You know that perfect, crispy corner piece of a pan-baked dish? The one everyone fights over? Now, imagine a pizza where every single slice has that same crunchy, cheesy, caramelized edge. It’s a pizza that’s built backward-with the toppings on the bottom and stripes of red sauce dolloped on top right before it hits the table.
It’s the kind of meal that turns pizza skeptics into believers and has locals bringing their out-of-state friends to show off. The place is always buzzing, filled with the sound of happy chatter and the sight of rectangular pans being delivered to smiling tables. Even if you think you’re not a “deep dish” person, this isn’t that. It’s something else entirely-lighter, crispier, and completely addictive.
This is the magic of Blue Pan Pizza, a neighborhood gem in Denver’s Highlands that specializes in award-winning Detroit-style pizza. It’s the spot that has managed to get even die-hard traditionalists-we’re talking partners with Italian-born fathers-to declare it the best they’ve ever had. It’s more than just dinner; it’s a genuinely fun experience.
What We Love
A True Neighborhood Spot
Tucked away on a friendly street in the Highlands, Blue Pan feels like a real local hangout, not a tourist trap. It’s the kind of place you could easily make your regular go-to. A huge bonus is that street parking is usually pretty easy to find, which is a rare treat in this part of town.
Friendly, Down-to-Earth Service
The staff here are genuinely great. They’re happy to walk you through the massive menu without making you feel rushed and can offer solid recommendations if you’re stuck. From the host at the door to the person bringing your food, everyone is welcoming and attentive, which makes the whole experience feel relaxed and easy.
Lively But Laid-Back
The vibe is fun and energetic without being overwhelming. The dining room is filled with natural light, comfy booths, and a few nods to Detroit sports that give it some character. It’s got a “downtown core” feel but is still casual enough that you can show up as you are. It’s a great place to people-watch from the bar or settle in for a long chat with friends.
Menu Highlights
Detroit Style Pizza
This is what they’re famous for. It’s a rectangular pizza with a thick, airy crust that’s crispy on the bottom. The magic is in the edges, where cheese is baked right up against the side of the pan, creating a crunchy, caramelized wall. The toppings go on first, followed by cheese, and then it’s finished with stripes of red sauce on top.
Brooklyn Bridge
If you don’t know where to start, get this one. It’s a fan-favorite Detroit-style pie loaded with classic and spicy pepperoni, creamy ricotta, and fresh basil. People dream about this pizza, and for good reason. It’s the perfect mix of savory, spicy, and fresh flavors on that incredible crust.
Parma Italia
This one feels a little more grown-up. It’s a classic Italian combination of thin-sliced prosciutto, peppery arugula, and shaved parmesan, all piled on a cheesy crust. It’s a great choice if you want something that feels a bit lighter but still totally satisfying.
Sweetie Pie
Don’t let the name fool you-this is a savory pie with a sweet twist. It combines pepperoni and bacon with a drizzle of Mike’s Hot Honey. The sweet heat of the honey cuts through the richness of the meat and cheese, creating a flavor combination that just works.
Louis Style Pizzas
If thick crust isn’t your thing, Blue Pan also nails this super-thin style. St. Louis pizza is known for its cracker-like crust that has zero flop and is cut into squares (“party cut”). It’s made with Provel cheese-a creamy, tangy blend of provolone, Swiss, and cheddar that’s a staple in St. Louis. It’s a completely different pizza experience.
Atmosphere & Setting
The place feels buzzy and alive, especially on weekends. It’s the kind of restaurant where you can hear the happy hum of conversations and see a kitchen staff that is clearly working hard and in sync. The decor is simple and modern, with lots of wood and metal, but the comfy booths and great lighting make it feel warm and inviting.
Whether you’re sitting at the bar watching the game, squeezed into a booth with family, or grabbing a table by the window, the vibe is consistently cool and relaxed. It strikes that perfect balance of being a nice sit-down restaurant and a casual neighborhood pizza joint.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
This isn’t your budget pizza chain, but the price is fair for what you get. The quality of the ingredients is obvious, from the fresh salads to the generous toppings. The Detroit-style pizzas are seriously filling-you might even have leftovers for breakfast the next day, and they’re just as good. It’s a great value for a meal that feels special.
This is the perfect spot for a casual date night, a fun dinner with friends, or a place to take family visiting from out of town. It’s a crowd-pleaser for anyone who appreciates really, really good pizza.
Insider Tips
Go at an off-peak time if you can. Weeknights are your best bet, or go for a late lunch on Friday or Saturday. On weekend evenings, you should expect to wait for a table, sometimes 30 minutes or more.
The menu is huge, and it can be a little intimidating on your first visit. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, just start with one of the award-winning Detroit-style pies. You can’t go wrong with the Brooklyn Bridge.
Takeout is an excellent option here. If you don’t feel like waiting for a table, just call in your order or do it online. The pizza holds up incredibly well and is just as delicious at home.
So whether you’re a local who hasn’t been yet or a visitor looking for a meal that lives up to the hype, Blue Pan is worth the trip. It’s the kind of satisfying, unpretentious food that makes you want to come back again and again-if only to try every single pizza on that wonderfully long menu.
Leave A Comment