Discover the Best Dining Spots for Students and Foodies in Denver

One of the best parts about going to school in a new city is getting the chance to try so many new and delicious restaurants. Denver’s growing culinary scene offers lots of unique and delicious types of food, and there are so many places on my list to try someday in the future.  

On a day-to-day basis, I tend to stick to spots closer to campus, just because they are all super close to school and work and where I live, so I can pop by on my way to or from class. 

1. Tatsu 

• Tatsu is a slightly nicer sit-down sushi restaurant. It has a wide menu with sushi, ramen, and a variety of other dishes. It is at a pretty affordable price point, and it’s nice to have something slightly fancier that is near campus.  
  • Recommendations: Red dragon roll, tatsu roll, tonkotsu ramen 
     

2. La Belle Rosette 

• I consider this spot to be one of DU’s hidden gems. Located on University and Wesley, it is a bit off the beaten path. However, this charming coffee shop boasts delicious coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. This is a great spot to settle and study for hours (as I often do) and take in the wonderful ambience). Pro tip: If you come between 3:00 to 5:00PM and spend $5, you get a free cookie. 
  • Recommendations: The Mona Lisa panini, creme bruleé latte, pumpkin bread, and rosemary citronique 
     

3. Jerusalem’s 

• Jerusalem’s is a DU staple and has been serving the area surrounding campus for over thirty years. It has a wide and delicious menu of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s open until 3:00AM every day of the week, and is a great option all day, every day. 
  • Recommendations: Beef and lamb gyro sandwich, tabbouleh, baklava, and  falafel 

Pearl Street is located only ten minutes away from campus and boasts charming restaurants, shopping, and an incredible farmer’s market during the summer and fall months. 
 

1. Stella’s 

• Stella’s is one of my favorite coffee shops in Denver. It’s super warm and charming and is a great spot to go and study if you need a break from campus.  
  • Recommendations: Matcha latte, ham and cheese croissant, dirty chai, streetcar panini 
     

2. Kaos Pizzeria 

• Kaos is serving up classic Neapolitan pizza, pasta, and sandwiches. This restaurant boasts an adorable outdoor patio and a generally wonderful atmosphere coupled with tasty dishes.  
  • Recommendations: Burrata plate, beet salad, house-made Italian meatball sandwich, pesto cream pasta, and Smokestack pizza 

3. Call Your Mother 

• This self-proclaimed “Jew-ish” deli serves up a variety of delectable breakfast and lunch options by taking classic dishes and adding a modern flair.  
  • Recommendations: Thunderbird bagel sandwich, latkes, the Grandezza melted sandwich, the Royal Palm bagel sandwich 

Gaylord Street is also about 10 minutes away from campus, near Washington Park and Cherry Creek. It is nestled within a quiet neighborhood and is great to walk around in any season and grab some quality eats. 

1. Perdida 

• Perdida boasts savory Mexican cuisine and a breezy, inviting atmosphere. If you are craving a good taco, there are very few places near campus that rival Perdida. 
  • Recommendations: Baja Enchiladas, Roasted Jalapeño Caesar Salad, Chicken Tinga Tacos, and Tres Leches Cake 
     

2. The Cookery at Myrtle Hill 

• The interior of this restaurant makes you feel like you are being served homemade brunch in someone’s home. It feels super cozy and this comes through in the food, too. Serving lunch and dinner, they have hearty dishes fit for any palette. 
  • Recommendations: Myrtle Hill Hash, Kale Salad, Apple and Brie Sandwich, Quiche Du Jour 
     

3. Devil’s Food Bakery 

• This bakery shares a kitchen with Myrtle Hill and is serving similar cozy energy, just with a variety of baked goods. From gooey cookies to crumbly cakes, they have every sweet under the sun made fresh. 
  • Recommendations: Kougin Amann, Iced Latte, Coffee Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookie 

Overall, you can’t go wrong with where you choose to have a meal in Denver. I have had so many memorable dishes in my time here, and I hope that you are able to find something just as wonderful during your time here.