Denver: Downtown Small-Group Food Tasting Tour

Exploring Denver through its food and neighborhoods offers a fantastic way to get to know this city’s character. This 3-hour walking tour combines delicious tastings at some of the best local eateries with stories about Denver’s past and present, making it an engaging experience for food lovers and history buffs alike.

What truly makes this tour stand out is the chance to try award-winning dishes, from authentic Neapolitan pizza to regional green chile, while walking through the city’s vibrant downtown core. We’re also fans of small-group sizes, which create a friendly, personalized atmosphere and encourage lively conversation. One consideration, however, is the roughly one-mile walk; it’s manageable for most but worth noting if mobility is an issue.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy food with a story, appreciate a bit of historic context, and want an authentic taste of Denver’s culinary scene without breaking the bank. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo and want a balanced mix of taste and local lore, this experience could be a highlight of your Denver visit.

Key Points

• Tastings at five top Denver restaurants provide a great variety of flavors and dishes.
• Learn about Denver’s history through engaging stories from your guide.
• Visit iconic landmarks like Union Station and Coors Field during the tour.
• Small group size enhances interaction and allows for personalized recommendations.
• The tour is a substantial lunch with about one mile of walking.
• Vegetarian options are available, making it accessible to different dietary needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: Why This Food Tour Makes Sense

When choosing a food tour in Denver, this one from Delicious Denver Food Tours offers a nicely balanced way to experience the city’s culinary and cultural life. For travelers eager to taste their way across downtown while soaking in a little local history, it hits all the right notes.

Two things we love about this experience are the diverse array of tastings and the stories behind each dish and landmark. From pizza certified by Italy’s AVPN to spicy green chile, each bite is a chance to understand what makes Denver’s food scene special. We also appreciate the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s history to life, weaving in stories about Denver’s past, from secret tunnels to legendary bordellos.

That said, because the tour involves about an hour of walking, it’s worth considering whether you’re comfortable with some light activity. Also, the cost of $80 per person offers good value given the variety of tastings and insider knowledge included.

This tour is perfect for foodies, history enthusiasts, and newcomers who want to get a real taste of Denver in just a few hours. It suits those who enjoy guided walks, authentic local dishes, and lively conversation.

What Makes This Tour Special?

An Excellent Introduction to Denver’s Food Scene

Denver’s culinary reputation has soared recently, ranking as the 4th Hottest Food City in America according to Zagat. On this tour, you’ll visit award-winning, locally loved restaurants, each chosen for their quality and character.

The stops include a pizzeria with the only AVPN-certified Neapolitan pizza in Colorado, a family-owned shop serving fluffy baked empanadas, and a restaurant showcasing Southwestern fusion cuisine within the vibrant Dairy Block. These choices reflect Denver’s diverse, innovative food culture, and many reviews highlight how the tastings are substantial enough to serve as a full meal.

A Walk Through Denver’s Historic and Modern Landmarks

The tour begins near Coors Field, giving you a glimpse of Denver’s sports culture, and ends at Union Station, a beautifully restored historic hub now filled with restaurants and shops. Along the way, you’ll pass Denver’s oldest hotel and jazz club, adding a bit of the city’s lively past.

Your guide shares stories about secret tunnels, wild west history, and the city’s evolution, making this more than just a tasting. Several reviews praise the guide’s storytelling skills, noting how “fun and engaging” the history lessons are, and how they add depth to the food experience.

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Authentic, Delicious Food

The tastings are described as delicious and varied, ranging from from-scratch regional specialties to classic comfort foods. One reviewer raves about the green chili, calling it award-winning, and others mention trying empanadas, tacos, and green chili soup with pork.

Many guests also appreciate that vegetarian options are available and accommodated gracefully, with some reviewers noting how well their dietary needs were handled. It’s clear the tour values quality and authenticity over gimmicks or over-the-top presentation.

Insider Access and Local Vibe

The small-group format (usually around 10-12 people) is frequently praised for making the experience more personalized. Guides like Barry, Zach, Austin, and Jess are consistently described as knowledgeable, friendly, and full of insider tips. Guests often mention feeling like they’re exploring Denver with a local friend rather than on a scripted tour.

Value and Price

At $80 per person, the tour offers a substantial amount of food, a chance to learn about Denver, and the fun of walking through a lively city center. Considering the five tastings and the informative stories, many reviewers believe the price is fair.

There’s also an optional $30 alcohol pairing upgrade, including a margarita at the end, which many consider a worthwhile addition if you’re looking to indulge a little more.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Meeting Point at Marco’s Coal Fired Pizzeria

The tour starts at Marco’s, a cozy, locally loved spot. Arriving 10 minutes early ensures you’re ready to meet your guide and get comfortable.

