Foodies, rejoice; Denver is home to some of the best restaurants in the country that are sure to tantalize both everyone’s taste buds and senses! If you are looking for either the most iconic and/or most delicious places to feast this year, be sure to visit these 11 places in Denver:
1.) Casa Bonita (Lakewood)
Welcome to Casa Bonita: One of the most fun and iconic restaurants in the state that features 52,000 square feet of cliff divers, arcades, mariachi bands, and quite possibly the worst food you will ever taste! (In all honesty, the food is inedible but the ambiance is something to be experienced once -- and only once -- in your lifetime.)
2.) The Fort (Morrison)
What began as a vision for a dream home quickly turned into a restaurant (to fund the building the elaborate adobe-style house) and Denver institution! The next time you are wanting a break for the ordinary, look no further than this historic establishment and its mouthwatering menu options.
3.) Buckhorn Exchange (Denver Central)
Established in 1893, the Buckhorn Exchange was originally started by Buffalo Bill scout band member Henry H. "Shorty Scout" Zietz as a place for miners, cattle ranchers, gamblers, businessmen, and Indian chiefs alike to enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal. Today, this long standing tradition is still a favorite amongst locals and cooks up some of the best Rocky Mountain Oysters in the state!
4.) Senor Burritos (3 Denver Locations)
With convenient locations in Lakewood, Westminster, and along South Broadway, you are never too far away from what we consider to be the best green chile in Denver.
5.) Flagstaff House (Boulder)
If you are craving a remarkable meal with equally remarkable views, look no further than Flagstaff; a 5-star dining experience that is situated atop Boulder's picturesque Flagstaff Mountain.
6.) White Fence Farm (Lakewood)
The next time you have company, bring them to White Fence Farms, which features not only a drool-worthy family-style fried chicken dinner, but a number of other surprises like a petting zoo, country store, and playgrounds for the littles!
7.) Linger (Denver Highland)
You have seen the iconic sign, but just what is this building? Why, it's Linger; one of Denver's most popular restaurants that is housed inside the historic Olinger Mortuary! (When you visit, keep your eyes peeled for the not-so-subtle nods at the building's past, like formaldehyde water bottles, a re-purposed coffin table, and other quirky -- albeit morbid -- touches.)
8.) Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox (Denver Ballpark)
Now here is something you don't see everyday: a historic brothel and saloon turned hip eatery and concert venue! See what all the fuss is about when you take in Ophelia's eclectic menu, saucy ambiance, and amazing local musicians.
9.) Yak and Yeti (Arvada)
Not only is Yak and Yeti home to the Denver-area's best Nepalese cuisine, but also the (friendly) ghost of former owner, Cora Van Voorhis!
10.) Gold Hill Inn (Boulder)
Tucked away amidst the mountains near Boulder, the Gold Hill Inn is the epitome of quaint with its historic log cabin setting! When you go, be sure to check their music schedule, as nothing goes with an incredible 6-course meal quite like the sounds of local crooners.
11.) Biker Jim's Gourmet Dogs
Last but certainly not least on our list of must visits is the famous Biker Jim's Gourmet Dogs, which serves -- you guessed it -- innovative hot dogs in a laid back sports bar setting.
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