Denver offers a vast culinary scene drawing inspiration from its diverse population, making the Mile-High City a gastronomic paradise. Moreover, the city claims to be the birthplace of cheeseburgers and has one of the best breweries in the USA.
On our second visit to Denver, we explored the gastronomic side of the city and its surrounding neighborhoods, uncovering gems that left our taste buds dancing. Here’s a curated list of 8 restaurants that we highly recommend trying.
Illegal Burger, Downtown
When visiting the birthplace of the cheeseburger, it’s essential to indulge in a delicious cheeseburger. We recommend visiting Illegal Burger downtown, known for using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create top-notch food. Be sure to try their green chili cheese fries to accompany your burger. Additionally, the restaurant offers vegan options so everyone can savor a tasty burger.
Atlas Coffee, Littleton
Atlas Coffee is a haven for coffee lovers, with a wide selection of carefully crafted blends. The ambiance is invitingly warm and comfortable, making it an excellent place to work or socialize. Moreover, friendly baristas will always help you to find the perfect brew to suit your taste. Their Matcha latte and Frappe are two of my favorites that we highly recommend.
Taps on the Rocks, Morrison
Taps on the Rocks is where brews and views unite. Located in the historic town of Morrison, this place is a haven for beer lovers. The brewery offers a selection of craft beers, perfectly complementing the surrounding. Plus, their food is one of the best in the area. We highly recommend trying their Chicken Pesto Pizza while you take in the breathtaking scenery of the red rocks.
Fellow Traveler, Englewood
Fellow Traveler is a vegan cafe that will elevate your palette to a new height. A local friend recommended this restaurant to me, and I must say, it’s one of the most diverse vegan cafes I have ever visited. Every bite is a blast of flavors, from creatively crafted starters to innovative entrées. We highly recommend trying the Pineapple Fried Rice, Aloo Gobi, and Jackfruit Al Pastor Tacos (a bit spicy). Not only will these flavors make your taste buds go wow, but they will also nourish your soul.
Izzio Bakery, Denver Central Market (DCM)
Izzio is a slice of artisanal heaven nestled in the heart of Denver Central Market. If you love freshly baked pastries and bread, this is a must-visit. The aroma of artisanal bread and pastries fills the air, creating a sensory experience that is hard to forget. We recommend trying their famous flaky croissant and taking a few rustic loafs back home.
Temper Chocolates & Confections, DCM
Temper Chocolates & Confections is an artisanal chocolate shop offering handcrafted truffles, delicate bonbons, and rich chocolate bars. With a wide variety of flavors to choose from, it can be hard to decide which ones to pick. Plus, it’s great for gifting as you can create personalized chocolate boxes.
Notchtop Bakery & Cafe, Estes Park
Located in the charming town of Estes Park, Notchtop Bakery & Cafe is a mountain retreat for gastronomes. With a menu that boasts comfort food with a creative twist, this café is the perfect spot to refuel after exploring the Rockies. From hearty sandwiches to delectable pastries, each bite reflects the rustic charm of the surrounding landscape. We highly recommend trying their signature burritos and breakfast plates.
One Love Rum Kitchen, Grand Lake
One Love Rum Kitchen offers a unique dining experience, serving vibrant flavors and hues inspired by the Caribbean. This eatery will transport you to a tropical haven amid the Rockies, where you can savor island-style dishes and sip on refreshing cocktails while basking in the tranquil beauty of Grand Lake. If you’re looking for a mouthwatering dish to try, Coconut Rum Chicken is highly recommended. It boasts zesty flavors and comes with delectable sides such as plantain fritters.
Our culinary journey through Denver was quite adventurous and satisfying. We loved the freshness, diversity, and value for money these restaurants offered. Add these restaurants to your list if you are visiting Denver. And check out my itinerary, where I cover all the best spots in and around Denver.
Bonus Food and Brewery Tour Recommendations
If you are looking for more fun food and brewery tours in and around the city, here are some that we recommend.
- There are several DIY beer trails in and around Denver you can try. Check out the list of all local breweries you can visit and enjoy a fun evening.
- If you want to take this to another level, try the Bike Bar. It is a mobile bar, which you can drive around while enjoying a drink.
- Explore the culinary side of RiNo with this 3-hour-long walking food tour, sampling delicious food and craft drinks.
- Wines taste better at a higher elevation, and what better place than the Mile-high-city to go on a wine-tasting tour?
