Introduction
Remember those nights? The clinking glasses, the lively chatter, the easy camaraderie – all fueled by perfectly mixed cocktails and…well, usually some questionable nachos. But Denver’s bar scene is leveling up, tossing those tired tropes aside like a discarded lime wedge. Forget greasy pub grub; we’re talking culinary masterpieces crafted to perfectly complement your pint. From innovative takes on classic bar fare to dishes that rival some of the city’s top restaurants, Denver is raising the bar (pun intended) for what we expect from a night out. Gone are the days when bar food was an afterthought; now, it’s a destination in itself.
Denver boasts a diverse and exciting bar food scene, offering everything from upscale takes on classic pub fare to innovative culinary creations that rival some of the city’s best restaurants. This article highlights some of the best spots to enjoy delicious food alongside your favorite drinks, proving that Denver’s bars are serving up far more than just liquid refreshment. If you are looking for the best bar food Denver has to offer, then prepare to be delighted.
Classic Pub Fare, Elevated
There’s a reason why burgers, wings, and fries remain bar staples: they’re comforting, satisfying, and go perfectly with a cold beer. But the places that truly excel elevate these classics beyond the ordinary. They source the best ingredients, employ expert cooking techniques, and add a touch of creativity that makes all the difference. These aren’t just your average pub meals; they’re culinary experiences disguised as familiar favorites.
Take, for example, The Cherry Cricket, a Denver institution. Their burgers are legendary, and for good reason. They start with perfectly ground, locally sourced beef, cooked to your exact specifications (medium-rare, please!). The toppings are where things get interesting. Forget just lettuce and tomato; The Cherry Cricket offers a dizzying array of cheeses, sauces, and toppings, from roasted green chiles to peanut butter (yes, really!). The toasted buns are the perfect vessel for this culinary masterpiece. Each burger is priced reasonably and will fill you up for the rest of the night. It is easy to see why they consistently top “best of” lists when talking about best bar food Denver has to offer.
Then there’s Blake Street Tavern, where the wings are king. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill, sauced-up wings. Blake Street Tavern takes their wing game seriously. They offer a variety of flavors, from classic buffalo to spicy Korean BBQ to dry-rubbed Cajun. The wings are perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The secret? They’re smoked before being fried, adding a depth of flavor you won’t find anywhere else. They have different specials on wings nights, so you’ll want to come prepared to enjoy some of the best wings you’ve ever had.
Don’t let the unassuming name fool you. The Nacho House serves some of the best nachos in town. Start with a pile of crispy, homemade tortilla chips, then load them with your choice of toppings: seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or black beans. Then comes the cheese – a molten cascade of their secret cheese sauce that’s rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible. Pile on the pico de gallo, sour cream, guacamole, and jalapeños, and you’ve got a mountain of cheesy, delicious goodness. These are nachos that demand to be shared (or devoured solo – we won’t judge).
What makes these establishments stand out? It’s the unwavering commitment to quality. They aren’t cutting corners; they’re investing in the best ingredients and the most skilled chefs. They understand that even the simplest dish can be extraordinary with a little care and attention. So, if you’re looking for classic pub fare done right, these are the places to start. You will find that the best bar food Denver has is found when these classics are done well.
Gastropubs and Upscale Bar Bites
Denver’s gastropub scene is thriving, offering a more refined dining experience that perfectly complements the city’s craft beer culture. These establishments blur the line between restaurant and bar, serving up creative, chef-driven menus that showcase local and seasonal ingredients. Forget the limited appetizer selection; these places offer a full culinary journey.
The Cooper Lounge, perched atop Union Station, offers an elegant atmosphere and a menu of sophisticated bar bites. Their charcuterie boards are a work of art, featuring a curated selection of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and house-made accompaniments. Each board is carefully assembled, with an emphasis on flavor pairings and visual appeal. The cheeses are sourced from local farms, the meats are expertly cured, and the accompaniments, like fig jam and pickled vegetables, are made in-house. Pair it with a glass of wine and enjoy the view.
For something a bit more adventurous, head over to Stoic & Genuine, also in Union Station. While known for their oysters, their menu offers a surprising number of delicious plates that could easily satisfy your hunger. If oysters aren’t your thing, the fried fish tacos are a must-try. Lightly battered cod, crisp vegetables, a spicy aioli and a freshly squeezed lime wedge come together to make something special. The quality of the fish is excellent, and the other ingredients enhance the taste and provide a wonderful texture.