Stop 1: Award-Winning Pizza

Your first taste is a Neapolitan pizza, the only one in Colorado certified by Italy’s AVPN. Expect a thin, flavorful crust topped with fresh ingredients. Guests frequently mention how authentic and delicious this pizza is, setting a high bar for the rest of the tour.

Stop 2: Family-Owned Empanadas

Next, you’ll visit a small shop serving fluffy baked empanadas, filled with meats or vegetables. Many reviewers describe these as mouthwateringly good, and some highlight the friendly, welcoming atmosphere of the family-run place.

Stop 3: Southwestern Fusion Cuisine

Within the Dairy Block, a trendy mixed-use development, the tour visits a restaurant offering Southwestern fusion. Expect tacos, bowls, or innovative twists on regional flavors. The vibrant setting adds to the lively ambiance of this part of downtown.

Stop 4: Green Chile and Tacos

Back on foot, you’ll try award-winning green chile—a Denver staple—along with other regional specialties, including pork tacos. Several visitors comment on how spicy and flavorful the green chile is, encapsulating the local heat and spice.

Stop 5: Sweet Treat at Union Station

The tour concludes inside Union Station, where you’ll sample a sweet treat housed in this historic building. Many reviews mention the delicious dessert and the ambiance of this iconic location, making it a fitting end to the tour.

The Stories Behind the Food

Throughout the tour, your guide shares entertaining stories about Denver’s early days—secret tunnels, wild west bordellos, and the city’s transformation from frontier town to modern hub. These tales enrich each tasting, making the experience more memorable.

Highlights of Denver’s Historic Sites

• Coors Field: Home to the Rockies and packed with baseball lore.
• Oldest Hotel and Jazz Club: Reflecting Denver’s vibrant past.
• Union Station: A beautiful landmark with a lively atmosphere.
• Dairy Block: A new, hip development showcasing Denver’s modern side.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour is about three hours long, covering roughly one mile of walking. This makes it accessible for most, but those with mobility issues might want to plan accordingly.

You should arrive 10 minutes early at Marco’s Pizzeria. The tour runs rain, snow, or shine, so dress weather-appropriate, especially considering Denver’s changeable climate.

Vegetarian options are available, and it’s wise to notify the guide at booking if needed. For those interested in alcoholic drinks, a $30 upgrade with a drink package is available, paid on-site via credit card.

What Travelers Are Saying

The tour garners an impressive 4.9-star rating from 104 reviews. Many emphasize the knowledgable guides—notably Barry, Jess, Zach, Austin, and Forrest—who are praised for their friendliness, humor, and insider knowledge. One reviewer mentions, “Barry was the greatest! Loved his stories about Denver and the food.”

Guests appreciate the variety of food, noting that the tastings are more than enough for a meal. Several mention how the tour is a great way to discover hidden gems and get a real feel for the city’s culinary pulse.

The experience also appeals to history lovers, with many reviewers commenting on how the guide’s storytelling made the tour both educational and entertaining. The combination of delicious food, interesting sights, and engaging guides makes it a standout activity.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This downtown Denver food tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting a well-rounded introduction to the city. Foodies will enjoy the chance to sample authentic, local dishes and learn what makes Denver’s cuisine unique. History buffs will appreciate the stories woven into the walk, adding context to the sights and flavors.

It’s best suited for travelers who prefer small-group experiences and want to avoid overly commercialized tours. If you’re hungry for a substantial, culturally rich meal with a side of Denver’s past, this tour hits the mark. It’s also a great activity for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to connect with the city’s local flavor and stories.

While it requires about an hour’s worth of walking, the stops and tastings make it feel like a delicious, leisurely lunch. The guide’s expertise and friendly manner make this tour not just about food, but about experiencing Denver’s spirit in a fun, engaging way.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts about three hours, including five tastings and some walking.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Marco’s Coal Fired Pizzeria, near Coors Field, and you should arrive 10 minutes early.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended since it’s an outdoor walking tour, rain or shine.

Is it suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available; just notify the booking when you reserve.

How much walking is involved?
The tour includes roughly one mile of walking between stops.

Can I purchase alcohol during the tour?
Yes, there’s a drink upgrade available for $30, paid on-site by credit card.

What’s included in the price?
Five food tastings, a knowledgeable guide, and insider access to top restaurants.

Is this a good tour for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families and travelers of all ages who enjoy good food and stories.

What if it rains or snows?
The tour runs rain, snow, or shine; dress accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate walking distance suggests most should be able to participate comfortably.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby