How to Order Seafood at Water Grill Denver

Water Grill Denver stands as one of the city’s most distinguished destinations for discerning seafood lovers. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this acclaimed restaurant brings the freshness and elegance of coastal dining to the Rocky Mountain region. With an extensive menu featuring sustainably sourced fish, shellfish, and crustaceans from around the world, Water Grill offers an unparalleled seafood experience. But for first-time visitors—or even seasoned patrons—the process of navigating the menu and ordering the perfect seafood dish can feel overwhelming. Knowing how to order seafood at Water Grill Denver isn’t just about picking what looks good; it’s about understanding seasonal availability, preparation styles, pairing options, and the nuances of quality seafood. This guide is designed to empower you with the knowledge to make confident, informed, and delicious choices. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a business dinner, or simply indulging in a fine dining experience, mastering the art of ordering seafood here ensures you leave satisfied, informed, and eager to return.

Step-by-Step Guide

Ordering seafood at Water Grill Denver is a refined process that blends hospitality with expertise. Follow these seven detailed steps to ensure your experience is seamless, enjoyable, and tailored to your preferences.

Step 1: Research the Menu in Advance

Before arriving at Water Grill Denver, take time to explore their official website. The menu is updated seasonally to reflect the freshest catches and sustainable sourcing practices. Pay close attention to categories such as “Raw Bar,” “Shellfish,” “Whole Fish,” “Market Fish,” and “Crustaceans.” Each section is curated with care, often highlighting the origin of the seafood—whether it’s day-boat scallops from Maine, Dungeness crab from the Pacific Northwest, or line-caught halibut from Alaska. Familiarizing yourself with these terms helps you speak confidently with your server and understand what you’re ordering.

Look for seasonal specials marked with icons or notes like “Today’s Catch” or “Limited Availability.” These are often the most flavorful and fresh items on the menu. Avoid relying solely on mobile apps or third-party sites; the restaurant’s own site is the most accurate source.

Step 2: Determine Your Dining Goals

Ask yourself: Are you here for a quick appetizer, a full multi-course meal, or a tasting experience? Your goal will shape how you order. For example:

• If you’re looking for a light bite, consider the Raw Bar selections like oysters or ceviche.
• If you want a substantial main course, opt for a whole roasted fish or a large crustacean like lobster.
• If you’re dining with a group, plan for shared plates and multiple courses to maximize variety.

Water Grill’s chefs design their offerings to be layered and complementary. Ordering a mix of textures and flavors—such as a briny oyster followed by a butter-poached lobster tail and a citrus-kissed grilled sea bass—creates a dynamic dining journey.

Step 3: Engage with Your Server

At Water Grill Denver, servers are trained seafood specialists. They know the daily deliveries, the sourcing partners, and the chef’s preferred preparations. Don’t hesitate to ask questions like:

• “What’s the most popular seafood dish tonight?”
• “Which fish is the freshest from today’s catch?”
• “Are any of these items flown in that day?”
• “What’s your personal recommendation if I love rich, buttery textures?”

Be honest about your preferences. Do you prefer mild or bold flavors? Are you avoiding heavy sauces? Do you have a texture aversion (e.g., slimy, chewy)? The server will use this information to guide you toward the best options. Many guests are surprised to learn that the server’s recommendation often outperforms the most popular menu item.

Step 4: Understand Preparation Methods

Seafood is incredibly sensitive to cooking technique. The way it’s prepared dramatically affects flavor, texture, and overall enjoyment. Here’s what to look for:

• Raw/ceviche: Fresh, high-grade fish cured in citrus. Ideal for those who appreciate clean, bright flavors. Ask if it’s “sashimi-grade.”
• Grilled: Imparts smoky depth. Best for firm fish like swordfish, tuna, or halibut.
• Pan-seared: Crispy skin, tender interior. Excellent for salmon, trout, or sea bass.
• Butter-poached: Slow-cooked in clarified butter. Luxurious and delicate. Common with lobster, scallops, or cod.
• Steamed: Retains natural moisture. Ideal for clams, mussels, or whole fish.
• Deep-fried: Usually reserved for calamari or shrimp. Ask if it’s battered with tempura or panko for lighter texture.

Ask your server which method is used for each dish you’re considering. For example, “Is the halibut grilled or pan-seared?” can help you decide based on your desired mouthfeel.

