Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver

Getting a taste of Denver’s diverse culinary scene while soaking in the cool vibes of the RiNo Arts District sounds like a perfect way to spend an evening. This Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver offers just that—an immersive experience combining delicious local bites, colorful murals, and stories about the city’s evolving food scene, all within a relaxed 3-hour walk. Whether you’re a foodie eager to explore new dishes or a traveler wanting a genuine taste of Denver’s creative spirit, this tour promises an authentic, fun-filled evening.

One of the standout features we love is the flexibility built into this experience. You can customize your food choices—whether tacos, tapas, or pizza—and if you have specific dietary needs, the guides are happy to accommodate. Plus, the tour ends in one of Denver’s liveliest nightlife spots, making it perfect for those who want to keep the evening going with live music and a vibrant atmosphere.

A possible consideration? The tour’s small group size—capped at 6 travelers—means it’s intimate and personalized, but it also requires booking well in advance. Also, some of the stops rotate depending on the day of the week, which could affect what you sample. Still, this creates a dynamic experience that keeps things fresh and interesting.

This tour is an excellent choice for food lovers, art enthusiasts, and those looking to get a local’s perspective on Denver’s vibrant RiNo neighborhood. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate flexibility, authentic flavors, and a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Flavors: Sample a variety of dishes from traditional pozole to wood-fired pizza.
• Street Art & Culture: Pass by stunning murals and hear stories about Denver’s evolving food and art scene.
• Flexible Dining Options: Customize your food choices, including tacos, tapas, and pizza.
• Small Group Intimacy: With a maximum of 6 travelers, expect personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• End in a Lively Spot: Finish the evening in Denver’s nightlife hub with options for live music and drinks.
• Value for Price: At $99 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive taste of RiNo in a fun, guided format.

A Deep Dive into the RiNo Denver Food Tour Experience

The Introduction: An Inviting Start in the Heart of RiNo

The tour kicks off at La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal, a modest yet incredible restaurant where you’ll try some of Denver’s most authentic pozole—a hearty, flavorful soup—and a stewed taco (guisado) wrapped in warm corn tortillas. This spot is praised for its great margaritas and mezcal cocktails, which elevate your first taste of the district’s culinary offerings. It’s a perfect introduction, setting a relaxed tone for the evening while offering a glimpse into Denver’s vibrant Mexican-inspired food scene.

This first stop is about more than just eating; it’s about feeling the local flavor and atmosphere. Our guide, Jeremy, is praised in reviews for his personable approach and knowledge of the area, making the experience feel more like a friendly exploration than a formal tour. One reviewer even mentioned that Jeremy’s insights helped them get a real sense of RiNo’s street art and food culture, making this more than just a meal.

The Stops: A Mix of Food, Art, and Local Stories

Stop 2: Pit Fiend Barbecue (seasonal depending on the day of the week) offers up a slice of Denver’s famed BBQ—think tender brisket, smoky and flavorful. Guests note that the BBQ is exceptional but advise that on Mondays and Tuesdays, this stop is replaced with a visit to Corsica Wine Bar. The barbecue comes with an optional beer from Our Mutual Friend Brewery, adding another local touch. Reviewers highlight that the brisket is a highlight, and the relaxed, friendly vibe makes it a favorite stop.

Stop 3: Stem Ciders (or Corsica Wine Bar on certain days) provides a change of pace with small plates—such as sweet and sour mushrooms or bison poutine—paired with flights of local ciders. The cider selection impresses many, with reviewers noting the variety and quality, making it a real treat for beverage lovers. One guest mentioned that sharing a couple of plates with the group added a communal feel, enhancing the overall experience.

Stop 4: The Switch to Corsica Wine Bar on Mondays and Tuesdays keeps the experience lively, with guests able to choose tapas like grilled broccoli rabe, Bastien meatballs, and rigatoni Bolognese. Guests appreciate the flexibility here, as they can pick their favorite tapas, making the experience feel personalized. The quality and variety of the offerings have been praised as excellent value, especially considering the variety of dishes.

