The Best Denver Restaurants Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
Discover the top Denver hotspots Guy Fieri visited on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, featuring iconic eats, local legends, and must-try dishes.
If you’re hungry for adventure in the Mile High City, few guides are as trustworthy as Guy Fieri’s iconic Food Network show, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives (known to fans as “Triple D”). Over the years, Guy has dived fork-first into Denver’s booming culinary scene, uncovering unforgettable flavors ranging from comfort food classics to globally-inspired bites. Whether you’re a burger fanatic, a deli connoisseur, or just love to eat like a local, this list covers the best Triple D-endorsed restaurants in Denver—and every spot is a must-try for food lovers.
Table of Contents
- Highland Tavern
- Il Porcellino Salumi
- Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs
- Atomic Cowboy / Denver Biscuit Company
- Sam’s No. 3
- Euclid Hall
- Hops & Pie
- Bang Up to the Elephant!
- Beaucoup Crepes
- Beji Café Brazil
- FAQs
Highland Tavern
Featured Dishes: Tavern Tots, Bombshell Sandwich
Highland Tavern stands out as one of Denver’s quintessential neighborhood hangouts that goes the extra mile on bar food. Celebrated on Triple D, this local legend is famous for house-made Tavern Tots—crisp, golden, and way better than any you’ll find in a freezer aisle. Another must-try is the Bombshell Sandwich, a mouthwatering stack of house-cured pastrami, Swiss, fried egg, slaw, and brown mustard on rye. The scratch-made ethos runs deep here, marrying a cozy pub vibe with culinary ambition. Guy Fieri himself raved about the kitchen’s knack for elevating classic comfort food into “real-deal, off-the-hook” eats.
- Atmosphere: Laid-back and neighborly, perfect for lunch with friends or late-night snacks.
- Location: West Highland neighborhood
Il Porcellino Salumi
Featured Dishes: Handcrafted Salumi, Skyscraper Sandwiches
Il Porcellino Salumi is a haven for meat lovers, uniquely recognized by Guy Fieri for its devotion to the craft of charcuterie. This deli and butcher shop creates more than forty-five different cured meats—from classic coppa and prosciutto to spicy handwi sausage—all made in-house following Italian traditions. The sandwiches here are nothing short of skyscraper-level, loaded with fresh, artisanal meats, tangy condiments, and crusty bread. Fieri praised the deli’s innovation, emphasizing how the chef’s passion makes the old-world art of salumi feel brand new.
- Atmosphere: Casual deli, ideal for a grab-and-go lunch or savoring a meat plate in-house.
- Location: Tennyson Street in northwest Denver
Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs
Featured Dishes: Wild Game Sausages, Reindeer Dog, Elk Jalapeño Cheddar
For anyone craving a hot dog with a wild twist, Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs is a Denver staple. Guy Fieri highlighted this joint for its exotic sausages, including unique offerings like Alaskan Reindeer and Elk Jalapeño Cheddar. Served up with creative toppings such as Sriracha lime mayo, caramelized onions, or cream cheese, these dogs are more than a meal—they’re a culinary adventure. Locals swear by the playful menu, and Biker Jim’s unpretentious vibe only adds to the fun.
- Atmosphere: Urban and quirky; great for adventurous eaters and late-night bites.
- Location: Ballpark neighborhood, downtown Denver
Atomic Cowboy / Denver Biscuit Company
Featured Dishes: Giant Breakfast Biscuit Sandwiches, Fried Chicken Biscuit, Franklin
Sharing space under one roof, the Atomic Cowboy and Denver Biscuit Company are downtown institutions thanks to their enormous, flaky biscuit sandwiches. Guy Fieri visited to try hand-crafted biscuits stacked high with fried chicken, sausage, eggs, and gourmet gravies. The “Franklin”—fried chicken, bacon, cheddar and sausage gravy—has become a local legend, noted for its outrageous size and flavor. The bar inside also offers great local beers, making it a hotspot morning, noon, and night.
- Atmosphere: Lively and bustling, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or late-night snacks.
- Location: Multiple locations (Colfax is the original)
Sam’s No. 3
Featured Dishes: Chili Cheese Fries, Greek Omelet, Denver Burrito
A Denver landmark since the 1920s, Sam’s No. 3 is the definition of a classic diner. Triple D celebrated this spot for its old-school menu and hearty portions, serving up everything from breakfast burritos smothered in green chili to mile-high stacks of pancakes. Their signature chili, loaded with beans and spice, finds its way into everything from fries to burgers. The menu is enormous, but any time of day, the staff makes you feel like family. Expect a wait on weekends—that’s how you know it’s good.
- Atmosphere: Bustling, retro-style diner with quick service and classic decor.
- Location: Downtown, Glendale, and Aurora
Euclid Hall
Featured Dishes: Duck Poutine, Housemade Sausage, Pickle Sampler
Euclid Hall made waves as a modern American beer hall offering inventive, from-scratch comfort food. Guy Fieri highlighted their duck poutine (a decadent pile of fries, duck confit, cheese curds, and rich gravy), as well as gourmet sausages, and an ever-changing array of house-brined pickles. The creative menu and extensive craft beer list make this a favorite spot for foodies and fun-seekers alike. Sadly, Euclid Hall has since closed, but its legacy continues to inspire Denver’s new culinary stars.
- Atmosphere: Vibrant and energetic, perfect for group outings and late-night bites.
