Skip to main content
Weather Update

“Storms make trees take deeper roots. So the next time there's a hurricane in Orlando, come to Pigeon Forge.” — probably Dolly Parton

Where are you going?
Mar 4 - Mar 6 1 Room, 2 Guest
Rooms & Guests 1 Room, 1 Guest
Special Rates
Special Rates
SAVE ON EVERY STAY

Best Restaurants in Denver to Try

Denver's culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, with restaurants spanning family-owned diners that have served the community for generations, innovative craft brewpubs, international flavors, and everything in between. Whether you are looking for a hearty breakfast before a day of outdoor adventure, a quick lunch on the go, or a memorable dinner after a game at Coors Field, the restaurants in Denver on this list have something to satisfy every craving.

Red Roof® has rounded up the best restaurants in Denver to help you eat well throughout your stay. From Greek-inspired classics and New York-style pizza to Argentinian empanadas and Vietnamese bánh mì, food in Denver covers a remarkable range of flavors and experiences.

Plan your stay at redroof.com and come hungry.

A person eating food at a table
A sandwich with vegetables and meat on it
A pizza with pepperoni and mushrooms on a black plate

Denver's Standout Dining Spots

Meat on a skewer with lemons and tomatoes

Sam's No. 3

Opened in 1927 by Greece-born Sam Armatas and now in its third generation of family ownership, Sam's No. 3 is one of Denver's most beloved and enduring restaurants. The extensive menu features over 100 Greek-inspired dishes, including the handheld spero burrito, tater-tot mac and cheese, and souvlaki sandwich, alongside a full coffee bar and all-day breakfast, lunch, and dinner service.

Close up of a cheeseburger

The Cherry Cricket

Proudly serving Denver since 1945, The Cherry Cricket is a classic burger joint with neon lights, arcade games, and leather booths creating a blast-from-the-past atmosphere. The build-your-own burger menu features an extensive selection of toppings, sauces, and sides, with beloved classics like mac and cheese, chicken tenders, and milkshakes rounding out the menu.

A group of tacos on a wooden board

Cozy Cottage

One of the last standing restaurants on Historic Tennyson Street in downtown Denver, Cozy Cottage serves home-cooked style breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks. Recipes passed down through generations include the famous green chili, slow-roasted carnitas, and bluebird benedict. A large dog-friendly patio open year-round makes it one of the most accommodating restaurants in Denver for pet owners.

A plate of food on a table

Postino LoHi

A wine bar and bistro in the LoHi neighborhood designed to bring people together over good food and wine, Postino LoHi focuses on shareable items like bruschetta, cheese boards, and charcuterie at affordable prices. The inviting and easy-going atmosphere makes it a natural spot to linger over a long lunch or a post-dinner nightcap.

A group of chocolate chip cookies

Denver Biscuit Co.

Located inside Atomic Cowboy, Denver Biscuit Co. offers baked-from-scratch breakfast and lunch items featuring Biscuit French toast, Biscuit Pot Pie, sandwiches, plates, sides, and sweets. The signature giant biscuit cinnamon roll is an absolute must-try and one of the most comforting foods in Denver experiences available.

A bowl of food with rice and meat

Bourbon Grill

A quick and convenient stop for hearty Southern-inspired classics with a fresh twist, Bourbon Grill offers a take-out window for food on the go alongside indoor table seating. Bourbon chicken, mac and cheese, and Cajun wings are among the most popular menu items.

A plate of food with a dip and a bowl of sauce

Pete's Kitchen

A Denver landmark since 1942 in the Capitol Hill neighborhood near City Park, Pete's Kitchen is a family-owned 24-hour diner serving classic comfort food and Greek-inspired dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at any hour. The unpretentious and welcoming atmosphere makes it one of the most beloved restaurants in Denver.

A piece of steak with salt and rosemary on a black surface

Denver Chophouse and Brewery

Situated right next to Coors Field, Denver Chophouse and Brewery is the ideal dinner destination after a day at the ballgame. The menu spans salads and sides to seafood and steak, with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options available, and in-house brewed beers available to pair with any dish.