Step 5: Order Strategically by Course

Water Grill’s menu is structured to encourage a multi-course experience. A well-planned seafood order might look like this:

1. Appetizer: Start with 2–3 items from the Raw Bar—oysters, shrimp cocktail, or a ceviche. These cleanse the palate and set the tone.
2. Shared Plates: Consider a lobster bisque or a seafood tower if dining with others. These are visually impressive and conversation-starting.
3. Main Course: Choose one centerpiece—either a whole fish (like branzino or snapper), a large crustacean (lobster or crab), or a premium market fish (such as Chilean sea bass or king salmon).
4. Side Orders: Pair your main with seasonal vegetables, truffle mashed potatoes, or saffron risotto. Avoid heavy starches if your main is already rich.
5. Dessert: While seafood-focused, don’t skip dessert. The crème brûlée or dark chocolate torte make excellent endings.

Pro tip: If you’re unsure about portion sizes, ask, “Is the lobster tail served whole or halved?” Some dishes are designed for sharing, and servers can adjust plating accordingly.

Step 6: Consider Wine and Beverage Pairings

Water Grill has an award-winning sommelier team and a curated list focused on seafood-friendly wines. Ask for pairing suggestions based on your selections. For example:

• Oysters: Chablis, Muscadet, or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc
• Grilled salmon: Pinot Noir or a light Chardonnay
• Lobster or butter-poached scallops: A rich, barrel-fermented Chardonnay
• Ceviche: A dry rosé or sparkling wine

Non-wine drinkers can opt for artisanal cocktails like the “Sea Breeze” (vodka, grapefruit, lime) or a sparkling sake. The bar team is trained to match beverages to flavor profiles—not just alcohol content.

Step 7: Confirm Delivery and Timing

Some seafood items, especially whole fish or live crustaceans, require additional preparation time. If you’re on a tight schedule, ask, “How long does the lobster take to prepare?” or “Is the halibut ready to cook now?”

Water Grill prides itself on freshness, so dishes are often cooked to order. This means your meal may take longer than at a typical restaurant—but the result is worth the wait. If you’re celebrating a milestone, notify your server in advance; they may arrange a complimentary amuse-bouche or dessert upgrade.

Best Practices

Ordering seafood at Water Grill Denver isn’t just about making choices—it’s about cultivating a mindful, respectful dining experience. These best practices ensure you get the most out of your visit while honoring the craft behind each dish.

Be Specific About Preferences

Don’t settle for vague requests like “I like fish.” Instead, say: “I prefer mild white fish with a light crust,” or “I avoid anything too oily.” This precision helps your server make accurate recommendations. Many guests are unaware that “mild” can mean halibut, cod, or flounder—but not swordfish or bluefin tuna.

Ask About Sustainability

Water Grill is a certified partner of the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC). If sustainability matters to you, ask: “Is this seafood MSC-certified?” or “Where is this shrimp farmed?” The restaurant openly shares this information. Choosing sustainable options supports ethical fisheries and ensures long-term availability of these species.

Don’t Overorder

Portions at Water Grill are generous. A single lobster tail can easily feed two. A whole branzino is often served with its head and tail intact—impressive, but large. Avoid the temptation to order everything “just in case.” Instead, start with fewer items and add as you go. You can always order another appetizer or side later.

Try Something New

One of the joys of dining at Water Grill is exposure to unfamiliar seafood. If you’ve only ever eaten salmon or shrimp, consider trying:

• Spot Prawns: Sweet, delicate, and rarely found outside the Pacific Northwest.
• Opah: A deep-sea fish with a rich, salmon-like flavor and firm texture.
• Sea Urchin (Uni): Creamy, briny, and luxurious—best enjoyed raw on a bed of rice.
• Black Cod (Sablefish): Naturally high in omega-3s, with a buttery texture that melts on the tongue.

Ask your server to describe the flavor profile. You might discover a new favorite.

Observe Presentation and Quality

When your dish arrives, take a moment to observe it. Fresh seafood should glisten, not appear dull or dry. Oysters should be plump and in their shells with a clear, briny liquor. Lobster meat should be opaque and white, not translucent. If something looks off—say, a fish with a strong ammonia smell or scallops that appear slimy—politely notify your server. Water Grill’s standards are high, and they’ll replace any dish that doesn’t meet them.

