Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives: Colorado’s Must-Visit Restaurants
Explore Colorado’s standout diners, drive-ins, and dives featured on Guy Fieri’s iconic Food Network show.
Since 2006, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives (DDD) has been rolling out across America, spotlighting the best local eateries and culinary gems. Hosted by the energetic Guy Fieri, the show has introduced TV viewers to a stunning variety of flavors and characters. Colorado, with its rich food culture and knack for innovation, has featured more than two dozen times. This guide explores every Colorado restaurant ever featured on DDD, what makes them special, and their can’t-miss signature dishes.
Why Colorado Shines on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
The Centennial State’s dynamic culinary scene blends classic American comfort with global influences, mountain-town charm, and a vibrant local food movement. The featured restaurants cover everything from traditional delis and barbecue joints to trendy pizzerias and international eateries. Here’s what sets Colorado’s DDD-featured joints apart:
- Eclectic Menus: Expect inventive spins on classic comfort foods, fusion fare, and authentic cultural specialties.
- Local Ingredients: A commitment to fresh, Colorado-grown products is common at many stops.
- Community Roots: Many of these eateries have deep local ties, generational recipes, and a loyal hometown following.
- Character & Quirk: Themes range from nostalgic diners and classic taverns to vibrant, family-run establishments.
Complete List of Colorado Restaurants Featured on DDD
Below is a listing of all Colorado restaurants featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, with their signature offerings and episode highlights.
| Restaurant | Location | Featured Episode | Dish Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Areyto Puertorrican Food | Denver | Lots of Latin | Pernil Asado, Tostones |
| Bagel Deli & Restaurant | Denver | From Mozz to Matzo Balls, Holiday Hoopla | Homemade Bagels, Matzo Ball Soup |
| Blue Pan Pizza | Denver | Hometown Inspiration | Detroit-Style Pizza, Spicy Pig Pizza |
| Cafe Brazil | Denver | Tri-Continent Cuisine | Brazilian Seafood Dishes, Island-inspired Plates |
| Grammy’s Italian Goodies | Wheat Ridge | Savory with a Side of Sweet | Jumbo Lasagna, Italian Pastries |
| Hops & Pie | Denver | Kings and Queens of ‘Cue | Crispy Pizza, House Cured Meats |
| il porcellino Salumi | Denver | From Beef to Bao | Housemade Salumi, Charcuterie Boards |
| Lauer Krauts | Brighton | Best of the West, From Kraut to Couscous | Krautburgers, German-inspired Comfort Food |
| Maria Empanada | Denver | By Hand and by Fork | Argentinian Empanadas, Beef Empanadas |
| Mountain Shadows Restaurant | Colorado Springs | East-West Flavorfest | Hearty Breakfast Dishes, Cinnamon Rolls |
| Tocabe American Indian Eatery | Denver | Crazy for Chicken, Grillin’ and Smokin’ | Bison Ribs, Fry Bread Tacos |
| Atomic Cowboy | Denver | Dynamic Duos, Pizza Party | Biscuits & Gravy, Funky Chicken Pizza |
| Audrey Jane’s Pizza Garage | Boulder | All Kinds of Comfort | Americano del Sur Pizza, Eggplant Fries |
| Foolish Craig’s Cafe | Boulder | From Crepes to Kreplach | Savory & Sweet Crepes, Monte Cristo |
| Front Range Barbeque | Colorado Springs | Family Legacies | BBQ Pulled Pork Biscuits |
| Highland Tavern | Denver | Amazing Appetizers, Deep Fried All-Stars, Tacos and Tots | Housemade Pastrami, Tater Tots, Hangover Burger |
| Highlands Alehouse | Aspen | Meaty, Cheesy and Sweet | Craft Beers, Elevated Bar Fare |
| Feisty Pint | Grand Junction | Tacos, Tots and Chops | Loaded Tachos, Local Brews |
Signature Dishes and Culinary Highlights
Some dishes have stood out as iconic in their DDD episodes. The following are essential tastes as recommended by Guy Fieri and loved by locals:
- Detroit-Style Pizza at Blue Pan Pizza: Crunchy caramelized crusts and inventive toppings make these a must-try.
- Jumbo Lasagna at Grammy’s Italian Goodies: Layers of pasta, house-made sauces, and mountains of cheese—classic comfort food to the core.
- Pastrami Sandwich at Highland Tavern: House-cured brisket with a peppery, smoky crust, piled high and served on toasted bread.
- Bison Ribs and Fry Bread Tacos at Tocabe: Native American cuisine gets a modern twist at this Denver favorite.
- Biscuits & Gravy from Denver Biscuit Co. (Atomic Cowboy): Towering biscuit sandwiches with savory gravies or fried chicken are breakfast favorites.
- Empanadas at Maria Empanada: Hand-rolled, filled with slow-cooked meats and inventive flavors.
