Denver: Downtown Small-Group Food Tasting Tour

Exploring Denver through its diverse culinary offerings becomes an engaging experience with the Downtown Small-Group Food Tasting Tour. Priced at $80 per person and lasting approximately 3 hours, this guided walk covers five tastings at top Denver restaurants, providing a perfect blend of delicious food and local history. The tour departs from Marco’s Coal Fired Pizzeria, located near Coors Field, and concludes at Union Station, making it an easy and scenic route through Denver’s lively downtown.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to sample authentic dishes from award-winning restaurants, from Neopolitan pizza to Colorado green chile, plus fluffy baked empanadas and Southwestern fusion cuisine. With a small group setting, the tour offers personalized attention and insider access, enhancing the overall experience. The inclusion of historic sites and local landmarks like the oldest hotel and a jazz club adds depth to the culinary journey, making it ideal for food lovers who also want to learn about Denver’s past.

While the tour offers a comprehensive taste of Denver’s food scene, travelers should be prepared for about one mile of walking and the possibility of rain or snow—the tour runs rain or shine. A vegetarian option is available if requested at booking, and an alcoholic drink upgrade can be purchased on-site for $30. This tour best suits those who enjoy guided walks, local storytelling, and sampling unique dishes in a relaxed, social setting.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $80 per person, the 3-hour tour offers a convenient way to explore Denver’s food and history.
• Five Tastings: The tour features five carefully selected stops showcasing Denver’s culinary diversity, including pizza, green chile, empanadas, and desserts.
• Iconic Landmarks: Visits include Union Station, Coors Field, Denver’s oldest hotel, and Dairy Block, providing historical and cultural context.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides such as Barry, Jess, and Zach receive high praise for their knowledge, friendly approach, and storytelling skills.
• Flexible and Inclusive: Vegetarian options are available, and rain or shine conditions are expected, with the possibility to purchase drinks on site.
• Small Group Experience: This tour keeps groups intimate for personalized interactions and insider access to top restaurants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at Marco’s Coal Fired Pizzeria

The tour begins at Marco’s Coal Fired Pizzeria, putting travelers right in the heart of Denver’s downtown near Coors Field. Arriving about 10 minutes early ensures a smooth start. The meeting location is easy to find, and the walk from here sets the stage for a scenic exploration of the downtown area.

This pizzeria is notable as Colorado’s only AVPN-certified Neopolitan pizzeria, guaranteeing authentic, high-quality pizza. The proximity to Coors Field offers an immediate sense of Denver’s lively sports and entertainment atmosphere.

Exploring Denver’s Historic Landmarks and Neighborhoods

The tour guides share stories about Denver’s early wild west days, revealing secret tunnels, bordellos, and other historical tidbits. Union Station is a major highlight, serving as both a transportation hub and a historic site with its beautifully restored architecture. The oldest hotel in Denver is also included, offering insights into the city’s past.

The Dairy Block is a newer addition to the city’s landscape, representing Denver’s modern culinary and retail scene. Walking through these areas, travelers get a sense of Denver’s blend of history and contemporary culture.

Sampled Dishes from Award-Winning Restaurants

The food tastings are carefully curated to highlight Denver’s local chefs. Expect to try authentic Neapolitan pizza, which is award-winning and certified by AVPN in Italy. The Colorado green chile is from scratch and highly praised, while fluffy baked empanadas come from a family-owned shop.

Additional stops feature Southwestern fusion cuisine at the Dairy Block and sweet treats inside Union Station. The variety ensures a comprehensive taste of Denver’s culinary diversity, with options available for vegetarians.

The Guide’s Role in Enriching the Experience

Guides like Barry, Jess, Zach, Forrest, and Austin receive excellent reviews for their knowledge, personality, and storytelling. They make the tour engaging by sharing stories about Denver’s history, architecture, and food scene.

Guides also personalize recommendations, making the experience feel intimate and tailored. Their insider tips often include hidden eateries and local favorites, providing value beyond just the tastings.

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Pacing, Walkability, and Physical Requirements

The tour covers about one mile of walking at a comfortable pace. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially considering weather conditions—since the tour runs rain or shine. The group size is kept small, supporting easier navigation through busy streets and allowing for more personal interactions.

Travelers should be prepared for weather-appropriate clothing and understand that food tastings typically serve as a substantial lunch. The timing is flexible, with most tours scheduled in the afternoon.

The Drinking Option and Additional Purchases

An alcoholic beverage upgrade is available for $30 and can be purchased on-site using a credit card. The upgrade is popular among those wanting to enjoy local drinks alongside their tastings. Alternatively, the $26 drink package can be bought on site, offering more options for those who want to enhance their experience with beverages.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The combination of delicious food, historic storytelling, and visits to Denver’s key landmarks distinguishes this tour. The small-group format ensures a personalized experience, making it especially appealing to visitors seeking an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Denver’s food scene.

Unlike more generic food tours, this one emphasizes local history and culinary craftsmanship, with stops at award-winning and certified restaurants. The flexibility for vegetarian diets and the availability of drink upgrades add to its inclusivity and appeal.

The Sum Up: A Tasty and Informative Denver Adventure

The Downtown Small-Group Food Tasting Tour offers a delicious and educational way to experience Denver in just 3 hours. Its five tastings from renowned local eateries provide both flavor and insight, making it ideal for visitors who love food, history, and city landmarks.

The expert guides, such as Barry and Jess, earn high praise for their stories and personalities. The tour’s small group size ensures a personalized experience, with insider access and recommendations that enhance any stay in Denver.

While weather conditions should be considered, and the tour is quite walkable, it promises a substantial lunch and an immersive downtown experience. This tour is perfect for foodies, history buffs, and anyone wanting to taste Denver’s best in a relaxed, engaging setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Denver food tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

What is included in the price?
You get five food tastings, a local guide, historical information, and insider access to top restaurants.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Marco’s Coal Fired Pizzeria, near Coors Field.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available by request at the time of booking.

Can I purchase drinks during the tour?
Yes, an alcoholic upgrade is available for $30, and a drink package can be purchased for $26 on-site.

How much walking is involved?
Expect to walk about one mile over the course of the tour.

What landmarks will I visit?
Stops include Union Station, Coors Field, Denver’s oldest hotel, and the Dairy Block.

Does the tour run in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine, so dress weather-appropriately.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are kept small for a more personal experience, though the exact number varies.

Who are the guides?
Guides like Barry, Jess, Zach, Forrest, and Austin are highly praised for their knowledge and personable approach.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby