Denver has a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, but sometimes, what you crave is a comforting escape from the city bustle. For those in the know, Domo Japanese Country Food Restaurant offers just that – a unique dining experience that transports you straight to the serene Japanese countryside, right in the heart of Denver. After a period of intermittent closures that left Denverites longing for its return, Domo, under the steadfast guidance of chef-owner Gaku Homma, has joyfully reopened its doors, ready to welcome back both loyal patrons and newcomers seeking an authentic taste of Japan. If you’re looking beyond the typical sushi restaurants in Denver and yearn for something truly special, Domo Japanese Country Food Restaurant is a must-visit.
Gaku Homma isn’t just the chef at Domo; he is the heart and soul of this establishment. Since 1996, Homma, now 74, has cultivated not only the menu but also the restaurant’s distinctive Zen-like ambiance. Stepping into Domo is like entering a different world. Homma personally curated the restaurant’s decor, importing “mingu,” traditional Japanese everyday objects, directly from his homeland. Fans, antique bottles, abacuses, and handcrafted dishes adorn the rustic interior, creating an atmosphere rich with Japanese heritage. The restaurant’s structure itself is a testament to Homma’s vision and resourcefulness. Salvaged materials, including sections of a 200-year-old cottonwood tree, flagstone tabletops, and a traditional thatched roof, contribute to the farmhouse aesthetic. Even elements from Denver’s own surroundings, like materials from City Park and local junkyards, have been repurposed to build this unique space. Outside, Domo’s enchanting garden beckons diners to experience alfresco dining amidst cherry trees, a gentle stream, and a charming bridge, further enhancing the countryside feel.
Domo’s charm extends beyond its atmosphere; it’s deeply rooted in its cuisine. Unlike Denver’s numerous trendy izakayas or sushi-centric spots focusing on fusion rolls, Domo offers a taste of authentic Japanese country food, specifically dishes from Homma’s upbringing in Akita, a region in northern Japan. Forget the “Dynamite” and “Orgasm” rolls; at Domo, you’ll discover the comforting flavors of home-style Japanese cooking, featuring specialties like Japanese curry, dipping udon noodles, okoge (savory rice patties), and katsudon (pork cutlet rice bowl).
A cornerstone of Domo’s menu since its inception is the Japanese curry. While curry recipes vary across Japan, Domo’s rendition is a northern Japanese style, a testament to Homma’s roots. The curry is meticulously prepared, starting with a 30-minute sauté of ginger, chili paste, garlic, and curry powder, followed by a three-hour resting period to deepen the flavors. The result is a creamy, rich stew, mild yet deeply flavorful, loaded with tender potatoes, carrots, and your choice of protein. This Japanese curry offers a comforting balance of sweet and savory notes, a true taste of Japanese home cooking.
The Japanese curry at Domo truly shines in the Nanban Udon dish. Soft, slippery udon noodles mingle with ribbons of cabbage and seaweed, and generous chunks of chicken thighs, all immersed in a flavorful, curry-infused dashi broth. Dashi, the soul of Japanese cuisine, is a complex and umami-rich soup stock that forms the foundation of many Domo dishes. Like Domo itself, dashi is subtly powerful, enhancing the inherent flavors of the ingredients it complements. The fragrant bowl of Nanban Udon is a testament to this, a comforting and deeply satisfying noodle dish.
Another must-try at Domo is the beef okoge. This dish is a generous mound of thinly sliced beef, vibrant red bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, all tossed in a savory-sweet sauce based on soy sauce, sake, and mirin, served atop crispy burnt rice. The peppery beef, perfectly complemented by the subtly sweet sauce – Homma reveals apples as the secret ingredient – is undeniably addictive. While the flavor profile is spot-on, some might find the “burnt” rice to be more chewy than crispy, but it still adds a unique textural element to the dish.
While Domo offers a few raw fish options, it intentionally steers clear of the typical sushi roll frenzy. Instead, diners can explore unique appetizers like the salmon namasu. This refreshing starter features four pieces of sugar- and salt-cured salmon nestled in a vibrant salad of thinly sliced, pickled daikon radish. The sweet and tangy rice vinegar dressing beautifully complements the rich salmon. For sashimi lovers, Domo offers generously thick cuts of raw tuna or salmon, a departure from the thin slivers often served elsewhere, presented atop a substantial mound of rice and subtly seasoned with a mild chili sauce and fresh ginger, resembling a brighter, fresher take on a poke bowl.
If there’s a minor drawback to the Domo experience, it might be the pace of service, which can be leisurely. With a small, dedicated staff, you may need to signal for attention when you need to order or request the bill. Therefore, Domo might not be the ideal choice for a rushed lunch. Also, note that Domo closes relatively early for dinner, currently at 7 p.m., so plan your visit accordingly.
However, this unhurried pace is arguably part of Domo’s charm, reflecting the tranquility of the Japanese countryside it emulates. It’s a place to slow down, savor the atmosphere, and enjoy the food. For 27 years, Gaku Homma has offered Denver a unique culinary sanctuary. Domo Japanese Country Food Restaurant presents a different facet of Japanese cuisine, one that is perhaps unfamiliar to many, but ultimately, a comforting and enriching dining experience that Denver truly needs. Located at 1365 Osage St., Domo awaits to transport you.
In Summary
- The Draw: An enchanting garden setting reminiscent of the Japanese countryside, coupled with authentic home-style Japanese food. Most entrees are priced around $16.95 and include multiple side dishes, offering great value.
- The Drawback: Not ideal for those seeking alcoholic beverages or a fast-paced dining experience.
- Noise Level: Low, conducive to relaxed conversation.
- Must-Try Dishes: Nanban udon curry, salmon namasu, Japanese curry – these dishes encapsulate Domo’s unique culinary offerings.
Explore More Denver Restaurants with Exceptional Ambiance
Adrift
Escape to a tropical paradise at Adrift. Known for its poke nachos and immersive tiki bar atmosphere, Adrift on South Broadway is a Denver institution. Step into a world of bamboo walls and island vibes, and indulge in creative cocktails, sometimes served in flaming pineapples! 218 South Broadway
Sherpa House
Journey to the Himalayas at Golden’s Sherpa House. More than just a restaurant, Sherpa House is a cultural center offering a rich experience alongside its Himalayan cuisine. From vibrant textiles to traditional cookware and prayer flags, the décor creates an authentic Tibetan sherpa house ambiance. Don’t miss the yak vindaloo! 1518 Washington Ave., Golden
Read more: Sherpa House Restaurant Offers a Taste of the Himalayas
Forest Room 5
Experience the great outdoors within city limits at Forest Room 5 in LoHi. This wilderness-inspired patio features a babbling brook, fire pits, and lush foliage, creating a (car) camping atmosphere right in Denver. Enjoy their spicy pineapple jalapeño margaritas, a step up from campsite concoctions. 2532 15th St.
