There’s just no doubt about it. There are certain things that Denverites crave when hunger (or thirst) strikes them. Locals love to indulge in these familiar feasts, and visitors can’t wait to try them. From mountain-sized pizza to anything smothered in green chile, the Mile High City has a few particular menu items that top their list of favorites. So, if there’s anything on the list of 9 tried and true foods and beverages listed below that you haven’t tried yet, make a point of getting out there and experiencing a little taste of Denver. You definitely won’t regret it.
1. A slice of mountain pie.
Sure, you can get a slice of pizza just about anywhere. But, after experiencing the deliciousness of Beau Jo's massive mountain pies, you'll never look at another pizza the same. It's hard to compete with hearty pizzas sold by the pound that truly hold a "mountain" of toppings." Trust me, there's no skimpy slices at Beau Jo's. Don't forget to give your pizza crust that signature dip into honey that really takes their pizza to the next level.
2. Order your breakfast wrapped up in a warm tortilla.
Breakfast Burritos are definitely a thing in Denver. So much so, that the mayor recently named October 14th the official, "Breakfast Burrito Day" for the Mile High City. But, most locals would argue that the breakfast burrito pictured above is definitely missing a crucial ingredient.
3. You have to get it smothered in green chile.
Here in Denver, we are very fond of our beloved green chile and it seems nearly every restaurant offers it ladled on everything from burgers to fries, or served straight up with a tortilla.
4. Palisade Peaches: They're ripe, sweet, and loaded with chin-dripping juice.
Once you sink your teeth into a juicy Palisade Peach, you will definitely taste the difference that locals love about Colorado's most precious piece of fruit. You can find these delicious peaches, that are grown in the fruit basket of Colorado, at local farmer's markets, roadside stands, and at some grocery stores.
5. Rocky Mountain Oysters: a Colorado delicacy.
No, this iconic dish does not come from the ocean. With other nicknames including prairie oysters, calf fries, and cowboy caviar, you will soon discover that Rocky Mountain Oysters are, in fact, bull testicles that have been sliced, battered, and deep fried. Locals like to have a taste of them at some classic Denver eateries including The Buckhorn Exchange and The Fort Restaurant. You can even grab an order at Coors Field while you take in a Rockies game. It just doesn't get much more "Denver" than that.
6. Some of our meat selections may test how adventurous of an appetite you have (as if the Rocky Mountain Oysters weren't crazy enough).
Denver serves up some unbeatable wild game dishes and you should definitely indulge. We're talking bison, elk, quail, and even rattlesnake. Again, The Fort and The Buckhorn Exchange are wonderful and historical restaurants to order these Denver dishes.
7. A pile of pancakes that is worth the wait.
Locals dream of the deliciousness that awaits them at Snooze as they sleep walk to this popular Denver breakfast eatery just to hold their spot in line. With flavors such as Pineapple Upside Down Cake and Nana's Hot Cocoa it may be difficult to decide what type of pancake to order. Snooze has a solution for that with the "Pancake Flight" on the menu which allows diners to select three different flavors to truly experience all that this breakfast hot spot has to offer.
8. Try a flight from a local craft brewery.
Finding a micro brewery in the Mile High City is not a difficult task. In the last ten years, more than 200 small craft breweries have opened in Colorado, with a good number of those popping up right here in Denver. So, pull up a stool and order a flight,. From the Epic Brewing Company to Great Divide, (and so many wonderful choices in between) you may even surprise yourself and become a local beer connoisseur.
9. There's nothing like a scoop of this fresh, homemade ice cream.
Locals and visitors alike have been flocking to the iconic 28 foot tall cream can for a scoop of Little Man's legendary ice cream. Added Bonus: Little Man has expanded with a few new locations popping up around town.
What are some of your favorite local food and drinks that you would add to this list? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.