21 Best Lunch Spots In Denver To Go To With Your Besties

Going out to lunch with friends, or even just meeting up with a family member is a fun pass time for many people. Being able to catch up on old times, or updating someone on the new things going on in your life is a great way to spend time with someone- along with eating some tasty food. Or if you just want to find the next best place to go to for your lunch break instead of eating a packed lunch, we’ve got you covered, because we’ve got a list of the best lunch spots in Denver that’ll become your new regular go-tos. 

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1. Four Friends Kitchen

Southern-inspired comfort foods all served in a cool contemporary space!

📍 2893 Roslyn St | Denver | fourfriendskitchen.com

Craving Southern-style brunch? Need a restaurant that serves up meals that remind you of home cooking? Well, why not come to Four Friends Kitchen for some of the best American comfort food around Denver! This restaurant has a cool dining area that takes on a modern-deco vibe and they feature a beautiful rooftop patio where you can dine with your fam if it’s a nice day outside. Try out their Fried Green Tomatoes, Bacon Grits Bites, Smoked Brisket Hash and Eggs, Scratch Pancakes, and so much more. Come to Four Friends Kitchen today for a fantastic lunch experience in Denver!

“Loved our waitress, easy to talk to and she delivered our food in a timely manner. The atmosphere was very pleasant and filled with positive energy! Looking forward to going back again!” – Yelp Review

2. Appaloosa Grill

A trendy neighborhood spot to splurge on happy hour or catch a live show

Buy an Appaloosa Grill gift card

📍 535 16th St | Denver | appaloosagrill.com

Appaloosa is an employee-owned bar and grill that can either be the center of the nightlife or a casual spot to grab a bite to eat around lunchtime. Browse their eclectic menu of refined American comfort food, have a draft beer, and take in the airy space as you experience everything Appaloosa has to offer. 

The menu at Appaloosa is incredibly varied and caters to a wide array of taste preferences. Some of their menu items include baked goat cheese, flat top elk burger, tempura avocado chicken burger, Maine lobster roll, bison filet, and lamb chops. Desserts at Appaloosa feature gelato, goat cheese cheesecake, and vanilla creme brulee. 

“Excellent local bar/restaurant spot. They have it all -- lunch, happy hour, live bands at night. The food is pretty dang good and bartenders/servers are always awesome,” – Yelp Review

You can purchase an Appaloosa gift card when you follow the link! 

3. Mercantile Dining and Provision

Try out some delectable New American dishes for your lunch date!

📍 1701 Wynkoop St #155 | Denver | mercantiledenver.com

Sometimes you wanna change things up and try out new flavors that are one-of-a-kind. So why not stop by Mercantile Dining and Provision, because they’ve made up some of the best New American lunch dishes in Denver! Not only do they offer lunch specials, but they stay open till 9-10pm, and means that if you’re late to lunch you can enjoy “linner” too! Why not try out the Prime Short Rib Dip sandwich or the Sesame-Glazed Salmon Bowl, you’re destined to love it! All of their dishes are delicious, and you might just find your new favorite there.

“This place is an special occasion kinda of place BUT it is absolutely delicious!

The service is always top tier and their wine list and menu is to die for. A must must must try in Denver! Perfect for a date night too!” – Yelp Review

4. ChoLon

Modern Asian cuisine featuring menu items like French Onion Soup dumplings!

📍 1555 Blake St #101 | Denver | cholon.com

If you’re here that might mean that you’ve been looking for something different. It’s understandable because it can get old eating the same things over and over again. Well, in that case you’re in luck because that means we get to introduce you to ChoLon! 

ChoLon is a Southeast Asian restaurant that features some unique French cooking techniques to make it a memorable experience. You can come and try some lunch menu favorites like the stir-fried Malaysian noodles, Korean hot fried chicken sliders, roasted beet and pear salad, and tempura long beans. And for dessert you can enjoy the chocolate hoisin cake which makes this a stand out for one of the best lunch spots in Denver!

