Looking to embark on a gastronomical adventure? Then you need to check out Denver's best gastropubs. With creative foods and complementary brews, these spots take the pub experience to the next level of deliciousness.
1. The Greedy Hamster
Topping the list is The Greedy Hamster. Located downtown at 323 14th St., the wine and cocktail bar is also the highest rated gastropub in Denver, boasting four stars out of 217 reviews on Yelp.
If you're there for some grub, you'll find dishes like the Greedy Mac (cavatappi pasta with four cheeses and green chiles, served alongside Kolsch), the Greedy Piggy Sandwich (ham, melted Camembert cheese, green apples and bacon jam on toasted challah) and the Juan Ton Nachos (wontons drizzled with green chili cheese and pork carnitas, topped with lime crema and salsa). (See the full menu here.)
Of course a gastropub would just be a restaurant without an extensive drinks menu. Look for cocktails, such as the Salty Wolf (High Noon grapefruit vodka, grapefruit juice and a float of Stiegl grapefruit radler), as well as beers and wines. (See that menu here.)
Yelper Lisa C., who reviewed it on Feb. 8, wrote, "Cozy little spot with a tasty and quirky menu. ... I never turn down the opportunity to partake in French onion soup when it's on the menu and this place didn't disappoint. I also highly suggest the veggie sandwich, orzo (so good!) and the Moscow Mule with gin."
2. Public School 303
Next up is Union Station's Public School 303, situated at 1959 16th St. With four stars out of 206 reviews on Yelp, the bar, gastropub and New American spot has proven to be a local favorite. The school-themed gastropub, which is actually built inside a former public school, serves brunch, lunch and dinner, as well as happy hour (which is called "recess" to fit the theme).
On the menu, you'll find dishes like the Barbecue Bison Burger (whiskey barbecue sauce, arugula, Gruyere, bacon lardons and peppered mushrooms), the Chorini pizza (mozzarella, Fresno chili, uncured pepperoni and chorizo sausage) and the Bangers & Mash with horseradish creme fraiche and charred onion jus. (See the menu here.)
Drinks include craft beers by the bottle or can, as well as craft beers on tap.
George T. said, "We just had appetizers, but they were great! The chorizo mac and cheese was awesome and the crust on the deep-fried cauliflower is nice and crispy! Great beer selection as well. Built in an old public school, they have done a great job with the renovation and decor."
3. Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill
Cherry Creek's Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill, located at 201 Columbine St., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the gastropub and traditional American spot four stars out of 143 reviews.
On the menu, expect to see dishes like the Sonoran Chicken Enchilada Stack made with smoked chicken, white corn tortillas and roasted pasilla chili; the peppercorn beef tenderloin tips served with white cheddar mashed potatoes and seasonal veggies; and the banh mi sandwich (toasted ciabatta with Sriracha aioli, roasted pork, cucumber, pickled carrots, daikon radish, jalapeño and cilantro). (See the full menu here.)
On the pub side of things, expect craft beers and ciders, as well as signature cocktails.
Yelper MIchael R. wrote, "Great location with plenty of activity around the restaurant. Great experience with the prompt and informed servers and then the samplers of beer. Food was solid and portioned well. ... Easy public parking in garage across the street and a nice patio to enjoy these evenings."
4. Asbury Provisions
Asbury Provisions, a gastropub, cocktail bar and New American spot in the University area, is another go-to, with four stars out of 127 Yelp reviews. Head over to 2043 S. University Blvd. to see for yourself.
The menu consists of jars, small plates and sandwiches, as well as a brunch menu. The jars are things like house-marinated olives, bacon jam, mixed seasonal nuts and more. Small plates include wings, pretzels and fish tacos. For sandwiches, look for the Short Rib (braised in red wine and topped with cheddar cheese, arugula and truffle aioli) or the pulled pork on a brioche bun. (See the sandwich menu here.)
For drinks, expect cocktails and beer, plus a wine list.
Joshua D. wrote, "I can't say enough about the beer and food quality at Asbury Provisions. It feels like a hidden gem in Denver to anyone that really loves quality, often rare, beer and delicious food. The veggie burger is the best in town, so if you're a fellow vegetarian too, don't shy away!"
5. The Rackhouse
Finally, over in Five Points, check out The Rackhouse, which has earned four stars out of 79 reviews on Yelp. You can find the gastropub and New American spot at 2875 Blake St. It's a beer hall with a tasting room, making lagers and ciders on-site, but you can also score food from its kitchen.
Dishes include the Jaeger Schnitzel (pounded pork cutlet, helles mustard, fries and dunkel mushroom gravy), the Uptown Cheesesteak sandwich with horseradish blue cheese sauce and the Hop Chef Meatballs (pork meatballs, lager yeast, fermented kimchi and ponzu). (See the full kitchen menu here.)
Yelper Chel S. said, "Fun atmosphere with the best cider in Colorado! There are also beers and cocktails for the folks that don't like cider. Food is tasty — the mac and cheese is hearty, corn on the cob tasty and fries are perfect for sharing. Service was friendly and attentive."
