Saltwater Social Cherry Creek offers a vibrant culinary experience that beautifully combines fresh seafood with innovative flavors in a lively, inviting atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of Denver’s Cherry Creek neighborhood, this restaurant has quickly become a favorite destination for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable dining experience.
The menu showcases a diverse range of dishes, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients and sustainable seafood practices, ensuring that each plate is not only delicious but also responsibly crafted.
Whether you’re in the mood for classic coastal fare or adventurous new tastes, Saltwater Social’s menu caters to a wide array of palates. From small plates perfect for sharing to hearty entrees and refreshing cocktails, every item is designed with attention to detail and a passion for quality.
The restaurant’s commitment to freshness and creativity shines through in every bite, making it a must-visit culinary hotspot for seafood lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizer section at Saltwater Social Cherry Creek sets the tone for a delightful meal, offering a variety of small plates that encourage sharing and exploration. Designed to stimulate the palate, these dishes blend classic seafood preparations with modern twists, creating an exciting start to your dining experience.
Options range from light, fresh ceviches to rich, savory bites that highlight the natural flavors of the ocean. Many appetizers focus on seasonality and local sourcing, ensuring optimal taste and quality.
The menu caters to those seeking both familiar comfort foods and more daring choices.
Popular selections include the Tuna Poke Bowl, which combines sashimi-grade tuna with avocado and crispy wontons, and the Lobster Mac & Cheese, a decadent take on a traditional favorite. Each dish is carefully crafted to balance textures and flavors, making sharing these small plates a highlight of any visit.
- Tuna Poke Bowl: Fresh ahi tuna, avocado, sesame seeds, and soy glaze
- Lobster Mac & Cheese: Creamy cheese sauce with generous lobster chunks
- Crab Cakes: Golden-fried with a tangy remoulade sauce
- Steamed Mussels: White wine, garlic, and herbs
“The appetizers at Saltwater Social perfectly balance indulgence and freshness, setting a remarkable precedent for the rest of the meal.”
Signature Seafood Entrees
The main entrées at Saltwater Social Cherry Creek showcase the restaurant’s dedication to premium seafood and culinary artistry. These dishes are designed to impress, featuring a variety of fish and shellfish prepared with a blend of classic techniques and innovative flavors.
Each entrée is presented with an eye for detail, garnished thoughtfully and paired with sides that complement the main ingredient. Whether you prefer a grilled, pan-seared, or fried preparation, the menu offers something to satisfy every seafood enthusiast’s preferences.
Highlights include the Pan-Seared Chilean Sea Bass, served with seasonal vegetables and a citrus beurre blanc, and the Seafood Paella, which brims with shrimp, clams, mussels, and chorizo. These dishes emphasize the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the kitchen team.
- Pan-Seared Chilean Sea Bass: Served with citrus beurre blanc and seasonal vegetables
- Seafood Paella: Traditional Spanish rice dish with a medley of seafood and chorizo
- Blackened Redfish: Spicy and flavorful with a side of garlic mashed potatoes
- Grilled Swordfish Steak: Accompanied by a tomato and basil relish
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Cooking Style | Price Range |
| Pan-Seared Chilean Sea Bass | Sea bass, citrus beurre blanc, seasonal vegetables | Pan-seared | $$$ |
| Seafood Paella | Shrimp, clams, mussels, chorizo, saffron rice | Simmered | $$$ |
| Blackened Redfish | Redfish fillet, Cajun spices, garlic mashed potatoes | Blackened/grilled | $$ |
| Grilled Swordfish Steak | Swordfish, tomato basil relish | Grilled | $$$ |
Raw Bar and Fresh Oysters
Saltwater Social’s Raw Bar is a standout feature, offering an exceptional selection of fresh oysters and other chilled seafood delicacies. This section caters to aficionados and newcomers alike, providing an authentic taste of the sea with each bite.
The oysters are sourced from trusted coastal farms known for their sustainable practices and superior quality. Each variety offers a unique flavor profile, ranging from briny and crisp to creamy and sweet, allowing guests to sample different types and find their favorites.
In addition to oysters, the Raw Bar includes chilled shrimp cocktails, ceviches, and other refreshing offerings. These items are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light meal, especially on warm days when a cool, crisp dish hits the spot.
- Oyster Selection: East Coast, West Coast, and seasonal varieties
- Chilled Shrimp Cocktail: Jumbo shrimp with classic cocktail sauce
- Fresh Ceviche: Citrus-marinated seafood with fresh herbs and vegetables
“The freshness of the oysters at Saltwater Social is unmatched, embodying the true essence of the ocean’s bounty.”
Vegetarian and Non-Seafood Options
While Saltwater Social is renowned for its seafood, the menu thoughtfully includes a variety of vegetarian and non-seafood dishes. This ensures that all guests, regardless of dietary preferences, can enjoy a satisfying and flavorful meal.
These offerings emphasize fresh, seasonal produce and creative flavor combinations that align with the restaurant’s overall culinary style. From hearty salads to vegetable-forward entrées, each dish is crafted with the same attention to quality and taste.
Some favorites include the Grilled Vegetable Platter, featuring an assortment of marinated and charred seasonal vegetables, and the Wild Mushroom Risotto, rich and creamy with an earthy depth of flavor.
