We all know that beer is king, but what's the next best thing? You guessed it... FOOD! As you're busy getting your buzz on, there's nothing like chowing down on a juicy cheeseburger, mouthwatering wings, steamy pizza, or a pile of cheesy nachos with all of the fixings. After all, high-quality beer deserves a pairing with the phenomenal food your taste buds are craving.

We've created a list of all the best breweries in Denver with food; that is, those that not only brew their beer on site but also make their own fare. So we're not including breweries that have a food truck on site or offer food from other local restaurants. Nope. Our list only includes Denver's top spots that make each and every item on their menu right in their kitchen on site. Is your mouth watering yet?

Here are the top Denver breweries with the best of both worlds - so you'll never have to choose between beer or food ever again.

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Wynkoop Brewing Company

 

Wynkoop is Denver's first brewpub which offers craft beers and New American pub grub in a pool hall/bar setting. They're known for being ballsy in the beer department and doing things like putting gummy bears, Rocky Mountain oysters, and green chilis in their brews. They offer an impressive menu filled with nachos, burgers, wings, soups, fish & chips, and plenty of mouthwatering desserts. Wynkoop offers a little bit of something for everyone to enjoy and is one of Denver's best breweries that serves food.

If you're thinking of having a private party, Wynkoop is your spot! Inquire here to see how we can help.

• What makes it awesome: Wynkoop offers many unique food and beer pairings to kick your taste buds into high-gear like you've never experienced before.
• Best for: Relaxing night out for great brews, food, and pool games while enjoying the view from the huge glass windows of booming lower downtown.
• Type of food: New American, Vegetarian friendly options
• Price: $$
• Takes Reservations?: Yes
• Good to know: Known for providing outstanding service. Centrally located to other downtown highlights.
• Address: 1634 18th St, Denver, CO 80202

Bierstadt Lagerhaus

Bierstadt Lagerhaus prides themselves on offering simple, traditional beers and menus. They offer all the bar food you crave while enjoying a beer including soft pretzels, street tacos, grilled cheese, schnitzel, BLT sandwiches, a variety of Mac and cheese dishes, chili, fries and more. It's the perfect laid back spot for hanging out with friends and family.

• What makes it awesome: Traditional German lagers paired with delicious pub food in an industrial-style atmosphere. Great place to watch sports.
• Best for: Casual hangout spot to meet with friends or family for beer, food, and engaging life-size games such as 'Connect Four' and 'Jenga'.
• Type of food: American pub
• Price: $$
• Takes Reservations?: No
• Good to know: Somewhat family friendly (kids are allowed upstairs in the restaurant area). Private parking lot makes parking a breeze.
• Address: 2875 Blake St, Denver, CO 80205

Tivoli Brewing Company

Colorado's oldest brewery, Tivoli Brewing Company, took a 46 year hiatus and recently re-opened stronger than ever in 2015 as a state-of-the-art-craft brewery. Tivoli features more than 50 Colorado draft beers and a fun American pub menu. All of the food is inspired by the Food Trucks in Colorado because they believe that food truck flavors and craft beer are a match made in Heaven. "They just go together like a T-Rex with tiny arms" as they hilariously joke on their website. Menu items include potstickers, burgers, tacos, nachos, crispy brussel sprouts, buffalo chicken sandwich, fish and chips, and hot wings.

• What makes it awesome: Airy atmosphere featuring exposed brick, lofty ceilings, and interesting murals covering the walls. It's located inside a Student Union on campus and you can feel the rich history the moment you step inside.
• Best for: Stop by for the "Traffic Jam Sandwich" - it's a sandwich with three melty cheeses and an apricot mostarda jam. It's the most decadent adult grilled cheese you could possibly imagine. In fact, some people come here just for this sandwich!
• Type of food: American pub
• Price: $$
• Takes Reservations?: No
• Good to know: The Pepsi Center is located nearby making it a terrific place to grab a beer and meal before a big game.
• Address: 900 Auraria Pkwy Suite 240, Denver, CO 80204

Rock Bottom Brewery

Unique craft beer collides with crave-worthy popular American dishes at Rock Bottom Brewery. They offer comforting dishes like the Bacon Chicken Mac n' Cheese, Bacon Jalapeño poppers, Fish & Chips, and Brewery nachos. Rock Bottom's love for beer shines throughout their staff's faces as well as the guests' in this unique brewery. It's also one of the top breweries in Denver.

• What makes it awesome: Convenient downtown location and attractive glass windows makes for a lively, yet casual atmosphere. Handcrafted beers alongside fresh flavors will entice your appetite.
• Best for: Casual lunch or relaxed evening out and about downtown.
• Type of food: American
• Price: $-$$
• Takes Reservations?: No
• Good to know: Offer fun Game Day Football brunches with all-star lineup selections on Saturday & Sundays from Open - 3pm.
• Address: 1001 16th St, Mall #A-100, Denver, CO 80265

10 Barrel Brewing Company

Located in the hip neighborhood of RiNo is 10 Barrel Brewing Company, a two-story industrial space which serves eclectic beers and elevated bar food. These guys seriously hit it out of the park with their food! Locally sourced made from scratch items include beer mussels, steak and gorgonzola nachos, gourmet burgers, brats, Korean chicken sandwich, and out of this world pizzas. Yum!