“This place was recommended to us by several locals and it did not disappoint. The French onion soup dumplings are the stuff of dreams and the pork dumplings with the mustard sauce were the best!” – Yelp Review

5. Kealoha’s BBQ

An unassuming Hawaiian food truck with many impressive meat dishes 

Purchase a Kealoha’s BBQ gift card

📍 601 16th St | Denver | kealohasbbq.com

If you are in the heart of downtown Denver and find yourself in need of something tasty for lunch, you will definitely want to check out this casual Hawaiian food truck specializing in tantalizing BBQ. Kealoha’s BBQ is a family-owned business borne out of a passion for cooking and food, which can be tasted in every delicious bite. 

The menu at this Hawaiian food truck is packed with fried meat, rice, burgers, and shrimp tacos. Customers can order pork ribs, chicken, loco moco (double hamburger patties and a fried egg), spam musubi, lilikoi chicken salad, and kalua pork. Featured burgers options include sweet and spicy BBQ, kalua BBQ, teriyaki, and gravy cheese. For dessert, try out Kealoha’s BBQ cream cheese pie, coconut butter mochi, or orange creamsicle cake. 

“The folks running this little food stand really bring the Aloha! Food was delicious and they were friendly and helpful. Takes a little time, but they had a cooler full of waters to cool down while you waited.” – Yelp Review

Grab a gift card for Kealoha’s BBQ when you follow the link!

6. Denver Biscuit Company

Eat some delicious biscuit sandwiches at this unique Denver staple!

📍 3237 E Colfax Ave | Denver | denbisco.com

Everyone loves biscuits, right? Well, we do for sure and with that being said, we think you should take a look at this Denver staple, the aptly named Denver Biscuit Company! Denver Biscuit Company is known for all of their delicious biscuit sandwiches that are simply one-of-a-kind and will make you want to come back again and again and again. 

They advertise as a breakfast place but don’t let that stop you because they are open till late, meaning you can get delicious foods like their Biscuits French Toast, The Ellsworth, which is a sandwich containing buttermilk fried chicken, local honey, stone-ground mustard, and house-made pickles, and the classic Biscuits and Gravy for lunch anytime of day!

“The biscuits are amazing! They taste so fresh. The bottomless coffee bar is adorable and has plenty of sweeteners. The hot chicken was delicious and warm and couldn't be better. The house made ranch was a great bonus, too.” – Yelp Review 

7. Olive & Finch

Made from scratch foods and a state of the art coffee bar really elevates this lunch spot!

📍 1552 E 17th Ave | Denver | oliveandfinch.com

Since 2013 Olive & Finch has made it a mission to “serve only intentionally-sourced, chef-inspired, scratch-prepared creations that are both nourishing and delicious.” You will fall in love with their made-to-order food. You should definitely try out the Green Eggs and Sam sandwich, DIY Bruschetta, Fish Tacos, and the hot Rueben sandwich when you swing by. Dine on some of the best food you’ll ever have for breakfast or lunch at Olive & Finch!

“Food is fresh, perfect morning pick-up. Service was great, workers friendly & helpful to someone new to the area! Ambiance is cozy with an sidewalk option. If you like Chi, their Dirty Chia was awesome!” – Yelp Review

8. Henry’s Tavern

Upscale American-style comfort food in a sporty atmosphere 

Buy a Henry’s Tavern gift card

📍 500 16th St | Denver | henrystavern.com

Downtown Denver is where all the fun is happening, and certainly where all of the great food seems to be hiding. Henry’s Tavern is just another restaurant downtown serving up an impressive selection of food for hungry city dwellers and folks who are simply passing through. With made-to-order American comfort foods and an extensive beer selection, Henry’s Tavern is the perfect place to stop by and catch the game with friends. 