Hops & Pie
Featured Dishes: Artisan Pizza, House-Made Sausage, Craft Beer
If pizza and beer are what you crave, Hops & Pie is the answer. Triple D spotlighted this neighborhood eatery for its artisan pizza featuring creative toppings and a perfectly crisp crust. The house-made sausage is a show-stealer, and the rotating selection of craft beers means there’s something for every palate. The vibe is casual, and service is speedy—just what you want for after-work get-togethers or family dinners.
- Atmosphere: Cozy and casual; a neighborhood favorite for locals and visitors alike.
- Location: Tennyson Street, Denver
Bang Up to the Elephant!
Featured Dishes: Caribbean Bowls, Roti, Eggplant Fries
One of the most colorful restaurants in Denver, Bang Up to the Elephant! brings the lively spirit and flavors of the Caribbean to the city. Triple D recognized their fresh, vibrant bowls featuring jerk chicken, curried goat, and the addictive eggplant fries. The tropical theme is present in both the decor and the cocktails, making this a go-to for those looking to escape to an island vibe—without leaving Colorado.
- Atmosphere: Bright, energetic, and festive—a slice of the islands in urban Denver.
- Location: Capitol Hill
Beaucoup Crepes
Featured Dishes: Sweet & Savory Crepes, Nutella Crepe, Ham & Cheese Crepe
Featured for its French-inspired menu, Beaucoup Crepes offers both sweet and savory crepes that are made to order. Whether you’re craving a classic Nutella and banana crepe or a heartier ham and Gruyere, there’s something on the menu for everyone. The owner’s emphasis on authentic technique and high-quality ingredients shines through each folded delight.
- Atmosphere: Charming and intimate, reminiscent of a Parisian café.
- Location: North Denver
Beji Café Brazil
Featured Dishes: Feijoada, Moqueca, Brazilian Coffee
For a taste of Brazil, Beji Café transports diners with its warm hospitality and menu full of South American classics. Triple D praised the rich, flavorful feijoada (a hearty black bean stew dotted with sausage and pork), as well as fresh-baked cheese bread and tropical coffee drinks. The lively setting and commitment to house-made authenticity make this a must-visit for anyone exploring Denver’s diverse food scene.
- Atmosphere: Welcoming and lively with Brazilian music and decor.
- Location: Highland neighborhood
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What makes these Denver restaurants unique?
A: Each restaurant featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives showcases a commitment to scratch cooking, inventive menus, and original flavors that set them apart in a city already known for its food culture.
Q: Are these restaurants suitable for families?
A: Absolutely. While some are best for foodies or adventurous eaters, most offer casual environments and kid-friendly menus, making them suitable for all ages.
Q: Do any of these restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options?
A: Many featured spots—such as Bang Up to the Elephant! and Hops & Pie—offer hearty vegetarian-friendly dishes. However, some delis and diners are more meat-centric, so it’s best to check the menu in advance.
Q: How can I find these restaurants in Denver?
A: Most restaurants featured on Triple D are centrally located in popular neighborhoods like Highlands, Tennyson Street, Capitol Hill, and downtown. Use online maps or the restaurant websites for hours and directions before visiting.
Q: Can I watch Guy Fieri’s Denver episodes online?
A: Yes! Full episodes and highlight clips featuring Denver spots are available on the Food Network website and streaming platforms.
Denver’s Triple D Spots at a Glance
| Restaurant | Neighborhood | Must-Try Dish | Signature Cuisine Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highland Tavern | West Highland | Bombshell Sandwich | Comfort Bar Food |
| Il Porcellino Salumi | Tennyson Street | Handcrafted Charcuterie | Deli/Sandwiches |
| Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs | Ballpark | Reindeer Dog | Wild Game Dogs |
| Atomic Cowboy / Denver Biscuit Company | Colfax | The Franklin | Biscuits, American |
| Sam’s No. 3 | Downtown, Glendale, Aurora | Green Chili Burrito | Diner Classics |
| Euclid Hall | Downtown | Duck Poutine | Modern American |
| Hops & Pie | Tennyson Street | Artisan Pizza | Pizzeria/Brewpub |
| Bang Up to the Elephant! | Capitol Hill | Eggplant Fries | Caribbean Fusion |
| Beaucoup Crepes | North Denver | Nutella Crepe | French Café |
| Beji Café Brazil | Highland | Feijoada | Brazilian |
Why Triple D Loves Denver
- Culinary Diversity: Denver’s food scene bursts with creativity, from classic diners and sandwich shops to globe-trotting fusion and inventive bakeries.
- Locally Sourced Ingredients: Many featured restaurants prioritize seasonal, local produce and meats, bringing freshness to every plate.
- Hospitality & Community: Each spot reflects Denver’s welcoming, innovative spirit through its fun, unpretentious atmosphere and down-to-earth service.
- Inventive Flavors: From elk sausages to Caribbean bowls and outlandish biscuits, the focus is always on flavors that are bold, memorable, and unique to Denver.
Insider Tips for Foodies Visiting Denver
- Arrive early or at non-peak hours, especially on weekends, as these hot spots often have lines out the door.
- Bring friends or family—many dishes are portioned for sharing, and the experience is best savored together.
- Don’t skip the featured dish, but feel free to ask the staff for their favorites and daily specials.
- Take your time: many locations offer cozy lounges or patios, perfect for relaxing with an extra drink or dessert.
Planning Your Triple D Tour in Denver
Plotting your own food adventure? Map out the restaurants highlighted above, prioritize the signature bites, and let Denver’s delicious diversity guide your way. Whether you’re a local rediscovering your city or a visitor getting your first taste, there’s no better way to explore Denver than through its vibrant Triple D-approved eateries. Happy eating!
