Unearth The Voyage
Craving real-deal Mexican food that locals swear by? Denver’s scene is packed with soulful pozole, smoky mezcal, and tortillas made with love, and these spots deliver every time. Whether you want a date-night mezcaleria or a casual taco fix, this list points you straight to flavor and tradition. Come hungry and get ready to bookmark your next go-to favorite.
1. Adelitas Cocina Y Cantina – Denver, CO
Adelitas feels like that neighborhood spot where salsa arrives fast, margaritas sparkle, and you instantly settle in. The menu leans into family recipes, so the chile rellenos and cochinita pibil bring both comfort and depth. If you love a hearty plate, their molcajete is a shareable showstopper, bubbling with rich salsa and tender meat.
You can count on freshly fried chips and a salsa trio that starts the meal right. Tacos arrive on sturdy tortillas with confident seasoning and just enough heat. The staff keeps things easygoing, with friendly check ins and thoughtful suggestions for mezcal or tequila pairings.
Weekend brunch is a sleeper hit, especially the chilaquiles with a sunny runny egg. Portion sizes lean generous, making leftovers likely. If you want reliable, big flavor that still tastes handmade, Adelitas is the kind of place you return to whenever cravings strike.
2. Encanto Cocina & Cantina – Denver, CO
Encanto brings polished plates without losing heart, which makes it ideal for both casual nights and celebrations. Start with queso fundido or esquites, then chase it with birria tacos dipped into savory, aromatic consommé. Their cocktail list leans bright and citrusy, with mezcal and tequila flights that let you explore styles.
The space is stylish yet relaxed, and service moves with steady confidence. Tortillas taste fresh and hold up, a detail that matters when fillings are juicy. Salsas arrive with clear personalities, from tangy to smoky, encouraging you to customize each bite.
Vegetarian options are thoughtfully built rather than afterthoughts. Ask for pairing tips if you are mezcal curious, because staff knows their agave. Encanto gets the balance right, offering layered flavors that feel both comforting and modern, the kind of meal that leaves you planning a return before dessert even lands.
3. La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal – Denver, CO
La Diabla makes pozole the headline, and that focus pays off in deeply satisfying bowls. Choose rojo, verde, or blanco, then customize with crunchy cabbage, radish, and a squeeze of lime. Hominy has that perfect tender pop, and the broth delivers clean intensity without overwhelming salt.
The mezcal lineup is wide, with helpful guidance for matching smoke levels to your palate. Order a flight to explore differences between espadin and wild varietals. Tacos and snacks round things out, but pozole is the reason you commit to a second visit.
Casual yet buzzing, the room feels welcoming whether you are solo or with friends. Service is quick, and the kitchen is consistent. If you crave a bowl that warms your whole mood, La Diabla delivers classic comfort with the kind of care that turns a simple soup into a ritual.
4. Mezcaleria Alma – Denver, CO
Mezcaleria Alma invites you to slow down, sip, and savor. The bar team speaks fluent agave, guiding you through regional styles and production methods that change how you taste. Small plates keep pace, from bright aguachile to hearty tlayuda with a perfect char.
Expect nuanced salsas and tortillas that taste freshly pressed. The music is low, the lighting flattering, and conversations flow easily. Order a copita flight to compare smoke, minerality, and sweetness, then pair with citrus forward cocktails that lift the spices.
It is ideal for dates or a focused tasting night with friends. You will leave with a favorite producer and plans to hunt down bottles. Alma feels like a little classroom wrapped in a lounge, proof that education can be delicious when paired with crunchy tostadas and a balanced pour.
5. La Doña Mezcaleria – Denver, CO
La Doña leans bold, from its colorful room to an agave list that encourages exploration. Cocktails arrive with smoky edges and bright citrus, making them easy to sip with charred elote and rich mole. The kitchen respects tradition but is not afraid of modern plating.
Service is enthusiastic, with smart suggestions based on what you like. If you are into flights, compare mezcal varietals side by side and notice the finish evolve. Tacos come on sturdy tortillas with crisp textures and clean seasoning.
This is where you bring friends to linger, share plates, and talk about favorites. The energy builds as the night goes on, but it never loses hospitality. La Doña proves that a mezcal bar can be both a hangout and a serious tasting room, especially when the food keeps pace.
6. Savina’s Mexican Kitchen – Downtown Denver – Denver, CO
Savina’s fits downtown perfectly, offering quick lunches and relaxed dinners without sacrificing flavor. Enchiladas suizas come creamy and comforting, while tacos stay lively with bright salsas. The guacamole has that just mashed texture that keeps chips moving fast.
Service understands timing, ideal when you need a tight lunch or have a show nearby. Cocktails lean classic, with a crisp house margarita that plays nicely with citrusy shrimp or grilled steak. You will find veggie friendly plates that feel substantial, not like compromises.
It is an easy recommendation for groups thanks to broad appeal and fair portions. The space feels airy and modern, a nice break from the downtown rush. When you want reliable Mexican staples upgraded with care, Savina’s delivers the comfort you crave with just enough polish to feel special.
7. D’Corazon Mexican Restaurant – Denver, CO
D’Corazon is that beloved spot where the chips are endless and the plates arrive big and satisfying. Expect combos, sizzling fajitas, and enchiladas that taste like comfort on a weeknight. The red and green sauces are both sturdy, so you can mix and match without missing.
It is easy to settle in with friends, share a pitcher, and let conversation do the rest. Staff keeps things moving, refilling and checking in without hovering. Prices feel friendly, portions generous, and flavors consistent, which is why regulars keep a standing date.
For a fast, no fuss fix that still respects the basics, D’Corazon delivers. The tortillas hold up and the rice and beans are better than afterthoughts. When cravings hit for classic plates and familiar warmth, this place answers with a smile and a hot skillet.