Spotlight: Restaurant Stories and Local Traditions
Each DDD-featured restaurant has a unique story that enriches Colorado’s food landscape:
- Bagel Deli & Restaurant (Denver): Beloved for traditional Jewish comfort foods, this spot’s matzo ball soup and knishes exemplify time-tested recipes with a local spin.
- Cafe Brazil (Denver): Famed for blending island flavors, their seafood and coconut-rich dishes offer a taste of South America in the Rockies.
- Lauer Krauts (Brighton): Run by a mother-daughter team, the menu features the family’s legendary krautburgers and other German classics.
- Atomic Cowboy (Denver): The multi-concept eatery houses three brands under one roof—offering pizza, biscuits, and cocktails in a buzzing space frequented by locals and travelers alike.
Cities in the Colorado DDD Spotlight
The majority of featured restaurants are clustered along Colorado’s Front Range:
- Denver: A mecca for food innovation, with dozens of restaurants spanning pizzerias, delis, American Indian cuisine, and more.
- Boulder: Known for its laid-back vibe and commitment to local sourcing—standout pizzerias and creperies are highlights.
- Colorado Springs: BBQ spots and classic diners serving up hearty breakfast fare anchor the scene.
- Grand Junction, Aspen, Brighton, Wheat Ridge: Each offers its own quirky, quality-driven neighborhood favorite recognized for something special.
Frequently Featured Cuisines
- Italian-American: From lasagna to house-cured salumi and hearty, red-sauced classics.
- Mexican & Latin-Inspired: Empanadas, tacos, and Puerto Rican specialties highlight the state’s diverse and growing Latino community.
- Pizzeria Fare: Whether Neapolitan, Detroit-style, or creative American, Colorado’s pizzerias showcase the region’s playful, artisanal approach.
- Deli Favorites: Local takes on bagels, matzo ball soup, and corned beef sandwiches are top draws.
- Barbecue & American Comfort: Smoked meats, fried chicken, oversized biscuits, and mountain-town comfort food.
- Innovative Fusions: Modern interpretations of Indian, Caribbean, and Native American cuisine also shine on the Colorado roster.
Guy Fieri’s Memorable DDD Moments in Colorado
Guy Fieri’s genuine enthusiasm has made him a cult favorite among foodies. Some standout moments from his Colorado adventures:
- Tasting Hangover Burgers at Highland Tavern: The unique combination of burger, egg, and crispy tots left Guy raving.
- Exploring Bison Ribs and Indian Tacos at Tocabe: A highlight for both its authenticity and inventive spirit.
- Diving into Eggplant Fries at Audrey Jane’s Pizza Garage: An unexpected vegetarian treat in the heart of Boulder.
- Sampling Pastrami Sandwiches at Highland Tavern: The slow-cured, hand-carved brisket was a top pick.
Tips for Visiting DDD Restaurants in Colorado
- Call Ahead: Many of these restaurants remain bustling years after being featured.
- Try the Featured Dish: Ask staff about the DDD-favorite—these are often the house specialty.
- Bring Friends: Many spots have a lively, communal atmosphere perfect for group outings.
- Support Local: Remember, these are mostly locally owned businesses—support them by leaving a review or grabbing merch!
FAQ – Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives: Colorado Edition
Q: Which Colorado city has the most DDD-featured restaurants?
A: Denver leads the pack, with a diverse array of eateries highlighted on the show.
Q: Are the dishes still available as seen on TV?
A: Most restaurants continue to offer their signature DDD-featured dishes but menus may change. Always check in advance or ask your server.
Q: How can I watch the Colorado episodes?
A: Episodes featuring Colorado restaurants air on Food Network and various streaming platforms. Check the official show website or streaming services for episode details.
Q: Can I visit more than one DDD-featured restaurant in one trip?
A: Absolutely. Several are clustered in Denver and Boulder, making for a fantastic foodie road trip.
Q: Do these restaurants require reservations?
A: Some high-traffic locations recommend reservations, especially during peak hours or weekends. Others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Honorable Mentions and More Colorado Favorites
Other spots featured in recent years include:
- Front Range Barbeque (Colorado Springs): Down-home southern barbecue, live music, and a welcoming backyard vibe.
- Feisty Pint (Grand Junction): A local hangout famed for its loaded “tachos” (tater tot nachos) and rotating selection of Colorado craft brews.
- Highlands Alehouse (Aspen): Local beers and hearty plates after a day on the slopes.
- Hops & Pie (Denver): Fusing craft brews and innovative pizzas for the ultimate casual meal.
Conclusion: Savor Colorado’s Culinary Roadmap
From mountain comfort food to cultural classics and modern mashups, Colorado’s diners, drive-ins, and dives—each with its own flair—are woven into the fabric of local travel and taste. Whether you’re after the crispy crust of Detroit-style pizza, the heartiness of hand-rolled empanadas, or the nostalgia of family-run delis, Guy Fieri’s picks offer a delicious slice of the state’s diverse food culture.
Make your next Colorado adventure not just a journey across stunning landscapes, but a culinary quest worthy of the Flavortown legacy!
