Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver

The Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver offers a flavorful exploration of Denver’s vibrant culinary scene for $99 per person. This 3-hour guided walking experience covers approximately 2 miles through the lively RiNo district, renowned for its colorful murals and dynamic food culture. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour visits four distinct spots, where participants enjoy a variety of dishes and drinks—ranging from tacos and tapas to pizza and pastries.

A key feature of this tour is its flexibility: guests can choose their preferred tacos, tapas, and pizza, and have the opportunity to request other items at each stop. While alcoholic beverages are not included, they are available for purchase, offering added variety. The tour ends in one of Denver’s most energetic neighborhoods, perfect for continuing the evening with live music or nightlife.

This experience suits those interested in Denver’s arts and food scenes, especially those who appreciate guided insights into local culture. However, it’s worth noting that on Mondays and Tuesdays, certain stops like Pit Fiend BBQ and Stem Ciders are closed, which results in a slightly different itinerary including Corsica Wine Bar instead.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $99 per person for a 3-hour walking tour.
• Locations Visited: Four main stops including La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal, Pit Fiend BBQ, Stem Ciders, and Denver Central Market.
• Food and Drinks: Enjoy a taco, tapas, pizza slice, and pastry or ice cream; alcohol is not included but available for purchase.
• Tour Flexibility: Guests can request specific dishes and the guide adjusts based on preferences and group size.
• Special Notes: On Mondays and Tuesdays, stops like Pit Fiend BBQ and Stem Ciders are replaced with Corsica Wine Bar.
• Group Size: The tour is limited to 6 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience.
• Reviews: Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 8 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and delicious food but some noting concerns about spicy food at certain stops.

Starting Point: La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal

The tour begins at La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal, a modest but exceptional restaurant known for its authentic pozole and stewed tacos. Here, guests sample tasty pozole—a traditional Mexican soup—and guisado tacos served in warm corn tortillas. The location also offers a selection of margaritas and mezcal cocktails to kick off the evening.

The 15-minute walk to the second stop, Pit Fiend BBQ, follows, providing an opportunity to admire the surrounding murals and street art as part of the district’s vibrant atmosphere.

Sampling Denver’s Best Barbecue at Pit Fiend BBQ

Pit Fiend BBQ is renowned for its delicious brisket and other smoked meats, depending on the group size. This stop is notable for its quality barbecue, offering a hearty option in the middle of the tour. An optional beer from Our Mutual Friend Brewery complements the meal, enhancing the experience.

However, it’s important to know that Pit Fiend BBQ is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so on those days, the tour includes Corsica Wine Bar instead, which offers a range of tapas like grilled broccoli rabe, Bastien meatballs, and rigatoni Bolognese.

Tasting at Stem Ciders or Corsica Wine Bar

Stem Ciders provides a chance to sample small plates such as sour mushrooms and bison poutine, along with a cider flight or individual cider tastings. This stop highlights Denver’s local cider scene; however, it is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

On days when Stem Ciders is unavailable, Corsica Wine Bar replaces it, offering a curated selection of tapas. Guests can pick their own to share, making this stop highly customizable according to group preferences.

Exploring the Denver Central Market

The Denver Central Market is a bustling hub with 11 vendors showcasing a wide range of delicious foods. The highlight here is Vero Italian, serving wood-fired pizza and pasta, with the option for a pizza slice from Redeemer Pizza when the group is small.

This stop allows guests to enjoy pizza in a lively, communal setting and experience the diverse culinary offerings of Denver’s food scene.

Finishing with Izzio Bakery Pastry

The tour concludes at Izzio Bakery within the Central Market, where guests choose a Colorado Queen pastry. Available flavors include Chocolate, Caramel, Cherry, Apple, Peach, Nutella, Caramel Pecan, Dulce de Leche, and Pistachio.

After this sweet treat, guests are free to continue their evening in Denver’s lively neighborhoods, often lined with live music venues and bars.

Logistics and Group Size

The meeting point is at La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal at 2233 Larimer St, Denver, with the tour starting promptly at 5:30 pm. Due to the small group limit of 6 travelers, the experience offers a personalized feel and the opportunity to interact closely with the guide.

The tour’s mobile ticket format adds convenience, and guides are present throughout to share stories and insights about Denver’s food, street art, and history.

Flexibility and Dietary Needs

The tour is flexible, allowing requests for specific dishes at each stop, and the guide is willing to accommodate most dietary requirements if communicated during booking. This makes the experience accessible to a variety of dietary preferences.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The tour is dependent on good weather, and in case of poor weather conditions, a full refund or rescheduling is offered. Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start, providing added peace of mind.

Price and Value

At $99 per person, the tour provides an affordable way to taste a broad spectrum of Denver’s culinary and street art scenes in just 3 hours. The inclusion of multiple stops and a guided walk through RiNo enhances the value, especially considering the personalized experience due to the small group limit.

The Guides and Their Role

Review comments highlight Jeremy’s expertise and personable approach. Guests appreciate the informative narration, local insights, and flexibility that make the tour enjoyable. Jeremy’s ability to share stories about Denver’s art scene alongside food makes the experience richer.

The Sum Up: A Flavorful Introduction to Denver’s RiNo District

The Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver stands out as a food lover’s option that combines sampling, storytelling, and street art. It’s particularly suitable for those who enjoy guided experiences that balance culinary delights with cultural insights.

The tour’s limit of 6 travelers makes it especially appealing for those seeking a more intimate and customizable experience. While spicy food at some stops might be a concern for sensitive diners, the tour’s flexibility means dietary preferences can often be accommodated.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Denver’s RiNo neighborhood, making it perfect for newcomers or anyone wanting a guided introduction to local cuisine and art.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is alcohol included in the tour?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included, but they can be purchased separately at each stop.

What is the tour duration?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal and ends back at the same location.

Can I customize my food choices?
Yes, guests can request specific dishes at each stop, and the guide is happy to accommodate most dietary needs.

What happens on Mondays and Tuesdays?
Stops like Pit Fiend BBQ and Stem Ciders are closed, so Corsica Wine Bar is included instead.

Is the tour suitable for all physical levels?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level to comfortably walk about 2 miles.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 6 travelers ensures a personalized experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 28 days ahead, but early reservation is recommended.

Is there a dress code?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for walking is recommended.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance; otherwise, the full amount is non-refundable.