Introduction
Denver: where craft beer flows like water and the culinary scene is as diverse as the Rocky Mountains themselves. This vibrant city has become a haven for beer lovers, boasting an impressive array of breweries crafting everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. But beyond the exceptional brews, a new trend has emerged, transforming the Denver brewery experience: the pairing of craft beer with incredible food. Gone are the days of just peanuts or pretzels. Today, Denver breweries are elevating the experience by offering full-fledged menus that rival some of the city’s best restaurants.
Whether you’re a beer connoisseur, a dedicated foodie, or simply looking for a unique and enjoyable outing, this guide will help you discover the best Denver breweries serving food, offering a perfect blend of culinary and brewing artistry in the Mile High City. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and embark on a delightful adventure through Denver’s burgeoning brewery-restaurant scene.
Why Breweries with Food are a Great Choice
Let’s face it, having a fantastic selection of both food and drinks available in one convenient location is a major win. There is no need to make the difficult decision between your favorite dining spot and trying the latest hazy IPA when you can have it all in one location. Breweries providing food mean less commuting and more time enjoying the vibes.
Beyond the pure convenience factor, combining food with craft beer significantly enhances the overall tasting experience. The right food pairings can unlock hidden flavors in your beer, creating a symphony of sensations on your palate. A spicy dish, for example, might be beautifully complemented by a refreshing, slightly sweet ale. Conversely, a rich, malty beer can be the perfect companion to a hearty burger or a decadent dessert. Many breweries employ talented chefs who understand the nuances of flavor pairings, ensuring a harmonious marriage between the beer and the cuisine.
The variety of food options now available at Denver breweries is truly impressive. You can find everything from classic pub fare, such as burgers, fries, and wings, to more sophisticated culinary creations, including gourmet pizzas, inventive tacos, and even farm-to-table entrees. Some breweries specialize in specific cuisines, while others offer a more eclectic mix of dishes to cater to a wide range of tastes. The culinary landscape of Denver breweries is as dynamic as the beer itself.
Breweries with food often foster a lively and welcoming social atmosphere, making them ideal places to gather with friends, family, or colleagues. The communal tables, the sounds of laughter and conversation, and the shared enjoyment of good beer and food create a sense of camaraderie and connection. These are places where memories are made and friendships are forged. It is always a good time to enjoy a crisp brew and catch up with friends.
Finally, choosing breweries that serve food is a great way to support local businesses. These establishments are usually owned and operated by passionate individuals who are deeply invested in the Denver community. By patronizing these breweries, you’re not only enjoying delicious beer and food, but also contributing to the growth and vitality of the local economy. So go on, treat yourself to a brew and some good food knowing you are doing good!
Featured Breweries
Below are some amazing breweries in Denver that will provide a wonderful experience. These breweries are all unique and special in their own ways. Make sure to check out all the awesome brews that Denver has to offer!
Upscale Brewery Restaurants
These are the breweries that put as much effort into their menu as they do their brewing process. The food here is delicious and of the highest quality, and the beer is equally good!
Ratio Beerworks
Ratio Beerworks, located in the heart of Denver’s RiNo Art District, is a brewery that seamlessly blends a punk rock aesthetic with a serious commitment to quality beer and inventive cuisine. Known for its live music and vibrant atmosphere, Ratio has become a beloved hangout for locals and visitors alike.
Their beer selection is diverse and well-crafted, featuring everything from refreshing lagers to hoppy IPAs and dark, complex stouts. Crowd favorites include the Domestica American Standard Ale, a crisp and easy-drinking beer perfect for a warm day, and the Dear You, a French saison that is refreshing, hoppy, and fruity.
But what truly sets Ratio apart is its food menu, which features a creative and ever-changing selection of dishes inspired by global flavors. The menu consists of many sandwiches and smaller food options that allow you to try a wide variety of food. Expect to pay between ten and twenty dollars for a meal at Ratio.
The atmosphere at Ratio is always buzzing, with live music, art installations, and a welcoming vibe that makes everyone feel at home. Located at two hundred ninety two, South Larimer Street, Ratio Beerworks is open for lunch, dinner, and late-night drinks.
Our Mutual Friend Brewing (OMF)
Our Mutual Friend Brewing, or OMF as it’s affectionately known, is a Denver brewery that has gained a loyal following for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement. Located in the vibrant Five Points neighborhood, OMF has become a cornerstone of the local craft beer scene.
OMF’s beer selection is diverse and innovative, featuring both classic styles and experimental brews. Popular choices include the Inner Light Pale Ale, a hoppy and refreshing beer with a citrusy aroma, and the Proletariat, an American style saison with unique character. OMF is always releasing new beers to keep things fresh and interesting.
Their menu features a seasonal menu consisting of small, shareable plates. The menu rotates frequently so make sure to check out the website before you go. Expect to pay around fifteen to thirty dollars for a meal at OMF.