8. el Camino – Denver, CO
El Camino brings neighborhood energy and scratch cooking together in a way that feels easy to love. Street tacos arrive fast, piled high, and anchored by fresh tortillas with a nice chew. House salsas have personality, so you can dial heat up or down without losing flavor.
The bar turns out crisp margaritas and seasonal specials that match the kitchen. Service is upbeat and informal, helpful when you are deciding between carnitas or veggie options. It is the kind of place where a quick bite becomes a longer hang because the vibe is comfortable.
Happy hour is a smart play, especially if you want to sample a little of everything. You will leave full without feeling weighed down. El Camino nails that balance between casual and crafted, which is exactly what you want nearby on a busy weeknight.
9. Federales Tacos & Tequila – RiNo, Denver – Denver, CO
Federales is built for groups and good times, with big energy and a playful tequila lineup. The open air feel and industrial design make it a party spot, especially during warm evenings. Tacos are straightforward and satisfying, best with a round of chips, guac, and a few salsas.
The famous ice shot ritual keeps the mood high, but you can stay mellow with classic margaritas too. Service is fast despite the crowd, and the kitchen holds steady under pressure. It is not trying to be precious, just fun and flavorful.
Come for casual bites before a night out in RiNo, or settle in and watch the neighborhood roll by. Portions match the vibe, big enough to share and keep the table happy. Federales keeps things simple in the best way, delivering reliable tacos and an easy hang.
10. Colima Mexican Restaurant – Denver, CO
Colima feels like home cooking with restaurant consistency, which is a combo you will want often. The carne asada comes juicy with a proper sear, and the pozole tastes like an all day simmer. Handmade tortillas add that soft warmth you cannot replicate from a bag.
Horchata is creamy without being cloying, a perfect cooling partner for spicier dishes. Staff knows regulars by name, and newcomers get the same welcome. Portions are fair and leftovers make an excellent next day lunch.
If you like a quieter meal where conversation shines, Colima delivers. The menu favors classics executed with care rather than trends. When you want to taste tradition at a friendly price, this is an easy pick, the kind of place you recommend to anyone who asks where to start.
11. Cocinita Mexicana – Denver, CO
Cocinita Mexicana keeps things fresh, fast, and flavorful. The open kitchen turns out tortas with serious crunch, tacos that stay tidy, and rice bowls that do not skimp on seasoning. A salsa bar lets you fine tune brightness and heat without losing balance.
It is perfect for lunch or a quick dinner that still feels wholesome. Agua frescas rotate, so you can chase heat with cool watermelon or tangy tamarind. Staff is efficient and kind, keeping lines moving while answering questions.
Vegetarian and gluten friendly choices are easy to navigate. You will taste the care in the marinades and the snap in the vegetables. If you are after a weeknight staple that does not feel like a compromise, Cocinita delivers reliable flavor, real value, and a clean, inviting space.
12. El Jefe Denver – Denver, CO
El Jefe adds a chef driven touch to familiar favorites, turning tacos and mains into polished plates. Duck carnitas stand out, rich yet crisp, best layered with bright salsa and herbs. The bar leans agave focused, with cocktails that highlight smoke, citrus, and spice without overwhelming.
Service is attentive but relaxed, which makes the experience feel special without stiffness. You will find both adventurous bites and comfort classics, so everyone lands happy. Tortillas are sturdy and fragrant, the quiet hero of the table.
It works for date night, celebrations, or whenever you want to upgrade a taco craving. Desserts are worth saving room for, especially anything with cajeta. El Jefe proves that refinement and warmth can share a plate, and you will likely leave already planning the next reservation.
13. Taqueria La Familia – Denver, CO
Taqueria La Familia is a taco lover’s happy place, where the focus stays on the meat, the tortilla, and the salsa. Pastor from the trompo carries sweet heat and char, while asada and barbacoa offer savory depth. Tacos land quick, hot, and ready for a squeeze of lime.
Prices are friendly and portions honest, making it easy to try a mix. The room is simple, the energy upbeat, and the service genuine. Expect fresh chopped cilantro and onion, and salsas with real kick.
When you want a no frills, high reward meal, this is your move. Everything tastes like attention went into it even at speed. La Familia proves that craft and value can live together, one warm tortilla at a time, with results that keep you coming back often.
14. Taco Uprising – Denver, CO
Taco Uprising loves to riff, and those playful touches pay off in big flavor. Queso birria drips with cheesy richness, and the consommé is deeply savory for dunking. Veggie creations go beyond grilled peppers, delivering thoughtful textures and seasoning.
Order at the counter, grab a seat, and watch plates fly out hot. House salsas bring zip without masking the fillings, and tortillas hold nicely through the last bite. The vibe is upbeat and casual, perfect for a quick hit or a lingering lunch.
Prices stay reasonable even with premium touches. Limited time specials keep things interesting, so there is always a new favorite. Taco Uprising is a reminder that creativity and street roots can be friends, especially when the team clearly respects technique.
15. Xiquita Restaurante y Bar – Denver, CO
Xiquita brings festive energy and well balanced plates that shine with fresh ingredients. Ceviche pops with citrus and herbs, while the enchiladas mole feel soulful and layered. Cocktails showcase ripe fruit and clean agave notes, keeping the meal bright.
Service is warm and quick, and you will notice small touches like hot plates and crisp greens. The room is cheerful without being loud, great for groups or date night. Tortillas taste fresh and provide that essential foundation for tacos and enchiladas.
Vegetarian options hit satisfying notes, and spice levels are adjustable. Leave room for dessert if churros or flan appear. Xiquita makes it easy to settle in, savor a few rounds, and leave already dreaming about the next visit, which is exactly what a go to spot should do.
