Latest visit: Dec 2025 (Cherry Creek)
First visit: Jun 2000 (Cherry Creek)
Other locations: Downtown; Littleton; Broomfield
This is only my third time to Cherry Cricket, all at the original location. It was Rude Dante who introduced me to this fine establishment 25 years ago, and appropriately enough, we met again here just prior to Christmas. It's been many years since Rude and I dined together, something we both said we should rectify for 2026.
Cherry Cricket is an old tavern like setup deep within the most posh and wealthy area of Denver. I wouldn't be surprised if there were efforts in the past to have it bulldozed. Though today it stands as a beacon of nostalgia in an otherwise sleek and steel environment. It's as comfy as an old pair of shoes.
We both ordered their signature Pale Ale (made by 4 Noses) and went about scouring the menu. I settled on a Cherry Cricket cheeseburger with smoked cheddar, and it comes with pickles, tomatoes, and lettuce on the side. I had to try a cup of the pork green chili as well. The latter was delicious, not too spicy, but loaded with a piquant flavor. I ordered the burger medium well, and it came out medium, but I still loved it (don't tell Mrs. RJG!). Rude went with medium and his came out almost medium rare. No complaints from him either. As a side he had the Frings, fries with onion rings. I sampled them and they were great as well.
Cherry Cricket is one of those rare Denver legendary places that has survived the insane growth of the last 40 years. Likely due to Senator Hickenlooper's Wynkoop company, who has done similar with other legacy restaurants. Their history, as found on their website, is hilarious. It started in 1945 when the location was still a single family home in what is now known as Cherry Creek. The next owner changed the name to Cherry Cricket (1950), and no one has the story as to where the Cricket came from. Eventually a fellow surnamed Duffy bought it, and added his name to the marquee sign that still stands. In 1972, they were acquired by "unnamed" sources, and entered a "dark period". Which they memorialize today. Too funny. Expansion didn't start until 2018, and they added the new Broomfield place this year. Nice to see at least one local restaurant growing when everyone else is contracting.
6/5/00; 9/5/09; 12/23/25
12/25/25 (new entry)
Comments