hour, and dropping ~$150.00 between the 4 of us, I don't see a reason to return for dinner. The best part of the meal was the beer, and I can get that without being hassled about where to sit somewhere else.
(1)
Khai B.

Excellent food, beautifully presented; staff is friendly and courteous. Love this place. Highly recommended
(5)
Cindy P.

We went for dinner but got there before happy hour was over, so ended up ordering off the happy hour menu. We had the Sockeye Salmon Poke that was incredible. The iceberg wedge, calamari and hush puppies finished out our choices. Everything was outstanding! We even topped it off with the s'more dessert that was absolutely sinful. The waiter was great, too! It was a recommendation from a local, and we were thrilled with our experience.
(5)
Velimir R.

We dined here on a Sunday evening. Only one other table occupied. Food is mediocre and overpriced. We ordered tuna, a burger and fish fillet. Portions are far from generous and the burger bun was chewy. Burger came with chips, similar to Lay's. Server was friendly however and brought us orders quickly.
(2)
Ashley C.

Best happy hour in Denver. Best place for seafood. Their oysters, lobster roll, peel n eat shrimp, mussels, and crab legs are out of this world. Thank you jax. Seriously, thank you. They could make their hh drinks a little more boozie. The sea dog is also outstanding! I want to get the tower next time.
(5)
Michael C.

Loved this place. Went here for a last minute Sunday night date with my wife and we definitely made the right choice. The restaurant has a fun vibe with the decoration and music but the food and service really is the reason to come. The bartender was attentive but not overbearing and the Colorado Trout and Alaskan Halibut dishes were some of the best sea food I've had in quite a while. Topped it all off with a S'mores Tarte prepared right in front of us which was to die for. Highly recommend for sea food downtown in a fun environment.
(5)
Danielle R.

This place is really tasty! And very affordable if you want something on the lighter side. I ordered the peel and eat shrimp to share a friend, there were way too many of them. Then ordered the mussels in curry sauce on top of rice noodes, think it's like $11!!!! Very tasty. Their specialty crafted cocktails is where it's at! I was sticker shocked compared to drink prices in South Florida!!! Great looking men here too at the bar and behind it! Great spot for LNO!!!!
(5)
Kristal A.

I love Jax, we went there for our anniversary. The service was amazing, the food was amazing. Oysters are just the best.
(5)
Jose B.

If your looking for oysters this is a good stop. I wouldn't say the best but it's up there. I really like the patio in the cherry creek location. It definitely has a great sunset view. Very impressive. Service has only been okay. I'd rather sit at the bar then In the dinning room. Every time I go in I feel like there's always a group of staff chatting away and not being attentive to their guests (unless ur a regular)(not cool). Also The host loves her cell phone that's for sure... Wish I could give it more stars but service is key in any restaurant!.
(3)
T. R.

I totally agree with everyone else on the oysters - Jax always has a great selection and they are fresh and tasty. Also agreed on the creative drink menu - completely love it. However, the dinner menu can really be hit or miss. Their regular menu is pretty succinct and it can be hard to find entrees, especially once you've been a few times and have tried the main dishes. It really comes down to whether the specials are great or not. We've been plenty of times when the specials have been amazing. However, we've been a number of times when the specials are severely limited and it's been tough to find anything interesting beyond appetizers and oysters. it seems as though that it happening more often in our recent visits, thus the 3 rating. Another major reason for the 3 is that the restaurant is really difficult to navigate. I know they just remodeled, but it is extremely tight. Just getting in and out of the booths to come in and leave is like navigating I-25 at 5pm. You're always competing with waiters and other diners to go up and down the rows and when you're sitting down people often have to lean into your booth a little to let people pass. Not an ideal space. And if you have to use the restroom - god be with you.
(3)
Akane B.

Came here after a long day of snowmobiling. One of the most brutal days of my life. MY LIFE! Being outside for a long period of time whilst going 25 mph in single digit weather can suck the life out of you. As my lifeless body strolled into Jax, I was greeted with a fun, lively atmosphere. The waitstaff was friendly and helpful. This place was perfect to knock me out of my comatose state. Now, the food. We started with the oysters. Yum. I ordered the Lobster Club for my entree. Yum again. It was accompanied with fries. Yum three times. And my friends who ordered various sides and a seafood entree also said yum. So yums all around. Anyways, highly recommend. Especially if you've been beaten up by mother nature 2-3 hours prior.
(4)
Dave S.

