Chef preparing Korean beef soup in a bustling kitchen

Welcome to Kokoro

Nestled in the heart of Denver, CO, Kokoro exudes warmth and welcomes guests with open arms. With its cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and a menu bursting with mouthwatering dishes, it's the perfect place to unwind and savor a delightful meal. Our diverse menu caters to every palate, whether you're looking for a leisurely dinner with loved ones, a quick lunch catch-up with friends, or a solo meal at the bar. Kokoro offers a relaxed setting where laughter flows as freely as the conversation. Come as you are, and leave with a satisfied heart, a full stomach, and a smile.

A bowl filled with beef slices, mixed vegetables, and rice.

Our Story


Since 1986, Kokoro has been dedicated to serving authentic Japanese cuisine with heart and passion. What began as a humble restaurant on Colorado Boulevard has grown into a beloved dining destination, now also proudly serving the Arvada community for nearly four decades.


At Kokoro, we believe in cooking from the heart and treating every guest like family. Our commitment remains unchanged: delivering the highest quality Japanese food in an efficient and affordable way. Whether you're discovering us for the first time or you've been a loyal customer for years, we strive to make each visit better than the last through our unwavering dedication to exceptional food and genuine hospitality.

Chicken Bowl

Premium Ingredients

We use only the finest ingredients including Red Bird Farms never-frozen chicken and U.S. Choice Beef, sourced fresh daily for exceptional quality.

A vibrant bowl of mixed vegetables including carrots, broccoli, and cabbage served over rice.

Hand-Cut Fresh

Every vegetable is cut daily by hand to ensure maximum freshness and that perfect crunch in every bite of your meal.

A bowl of tofu cubes topped with green onions and a savory sauce, presented in a decorative dish.

Family Values

We treat every customer like family, whether it's your first visit or you've been coming here for forty years.

A rice ball wrapped in seaweed, sprinkled with seasoning and garnished with bits of dried fish, served with a small dish of soy sauce.

Made with Heart

From our secret teriyaki sauce to our new onigiri offerings, everything is prepared with care, thought, and love.

A bowl featuring shredded beef with onion strips served on rice.
A bowl of udon noodles topped with boiled eggs, fish cake, seaweed, and mushrooms, garnished with green onions.
A bowl of edamame pods, bright green and fresh, served with a small dish of dipping sauce on the side. The bowl features a decorative floral design.
A fresh spring roll filled with vegetables and possibly shrimp, served on a small plate.
A bowl of rice topped with sliced chicken and a rich, creamy sauce.
A plate of cucumber sushi rolls accompanied by pickled ginger and wasabi on a white square plate.