Denver: RiNo Evening Food Tour with a Local Guide

If you’re considering a way to see Denver beyond the usual tourist spots, the RiNo Evening Food Tour offers a delightful combination of culinary adventures and vibrant street art. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this 3-hour walk through the River North (RiNo) neighborhood is designed for those who love good food, intriguing murals, and a taste of Denver’s lively atmosphere.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the chance to sample diverse local cuisines at four different restaurants and breweries — a true taste of the city’s eclectic food scene. Second, the opportunity to stroll through one of Denver’s most colorful neighborhoods, passing by striking murals and learning their stories from your guide.

A potential consideration? The walk covers a little over two miles, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, as drinks are not included in the price, those wanting alcohol need to purchase separately.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy culinary exploration combined with cultural insights. Whether you’re a foodie, art lover, or just want an engaging way to spend an evening in Denver, this experience offers a practical, authentic, and fun introduction to RiNo’s creative soul.

Key Points

• Diverse cuisine: Sample Mexican, Tibetan, Indian, and American BBQ dishes, along with pizza and desserts.
• Cultural highlights: Learn about Denver’s history and its thriving food and art scenes from a local guide.
• Visual delights: Walk past some of the best murals in RiNo and gain insights into their stories.
• Flexible experience: The tour allows for some customization, including trying different dishes or adding extra stops.
• Small group intimacy: Limited to six participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Evening ambiance: Perfect for experiencing Denver’s lively nightlife and perhaps continuing your evening afterward.

Denver’s RiNo neighborhood is known for its artistic vibe, industrial charm, and an ever-expanding roster of independent eateries and breweries. The evening food tour makes it easy to soak up all that character in just a few hours, all while enjoying good company and delicious bites.

The fact that the tour is led by a local guide means you’ll get more than just food recommendations — you’ll hear stories about Denver’s development, the artists behind the murals, and how RiNo’s evolution has made it a hotspot for creatives and foodies alike.

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The Itinerary in Detail

1. La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal — Starting with Mexican Flavors

Your adventure kicks off at La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal, a cozy spot where you’ll taste a hearty pozole, a traditional Mexican soup filled with tender pork and hominy, topped with crunchy garnishes. Alongside, enjoy guaisado tacos with stewed fillings in warm corn tortillas. This first stop sets a flavorful tone that highlights Denver’s multicultural food scene.

The tour then offers the choice of a margarita or a mezcal cocktail, showcasing local spirits. Travelers often comment on how authentic and satisfying this start feels, especially for those who appreciate genuine Mexican cuisine.

2. Pema — A Hidden Gem for Himalayan and South Asian Flavors

Next, you’ll visit Pema, a lesser-known but highly praised spot in RiNo. This cozy eatery serves Tibetan, Indian, and Nepali dishes, infused with vibrant spices.

Depending on the group’s size, you might try pani puria, crispy shells filled with spiced potatoes, chickpeas, and tangy tamarind water — a fun and flavorful snack that offers a glimpse into Himalayan street food. For groups of more than two, additional dishes like momos, steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, could make an appearance, adding variety to your tasting experience.

Guests rave about the flavorful street food and the chance to try something new. One reviewer mentioned how they enjoyed sharing flavors from the Himalayas, making their visit memorable.

3. Pit Fiend Barbecue — American Comfort Food with a Twist

The third stop is Pit Fiend Barbecue, renowned for its succulent brisket and other smoked meats. This spot offers a taste of classic American BBQ, with the opportunity to pair your meat with a local craft beer from Our Mutual Friend Brewery.

It’s worth noting that this spot is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, in which case the group visits Corsica Wine Bar instead. This flexibility shows that the tour adapts to operational hours, ensuring no disappointment.

Guests frequently highlight the quality of the brisket and the lively atmosphere, making it a satisfying meat stop.

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4. Denver Central Market — Market Vibes & Pizza

Your next stop is the bustling Denver Central Market, home to 11 vendors offering a range of gourmet foods. Here, you’ll enjoy wood-fired pizza from Vero Italian, known for its exceptional crust and fresh ingredients. If your group is smaller, a slice from Redeemer Pizza might suffice, but the focus remains on quality and flavor.

The market’s lively environment adds to the experience, giving you a taste of Denver’s local food scene in a communal setting. The market also offers an opportunity to browse and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two.

Sweet Ending at Izzio Bakery

The tour wraps up with a sweet treat from Izzio Bakery. Their Colorado Queen pastry is a crowd favorite, with flavors like cherry, caramel, or Nutella. Alternatively, you can choose another item of similar value, allowing your taste buds to finish on a high note.

Guests often mention how satisfying the ending is, leaving you with a delicious memory of your evening in RiNo.

What’s Included & What to Budget For

The tour includes guided visits to four different restaurants and breweries, with tastings of pozole, tacos, brisket, pizza, and pastries. It also offers insights into Denver’s culture and history along the way, enriching your understanding of this vibrant city.

While the tour price is $99 per person, drinks and alcohol are not included and can be purchased separately at each stop. You might find that the additional cost for drinks is worth it, especially if you enjoy trying local beers and spirits with your food.

The tour is designed for small groups (up to six people), which ensures a relaxed, personable experience. It lasts about three hours, making it a manageable way to spend an evening without feeling rushed.

The Guide’s Role: A Key to the Experience

Reviews consistently mention how personable and knowledgeable guides make all the difference. Jeremy, for example, is praised for his stories about Denver’s history and murals, making the walk more than just about food. The guides are willing to accommodate small adjustments—adding extra dishes or sharing local tips—enhancing the overall value.

Walking, Murals, and Neighborhood Atmosphere

A highlight of the tour is the visual feast of murals that adorn RiNo’s walls. The guides point out some of Denver’s most impressive murals, each telling its own story. The changing seasons and time of day can affect mural visibility, so bringing a camera and being prepared for outdoor weather makes sense.

The walk itself is about two miles, so comfortable shoes are a smart choice. The relaxed pace and friendly group environment make the walk a pleasure rather than a workout.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This RiNo food tour offers an excellent blend of culinary sampling, urban art, and local storytelling. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to experience Denver’s creative side without spending hours navigating on their own. If you’re someone who loves trying new dishes, appreciates street art, and enjoys small-group atmospheres, you’ll likely find this highly rewarding.

It’s also a fantastic option for those visiting Denver for a few days and wanting a concise, authentic intro to the city’s dynamic neighborhood. The flexible nature of the tour means it can accommodate a variety of tastes and interests.

The Denver RiNo Evening Food Tour stands out as a fun, engaging, and flavorful way to explore one of Denver’s most vibrant neighborhoods. The combination of delicious food, eye-catching murals, and insightful storytelling makes it a well-rounded experience that delivers real value.

It’s perfect for foodies, art enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see Denver from a local’s perspective. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure personalized attention, making it more than just a meal — it’s an immersive cultural experience.

While you’ll need to budget for drinks separately and be prepared for some walking, the overall experience is a genuinely enjoyable way to spend an evening. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a small group of friends, this tour offers a taste of Denver that’s both authentic and memorable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 12 due to the nature of the food and alcohol purchases, and the walking involved.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks and alcohol are purchased separately at each stop if you wish to enjoy local beers or spirits.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 3 hours, covering roughly two miles of walking around RiNo.

Can I customize the dishes I try?
Yes, the tour is flexible, and guides are happy to accommodate preferences or try additional dishes if the group wants.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and dress according to the weather, as most of the tour is outdoors.

Is this tour available in the evening?
Absolutely, the tour is usually offered in the evening, making it perfect for a relaxed dinner experience.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to six participants for a more intimate experience.

What makes RiNo a special neighborhood?
Its vibrant murals, thriving art scene, and diverse culinary options make RiNo a lively, colorful, and creative part of Denver.

What if some stops are closed?
The tour is flexible, and guides will substitute with other local spots to keep the experience enjoyable.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind when booking.

Whether you’re visiting Denver for a few days or just looking for a fun, flavorful evening, this tour promises a genuine taste of RiNo’s artistic and culinary spirit.

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