Tried Jax for the first time this weekend and i was pretty impressed. We had 6 people in our party so we shared several different appetizers. Clam chowder, mussels, 3 types of oysters and calamari. All were very good and our waitress was awesome! She was very knowledgeable and gave us great service! My only complaint was that my Grilled Red Snapper Fillet that i ordered for my entree was over cooked. It was cooked 'well' and i like my grilled fish almost 'rare'. I cant be mad about it though because i didn't specify i wanted it rare so i cant really get mad about that. All in all the quality for the food and the service were both very good. Would go back for sure!
(4)
Jennifer B.

Took Sam here last night for his Birthday dinner. He has a tradition to eat seafood on his Birthday. Being the excellent girlfriend I am I had to take him for a great seafood experience using my "Yelp Intelligence". I made Open Table reservations here for 7pm. We arrived promptly at 7pm and were greeted pleasantly by the two hostesses, and they wished Sam a happy birthday (i put that in our reservation). We were seated immediately, the water boy came and provided water (duh) and a plate of bread with olive oil. We liked the bread soo much we ate two plates of bread. Our waiter, Jared was over shortly there after to help with drink and menu decisions. He was very informative about that oysters of the day and the raw bar. I wish we could have partaked, we're not really oyster people yet. That's going to require some work I believe. Sam had the Third Rail (seasonal drink) which consisted of buffalo trace bourbon, benedictine, house bitters, Jax ginger beer. I took a sip and was pleasantly surprised how much I could taste the ginger beer. It was great and to there credit if you need a buzz you only need one. I had the Bonita Applebum, leopold apple whiskey, domaine canton, chartreuse, cardamon bitters, izze sparkling apple. I really enjoyed the drink and can't wait to come back and try more of the Mixologists creations. For dinner, appetizers consisted of the Crab Cake and Ahi Tuna Tartar. For entrees, Poached Lobster and Pan Seared Scallops. Crab Cake = Sam says almost the best he ever had. I grabbed some fork fulls and wish I ordered the crab cake as well. The sherry cream was delectable. Ahi Tuna = It wasn't my favorite, it was good. Not exactly sure what else to say. It wasn't bad, just not great. I would rate it as a 3. Poached Lobster = Sam wouldn't let me have a taste of the lobster but he devoured the lobster succulent bite after succulent bite. It was also served with shrimp/pork dumplings with a complimenting dipping sauce. I wish I had a plate solely comprised of these dumplings. Seared Scallops = Perfectly seared and soft, melt in your mouth on the inside. Served with cauliflower puree and red win braised cabbage with bacon lardons. I wanted 50 scallops, they were amazing and every flavor on the plate paired so perfectly with each nibble. To my surprise, they brought out a chocolate cake with a candle for Sam's birthday, very nice touch. It was the Sticky chocolate cake served with pecan saltine brittle, and bourbon butterscotch ice cream. We scraped the plate clean we liked it so much. The food was delicate and perfectly seasoned. The price was totally worth it and I have a feeling we will be back again in the near future.
(4)

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Address : 1539 17th St
Denver, CO, 80202
Phone (303) 292-5767
Website https://www.jaxfishhouse.com/lodo
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :4:00 pm - 10:00pm

Specialities

Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Valet, Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : Yes
Dogs Allowed : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes

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Jax Fish House LoDo

1539 17th St, Denver, CO, 80202

Jax Fish House LoDo Menu

Appetizers

Soups, Salads and Favorites

From the Raw Bar

Autumn Specialties

Oysters Extraordinaire

Sides

Healthy Meal suggestions for Jax Fish House LoDo

Appetizers

Soups, Salads and Favorites

From the Raw Bar

Autumn Specialties

Oysters Extraordinaire

Sides

Elizabeth D.

Travis B.

Cee R.

Angela R.

Eric J.

Ric Y.

Rob W.

cindy b.

Randy T.

Jenny P.

Brandi M.

Ingrid S.

Erik H.

Brenda F.

Linda V.

Shenna J.

Erin M.

Erin J.

Jennifer M.

Jay K.

Clarice C.

Joolia C.

Lola F.

Andrew F.

Miki L.

Donna A.

Geoff C.

Alisha A.

Amanda B.

Jenna J.

Clara L.

Melissa N.

Jim T.

Kristine S.

Sara C.

Alyssa C.

Steve M.

Keith N.

Tim H.

Lauren B.

Quincy B.

James H.

Green D.

Allie N.

Juan V.

Scott P.

Jessica C.

Jill S.

Andreas H.

Chris K.

Marc D.

Marie M.

Heather M.

Joy G.

Lily T.

justin d.

Larren M.

Steven B.

Lincoln S.

Jonny H.

Chrystal T.

Emma S.

Grant H.