Why Denver's Dining Scene Is Unforgettable

[Nick Marr]

Wally Gobetz

There are a lot of things to love about Colorado's capital and largest city. Its setting alone is an awe-inspiring one, in the shadow of the soaring Rocky Mountains - your first time seeing the Mile-High City in the distance as you approach is one that you will never forget. And once you're here there's is also a lot to see and do, from attractions and culture to nightlife (a seemingly endless array of bars, pubs, clubs, and music venues) and sports (with local football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and hockey teams).

Denver is also a paradise for foodies, with many, many dining options including a truly impressive menu of cuisines from the region and around the world, and at a wide range of price points.

 

4 Signature Foods for Which Denver Is Known

 
It's about 436 miles (a 6½-hour drive) from the Colorado border to Mexico, and this closeness means Denver can boast some of the USA's top Mexican cuisine. In fact, a number of local twists on Mexican food have become culinary icons here, such as:

The Smothered Mexican Hamburger

A beef patty is covered with beans and melted cheese, then wrapped up in a tortilla and given a healthy dousing of spicy green chili sauce.

The Elk Jalapeño Cheddar Dog

Yes, made from elk, and usually topped with the likes of tomatillo green salsa, caramelized onions, and cream cheese.

The Smothered Breakfast Burrito

A soft tortilla stuffed with eggs and cubed potatoes, then slathered with the iconic green chile sauce Denver is famous for.

Rocky Mountain Oysters

Deep fried bull testicles (top) have become one of the most iconic local foods. It might not be for the faint of heart but it is definitely worth a try if you are an adventurous eater!

Wally Gobetz
 

4 Can't-Miss Restaurants

Denver has more than 3,000 restaurants, and it's hard to choose just a handful of "musts" - so this is my subjective top quartet. For a more complete listing, check out this one from local Yelp. 

Biker Jim's Gourmet Dogs

With two locations and several food carts popular with both locals and visitors, the home of the aforementioned Elk Jalapeño Cheddar Dog (above) also specializes in dogs made from other less common meats including rabbit, boar, bison, and pheasant, but also the exotic likes of rattlesnake, and ostrich. But they've also got vegan, gluten-free, and kosher options!

Cuba Cuba Café & Bar

Marking 20 years in a charming old house in the heart of Denver, its tasty Cuban fare and rum-drinks list is served on a cozy open-air and covered patio with cool artwork and lighting. The food is top-notch, with classics such as lechón asado (pork with garlic sauce), vaca frita (fried shredded beef), and ropa vieja (shredded beef in a light, slightly sweet tomato-based sauce. And of course plenty of mojitos!

Otra Vez Cantina

A very popular, upscale but casual Mexican in downtown Denver, it's located in pedestrian shopping area 16th Street Mall and so is a great place to stop in while on a shopping outing or downtown sightseeing. Some might say it's a little pricy, but the food is consistently great and the atmosphere always festive and high energy. Diners can choose between a beautiful rustic wood dining room and a cozy outsite patio
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El Taco de México

This truly special taqueria has been in business since 1985 and has earned the distinction of being named an "American classic" by the James Beard Foundation. The menu is a familiar one, with delicious tacos, burritos, and tortas; the ambiance is no-frills and the service is indifferent, but it's the out-of-this-world quality that really makes El Taco de Mexico a can't-miss dining experience.