John Holly's Asian Bistro - Denver

Since the special sushi rolls are similar to those at the other John Holly's location, I found myself recalling more about the Chinese dishes we ordered. If you ever spot the Steak Fried Rice with Truffles under the Chef’s Specials—ORDER IT! You won't regret it. I've never tasted anything like it before; it beautifully combines Western and Eastern influences, making it truly the best of both worlds! I returned for lunch a second time, and I was even more impressed! The portion sizes are larger than at most Chinese restaurants, and the prices are surprisingly low for such a nice place! For under $9, we enjoyed a Chicken Chow Fun that was easily enough for two people, which came with a choice of soup (the miso is packed with mushrooms!) and a starter. We chose the Salmon Avocado Roll, which, while not a special roll, stands out compared to the other John Holly's offerings. The pieces were sizable, the ingredients fresh, and the salmon and avocado were so hearty that I found myself wishing I had ordered an additional full roll. It’s even better than the ones at Whole Foods, and probably more affordable! The service was excellent, and occasionally, you'll see the owner going around to greet her customers. I can’t wait to come back!

This restaurant is fantastic and a must-visit for Asian food enthusiasts. They offer a variety of options, including sushi and traditional Chinese dishes, along with some delightful Korean and Thai-inspired meals. The eggplant dishes are absolutely divine! Another favorite of mine is the Korean Soup Bowl, which is delightfully spicy and features semi-thick rice noodles—not quite as thick as udon, but thicker than the ones you find in pho. The service is excellent, and the staff is very friendly.

I visited this place after Japon closed, and wow! The new JOHN HOLLYS is absolutely amazing. Their happy hour is incredibly generous (Monday to Friday from 3 to 6 PM, after 9 PM, and Saturday after 10 PM). Here are the must-try dishes: My group sampled about ten different dishes, and while we would order any of them again, the highlights were the filet mignon fried rice with black truffle (oh my gosh, it was so delicious!), the new-style sashimi, seafood nest, orange beef (made with real orange juice, not some artificial gel), the Yoji roll (again, just scrumptious), and the Poison Ivy roll (perfection). The ambiance is really laid-back—not at all pretentious, but still upscale enough for a Saturday night date.

I really want to love this place. Why? Because it 's taking over my fav neighborhood spot, Japon. But my overall experience here is somewhat uninspiring. I give them 2.5 (if I could) for friendly service. Not great service, but they were cordial. The head sushi chef brought me a complimentary two piece roll that was good. Not sure what it was, but it was good. Minor details failed to be attended to, which is likely due to their 'new ' status; the staff has yet to get their groove going. Totally ok. I wasn 't blown away by the food. That 's the key. Here 's why: I got the Tokyo Roll. It was ok. When something is described as 'seared ' I want to feel the sear... The warmth, the texture. A day old sear has no real benefit to the taste. The cucumber salad they brought at the beginning of the meal? Too strong in the seasoning department.. Not clean and refreshing as it should be. So while I so desperately want to give these guys a higher review I can 't. Not yet.

The only thing better than the incredible lunch special is Kristine, our server. There is not a three course lunch of this caliber anywhere on the planet for less than 9 bucks? Great atmosphere. Heck you lose money by not coming here. Pad Thai and Mongolian ordered today. Miso soup and edamame started off mine. Sweet and sour soup and spicy tuna roll started off the other side of the table. So good. Kinda feel bad for it not costing more! Try it. You'll be as surprised as I was.