Denver’s vibrant RiNo neighborhood offers an evening food tour that’s not to be missed. Led by a local guide, this 3-hour culinary journey takes you on a personalized exploration of the area’s diverse food scene. From traditional Mexican cuisine to chic tapas and wood-fired pizza, each stop promises a unique experience catered to your preferences. With a focus on regional flavors and cultural significance, this tour is sure to leave you wanting more.
Key Points
- Explore the vibrant RiNo neighborhood of Denver on a 3-hour culinary tour led by a local guide.
- Savor traditional Mexican cuisine, tapas, wood-fired pizza, and artisanal pastries at hand-picked restaurants and cafes.
- Enjoy complementary drinks like margaritas and mezcal cocktails as you learn about the history and significance of the dishes.
- Customize the tour experience by suggesting alternative food stops that cater to your dietary preferences and interests.
- Benefit from a flexible tour structure and a small group size (maximum 6 guests) for a personalized and immersive experience.
Tour Overview
The "Denver: RiNo Evening Food Tour with a Local Guide" offers participants a 3-hour exploration of Denver’s vibrant RiNo (River North Art District) neighborhood.
Priced at $99 per person, the tour is limited to 6 guests and conducted in English. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without upfront payment.
During the 3-hour experience, the tour highlights the local food scene, architectural murals, and insights from a knowledgeable guide.
The tour includes stops at 4 different restaurants and breweries, with samples of dishes like pozole, tacos, pizza, and pastries.
Love the evening vibe? Here are more after-sunset activities we've covered in Denver
Experiencing Denver’s RiNo Neighborhood
Guests embark on a culinary journey through Denver’s vibrant RiNo (River North Art District) neighborhood, savoring a diverse array of regional flavors and local specialties.
At La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal, they indulge in traditional Mexican cuisine, including pozole and guisado tacos, complemented by margaritas and mezcal cocktails.
Next, they explore a chic tapas bar, Barcelona, sampling small plates inspired by Spanish and Mediterranean cuisines.
At Denver Central Market, they share a wood-fired pizza and browse local vendors.
The tour concludes with a Colorado Queen pastry or a similar item from Izzio Bakery, providing a sweet ending to the culinary adventure.
Discovering Traditional Mexican Cuisine
As guests begin their culinary journey, they start at La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal, where they indulge in traditional Mexican cuisine.
They sample pozole, a hearty hominy-based soup, and guisado tacos – slow-cooked meat fillings in corn tortillas. To complement the savory dishes, they sip on refreshing margaritas and mezcal cocktails.
The local guide shares insights into the history and significance of these iconic Mexican flavors, immersing the group in the vibrant culture of Denver’s RiNo neighborhood.
This opening stop sets the tone for an evening of exploring the city’s diverse and dynamic food scene.
Exploring the Chic Tapas Bar
Next, the group makes their way to Barcelona, a chic tapas bar where they enjoy small plates inspired by Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine. The menu features a variety of tapas options to share:
| Tapas Dish | Description | Price |
|————|————-|——-|
| Patatas Bravas | Crispy potatoes with spicy tomato sauce | $8 |
| Albondigas | Pork and beef meatballs in tomato sauce | $10 |
| Gambas al Ajillo | Garlic shrimp | $12 |
| Queso de Cabra | Baked goat cheese with honey and walnuts | $9 |
The group savors the flavors of these expertly crafted dishes, all complemented by a selection of Spanish wines.
More Great Tours NearbySharing a Wood-Fired Pizza
After savoring the tapas at Barcelona, the group heads to Denver Central Market.
At the bustling food hall, they share a wood-fired pizza. The crust is perfectly charred, and the toppings are fresh and flavorful. As they savor each bite, they admire the vibrant atmosphere around them.
The market is a hub of activity, with vendors selling everything from artisanal cheese to handcrafted jewelry. The group takes their time, exploring the diverse offerings and learning about the local food scene from their knowledgeable guide.