With a warm and inviting atmosphere, OMF offers a relaxing spot to enjoy with friends and family. You can find OMF at two thousand eight hundred fourteen Larimer Street, open for lunch and dinner.
Gastropubs with a Brewery Focus
These gastropubs put the brewing process front and center, allowing you to enjoy delicious food alongside amazing beers that are all brewed in house!
Brewery Bar III
Brewery Bar III is a Denver staple, known for its down-to-earth atmosphere, delicious pub fare, and, of course, its impressive selection of craft beers. Located in the Golden Triangle Museum District, this gastropub has been a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike for many years.
Brewery Bar III is a brewery and a great place to find local beers from around the Denver area. They also provide a wide variety of domestic beers for anyone to enjoy.
Their menu offers a range of classic pub favorites, including juicy burgers, crispy chicken wings, loaded nachos, and hearty sandwiches. Prices range from around ten to twenty five dollars.
Brewery Bar III is the perfect place to sit down with friends and enjoy great food, great beer, and great company! Located at two hundred ten, Lincoln Street, Brewery Bar III is a staple for any beer or food lover in the Denver area.
Denver Beer Company
Denver Beer Company is a beloved Denver brewery that has been brewing award-winning craft beers since two thousand eleven. With multiple locations across the city, Denver Beer Company has become a fixture in the local beer scene, known for its high-quality beers and welcoming atmosphere.
Denver Beer Company specializes in brewing a wide variety of craft beers, from classic styles to innovative new creations. Whether you’re a fan of IPAs, lagers, stouts, or sours, you’re sure to find something to love at Denver Beer Company.
The food at Denver Beer Company goes beyond your typical brewery fare, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative dishes. Prices range from around ten to thirty dollars for each meal.
With multiple locations, Denver Beer Company is always close by to provide a perfect atmosphere to enjoy delicious beer and food.
Casual Breweries with Solid Food
These breweries are more focused on providing a casual hangout spot with great beer. Many of them still have delicious food and are worth checking out if you are just looking to sit down and relax with a good drink.
Great Divide Brewing Co.
Great Divide Brewing Co. is a pioneering Denver brewery that has been crafting award-winning beers since nineteen ninety-four. With a commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, Great Divide has become one of the most respected and recognized breweries in the country.
Great Divide offers a diverse selection of craft beers, ranging from classic styles to bold and experimental brews. Whether you’re a fan of IPAs, stouts, lagers, or sours, you’re sure to find something to love at Great Divide. Popular choices include the Yeti Imperial Stout, a rich and complex beer with notes of chocolate and coffee, and the Denver Pale Ale, a hoppy and refreshing beer that’s perfect for a warm day.
While Great Divide may be best known for its beer, the brewery also offers a solid food menu that complements its brews perfectly. Expect classic pub fare like burgers, fries, and pretzels for around ten to twenty dollars a plate.
With a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, Great Divide is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a beer with friends. With several locations around the Denver metro area, Great Divide is one of the city’s most popular breweries for a reason!
Tips for Visiting Denver Breweries with Food
Planning your brewery adventure can make the experience even more enjoyable. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind.
Always check the brewery’s website or social media channels for the most up-to-date menu information, hours of operation, and any special events or promotions they may be offering.
For popular breweries, making reservations in advance, especially on weekends or during peak hours, is highly recommended to avoid long waits.
Don’t be afraid to ask the brewery staff for recommendations on beer and food pairings. They are knowledgeable about the flavors and profiles of their beers and can suggest the perfect dishes to complement your chosen brews.
Brewery hours can vary, so be sure to check the opening and closing times before you head out.
Since you’ll be sampling multiple beers, consider using ride-sharing services or public transportation to ensure a safe and responsible experience.
Many breweries offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options on their menus, but it’s always a good idea to check beforehand to ensure they can accommodate your dietary needs and preferences.
Beyond the Beer and Food: The Denver Brewery Experience
The Denver brewery scene is about more than just beer and food. It’s about community, culture, and connection. Many breweries host live music events, brewery tours, and other special happenings throughout the year. These events provide opportunities to learn more about the brewing process, meet fellow beer enthusiasts, and experience the unique atmosphere of each brewery.
Denver breweries also play an important role in the local community, supporting local charities, sponsoring events, and creating a welcoming space for people to gather and connect. These establishments are often hubs of social activity, where people from all walks of life come together to share a love of beer and good times.
Conclusion
Denver’s breweries with food offer a winning combination of craft beer and culinary delights, creating a unique and satisfying experience for locals and visitors alike. These establishments provide a convenient and enjoyable way to sample some of the city’s best brews while indulging in delicious food.
By exploring the breweries mentioned in this article and discovering your own hidden gems, you can embark on a delightful adventure through Denver’s vibrant brewery-restaurant scene. So, raise a glass (and a fork!) and discover your next favorite Denver brewery experience. Cheers to great beer, great food, and great times in the Mile High City!