A plate of food on a table

Maria Empanada

Started by native Argentinian Lorena Cantarovici and grown into a multi-location Denver institution, Maria Empanada offers over 10 types of empanada fillings, including meat and vegetarian options, alongside signature dipping sauces and cold beverages. Breakfast and dessert empanadas are also available.

A sandwich on a table

Vinh Xuong Bakery

A family-owned Vietnamese bakery and sandwich shop offering bánh mì sandwiches, moon cakes, sesame balls, Vietnamese coffee, and fresh smoothies, Vinh Xuong Bakery is a quick-counter ordering spot perfect for a satisfying lunch while exploring the city.

Two hot dogs with ketchup and mustard

Biker Jim's Gourmet Dogs

Going well beyond the classic hot dog, Biker Jim's Gourmet Dogs offers innovative menu items made from boar, veal, ostrich, rattlesnake, and jackalope alongside creative gourmet topping combinations. Sides, including fries, salad, and mac and cheese, round out one of the most distinctive restaurants in Denver.

A plate of salad with a fork

MAD Greens Salads

With over a dozen locations across Denver and a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, MAD Greens Salads is one of the most accessible spots for healthy food in Denver. Custom salads, grain bowls, signature wraps, and tasty macs are all on the menu.

A plate of meat and eggs

Red Rooster Café

Located in Denver's Berkeley neighborhood, the Red Rooster Café makes all of its food from scratch for home-cooked style dining. Breakfast classics like omelets, steak and eggs, and waffles are available alongside burgers, sandwiches, and salads for lunch and dinner. Generous portions make it one of the most satisfying restaurants in Denver.

A close up of a pizza

Fat Sully's Pizza

Located next to Denver Biscuit Company inside Atomic Cowboy, Fat Sully's Pizza serves massive, foldable New York-style slices by the slice or pie with fresh toppings. Salads and sides round out the menu at one of the most authentic and satisfying restaurants in Denver for pizza lovers.

A group of people eating food

Denver Central Market

A 12,000-square-foot market in the heart of the RiNo neighborhood housing 11 vendors under one roof, Denver Central Market offers everything from fresh-baked pizza and healthy salads to artisan cheese, fresh fish, chocolates, and ice cream. A communal dining area with indoor and outdoor seating makes it perfect for groups and solo diners alike.

A plate of food on a table

Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

A modern breakfast spot dedicated to making every morning feel like the weekend, Snooze elevates classic breakfast dishes with unique toppings and creative takes. Signature dishes include the crab and asparagus omelet, bravacado toast, and snooze breakfast burrito, alongside hot coffees and cocktails.

A piece of meat on a cutting board

Wynkoop Brewing Company

Denver's first post-prohibition downtown brewpub, opening in 1988, Wynkoop Brewing Company crafts more than 40 beer styles from classic lagers to experimental signatures like their Rocky Mountain Oyster Stout. A brewery, restaurant, and event space with pool tables and live comedy in the basement make it one of the most complete restaurants in Denver.

A plate of spaghetti with sauce and basil

Anthony's Pizza and Pasta

A local chain with over 23 locations across the Front Range offering New York-style pizza made with pure Italian olive oil, house-made dough, and hand-shredded mozzarella, Anthony's Pizza and Pasta serves fresh foldable slices, customizable pies, pasta, salads, and subs.

A plate of food on a table

Illegal Pete's

With multiple locations and a strong community-focused ethos, Illegal Pete's is a popular Denver staple for fresh pub fare with fully customizable burritos, bowls, tacos, and salads. Pre-made classics, including Baja fish tacos, hand-rolled taquitos, and smothered burritos, are also available.

A sandwich on a plate

Snarf's Sandwiches

A casual sandwich joint with convenient locations across Denver, Snarf's Sandwiches serves oven-toasted sandwiches, fresh salads, and hearty soups made with house-baked bread, hand-chopped vegetables, and premium meats. Staff favorites from the off-menu selection, including the buffalo chicken sandwich and Italian supreme, are worth asking about.