This pizza stop is a delightful way to experience the heart of Denver’s culinary culture.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Denver
Indulging in a Sweet Ending
With their appetite satiated from the savory treats, the group now looks forward to indulging in a sweet ending to their culinary journey.
The tour concludes at Izzio Bakery, where participants savor:
-
A Colorado Queen pastry, a local specialty featuring a flaky crust and a sweet, fruit-filled center.
-
A selection of freshly baked cookies, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
-
A rich, decadent brownie, offering a delightful balance of chocolate and caramel flavors.
-
A refreshing sorbet or gelato, providing a light and palate-cleansing finale to the tour.
Flexible Tour Options
While the standard tour includes a carefully curated selection of dining experiences, the company offers flexible options to accommodate guests’ preferences.
Visitors can suggest alternative food stops, such as sushi, ramen, or barbecue, which the guide will be happy to incorporate.
This adaptability allows the tour to cater to a wider range of tastes and dietary requirements.
The guide’s expertise ensures that any customized itinerary maintains the same level of quality and authenticity as the original program.
This flexibility enhances the overall tour experience, making it more personalized and enjoyable for each guest.
Preparation and Recommendations
Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking the tour route through Denver’s RiNo neighborhood. A camera is recommended to capture the vibrant murals, though visibility may vary by season.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking the RiNo tour and bring a camera to capture the vibrant murals, though visibility may vary by season.
Plus, guests should dress appropriately for the weather conditions, as the tour runs rain or shine. Considering dietary restrictions when booking is also advisable, as the tour may not be suitable for those with food allergies.
Here are 4 key tips for preparing for the tour:
-
Wear comfortable walking shoes
-
Bring a camera for mural photos
-
Dress for the weather
-
Consider dietary restrictions when booking
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The dress code for the tour is casual and comfortable. Visitors are recommended to wear shoes suitable for walking and dress appropriately for the weather conditions, as the tour may involve outdoor elements.
Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Yes, the tour can accommodate dietary restrictions. The description notes that the tour is not suitable for individuals with food allergies, so guests should consider their dietary needs when booking the tour.
How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tour?
The tour operator provides clear instructions on how to reach the starting point. Guests can arrange their own transportation, such as rideshare or public transit, to the designated meeting location in the RiNo neighborhood. Specific details are included upon booking confirmation.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Yes, guests are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the beautiful murals and scenic views throughout the tour. However, visibility may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
Is There a Vegetarian/Vegan Food Option Available?
The tour offers flexible food stop options, so vegetarian or vegan guests can suggest alternative stops like sushi, ramen, or BBQ. However, the standard tour itinerary may not cater specifically to those dietary needs.
The Sum Up
Experience Denver’s vibrant RiNo neighborhood on an unforgettable evening food tour. Delight in a culinary journey featuring traditional Mexican cuisine, chic tapas, wood-fired pizza, and sweet pastries. With a focus on regional flavors and cultural significance, this tour promises a personalized experience and a memorable exploration of RiNo’s diverse food scene. Flexible tour options and practical recommendations ensure a hassle-free experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Cycling Tours in Denver
More Tour Reviews in Denver
Still browsing? Here are more Denver experiences we've covered recently
- Best of Denver Walking Tour
- Castle Rock: The EDGE Zipline Tour
- Rocky Mountain HIGH: Cannabis Mountain Tour
- Denver: Colorado Rockies Baseball Game Ticket at Coors Field
- Private Denver: Discover Cocktail Culture and History
- Denver: Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Gear
- Denver’s Ghosts of Capitol Hill Walking Tour
- Denver Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour at Capitol Hill
- Denver: Denver Terrors Guided Ghost Tour
- Denver: History and Architecture Walking Tours
- Denver: Molly Brown House Museum Self-Guided Tour & Entry
- Denver: Museum of Nature and Science Entry Ticket