Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour

When it comes to getting a true feel for a city, nothing beats a good food tour—especially one that combines culinary delights with a splash of local culture and art. The Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour is renowned for giving visitors an authentic taste of Denver’s thriving creative and foodie scene. With a perfect 5-star rating from 275 reviews, this tour promises a memorable way to explore one of Denver’s most dynamic neighborhoods.

What we love about this experience is the way it seamlessly blends delicious food with fascinating stories about Denver’s evolving culinary landscape. You’ll visit five carefully selected restaurants, each with its own character, from award-winning Mexican fusion to classic NY-style pizza. The small-group format ensures a friendly vibe and plenty of personal attention, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate, relaxed experience.

However, a key consideration might be the tour’s focus on hearty, carb-heavy dishes—if you’re looking for a light or strictly vegetarian meal, this might not be your perfect fit. Still, for adventurous eaters, art lovers, and those eager to discover local hidden gems, this tour is a fantastic introduction to Denver’s coolest neighborhood.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This tour is perfect for foodies eager to sample Denver’s unique bites, art lovers curious about street murals and local culture, and travelers who enjoy engaging guides sharing insider stories. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a well-balanced mix of tasting, storytelling, and neighborhood exploration.

Key Points

• Authentic Flavors: Tasting dishes from award-winning local restaurants offers a genuine taste of Denver’s culinary scene.
• Cultural Insights: The guide shares compelling stories about Denver’s art, history, and food culture, enriching the experience.
• Inclusive & Friendly: The small group size (max 15) fosters a more personal, engaging atmosphere.
• Flexible Options: Upgrade on-site for alcohol pairings to elevate your tasting experience.
• Hearty Portions: Expect enough food to feel like a substantial lunch, with well-sized portions.
• Convenient & Well-Organized: The tour covers key neighborhoods, with stops at iconic spots and a lively market.

Walking Through the RiNo Experience: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Start at Los Chingones RiNo: Mexican Fusion & Margaritas

The tour kicks off at Los Chingones, a bustling spot known for innovative Mexican dishes. Here, you’ll enjoy a flavorful taco crafted by a renowned Denver chef, setting the tone for the culinary adventure ahead. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge about Denver’s rich food scene and remark on the lively, upbeat atmosphere. If you opt for the drinks upgrade, you’ll also sip a strong, well-made margarita, which pairs beautifully with the spicy, smoky flavors of the tacos.

Expect to spend about 35 minutes here. The food is ample and satisfying—reviewers note that the bites are enough to keep you full for the rest of the tour. The guide will probably share some interesting tidbits about how this spot has become a local favorite and its role within Denver’s vibrant food scene.

Visit to Farm and Market: Urban Farming & Greens

Next, the group moves to a local urban farm. This stop offers a rare glimpse into Denver’s sustainable food movement. The farm is an active space, where greens are grown in-house, and tasting fresh, farm-to-table greens makes for a refreshing contrast to the more indulgent bites earlier. The 30-minute stop is not just about tasting but also about understanding how Denver’s food scene is evolving with a focus on sustainability.

From reviews, we know that this stop is highly valued for the behind-the-scenes look at urban farming practices, and the sample greens are fresh and flavorful. It’s a quick but meaningful insight into the city’s farm-to-table movement.

The Artistic Heart of RiNo: Murals & Creative Vibe

Walking through the neighborhood’s streets, you’ll see the murals, graffiti, and creative signage that make RiNo so unique. This 20-minute stop isn’t just for Instagram-worthy photos—your guide will share stories about how art and industry mingle here, with warehouses turned into galleries, studios, and breweries. This part of the tour reveals Denver’s commitment to revitalizing industrial spaces with murals and creative businesses.

Reviewers mention that guides like Austin or Hans are well-versed in the neighborhood’s history and art, adding context that enriches the stroll. The street art isn’t just background; it’s a reflection of RiNo’s innovative spirit.