Slow Down and Savor

Seafood is best enjoyed slowly. Take time between bites. Notice the texture, the aroma, the subtle seasoning. Water Grill uses minimal salt and relies on natural flavors, high-quality oils, and fresh herbs. Rushing through your meal diminishes the experience. This isn’t fast food—it’s culinary artistry.

Leave a Thoughtful Tip

Service at Water Grill is personalized and knowledgeable. Servers often spend extra time explaining ingredients, suggesting pairings, and accommodating requests. A generous tip—20% or more—is not just customary; it’s a recognition of their expertise and dedication.

Tools and Resources

Enhance your seafood ordering experience at Water Grill Denver with these practical tools and trusted resources. These aren’t just helpful—they’re essential for making informed, confident choices.

Water Grill Denver Official Website

Visit www.watergrill.com/denver to view the current menu, view photos of dishes, and check hours. The site includes detailed descriptions of each seafood item, including origin, preparation, and allergen information. It’s updated daily to reflect seasonal changes and daily catches.

Seafood Watch App (Monterey Bay Aquarium)

Download the free Seafood Watch app by the Monterey Bay Aquarium. It provides real-time recommendations on which seafood to buy or avoid based on sustainability. Use it to cross-reference Water Grill’s offerings. If the app rates a fish as “Best Choice,” you can feel confident in your selection.

Local Seafood Guides

Colorado residents can access resources from the Colorado Seafood Alliance, which partners with regional distributors to promote traceable, responsible seafood sourcing. While not all seafood is locally caught, understanding where it originates helps you appreciate the journey from ocean to plate.

Wine Pairing Guides

Use the “Wine Folly” website or app for visual guides on pairing wine with seafood. Their color-coded charts make it easy to match fish types with wine varietals. For example, fatty fish like salmon pair well with medium-bodied reds, while delicate white fish suit light whites.

YouTube Channels for Seafood Education

Watch short videos from chefs like David Chang or Rick Moonen on YouTube. Channels such as “The Seafood Chef” and “Fish & Co.” offer 5-minute breakdowns on identifying quality seafood, understanding preparation methods, and decoding menu terminology. These are invaluable for building confidence before your visit.

Reservations and Special Requests

Book your table through OpenTable or the Water Grill website. During booking, you can note special requests: “Celebrating anniversary,” “Allergic to shellfish,” or “Prefer a window table.” The staff takes these seriously and will accommodate them. For large groups (6+), request a private dining area in advance.

Review Platforms for Real Insights

Read recent reviews on Google and Yelp from diners who mention seafood specifics. Look for comments like: “The lobster bisque was the best I’ve ever had,” or “Server helped me pick the perfect halibut.” Avoid outdated reviews—they may reference old menus or discontinued dishes.

Local Food Blogs and Podcasts

Follow Denver-based food influencers like “The Denver Foodie” or “Taste of Colorado.” They often feature Water Grill in seasonal roundups and provide insider tips—like which nights feature live music or when the oyster happy hour begins.

Real Examples

Understanding how to order seafood becomes clearer when you see real examples from actual diners. Here are three detailed scenarios that illustrate successful, thoughtful ordering at Water Grill Denver.

Example 1: The First-Time Visitor

Casey, 32, is visiting Denver from Kansas and has never eaten at a high-end seafood restaurant. They’re nervous about ordering but want to experience something special.

After reviewing the menu online, Casey arrives and tells the server: “I’ve never had oysters. I like mild flavors and hate fishy smells. What would you recommend?”

The server suggests:

• Two Kumamoto oysters (sweet, melon-like flavor, low brininess)
• A scallop crudo with yuzu and fennel (raw but not “fishy”)
• Grilled halibut with lemon herb butter (firm, clean taste)
• A glass of Albariño (light, citrusy white wine)

Casey loved the experience. “I thought seafood would be too strong, but everything was bright and fresh. I didn’t feel overwhelmed at all.”

Example 2: The Business Dinner

Mark, 48, is hosting three clients from out of town. He wants to impress without being ostentatious.

He asks the server: “I want a menu that feels luxurious but not cliché. No lobster if it’s overdone.”