• What makes it awesome: Rooftop seating gives you incredible views of the city alongside their fun atmosphere.
• Best for: Taking your clients out after work, hanging with a large group of friends, or a simple romantic date night with your love. It's close to many other breweries making it a great stop if you're doing a brewery tour.
• Type of food: High-quality bar food
• Price: $$
• Takes Reservations?: No
• Good to know: Plenty of open space inside, ideal for large groups. Parking is street only which can be difficult during busy times. 
• Address: 2620 Walnut St, Denver, CO 80205 

Briar Common Brewery + Eatery

Traditional and contemporary beer styles are paired with comfort food from chef DJ Nagle at Briar Common Brewery + Eatery. At this eclectic gastro-brewery, many of their plates are designed to be perfectly paired with each of their beers, which gives the customer a uniquely fun experience. Some menu items include Buffalo Cauliflower, Mac's Fried Chicken, and Pork Belly Platter. While the foods are great enjoyed alone, they're even better when paired with their sourced beer! Give it a try, your taste buds won't regret it.

• What makes it awesome: Craft beer & modern, bistro-style fare located in an urban, open two-story, sunny setting with a rooftop terrace.
• Best for: Drink and dinner spot before major concert, Bronco's games and other events at the Mile High Stadium (located less than quarter mile away). They offer a special game day menu to ensure speedy and delicious service.
• Type of food: New American, Pub food 
• Price: $$
• Takes Reservations?: No
• Good to know: The gorgeous venue is available to rent for weddings (recommended by The Knot) and other private events. Winner of "Best of Denver Food & Drink of 2017".
• Address: 2298 Clay St, Denver, CO 80211

Lowdown Brewery + Kitchen

You've been warned, this isn't your typical pub food! Lowdown Brewery + Kitchen only uses local, sustainable, organic ingredients in each of their dishes. The menu includes hand-tossed pizzas, fresh salads, and one-of-a-kind sandwiches sure to impress. If you're looking for healthier options in a brewery offering food, Lowdown has you covered.

• What makes it awesome: Laid back natural, wood-based atmosphere offering local organic, comfort food and house made beers. 
• Best for: Check out their Happy Hour Monday-Friday 3pm-6pm, offering small plates and $1 off all Full Pours. Also, make sure to get the pizza!
• Type of food: Pizza, New American
• Price: $$ 
• Takes Reservations?: No
• Good to know: Dog friendly patio, delicious weekend brunches.
• Address: 800 Lincoln St, Denver, CO 80203

Black Shirt Brewing Co. 

Located in the heart of the RiNo district, Black Shirt Brewing Co. is passionate about offering a brewery balancing between delicious crafts beers, live music, and delectable pizzas. Their spacious Beer Garden offers a one-of-a-kind pallet stage that brings in acts from Colorado and beyond! In 2017 they were awarded "Best Brewpub for Live Music". Their menu options include wings, garlic knots, and many specialty pizzas with their own unique flair, or you can choose to build your own. They even have a 'chipotle-maple glaze sauce' if you're tired of the traditional tomato based sauce!

• What makes it awesome: Black Shirt Brewing really brings the community together with beer, pizza, and music, creating a special vibe that's one-of-a-kind. Plus, they open earlier than most breweries at 11:00am sharp.
• Best for: Great weeknight or weekend spot if you're looking for drool-worthy pizzas and exceptional live bands. 2 large TV's are perfect for watching Sunday football too.
• Type of food: Pizza, Salads
• Price: $$
• Takes Reservations?: No
• Good to know: This brewery is just steps away from the RTD A Line's 38th Blake Street Station (famously nicknamed the "Train to the Plane") making it a breeze to swing by the taproom on your way from or to the airport. They also offer take out if you're ever in a rush to catch a flight.
• Address: 3719 Walnut St, Denver, CO 80205

Blue Moon Brewery in RiNo

Blue Moon opened their doors in 2016 to the RiNo District as a place to share their all-time favorite beers as well as experimental ones that can only be found at this location. They offer 20+ tap handles as well as a full kitchen menu that rotates seasonally. Top menu items include cheesy bacon and potato flatbread, beer chili, burgers, meatball torta, and the RiNo hot chicken sandwich.

• What makes it awesome: The Blue Moon Brewery in RiNo offers spacious, chic, eye-popping decor with open spaces and a large patio. Outside the building you'll find great photo ops including the Blue Moon logo spanned across the corner of the beautiful brick building.
• Best for: Avid Blue Moon lovers as well as newbies who appreciate modern flair will love this brewery. Perfect for grabbing an afternoon drink or a weeknight meal.
• Type of food: Modern American
• Price: $$
• Takes Reservations?: Yes 
• Good to know: Convenient parking lot makes getting here easy. Visitors can enjoy interesting tours of "behind-the-scenes" production areas.
• Address: 3750 Chestnut Pl, Denver, CO 80216

Explore Even More 

Thirst Colorado

Thirst Colorado is an excellent resource for additional guides to Colorado’s entire beer and food scene, plus some spirits, cannabis, and wineries, and a TON of cool things to do outside  Take a look here to review any upcoming festivals or uber-unique things to do.  The website is great, but if you see one of their magazines in a local small business, definitely pick one up (they’re usually free).

See the best of the best with Denver Microbrew Tour

With so many amazing breweries offering food in Denver, it's hard to make a decision, but hopefully this guide will help point you in the right direction. Whether you're looking for a Sunday brunch, a unique pizza, juicy burger, or mouthwatering nachos, you'll find those foods and more at these great Denver breweries to go right alongside your ice cold beer. Entice your taste buds and show them the best of both worlds! 

Want to experience downtown Denver's breweries in the coolest way possible? Check out Denver Microbrew Tour today. We're always ready to help! We even offer private tours for corporate outings or social gatherings which create unique and fun experiences while seeing all that Denver breweries have to offer. We'd love to see you soon!