Food is always enjoyed best in a casual setting, and you get exactly that when dining out at Henry’s Tavern. From the sports bros who laugh and make jovial conversation with you to plenty of draft beers and bar foods, Henry’s Tavern is heaven is anyone whose favorite day of the week is game day. Try out their classic buffalo hot wings, country-fried calamari, pizza, burgers, sandwiches, and full entrees like sirloin steak, bourbon butter pork chop, and cedar plank salmon. 

“Went into Henry's Tavern after the GABF in Denver. Atmosphere was really nice, and food was more than fantastic. Our server did a great job with how busy it was getting there.” – Yelp Review

You can purchase a Henry’s Tavern gift card when you use the link!

9. Linger

Rooftop eating and amazing global small plates!

📍 2030 W 30th Ave | Denver | ediblebeats.com

If you’re looking for good vibes and get a chance to put on your best outfit then you should linger on over to Linger in Denver for their eclectic dishes, featuring many different small plates with international influence. They’ve got an amazing rooftop where you can sit and enjoy good meals with even better company. 

Come and enjoy Brunch on the weekends from 10am to 2:30pm where you can eat tasty dishes like Korean Fried Chicken Bao, Donut Holes, and Impossible Sliders. Then there’s Happy Hour Monday through Friday 4pm to 6pm on the rooftop, a late fun lunch indeed!

“Wow. I cannot recommend this place enough! We were visiting from out of state and ended up here. The food!!!! Oof. Bao buns, shrimp tempura, and sliders. All 10/10. BUT THE DESSERT!!!! 100/10. The donuts. Just get them.” – Yelp Review

10. Denver Milk Market

A local food hall that serves up a wide range of delicious foods and drinks!

📍 1800 Wazee St Suite 100 | Denver | denvermilkmarket.com

The Denver Milk Market is an all-local food hall from the mind of Colorado chef Frank Bonanno, which showcases a number of restaurants and bars that specialize in tasty take-away and dine-in food options. Just some of the restaurants at the Denver Milk Market include Bonanno Brothers Pizza, Mano Pastaria, Moo Bar, Morning Jones, Cornicello, and Ghost Tortilla. This is a great Denver lunch spot because every member of your party can get what they’d like to eat, and then you can all sit together to enjoy it.

“This is a cool place located downtown Denver. My favorite place is the poka loka bar when they have live music. But also the atmosphere just walking around is always good enough and just enjoy a beer or two.” – Yelp Review

11. Leven Deli Co.

A deli, bakery, and wine bar all in one!

📍 123 W 12th Ave | Denver | eatleven.com

Nothing says lunch quite like a thick, layered sandwich. If this resonates with you, check out Leven Deli Co., a deli, bakery, and wine bar located in the heart of Denver’s Golden Triangle Art District. Try their featured favorite—the Pastrami Reuben Sandwich—or something more unique like the Smashed Chickpea Sandwich. Whatever kind of sandwich you’re craving, you’re sure to find it or something similar there!

“Best ruben I have had in who knows how long. That house cured pastrami and the thick cut fresh made Rye bread was a match made in heaven. And the sides were super tasty. Definitely a must try.” – Yelp Review

12. The Bagel Deli & Restaurant

Voted ‘Denver’s Best Deli’ for 35 years and counting!

📍 6439 E Hampden Ave | Denver | bageldeli.com

When you come to visit The Bagel Deli & Restaurant, the name gives you a glimpse into what you’re in for: delicious deli sandwiches, eats, bagels, and more. This deli and restaurant has been featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, voted Denver’s Best Deli for 35 years, and is regarded among the best Jewish delis in America. The Bagel Deli and Restaurant is a family-owned, local institution specializing in deli sandwiches, matzo ball soup, fresh bagels, and delicious desserts. Come here for lunch if you’re looking for amazing comfort food from sandwiches to their “all-day breakfast.”

“What great Jewish deli food should be. Homemade everything and they do breakfast, brunch and lunch so well. A go to for me on a very consistent basis. Excellent service and always busy (2x featured on Diners Drive Ins & Dives!)” – Yelp Review

13. True Food Kitchen

Health-conscious kitchen serving up a fine array of food from seasonal menus!

