Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour

The Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour offers a flavorful and engaging exploration of Denver’s trendy RiNo neighborhood. For $85 per person, this approximately 3-hour walking experience takes you through five carefully selected award-winning restaurants, each serving up a variety of delicious dishes ranging from fried chicken to mochi donuts. The tour is ideal for those seeking a unique culinary experience combined with a taste of Denver’s lively arts scene, with most bookings made 21 days in advance.

This small-group tour, capped at 15 participants, promises a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention from your local foodie guide. A standout feature is the option to upgrade on the day and enjoy alcoholic drink pairings at some stops, adding an extra layer of enjoyment. While the tour is accessible to most and runs rain or shine, it emphasizes fun, flavor, and insider knowledge—perfect for foodies eager to discover Denver’s culinary gems.

Key Points

• Duration: 3 hours walking tour through Denver’s RiNo Arts District
• Price: $85 per person, with an optional $30 upgrade for alcoholic drinks
• Stops: Six stops at renowned local restaurants and a market
• Food: Includes five tastings that cover a range of cuisines and flavors
• Guide: Led by an experienced local foodie with knowledgeable insights
• Booking: Most guests book about three weeks in advance; free cancellation available

Exploring Denver’s Artistic and Culinary Heart in RiNo

The tour centers on RiNo, short for River North Art District, an area celebrated for its industrial charm and vibrant street art. The neighborhood’s historic warehouses now serve as hubs for art galleries, craft breweries, and creative businesses, making it a lively backdrop for the culinary adventure. Your guide introduces you to this artistic environment while sharing stories about the neighborhood’s growth and transformation.

Authentic Tastes at Los Chingones RiNo

The first stop is Los Chingones RiNo, famous for its Mexican-fusion cuisine crafted by an award-winning Denver chef. Here, a tasty taco kicks off your journey, showcasing bold flavors in a popular local spot. Guests who choose to upgrade to the drinks package will enjoy a strong margarita to complement the flavors. This stop sets a lively tone for the tour and emphasizes Denver’s innovative food scene.

Sampling Greens at an Urban Farm

Next, you visit a local urban farm where greens grown on-site are used for a tasting. The farm experience adds a fresh perspective to the tour, connecting food origins with the vibrant cityscape. The delicious tasting highlights the farm’s sustainable practices and provides a healthy contrast to the richer bites at other stops.

Discovering RiNo’s Artistic Charm

A brief stop in the RiNo neighborhood reveals the district’s creative spirit. The area features murals, art signage, and industrial relics, all of which your guide explains in detail. This segment offers a visual feast and context about how art and food coexist in this evolving district, making it more than just a culinary tour.

Savoring Classic NY-Style Pizza at Redeemer Pizza

Redeemer Pizza, ranked among Denver’s Top 25 restaurants, offers NY-style pies with a focus on slow fermentation dough. The visit includes a specialty slice using seasonal ingredients, paired with a cocktail if you’ve upgraded to the drinks option. The pizza’s crisp crust and fresh toppings are standouts, and the stop provides a comforting, hearty option amid the tour’s diverse bites.

Tasting Light Ricotta Gnocchi at Vero

The next stop is Vero, a locally owned Italian restaurant known for its house-made ricotta gnocchi. The dish is light and flavorful, served with a fresh tomato and basil sugo. This tasting offers a delicate contrast to the previous stop’s pizza and emphasizes authentic Italian craftsmanship. The portion size is satisfying yet leaves room for more delicious bites ahead.

Exploring Denver Central Market’s Gourmet Offerings

Your final stop is the Denver Central Market, a bustling gourmet marketplace filled with food vendors, a bar, coffee shop, and chocolatier. Your guide shares the market’s history, guiding you through the vibrant space before enjoying a tasting from one of the vendors. This stop captures the essence of Denver’s food scene—diverse, lively, and full of hidden treasures.

Optional Alcohol Pairings for a Complete Experience

While most of the tour’s tastings are non-alcoholic, you have the option to upgrade on-site for $30 and enjoy paired alcoholic drinks at select stops. The strong margarita at Los Chingones and the cocktail at Redeemer Pizza enhance the tasting experience, making the tour appealing for those who appreciate a well-curated beverage.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour departs from Los Chingones RiNo, located at 2463 Larimer St, and ends at Denver Central Market at 2669 Larimer St. It runs rain or shine, so preparing for weather is recommended. The group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience. The tour is suitable for most, though it cannot fully accommodate gluten-free or dairy-free diets; vegetarian options are available. Participants must be 21 years or older to enjoy alcohol, with valid ID required.

Expert Guides and Local Insights

Reviews consistently praise guides such as Austin, Zach, Hans, Dan, and Nate for their knowledgeable, engaging, and friendly manner. They share stories about Denver’s food scene, art district, and local chefs, enriching the tasting experience with personalized insights. Many reviews highlight their enthusiasm and ability to make guests feel like locals, which adds a personal touch to the tour.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Most guests book about three weeks in advance, reflecting high demand and confidence in the experience. The tour features a free cancellation policy if canceled at least 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility in planning. The meeting point is conveniently near public transportation, and arriving 10 minutes early ensures a smooth start.

Final Thoughts on the Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Denver’s artistic and culinary vibrancy within a small-group setting. The variety of stops showcases local favorites and hidden gems, while the knowledgeable guides bring the neighborhood’s art and food stories to life. The food portions are generous enough to leave you full, and the option to add alcohol enhances the experience.

Ideal for food lovers, art enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to discover Denver’s creative spirit through its delicious bites, this tour balances informative storytelling with mouthwatering tastings. While it emphasizes local small businesses, it’s a cost-effective way to experience the best of RiNo in just a few hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age restriction for this tour?
Yes, participants must be 21 years or older to enjoy alcohol, with valid ID required for the upgrade option.

Can I get vegetarian or gluten/dairy-free options?
Vegetarian options are available, but the tour cannot fully accommodate gluten-free or dairy-free diets. Tastings are subject to change, so check with the provider if you have specific dietary needs.

What should I bring for the tour?
Arrive 10 minutes early with comfortable walking shoes, and be prepared for weather conditions since the tour runs rain or shine.

How do I upgrade to include drinks?
The upgrade is available on-site for $30, and you can select it during check-in or ask your guide about it before the tour begins.

What makes this tour different from other Denver food experiences?
This tour combines local culinary delights with art and neighborhood stories, offering a personalized, small-group experience with insider tips that you won’t find in typical restaurant visits.