Stop 5: Denver Central Market feels like a food lover’s paradise—an open-air marketplace with multiple vendors. Here, you’ll sample a pizza from Vero Italian, specializing in wood-fired pizza and pasta, or a slice from Redeemer Pizza if your group is smaller. Reviewers love the lively atmosphere and the chance to enjoy high-quality, freshly made pizza in a bustling setting. The market’s vibrant energy adds a festive feel to the tour and offers plenty of options for even picky eaters.

Stop 6: Izzio Bakery caps off the evening with a sweet treat—either a Colorado Queen pastry or similar. With choices like cherry, caramel, apple, or chocolate, this is a delightful way to finish the night. Several reviewers mention how the pastries are delicious and satisfying, rounding out the culinary adventure perfectly.

The Small Group Advantage

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is its small size—max six travelers—ensuring a personalized experience. Jeremy, the guide, is frequently highlighted in reviews for his knowledge, friendliness, and ability to tailor the experience. For example, one guest appreciated how Jeremy adjusted the tour to include sushi when the group expressed interest, showcasing his flexibility.

Walking, Art, and Atmosphere

The relaxed two-mile walk around RiNo not only makes the tour manageable for most fitness levels but also allows you to take in the district’s stunning murals and street art. Jeremy shares stories about the murals and the neighborhood’s transformation from an industrial hub to a vibrant arts district, adding depth to the visual feast.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $99 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Denver’s culinary scene, art, and culture—all in an intimate setting. Reviewers consistently mention the value of sampling high-quality dishes and drinks without the hassle of organizing multiple restaurants. The included bites—tacos, tapas, pizza, and pastries—offer plenty of variety, and the guide’s insights enhance the experience beyond just eating.

While drinks are not included, the options for purchasing local beers, ciders, or wine are readily available, giving you control over your spend. Considering the number of stops, the quality of the food, and the personal touch from your guide, many find this to be a well-priced, memorable evening.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver is an excellent choice for travelers who love trying new foods, appreciate street art, and want an authentic local experience. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small-group settings, personalized attention, and flexible dining options. If you’re interested in learning about Denver’s evolving food scene from a knowledgeable guide while enjoying a scenic walk through a colorful arts district, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It caters well to adventurous eaters eager to sample diverse dishes—from traditional pozole to wood-fired pizza—and those who want to end their evening in Denver’s lively nightlife scene. Just keep in mind that the tour operates differently on Mondays and Tuesdays, substituting some stops for wine and tapas instead of barbecue and cider.

This tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore Denver’s RiNo district—delicious, artistic, and full of local stories—and it’s especially worthwhile for those seeking a fun, authentic, and personal culinary adventure.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions?
The tour guides are happy to accommodate most dietary needs if requested when booking, so it’s worth mentioning any restrictions in advance.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 3 hours long, covering roughly 2 miles of walking around the RiNo district.

What is included in the price?
You get a variety of bites—tacos, tapas, pizza slice, and a pastry or ice cream—and the guidance of a knowledgeable local host. Alcoholic beverages are not included but can be purchased separately.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, fostering an intimate and personalized experience.

Can I customize my food choices?
Yes, the tour allows for flexibility—you’re welcome to select your preferred tacos, tapas, or pizza, and inform the guide if you’d like to try something specific.

What stops are included on the tour?
Stops include La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal, Pit Fiend Barbecue (except on Mondays/Tuesdays), Stem Ciders or Corsica Wine Bar, Denver Central Market, and Izzio Bakery.

Is this tour appropriate for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on adult beverages and the small group size suggests it’s best suited for adult travelers. Always check with the operator if you plan to bring children.

This walking food tour in Denver’s RiNo district offers a friendly, flexible, and flavorful way to experience the city’s vibrant arts and culinary scene. Perfect for those who love authentic local flavors, colorful street art, and a relaxed pace—it’s a memorable way to spend an evening exploring Denver like a local.