Home to the first-ever Smashburger, Denver is no stranger to the good chain burger. The mile-high presence of Hopdoddy’s, Steak ‘n Shake, and Five Guys only drives this point home.
But when it comes to burgers, Colorado’s capital does a lot more than chains.
If you live in Denver and want to step away from the chain burger scene for an entirely unique and original patty, we have some suggestions.
Cherry Cricket
A rich history and loyal following make this Cherry Creek joint a fixture of the Denver burger scene. The half-pound burger has been featured on the Food Network’s “Best Thing I Ever Ate.” You can’t really go wrong with anything on the Cherry Cricket menu, but the green chili burger has proven itself a favorite year after year.
My Brother’s Bar
Once a hangout for legendary beatnik Neal Cassady, My Brother’s Bar is a downtown Denver institution. Not only does it hold the record as the oldest operating bar in the city of Denver, it also cooks up some mighty fine burgers. The Jalapeno Cheeseburger is the one that gets the most attention, but all of the bar’s burgers are pretty impressive. Just a half-mile walk from AMLI Riverfront Park, the kitchen at My Brother’s Bar takes orders until 1 AM.
Highland Tap & Burger
Also located near AMLI Riverfront Park, Highland Tap & Burger has earned a reputation as one of the best places to grab a burger and beer in Denver’s Lower Highland neighborhood. The kitchen sources many of its ingredients from local farmers and merchants, and has the talent needed to design and grill memorable burgers. Trendy decor and a casual, comfortable environment are just icing on the top as is their many gluten-free options.
Highland Tap’s Shroom Luva burger, featuring a sauteed mushroom blend, Swiss Emmenthaler, and truffle aioli, is rated one of the top 15 burgers in the country by Zagat. An extensive, Colorado-heavy craft beer menu gives patrons almost unlimited options for beer and burger pairings.
TAG Burger Bar
Speaking of beer-and-burger pairings, Denver’s TAG Burger Bar makes pairing your main with a drink easier than ever with their five-course events. They pair local craft beer and carefully selected wine vintages with each bite.
TAG Burger Bar is better known for Chef Troy Guard’s inventive menu. These include the Japanese-inspired Godzilla burger, the southwest fusion Colorado Proud, and the loaded and loaded down Andrew Jackson. Southeast of downtown Denver, TAG Burger Bar is located between AMLI Park Avenue.
Park Burger
In spite of having five convenient locations in Denver, Park Burger isn’t a chain restaurant. It’s exclusively a Denver burger joint, and it flips and serves exclusively good patties. Topped with caramelized onions, bleu cheese, and bacon, the Park Burger Royale is one of the best bang for your buck. In addition to beef and turkey patties, Park Burger goes through heaps of lamb and ahi tuna burgers. The restaurant’s RiNo Arts District location, accessible by bike and public transport from AMLI Riverfront Park and AMLI Park Avenue, recently launched a live concert series.
The Denver burger scene is a dynamic, ever-changing landscape. If you love burgers and want to support local, independent businesses, keep your eyes peeled for new arrivals to the market. In the meantime, indulge in a burger at one of these great Denver burger joints!
Denver burger lovers, in your opinion, where can one find the best burger in the mile-high city?
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View All Posts by Jason Ernst