Redeemer Pizza: Classic NY-Style with Seasonal Flair

Next, it’s time for pizza—a slice from Redeemer Pizza, celebrated as one of Denver’s top 25 restaurants. Known for slow fermentation dough and seasonal ingredients, the pizza here is a crowd-pleaser. Expect a specialty slice paired with a cocktail if you’ve upgraded your experience.

Tourists love that portions are sizeable enough to satisfy, and the quality of the pizza is top-notch. Reviewers note that this stop is particularly enjoyable for its authentic NY-style flavors and the friendly atmosphere of the restaurant.

Vero: Light Italian Delights

Just a short walk away, Vero, an Italian restaurant, offers a taste of house-made ricotta gnocchi with a fresh tomato and basil sauce. It’s a lighter, more delicate option after the pizza, and guests rave about the freshness and quality of the ingredients. This stop provides a more refined, culinary-focused experience.

The 15-minute tasting is enough to leave you craving more of Vero’s simple yet delicious dishes. It’s perfect for those who enjoy authentic Italian flavors and appreciate a good story about local chef-driven restaurants.

The Denver Central Market: A Gourmet Food Hub

The final stop at The Denver Central Market encapsulates everything great about RiNo—a lively hub filled with food vendors, bars, a chocolatier, and more. Your guide gives a quick overview of the market’s history before you dive into a tasting from one of the vendors.

This 40-minute visit is a highlight for many, as it captures the essence of Denver’s gourmet and artisanal food scene in one vibrant space. Reviewers often mention that the market’s diverse options and energetic vibe make it a fitting finale to the tour.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Multiple reviews praise guides like Hans and Zach for being engaging, informative, and fun. They share not only food facts but also stories about Denver’s art, history, and local personalities, which adds depth to the experience.

Hearty, Satisfying Portions: Many reviewers mention that the stops provide enough food for a complete meal, with portions that are “large” and “very filling.” This isn’t just a tasting; it’s a well-rounded culinary experience.

Street Art & Neighborhood Vibes: The combination of food and art makes this tour particularly special. Walking through RiNo’s murals, graffiti, and industrial architecture helps you appreciate the neighborhood’s creative energy.

Flexibility & Extras: Upgrading on the day for alcohol pairings at $30 offers an extra layer of enjoyment, especially if you’re a fan of craft cocktails and local brews.

Value for Price: At $85 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive experience that covers multiple restaurants, a market, and the neighborhood’s cultural highlights—all in about 3 hours. The reviews consistently emphasize the quality and quantity of the food, making the cost worthwhile.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly and arrive 10 minutes early for check-in.
• The group is small (maximum 15 travelers), which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Gluten-free and dairy-free options are limited, but vegetarian options are available. If you have dietary restrictions, it’s best to communicate with the provider beforehand.
• Most bookings are made 3 weeks in advance, so plan ahead—especially during peak travel seasons.
• The tour ends at The Denver Central Market, conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to continue exploring or head back to your accommodation.

Final Thoughts

The Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour is a fantastic way to get to know Denver’s artsy side while sampling a wide array of local flavors. The combination of expertly curated restaurant visits, insightful guides, and emphasis on neighborhood culture makes it more than just a food crawl—it’s an immersive cultural experience.

For those who love discovering hidden gems, enjoy storytelling that adds depth to tastings, and appreciate lively neighborhoods, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially well-suited for curious travelers eager to see Denver beyond the typical tourist spots and dive into its vibrant art and food scene.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 3 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
You get five food tastings, a Denver Food Tours Insider’s Guide, and access to exclusive discounts. Alcohol pairings are optional at $30 extra.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, but full gluten-free or dairy-free accommodations are limited.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Los Chingones RiNo and concludes at The Denver Central Market, both located on Larimer Street.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but age restrictions apply for alcohol consumption (21+ with valid ID), and portions are hearty, so consider if younger children will enjoy the pace.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since it’s a walking tour. Dress for the weather, as the tour runs rain or shine.

In all, the Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging glimpse into Denver’s creative and culinary scenes—perfect for food lovers, art enthusiasts, and curious explorers alike.