📍 2800 E 2nd Ave Ste 101 | Denver | truefoodkitchen.com

This chic, health-conscious kitchen offers a seasonal menu of nutrient-dense plates. Here you’ll find items like grass fed burgers, Charred Cauliflower, Garden Pesto Pizza, and Hawaiian Fried Rice, as well as vegan and gluten-free options such as the Vegan Double Cheeseburger and Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Fan favorite menu items like the Edamame Dumpling and the vegetarian and gluten-free Flourless Chocolate Cake really make this restaurant stand out.

“Delicious healthy food with flavor! Service was good for a busy Friday night. We sat out on the patio which was covered. Perfect for allowing outside dining to happen in the summertime with expected rain.” – Yelp Review

14. Angelo’s Taverna

Great Italian food and delicious fresh oysters for lunch

Buy an Angelo’s Taverna gift card 

📍 620 E 6th Ave | Denver | angelosdenver.com

Don’t you just love the homey feeling that comes with dining in a nice Italian restaurant? Doubling as a pizza parlor and an oyster bar, Angelo’s Taverna in Denver will satisfy your stomach’s craving for good food no matter the type. Dine in comfortable surroundings that encourage you to relax with your loved ones and indulge to your heart’s content. 

The variety of menu items at Angelo’s Taverna makes this restaurant appealing to a wide crowd. Dig into high-quality Italian pasta plates with portions big enough for plenty of leftovers, savor the briny taste of fresh oysters, have a light yet super-tasty salad, and take advantage of the perks that come with a full-service bar all while dining at this beloved Denver spot. 

“It's my 3rd time with my boyfriend here, and it's always been great food and drinks. Ian was so attentive and super nice. Thank you Ian and Angelo's for another great experience!” – Yelp Review

You can pick up a gift card for Angelo’s Taverna from GiftYa when you use the link!

15. Tocabe

Counter-serve American-Indian restaurant that’s one of the best lunch spots in Denver!

📍 3536 W 44th Ave | Denver | tocabe.com

At this lunch spot, every meal tells a story about American Indian culture through native-sourced recipes and ingredients. This restaurant is American Indian-owned and operated, and every time you eat at Tocabe, you are supporting the American Indian community and local farmers and helping to represent American Indian culture in the 21st century. 

The space itself is warm and inviting, with cultural elements in a contemporary atmosphere. Here you’ll find menu items like the Indian Taco, Bison Ribs, which have been cured for 24 hours, and Stuffed Fry Bread.

“Amazing food. I've been craving fry bread tacos and wojapi for weeks and found this gem and boy did they deliver. The staff was kind and wonderful as well. Please go here and tell everyone about it.” – Yelp Review

16. City O’ City

A plant-based neighborhood spot that everyone loves!

📍 206 E 13th Ave | Denver | cityocitydenver.com

Calling all vegetarians! We’ve got the spot for you! City, O’ City is a restaurant in Denver that’s entirely plant-based. They take your favorite vegetables and turn them into your favorite comfort foods. Open early till late at night you can get a variety of tasty vegetarian, gluten free, and vegan options like their Chorizo Hash, Sausage, Egg, & Cheese sandwich, Adobo Tacos, Ravioli, pizzas, and much more.

“So delicious you'd be hard pressed to know it's vegan! Had the vegan chicken and waffles which was made with fried cauliflower, insanely good! This place gets busy so would really recommend making a reservation.” – Yelp Review

17. Great Scotts Eatery

A blast from the past with some of your favorite food choices

Buy a Great Scotts Eatery gift card

📍 1295 Cortez St | Denver | greatscottseatery.com

You can step into the world of the past when you enter the doors of this peculiar retro diner with memorabilia from decades spanning the 50s through the 80s. Great Scotts Eatery is an all-day joint for hearty American meals and classic fare, with a sprinkling of Mexican accent thrown in for some tasty flare. Locally owned and operated, this restaurants takes pride in serving fresh local products and providing friendly service to every customers who comes through.  

“If you're looking for a cute Diner, that serves alcohol- this is it. I loved the classic Route 66 diner vibe, and the food was so good. I got the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich and upgraded my side to onion rings. I'm a huge fan of onion rings, and the "hula hoops" were 10/10! I came at an off hour, so service was great. My waitress was very attentive and the food came out fresh and quickly.” – Yelp Review

Pick up a gift card for Great Scotts Eatery with the link!

18. Sassafras American Eatery, Highlands

Come any day of the week for an array of tasty Southern cuisine!

📍 3927 W 32nd Ave | Denver | sassafrasamericaneatery.com

Sassafras American Eatery gives off glorious “bed & breakfast” vibes with their restaurant being set in the Dunwoody Home. Step in and relax as you take in the dark woods and home-like ambience. You’ll also get a taste of home through their Southern-inspired menu options like their Shrimp & Grits, Green Tomato Benedict, Catfish & Chips, and seven different types of Mac & Cheese!

“Sassafras is an adorable restaurant in an old house. The food was amazing - I'm still dreaming about this salmon eggs benedict! Our server was great too. Highly recommend!” – Yelp Review

19. Ultreia

Spanish and Portuguese eats come together in a fun and lively space

📍 1701 Wynkoop St #125 | Denver | ultreiadenver.com

Executive Chef/Owner Jennifer Jasinski and General Manager/Owner Beth Gruitch have made Ultreia in Denver. A restaurant that focuses on bringing the flavors of Spain and Portugal to the capital of Colorado. They mainly focus on small plates and tapas, you’ll find eats like Croquetas de Jamón, Shishito Peppers, Moorish Spiced Ribs, a Rotating Cheese Selection, and more. Enjoy plenty of amazing foods for brunch, lunch, and dinner at Ultreia.

“Great food and a great atmosphere! Highly recommend the octopus it was so freaking good. But honestly the peepers, ribs, bread, and cheese was also fantastic. Great restaurant great location!” – Yelp Review

20. Steuben's Uptown

A retro-style restaurant serving up classic American foods and cocktails!

📍 523 E 17th Ave | Colorado | steubens.com

Named after a famous restaurant in Boston that the owner’s great uncles ran in the 1940’-60’s, Steuben’s has taken a little inspiration from their style and have modernized it to be a popular lunch spot in Denver. They’ve got catering for their food and cakes, cookies, and cupcakes, along with a food truck and shop! They've got their own little franchise going on and that’s not even counting the delicious eats you can get for lunch like the Crab Cakes, Meatloaf, and more.

“Had dinner the other night with a friend and the services were wonderful . Great people in the kitchen and they cook with hospitality! Definitely will be returning. Just a great vibe .” – Yelp Review

21. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Serving breakfast you can get till lunchtime, what could be better!

Buy A Snooze, an A.M. Eatery Gift Card

📍 2262 Larimer St | Denver | snoozeeatery.com

Snooze, an A.M. Eatery is aptly named as they open early- (6:30am to 2:30pm on the weekdays and 4:30pm on the weekends), and serve delicious foods for you to munch on before you get started with your day. If you’re a fan of breakfast foods after normal breakfast times then you’ll love it here as they have eggs, omelets, pancakes, sandwiches, tacos, burritos, and great tasting drinks that pair really well with your meal.

“We came here for brunch, and we absolutely fell in love with the atmosphere! The food is exceptional! Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, and they certainly did not disappoint.” – Yelp Review

You can purchase a GiftYa gift card to Snooze, an A.M. Eatery here!

There are so many different places to go to in Denver for lunch. Whether you’re with someone, need a quick spot to grab food for lunch, or visiting and need restaurant recommendations, you can find that these are some of the best lunch spots in Denver!