Denver: Downtown Small-Group Food Tasting Tour

When it comes to exploring a city’s soul, food tours often hit the sweet spot. This Downtown Small-Group Food Tasting Tour in Denver offers an appealing blend of delicious bites, engaging local stories, and visits to some of the city’s most notable landmarks. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the consistently high ratings and detailed reviews suggest it’s a well-crafted experience that offers genuine value.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the variety of tastings—from award-winning pizzas to hearty green chile—ensures you’ll leave full and satisfied. Second, the knowledgeable guides, like Austin and Julia, are praised for their friendliness, humor, and ability to share Denver’s history in an accessible way. Third, the chance to explore iconic sites such as Union Station and Coors Field adds an extra layer of local flavor. The only thing to consider? The 3-hour walking element might be a bit demanding for some, especially if you prefer relaxed sightseeing.

This tour seems perfect for food lovers eager to taste Denver’s best while learning about its past. It also suits travelers who appreciate guided walks that combine culinary adventures with sightseeing. If you want a fun, filling, and informative experience in downtown Denver, this tour might just be what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Diverse food tastings showcase Denver’s culinary diversity from pizza to empanadas.
• Engaging local guides share stories that go beyond restaurants, revealing Denver’s history.
• Iconic landmarks like Union Station and Coors Field are part of the route, offering great photo ops.
• Flexible dietary options are available, including vegetarian choices upon request.
• Group size is kept small for a more personalized, friendly atmosphere.
• Value for money with five tastings, guided insights, and insider tips, all within three hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

How It All Begins: The Meeting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at Marco’s Coal Fired Pizzeria, a fitting start for a food-focused adventure. Here, you’ll meet your guide—an experienced local with a knack for storytelling—and join a small group for a more intimate experience. This initial meet and greet sets a friendly tone, with reviews noting guides like Jess and Zach as personable, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic.

The First Stops: Pizza and Empanadas

Your first tastings are at Marco’s Coal Fired, renowned for its authentic Neapolitan pizza. This is a highlight for many, with guests praising the award-winning quality, and the AVPN certification from Italy adding authenticity. Several reviews mention the pizza as a standout, with one reviewer saying, “Loved the empanadas and tacos,” hinting that the stops often surprise with their variety.

Next, the tour visits Lazo Empanadas, a family-owned shop serving fluffy, flavorful empanadas. Guests often comment on how these are a far cry from typical fast-food versions—light, airy, and packed with fillings. Here, you’ll also taste wine and learn about the family history behind the business.

The Heart of the Tour: Local Cuisine and History

Moving on, the group heads to Cherry Cricket for another tasting, likely a hearty offering that embodies Denver’s casual yet quality-focused food scene. The guide shares stories about Denver’s early days, secret tunnels, and colorful past, giving context to each culinary stop.

Walking along, you’ll pass Coors Field and Dairy Block, with stops spotlighting Denver’s sports culture and downtown revitalization. The guided tours at these sites allow you to absorb local stories and see the city through a fresh lens, with many reviewers noting how the guides’ storytelling enhances the experience.

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The Final Bites and Sights: Union Station and Beyond

The tour wraps up at Union Station, a historic and bustling hub of activity. Inside, you’ll enjoy a final tasting, perhaps a sweet treat or a signature dish, while learning about Denver’s evolution as a city. Many reviewers mention Julia’s or Melissa’s personal touch—taking the time to connect with guests and share insider tips.

Food and Drink: Quality, Variety, and Flexibility

You’ll sample five different foods over the course of three hours, which many agree is enough for a satisfying lunch. The tour offers vegetarian options if requested in advance, and an optional alcoholic drink pairing can be purchased on-site for an extra $26. Reviewers often highlight the wine at Lazo Empanadas and the cocktails at Kachina Cantina as memorable highlights.

The Group and Guide Experience

Small groups, often around 10-12 people, foster a cozy, interactive environment. Guests frequently praise the guides—particularly Austin, Melissa, and Julia—for their professionalism, humor, and ability to tailor the experience. One reviewer said, “Austin was very informative and professional,” and another appreciated how the guides gave personalized restaurant recommendations based on individual tastes.

Practical Details and Value

Priced at $85 per person, the tour offers a significant value considering the five tastings, guided insights, and sightseeing included. Many mention that it feels more like a substantial lunch than just a tasting, making it ideal for those wanting a hearty introduction to Denver’s food scene.

The duration of three hours is generally well-paced. Guests should be prepared for about a mile of walking, which is manageable for most. The tour runs rain or shine, so dressing weather-appropriate is recommended. For those who want to extend their culinary adventure, the optional alcohol upgrade is available, but many find the included tastings enough.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

What truly elevates this experience is the combination of delicious food and fascinating stories. Reviewers often mention how the tour helped them discover places they might never have found on their own, like hidden gems and local favorites. The guides’ personal touches—such as giving out restaurant recommendation cards—add an extra layer of care.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to foodies eager to sample Denver’s best bites while learning about the city’s past. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer guided experiences that combine sightseeing with culinary delights. It’s also great for those who enjoy small group settings, ensuring a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

If you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or family who appreciate good food and interesting stories, you’ll find this experience both fun and filling. However, those seeking a very leisurely pace or specific dietary accommodations should communicate their needs beforehand, as vegetarian options are available upon request.

Final Thoughts

This Downtown Small-Group Food Tasting Tour offers a well-rounded taste of Denver’s vibrant culinary scene, infused with local history and lively storytelling. The quality of the tastings—ranging from authentic Neapolitan pizza to crispy empanadas—paired with insightful guides, makes for a memorable introduction to the city.

While the price might seem a bit steep for some, the value lies in the variety, insider access, and the chance to explore Denver’s core neighborhoods without the hassle of planning. The small-group format ensures a personal touch, allowing for meaningful interactions and tailored recommendations.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor wanting an overview or a local looking to rediscover hidden treasures, this tour delivers a substantial, enjoyable, and authentic taste of Denver.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It lasts for about 3 hours, covering roughly a mile of walking around downtown Denver.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Marco’s Coal Fired Pizzeria near Coors Field and concludes back at Union Station.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian choices can be accommodated if you inform the tour provider at booking.

Is alcohol included in the tour?
No, the standard tour does not include alcohol, but you can purchase a drink pairing upgrade on-site for $26.

What should I wear?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour runs rain, snow, or shine.

How many people are in a group?
The tour is designed for small groups, usually around 10-12 participants, to ensure a more personal experience.

Can I buy extra food or drinks during the tour?
Most tastings are included, but additional beverages or extra dishes are available for purchase at individual stops.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
While it’s primarily designed for adults, families with children who enjoy walking and food might find it enjoyable. Check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

To sum it up, this Denver food tour offers a delightful balance of tasting, storytelling, and sightseeing. With friendly guides, diverse bites, and a focus on local flavor, it’s an excellent way to get to know Denver beyond just the usual sights. Ideal for foodies, history buffs, and anyone looking to explore downtown Denver in a fun, relaxed setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: