Denver, the Mile High City, isn’t just known for its stunning mountain views and craft breweries; it’s also a thriving culinary hub. And in today’s fast-paced world, sometimes the best way to experience Denver’s incredible food scene is from the comfort of your own home. Busy schedule? Don’t feel like cooking? That’s where the wonderful world of take out food Denver comes to the rescue. From quick bites to gourmet feasts, Denver’s restaurants are ready to satisfy your cravings with convenient options that fit every budget and taste.
“Take out food,” for the purpose of this guide, includes meals that you order from a restaurant and pick up yourself, either inside the restaurant or via curbside service. While delivery services are certainly popular, this guide focuses on the experience of directly interacting with the restaurant and enjoying freshly prepared food on your own terms. Denver’s take out scene stands out because of its diversity, commitment to quality ingredients, and innovative restaurants constantly adapting to meet the needs of busy Denverites. You can find everything from authentic international flavors to modern American comfort food, all expertly packaged and ready to go.
This guide is your passport to the best take out food Denver has to offer. We’ll explore different neighborhoods, highlighting local favorites, hidden gems, and must-try dishes that will elevate your next at-home dining experience. So, ditch the dishes tonight and let’s discover the best take out options in Denver!
Discovering Denver’s Delicious Neighborhood Bites
Denver is a city of neighborhoods, each with its unique personality and culinary landscape. To fully experience the breadth of take out food Denver offers, we’ll journey through some of the city’s most vibrant areas, uncovering the best spots for a quick and satisfying meal on the go. Each neighborhood brings its own flavor profile to the table, and we’re excited to share our favorite picks with you.
LoDo: Historic Charm and Modern Flavors
LoDo, Denver’s oldest neighborhood, boasts a captivating blend of historic charm and modern energy. Here, you’ll find a mix of upscale eateries and casual spots perfect for grabbing take out food Denver style.
Rioja
This award-winning Mediterranean restaurant offers a sophisticated take out experience. While known for its ambiance, Rioja cleverly packages their exquisite dishes for enjoyment at home. We highly recommend the artisanal pasta dishes and the paella, which holds up surprisingly well for transport. The flavors are bold and nuanced, truly a treat for a special occasion. Located on Larimer Square, it’s easy to swing by and pick up your order.
Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs
For a more casual but equally delicious option, Biker Jim’s is a must-try. This iconic hot dog stand serves up gourmet dogs with unconventional toppings, including elk jalapeno cheddar and rattlesnake and pheasant. Their dogs are perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. The adventurous combinations and unique flavors make Biker Jim’s a favorite among Denver locals looking for a fun take out adventure.
Highlands: Trendy Eats and Local Favorites
The Highlands neighborhood is known for its trendy restaurants, independent boutiques, and stunning city views. Here, you can find an array of options for take out food Denver, ranging from innovative American cuisine to authentic international flavors.
Root Down
Root Down is a neighborhood favorite, renowned for its globally inspired dishes and commitment to sustainable practices. Their menu features a variety of options perfect for take out, including flavorful salads, creative sandwiches, and hearty entrees. The restaurant meticulously packages their dishes to ensure they arrive fresh and presentable.
Avanti Food & Beverage
Though technically a food hall, Avanti is an excellent option. Instead of dining in, simply walk in, order from any of the vendors, and take it to go. Each of the vendors offer unique options that will easily accommodate whatever craving you’re having.
RiNo: Artsy Vibes and Culinary Innovation
The River North Art District, or RiNo, is a vibrant neighborhood known for its street art, breweries, and innovative restaurants. This neighborhood is a treasure trove of unique take out food Denver experiences.
Cart-Driver
This tiny but mighty pizzeria specializes in wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings. Their pizzas are perfectly sized for individual portions, making them ideal for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner. The crust is crispy and chewy, and the toppings are fresh and flavorful. Order ahead to avoid long lines, as this place is perpetually popular.