The server recommends:

• Shared: Seafood Tower with oysters, shrimp, crab claws, and uni (a visual centerpiece)
• Appetizer: Lobster bisque with truffle oil
• Main: Whole roasted branzino with roasted fennel and capers
• Side: Truffle mashed potatoes
• Dessert: Dark chocolate pot de crème
• Wine: A 2020 Chablis and a 2018 Pinot Noir

Mark’s clients were impressed. “It felt refined but not pretentious. The branzino was the star—perfectly cooked, and the server explained where it came from. That detail made the whole meal feel authentic.”

Example 3: The Seafood Enthusiast

Jamal, 56, is a lifelong seafood lover who travels for meals. He’s dined at Le Bernardin, The Fish Market, and many others.

He tells the server: “I’ve had everything. Show me something rare. Something you’re proud of.”

The server brings out:

• Live spot prawns from British Columbia (served raw with yuzu and chili)
• Black cod with miso glaze, aged 48 hours in-house
• Sea urchin custard with caviar and chives
• Wine: 2021 Domaine Leflaive Puligny-Montrachet

Jamal says: “The spot prawns were the sweetest I’ve ever tasted. The black cod had a depth I haven’t found outside Tokyo. This was better than most places in New York. I’ll be back next month.”

FAQs

Do I need to make a reservation to order seafood at Water Grill Denver?

Yes, reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. The restaurant operates at near capacity most evenings. Walk-ins are accepted at the bar, but seating at tables is limited without a reservation.

Is the seafood always fresh?

Yes. Water Grill receives daily deliveries from trusted suppliers. Most fish is delivered within 24–48 hours of being caught. The restaurant has a strict “no frozen seafood” policy for its main menu items, with the exception of certain shellfish that are flash-frozen at sea to preserve quality.

Can I request a specific type of fish that’s not on the menu?

While the menu is curated seasonally, the kitchen often accommodates special requests if the ingredient is available and sustainable. For example, if you love monkfish and it’s in season, ask your server if it can be prepared as a special. They’ll check with the chef and may offer it as a custom dish.

Are there vegetarian or non-seafood options?

Yes. Water Grill offers several vegetarian dishes, including roasted beet salad, truffle risotto, and grilled asparagus. However, the restaurant’s identity is rooted in seafood, so the vegetarian options are limited compared to the seafood offerings.

How do I know if a fish is sustainable?

Look for labels on the menu such as “MSC Certified,” “ASC Certified,” or “Wild-Caught.” You can also ask your server directly. Water Grill proudly displays its sustainability certifications and partners with organizations that promote responsible fishing.

Can I order seafood to go?

Water Grill Denver does not offer takeout for its seafood entrees. The restaurant prioritizes the dining experience and believes seafood is best enjoyed fresh and at the table. However, they do offer gift cards for future visits.

What’s the best time to visit for the freshest seafood?

Early dinners—between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM—are ideal. This is when the kitchen receives the day’s delivery and prepares the freshest items first. Later dinners may still be excellent, but the most exclusive items (like live lobster or rare fish) are often reserved for early guests.

Do they accommodate allergies?

Yes. Water Grill has a dedicated protocol for food allergies. Inform your server of any allergies (shellfish, gluten, dairy, etc.) when you arrive. The kitchen uses separate utensils and prep areas to avoid cross-contamination. They can also modify dishes to remove allergens without compromising flavor.

Is there a dress code?

Business casual is recommended. Jackets are not required, but guests are encouraged to dress neatly. Flip-flops, athletic wear, and overly casual attire are discouraged.

What if I don’t like my dish?

Water Grill stands behind every plate. If a dish doesn’t meet your expectations, notify your server immediately. They will replace it, adjust the preparation, or offer a complimentary item. No questions asked.

Conclusion

Ordering seafood at Water Grill Denver is more than a meal—it’s an immersive experience rooted in quality, knowledge, and respect for the ocean’s bounty. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you move from being a passive diner to an informed participant in a culinary tradition that values freshness, sustainability, and craftsmanship. Whether you’re selecting your first oyster or savoring a rare black cod, each bite carries the story of the sea, the skill of the chef, and the care of the server.

The key to success lies in preparation, curiosity, and communication. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t rush the experience. Embrace the opportunity to try something new. Water Grill doesn’t just serve seafood—it celebrates it.

As you plan your next visit, remember: the best seafood isn’t the most expensive—it’s the one you understand, appreciate, and enjoy fully. Let this guide be your compass. Let your palate be your guide. And let Water Grill Denver be the place where your seafood journey reaches its finest expression.