Denver, CO Restaurant Guide
There’s more to the mile-high city than bison, beer and bud. Denver is the home to world-class restaurants, an active, healthy population and hip, developing urban neighborhoods. A city started by one of those popular 19th century trends, gold rushes, Denver exploded in size and population following World War II, thanks to its proximity to energy companies and its position near important rail lines. Denver restaurants now have adopted the pioneering spirit of the area and the creative approach to problem solving, using easier to find proteins like Bison and venison throughout their menus, but also using local foraging for mushrooms, edible plants and more.
Because Denver was so isolated at its inception, it has a self-reliant spirit that shines in its culinary history as well. For example, when settlers first arrived one of the first things they did, of course, was open two breweries. Now, the city is home to nearly 150 breweries, and the state is home to over 400, with the most recognizable ones being Coors in Golden, CO, Blue Moon in Denver, and New Belgium Brewing in Fort Collins. But if you’re a true hop head, you know the best brews come from craft microbreweries, and Denver’s got some of the best in the state, including Great Divide Brewing Co., Oasis Brewery and more! Find all of them in our official Denver brewery guide.
Modern Denver may be best known for its very healthy lifestyle. Based on research from the ACSM American Fitness Index, Denver is the fourth fittest city in the United States. In fact, according to the study, 82% of Denverites exercised within the last thirty days. That kind of healthy approach to life is reflected in the incredible healthy restaurant options available to folks in Denver. You can learn more by checking our our lists focused on Denver’s best salads, Keto-friendly restaurants, Vegetarian restaurants, and Vegan restaurants!
A healthy lifestyle and spending time outdoors often go hand in hand, and Denver is no exception. In fact, Denver residents spend nearly $2.1 billion a year on outdoor activities like skiing, mountain climbing, hiking and more. Since we know folks in Denver love spending time outside, we’ve put together lists focused on some of the best outdoor dining in Denver, the best dog friendly restaurants, the best places to eat near Coors Field, and more.
We can’t ignore the other thing Denver has a reputation for – a thriving recreational marijuana industry. As one of the first states in the country to allow legal, recreational marijuana, the restaurant industry is surely an ancillary beneficent – especially if you know how to make indulgent, gotta-eat-that-right-now food. We’ve covered a few places to get the perfect munchie, including bakeries, dessert options and other sweets you’re searching for.
Of course, breakfast can be one of your most indulgent meals of the day, too and in Denver there’s a number of GREAT options – especially for those enjoying a little wake and bake. We cover a few of our favorite breakfast spots – including where to get a famous Denver Omelette! The classic Denver omelette is a perfectly savory breakfast bite – ham, peppers and onions and cheddar or another cheese of your liking. We look for the best Denver omelette in Denver, along with banging brunches, breakfast and more.
Finally, we can’t talk about Denver without talking about its dynamic neighborhoods. With a large millennial and Get Z population in Denver, neighborhoods throughout the area are seeing economic and culinary revitalizations in ways they haven’t seen for decades. We cover a few of those, along with classic Denver neighborhoods like Lone Tree, Park Meadows, Highland Ranch, Tech Center and others. Find them all in our guides!
The Best THC and Weed-Friendly Bars and Restaurants in Denver, CO
Denver is all about altitude. Nothing helps you reach the boundless heights of the city quite like Denver’s best THC-infused and weed-friendly bars and restaurants. Are you wondering where you can legally use cannabis and THC products in Denver? Check out these eight bars, social clubs, and nightclubs where the Rocky Mountain high is welcomed.
7 Best Gay Bars and Queer Spaces in Denver, CO
Whatever you’re looking for in Denver, you’re sure to find. This city has it all from the great outdoors to awesome restaurants and bars. We did some searching and found some of the most fun gay bars in the area, too. So if you’re looking for a safe space to be yourself, be sure to check out our list with 7 gay bars and LGBTQ+ friendly spots around Denver, CO.