These dishes provide excellent alternatives while maintaining the vibrant character of the menu.
- Grilled Vegetable Platter: Seasonal vegetables with balsamic glaze
- Wild Mushroom Risotto: Arborio rice with assorted wild mushrooms and parmesan
- Quinoa Salad: Mixed greens, quinoa, nuts, and citrus vinaigrette
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Cooking Style | Suitability |
| Grilled Vegetable Platter | Seasonal vegetables, balsamic glaze | Grilled | Vegetarian, Vegan |
| Wild Mushroom Risotto | Arborio rice, wild mushrooms, parmesan | Simmered | Vegetarian |
| Quinoa Salad | Quinoa, mixed greens, nuts, citrus vinaigrette | Raw/Chilled | Vegetarian, Vegan |
Craft Cocktails and Beverage Pairings
The beverage program at Saltwater Social Cherry Creek is designed to complement the flavors of the menu perfectly. The cocktail list features a mix of classic concoctions and original creations that highlight fresh ingredients and expert mixology.
Many cocktails incorporate seasonal fruits, herbs, and house-made syrups, adding layers of complexity and balance. The skilled bartenders are happy to recommend pairings that enhance the dining experience, whether you prefer something light and citrusy or rich and bold.
In addition to cocktails, the wine list focuses on selections from coastal and boutique wineries, emphasizing crisp whites and light reds that pair well with seafood. For those who prefer beer or non-alcoholic options, there are thoughtfully chosen craft beers and artisanal soft drinks available as well.
- Saltwater Mule: Vodka, ginger beer, lime, and a touch of sea salt
- Smoky Paloma: Mezcal, grapefruit, lime, and agave nectar
- Classic Martini: Gin or vodka with dry vermouth and lemon twist
- Local Craft Beers: Rotating selection from Denver breweries
“Each cocktail is a carefully crafted work of art, designed to elevate the flavors of Saltwater Social’s exquisite menu.”
Desserts and Sweet Endings
Ending your meal on a high note is easy with Saltwater Social’s tempting dessert offerings. The dessert menu features a selection of sweet treats that balance indulgence with refinement, providing a satisfying conclusion to your dining experience.
From rich chocolate creations to light, fruity options, desserts are thoughtfully prepared to complement the flavors found throughout the meal. The use of fresh ingredients and seasonal fruits ensures that these offerings feel fresh and vibrant rather than overly heavy.
Signature desserts include the Key Lime Tart, bursting with citrus brightness, and the Chocolate Lava Cake, a decadent favorite with a molten center. These sweets provide a perfect pairing to the restaurant’s coffee and dessert wines, rounding out the meal beautifully.
- Key Lime Tart: Tangy and refreshing with a graham cracker crust
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm, gooey, and rich chocolate dessert
- Seasonal Fruit Sorbet: Light and palate-cleansing
| Dessert | Flavor Profile | Pairing Suggestions |
| Key Lime Tart | Tart, citrusy, slightly sweet | Riesling or Moscato |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Rich, chocolatey, warm | Port wine or Espresso |
| Seasonal Fruit Sorbet | Light, fruity, refreshing | Champagne or sparkling water |
Seasonal Specials and Chef’s Recommendations
Saltwater Social Cherry Creek frequently updates its menu with seasonal specials that showcase the best ingredients available at any given time. These dishes reflect the creativity and expertise of the culinary team, offering guests a chance to try unique and limited-time options.
Chef’s recommendations often highlight rare or premium seafood varieties, paired with complementary sides and sauces that enhance their natural flavors. These specials provide a dynamic dining experience that evolves with the seasons and keeps the menu fresh and exciting.
Guests are encouraged to ask their server about the latest specials, which may include everything from wintery seafood stews to springtime salads with fresh herbs and edible flowers. This approach not only supports local farmers and fishermen but also ensures every meal feels personalized and thoughtful.
- Winter Seafood Stew: Hearty mix of shellfish, root vegetables, and rich broth
- Spring Herb-Crusted Halibut: Fresh herbs and light lemon sauce
- Summer Grilled Octopus: Served with charred corn and tomato salad
“The seasonal specials at Saltwater Social offer a glimpse into the chef’s passion and the bounty of the sea through every carefully crafted dish.”
Conclusion
Saltwater Social Cherry Creek’s menu is a celebration of fresh, sustainable seafood and inspired culinary craftsmanship, offering a diverse array of dishes that cater to all tastes. From the enticing appetizers to the rich, flavorful entrées, and the carefully curated cocktails to the delectable desserts, every aspect of the dining experience is thoughtfully designed to delight and satisfy.
Its commitment to quality ingredients, paired with imaginative preparations and attentive service, makes Saltwater Social a standout destination in Denver’s vibrant food scene. Whether you’re a seafood connoisseur or simply looking for a welcoming place to enjoy a delicious meal, this restaurant delivers on all fronts.
Embracing both tradition and innovation, the menu invites guests to explore the flavors of the ocean in a warm, social setting that encourages sharing, discovery, and memorable moments.
Visiting Saltwater Social Cherry Creek promises not just a meal, but a culinary journey that reflects the passion of its chefs and the beauty of sustainable seafood dining. It’s a place where every dish tells a story, and every visit feels like a celebration of fresh flavors and good company.