Work & Class
A Denver staple, Work & Class offers “Latin-Inspired Street Food” that travels well, especially their tacos. Located right in the heart of RiNo, it is easy to order online and pickup and enjoy at home.
Cherry Creek: Upscale Dining and Convenient Options
Cherry Creek North is Denver’s premier shopping and dining destination. The neighborhood boasts a sophisticated atmosphere and a wide range of upscale restaurants offering convenient take out food Denver services.
Hillstone
While known for its elegant dining room, Hillstone also offers a fantastic take out menu. Their classic American dishes, such as the French Dip sandwich and the grilled salmon, are expertly prepared and packaged for enjoyment at home. It’s a bit pricier, but the quality is consistently high.
True Food Kitchen
For a healthy and delicious take out option, True Food Kitchen is an excellent choice. Their menu features a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their salads and bowls are particularly popular for take out.
Wash Park: Casual Eats and Community Favorites
The Wash Park neighborhood is a charming residential area known for its namesake park and its collection of casual restaurants. This neighborhood offers a variety of relaxed options for take out food Denver.
Bonnie Brae Tavern
This local institution has been serving up delicious pizzas and Italian fare for decades. Their pizzas are known for their crispy crust and generous toppings, and they’re perfect for a casual night in. Don’t forget to add their Caesar salad, it’s some of the best in Denver.
Park Burger
Craving a great burger? Park Burger has you covered. With multiple locations around the city, this local burger chain is always a quick and easy option. Order online and enjoy at home!
Tips for Ordering Take Out Food Denver Style
Ordering take out food Denver should be a breeze. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and satisfying experience:
Explore Your Options: Denver boasts a diverse culinary scene. Take some time to browse online menus and discover new restaurants and cuisines. Don’t be afraid to try something different!
Consider Ordering Methods: While many restaurants partner with popular delivery apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub, supporting local restaurants by ordering directly is always a great idea. Check the restaurant’s website or call them directly to place your order. Ordering directly often ensures that the restaurant receives a larger portion of the revenue.
Check Hours and Availability: Always confirm the restaurant’s opening hours and take out availability, especially during peak times like lunch and dinner. Some restaurants may have limited take out menus or specific time slots for pick-up.
Specify Dietary Needs: If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, be sure to clearly communicate them when ordering. Most restaurants are happy to accommodate special requests.
Plan Ahead: Planning your order in advance can save you time and stress, especially on busy weekends. Consider placing your order earlier in the day or opting for a pre-order option if available.
Supporting Local Restaurants Through Take Out
In today’s world, supporting local restaurants is more important than ever. By choosing take out food Denver from locally owned establishments, you’re not only enjoying a delicious meal but also contributing to the local economy and helping small businesses thrive.
Order Directly: As mentioned earlier, ordering directly from the restaurant allows them to keep a larger share of the profits.
Leave Positive Reviews: Take a few minutes to leave a positive review on Yelp, Google, or other online platforms. Positive reviews can help attract new customers and boost the restaurant’s online reputation.
Spread the Word: Tell your friends, family, and colleagues about your favorite take out spots. Word-of-mouth is a powerful marketing tool for local businesses.
Consider Gift Cards: Purchase gift cards to use later or give as gifts. This helps provide restaurants with immediate revenue and encourages future patronage.
Conclusion: Embrace Denver’s Take Out Food Scene
Denver’s take out food scene is a vibrant reflection of the city’s diverse culinary landscape. From historic LoDo to trendy RiNo and upscale Cherry Creek, each neighborhood offers a unique collection of restaurants ready to satisfy your cravings with convenient and delicious options. By exploring this guide, you’ll discover local favorites, hidden gems, and must-try dishes that will elevate your next at-home dining experience. So, ditch the dishes tonight, support local businesses, and enjoy the amazing flavor and convenience of take out food in Denver! With so many amazing restaurants offering convenient take out, the choices are endless. Get out there, explore, and discover your new go-to take out food Denver destination. Bon appétit!
