Mile High Cuisine: Where to Eat in Denver

More than 31 million people came to Denver in 2021, and it's fair to assume that many more visitors are planning trips to experience the city’s thriving food scene.

Denver regards itself as one of the finest locations for foodies in the whole of the US, with restaurants to satisfy every taste and budget. Find out more about how you can experience the best of the Mile High City’s culinary options with our essential guide.

Get the Foodie Experience with a Food Tour

It’s no secret that Denver is full of great restaurants to visit. If you’re planning on stopping by for this reason alone, consider booking a food tour. There are numerous companies that offer walking tours for visitors who want to try as much as possible in a shorter timeframe.

But keep in mind that you’ll be spoiled for choice, so do your research before booking. There are tours which focus on fine dining, craft breweries, indie bakeries, ghost pubs and much more. Not only will you be sampling a variety of flavors and locations, but you’ll also see more of the city as you move between each culinary highlight. 

Civic Center EATS

Denver is home to a thriving food truck scene. Head down to Denver’s Civic Center Park on Thursdays, from May to September each year to experience what’s best described as a gourmet's dream. Sit in the open air and enjoy all types of food while taking in gorgeous views and listening to music from talented local artists in the lively heart of downtown Denver.

Can't-Miss Eateries

Here are two cult locations that you should tick off your bucket list during your foodie pilgrimage across the city.

Root Down

Root Down, located on West 33rd Avenue, is a converted old gas station with retro chic decor and an unbeatable view of the Denver skyline. It's famous for its ’field to fork’ philosophy and responsibly sourced ingredients – 50% of all ingredients are sourced from Colorado.

Root Down uses these organic, natural, local foods to create its signature dishes such as spiced ricotta gnocchi or the tender Colorado lamb burger. Root Down also offers gluten-free and vegan options for many dishes on the menu.

54thirty Rooftop

Go even higher in the Mile High City at Denver’s highest rooftop bar, 54thirty. Unparalleled views elevate the senses as you tuck into a rotating seasonal menu of small plates and delicious deserts to share.

Reservations aren’t taken, so get there early or be prepared to wait as visitors are welcomed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Hidden Treasures

With so many great options to sate your appetite in Denver, it can be easy to miss some of the hidden favorites among locals. Keep your eyes open for these two highlights.

Williams & Graham

This speakeasy-themed bar will require a keen eye to find. From the outside, the seemingly simple bookstore on Tejon Street opens up to unveil a traditional and cozy bar. Take a seat in the lovingly-crafted interior and experience a surprisingly diverse menu of global favorites, from French onion soup to the award-winning W&G burger.

The W&G menu changes seasonally, so expect something new to try with each visit.

El Taco de Mexico

El Taco de Mexico on Santa Fe Drive is a simple, family-run restaurant that has been making a grand impression with its food for over 35 years. The small, canary yellow building looks like something you might see across the border, and once you're inside, you’ll find a menu written predominantly in Spanish hung above the counter alongside a few booths and bar stools.

From tacos and burritos to filling all-day breakfasts, serving authentic Mexican food is the restaurant’s main goal and it doesn’t disappoint.

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