We've got your chicken-fried steak, your biscuits and gravy, your smothered burritos, and a whole lot more at these down-home Denver diners that'll make you swear you're in your mama's kitchen. I'm talking about finger lickin' rib stickin' cheesy buttery goodness oozing onto your plate from every bun and fried morsel 24/7. Need I say more?
1. Sam's No. 3
Let's get this party started with what just may be the Mile High City's most iconic diner, Sam's No. 3. Established in 1927 and with three lively locations in Glendale, Aurora, and Downtown, Sam's No. 3 has proven to be a tried and true right of passage for visitors and Denverites that never falls short (order).
2. Tom's Diner
For almost 20 years, Tom's Diner has been providing the good people of East Colfax with Blue Plate Specials, Belly Bombers, and other down home eats 24 hours a day. Get your biscuits and gravy, smothered burritos, fish and chips, root beer floats, and pretty much any other thing you like at any time you like. Boom!
3. The Butcher Block Cafe
All you really need to know about the family owned Butcher Block Cafe is that they're churning out home-cooked meals, mostly from scratch and have been doing so for over 30 years. Did I mention that their specialty is homemade cinnamon rolls? (Be right back!)
4. Peppers
Peppers and owner George Strompolos have been going strong for 35 years at 3500 Morrison Road, where they specialize in excellent customer service, loyal patrons, and "a pancake that can turn a mouth into a down comforter and a down comforter into a sticky mess." Not to mention that they also offer mouthwatering Mexican and Greek fare, including Denver's infamous pork green chili and a pork souvlaki sandwich that George says rivals the gyro. Now that'll put some Peppers in your step!
5. Javier's Diner
When a restaurant doesn't even have a website, you know it's a legitimately unpretentious down-home joint slinging solid eats, and Javier's Diner does just that! If you're on the prowl for Mexican dishes served up on a delightful outdoor patio, look no further!
6. 20th Street Cafe
After 60 years in operation, this no-frills neighborhood haunt is still a fan favorite with its working-class fare offered at reasonable prices. When, "Get it hot, get it cheap and get it fast," is the motto, who could ask for more?
7. Davie's Chuck Wagon Diner
Built in 1957 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this old-time diner has certainly earned its spot on the roster. Get "a classic slice of Americana" at their original location on Colfax or their newest addition in Wheat Ridge. Giddy up!
8. Steuben's
Established in 2006, Steuben's is a bit of a departure from the other old-timers on our list, but it has no problem keeping up with the big dogs when it comes to home cookin' and finger lickin' vittles. Stop by their location Uptown or in Arvada for a scrumptious lunch, brunch, or dinner that'll stick to your ribs! And might I suggest a milkshake, root beer float, or boozy shake if you dare.
9. The Breakfast King
Besides not having a website, another testament to being a bonafide greasy spoon establishment is being faithfully open 24 hours a day, preferably in close proximity to an interstate. Well, what do you know, the Breakfast King succeeds at both, and this old school spot is eagerly awaiting your arrival.
10. Red Rooster Cafe
Another common denominator among diners (at least in Denver), is that they specialize in American, Mexican, and Greek classics, and Red Rooster Cafe at 58th and Washington has all that and then some. For generously portioned diner specials at reasonable prices, head on over to the Red Rooster where they've got plenty to strut and crow about!
11. Rosie's Diner
Stepping into Rosie's 50's-style diner in Aurora is like sock hopping back in time. The old-fashioned handmade milkshakes, quarter jukebox, and all-day breakfast classics will give you all the nostalgic feels.
12. McCoys Restaurant
This old school diner on Federal Boulevard with its monstrous cinnamon rolls and scrumptious chicken-fried steak is hands down the real McCoys. Open 24/7 and located just off I-70 beside a Motel 6? Enough said.
Not done yet? Try out these Mom & Pop Restaurants and Old Denver Staples that've stood the test of time.
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