Study or Work Remotely at These 11 Coffee Shops in Denver, CO
Where can you achieve peak caffeine consumption in the Rocky Mountains? Getting out of the house to focus on work or studies can get the productivity juices flowing. A coffee shop offers the perfect place to bury your head in a book or laptop. Luckily, Denver is full of great study spots and places to work remotely that also happen to serve fragrant, alluring coffees and teas. These 11 Denver coffee shops are the best for brews and brainstorming!
Where to Eat Near Ball Arena in Denver, CO (Updated May 2023)
Nothing is better than grabbing some bites and pints after cheering on the Denver Nuggets, the Colorado Avalanche, or your favorite musical act at Ball Arena! Located on Denver’s main thoroughfare in downtown, Ball Arena is a quick sprint away from many of the city’s best restaurants. We’ve compiled a list of the eight best places to eat near Ball Arena in Denver, CO.
First Date Ideas That Don’t Totally Suck in Denver, CO
Whether you’re looking to make a lasting first impression or keep it fun and relaxed, there are some incredible places to go for first dates throughout Denver. From spots where you can play games to just sit at the bar and enjoy each other’s company, we have just the place! Check out our list of places to go on a first date in Denver, CO.
The Very Best Women-Owned Restaurants in Denver, CO
The restaurant biz has long been a male-dominated industry, but women-owned restaurants are on the rise in Denver and throughout the country! When you want to experience delicious food and support the talented women in the restaurant industry, we have just the spots for you. You’ll eat well and have an unforgettable experience from start to finish. Check out our list of fabulous women-owned restaurants in Denver, CO below!
11 of the Top Bakeries in Denver
If you want a sweet treat with a piping hot cup of Java, then you need to check out the best bakeries in Denver. When you’re looking for donuts, cupcakes, brownies, sandwiches, and drinks aplenty, you won’t be disappointed. Whether your tastebuds dance for a decadent Italian Tiramisu, French Crème Brulé, or some gooey American dessert, this list will help you find the right place.
The Ultimate Guide To Dog-Friendly Restaurants and Bars in Denver
Denver is one of the most pet-friendly cities with plenty of eateries that will cater to you and your dog. With many places having patios and spacious dog parks, you are sure to find a restaurant or pub where you can sit with your dog and enjoy a great meal. There are also dog menus to ensure your furry friend is well fed. This is our list of the best Dog-friendly Restaurants in Denver.
The Absolute Best Late Night Dining Options in Denver, CO
Denver is an amazing city with so much to see and do. When you find yourself exploring the Mile High City late at night, you need a place to eat that keeps its kitchen into the late night hours! And luckily, there are quite a few late-night dining options in Denver. Check out some of our favorites so you can enjoy delicious food, even after other restaurants have closed.
Cheap (But Fun!) Date Night Ideas in Denver, CO
It is easy to get comfortable in your relationship, but it is important to spice things up sometimes and still go out for a date night whether you’ve been together for 5 months or 5 years. However, going out every weekend can get pretty pricey if you’re not careful. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some fun date night ideas that won’t break the bank when you wanna go out with your hunny in Denver, CO!
15 Fantastic Mexican Restaurants in Denver
If you plan on visiting Denver soon, you’ll likely want to check a few great places to eat. These restaurants offer some of the best Mexican food Denver has to offer, along with fun, upbeat atmospheres, and cocktails that are just as delicious as the food.
12 Of The Very Best Restaurants In Highlands Ranch, CO
Beautiful Highlands Ranch, Colorado is just south of Denver and has so many wonderful attractions that bring people in, from near and far. Whether you’re just in the area for a bit before you head back home to Denver, or you traveled here from across the country, there’s tons to do. The area is known for its parks, biking trails, and really just the gorgeous scenery. So when you’re done enjoying nature, stop in to one of these restaurants for a refreshing drink and something really tasty to eat. We’ve got you covered from Chinese food to breweries! Cheers.
When you’re a mile high and looking to munch on something mouthwatering, you’re lucky to be in Denver. That’s because you can find world-class dishes without having to travel too far. So whether you’re chomping on chilaquiles in Cheesman Park or dining on dim sum Downtown, there’s something for everybody in The Mile High City!