Then there’s the unforgettable experience that awaits you at Williams & Graham, a speakeasy located in the Highland neighborhood. Their small plates are designed for sharing and exploring a wide range of flavors. Think crispy pork belly with a maple-bourbon glaze, seared scallops with brown butter and cauliflower purée, or grilled octopus with chorizo and smoked paprika. These aren’t just appetizers; they’re miniature works of art, showcasing the chef’s creativity and skill.
These gastropubs offer more than just good food; they offer an experience. The ambiance is sophisticated, the service is attentive, and the menus are designed to impress. They are perfect for a special occasion or a night out when you want to treat yourself to something a little bit special. They show you what best bar food Denver can be.
Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Favorites
Sometimes, the best food is found in the most unexpected places. Denver is full of hidden gems – unassuming bars tucked away in quiet neighborhoods that serve up exceptional food without the fanfare. These places are often overlooked, but they’re worth seeking out for their unique flavors, friendly atmosphere, and unbeatable value. The next time you are looking for best bar food Denver has, don’t be afraid to stray from the typical, trendy destinations.
Start with Park Burger. It’s known for, you guessed it, amazing burgers, but it’s so much more than just a burger joint. Their menu features a variety of creative and delicious burgers, from the classic Park Burger with cheddar cheese and bacon to the spicy Green Chile Cheeseburger with roasted green chiles and pepper jack cheese. They make a mean milkshake, as well! They are reasonably priced and always cooked with the freshest ingredients.
For a true neighborhood experience, head to My Brother’s Bar. This place is a Denver institution, serving up delicious and unpretentious food since 1890. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the menu is full of classic pub fare with a few surprises thrown in. Their daily specials are always a hit, and their burgers are legendary. The Johnny Burger, a burger topped with cream cheese and jalapeno is a must-try.
Don’t miss out on The Atomic Cowboy. This place has great specials all the time. They’re known for their pizza, a light and crispy square-pan pie that is cut up into squares. They also have fantastic salads, sides, and even brunch options! This place is popular with the college crowd, but has enough appeal to keep anyone coming back for more.
What makes these hidden gems so special? It’s the combination of delicious food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere. They’re the kind of places where you can relax, unwind, and feel like a local, even if you’re just visiting. These bars represent the heart and soul of Denver’s culinary scene.
Bar Food Trends in Denver
Denver’s bar food scene is constantly evolving, with new trends emerging all the time. One of the biggest trends is the focus on local sourcing and farm-to-table practices. Many bars are partnering with local farms and producers to source the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. This not only supports the local economy but also ensures that the food is as delicious and sustainable as possible. If you are looking for the best bar food Denver has, then be sure to research and see where the different bars source their ingredients.
Another trend is the rise of vegan and vegetarian options. With an increasing number of people adopting plant-based diets, bars are responding by offering a wider range of vegan and vegetarian dishes. From vegan burgers and pizzas to plant-based tacos and appetizers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Global flavors and influences are also making their way onto Denver’s bar menus. From Korean fried chicken to Vietnamese banh mi to Mexican street corn, bars are drawing inspiration from cuisines around the world. This adds a unique and exciting element to the dining experience.
Finally, craft cocktails are playing an increasingly important role in Denver’s bar food scene. Bars are creating innovative and complex cocktails that pair perfectly with their food menus. From classic cocktails with a modern twist to original creations made with local spirits and ingredients, the cocktail scene in Denver is thriving. Bars are paying more attention to pairing their food with their drinks. The next time you are out on the town, be sure to ask what some of the best pairings are!
Conclusion
Denver’s bar food scene is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. From classic pub fare elevated to new heights to upscale bar bites that rival some of the city’s best restaurants, there’s something for every palate and every budget. Don’t settle for mediocre nachos and greasy wings; venture out and discover the amazing food that Denver’s bars have to offer.
So, the next time you’re looking for a great night out, don’t just think about the drinks. Think about the food. Explore the bars mentioned in this article, discover your own favorite spots, and experience the deliciousness that Denver’s bar food scene has to offer. After reading this, you now have a great starting point when looking for the best bar food Denver has. After your journey is over, you’ll see that experiencing Denver’s bar food is a great way to explore the city’s culinary landscape and discover the vibrant and diverse flavors that make Denver such a special place to eat and drink. Happy eating!
