Best Restaurants in Denver: What to Eat in Denver and Where to Find It

Stop spending hours trying to find the right places - we will have a local expert build you a guide to all the best Chicago gems!

Denver’s culinary scene is a vibrant fusion of old-west charm, modern innovation, and culturally diverse flavors. With an ever-growing array of restaurants, food trucks, breweries, and cafes popping up all over town, deciding exactly what to eat in Denver can feel like an overwhelming task. Whether you’re craving hearty comfort dishes or innovative culinary creations, narrowing down your choices isn't always straightforward—especially when every spot claims to have the best offerings in town.

Quit spending hours and hours of research - we will have a local expert build you a guide to Denver that is just for you helping narrow in on just the right spots for you and your trip!

Rocky Mountain Oyster Adventures

Oysters in Denver? Yes seriously! We can help you find the best oysters for a perfect night out!

When it comes to unique local specialties, Rocky Mountain oysters stand out as one of Denver’s most intriguing culinary experiences. Despite the name, these deep-fried bull testicles are a beloved delicacy and an adventurous rite of passage for visitors and locals alike. Trying them for the first time can be both exciting and daunting, making it essential to pick the right spot for your oyster adventure.

Top Rocky Mountain Oyster Spots:

  • Buckhorn Exchange: Denver’s oldest restaurant, offering Rocky Mountain oysters alongside wild game and classic dishes in a historical setting.

  • The Fort: Located in nearby Morrison, The Fort serves these local delicacies in an authentic western atmosphere.

  • Bruce's Bar: Famous for its Rocky Mountain oysters, Bruce's Bar provides a laid-back environment perfect for first-timers and seasoned oyster enthusiasts alike.

Green Chile Glory

Denver has some of the best green chile in the US!

While oysters offer an adventurous taste of Denver, nothing says Colorado cuisine quite like green chile. This flavorful, spicy stew made from green chilies and pork is practically a staple, often enjoyed smothering burritos, fries, or simply eaten by the bowl. Finding the best green chile in Denver is a heated debate that spans generations.

Top Green Chile Spots:

  • Santiago's Mexican Restaurant: Known city-wide for its spicy, addictive chile and mouthwatering breakfast burritos.

  • Sam's No. 3: A historic diner known for hearty dishes, featuring an iconic green chile perfect for breakfast or brunch.

  • El Taco de Mexico: Renowned for authentic Mexican cuisine, serving one of the most flavorful and spicy green chile in town.

Exploring Denver's Neighborhood Eats

Beyond just cuisines, there are so many great neighborhoods!

Denver’s culinary delights are as diverse as its neighborhoods. Each area brings its unique flavor, and knowing where to start can be tricky, especially for first-time visitors.

Top Neighborhoods for First-Timers:

  • RiNo (River North Art District): Known for its trendy vibe, street art, food halls, and craft breweries.

  • LoDo (Lower Downtown): The bustling center of the city, offering rooftop dining, upscale steakhouses, and trendy eateries.

  • The Highlands: A charming mix of historic ambiance and modern dining, home to cozy cafés, innovative restaurants, and inviting cocktail bars.

Your Personal Culinary Guide to Denver

Get a fully personalized guide to Denver - All built just for you!

 

With such a wide range of dining choices, knowing exactly where to eat can be overwhelming. That's why we've created expertly crafted, personalized guides to Denver’s best restaurants—tailored specifically to your tastes and itinerary. From Rocky Mountain oysters to the city's iconic green chile, our guides ensure every meal in Denver is memorable.

Meet Your Guide: Haley Paez from Mile High and Hungry

There's no better way to navigate Denver’s dining scene than with expert insights from Haley Paez of Mile High and Hungry. Haley is a passionate local foodie and social media influencer dedicated to showcasing Denver’s vibrant culinary landscape. With engaging storytelling and genuine enthusiasm, she shares hidden gems, trendy hotspots, and iconic dishes that define Denver's food culture. From longstanding favorites to innovative new eateries, Haley's recommendations help you taste the very best of the Mile High City.

Discover Your Delicious Denver Adventure

With Haley’s handpicked recommendations, your culinary journey through Denver will be both authentic and stress-free. Forget endless internet scrolling and questionable reviews; Haley’s personalized picks make it easy to dive straight into the best Denver has to offer. From oyster adventures to green chile delights and beyond, let our guide be your ticket to experiencing Denver like a local.

Start Your Denver Food Journey Today

Ready to eat your way through the Mile High City? Dive into our expert-curated guide to the best restaurants in Denver and discover exactly what you've been missing. Your taste buds will thank you!

Andrew Lukas

Hey! I’m the head of product at Welcome Compass. I have deep experience in the hospitality and tech industries and love to write about them. Message me anytime!

Andrew@welcomecompass.com

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Best Restaurants in Chicago: What to Eat in Chicago and Where to Find It