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$19.43 (as of September 18, 2024 12:33 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)For food enthusiasts, Denver International Airport (DIA) is a hidden gem worth exploring. Stretching over 53 square miles, this massive travel hub is not just an airport but a culinary destination with an array of underrated dining options. From the Boulder Beer Tap House’s bratwurst marinated in Colorado’s oldest craft beer to the savory delights at Root Down in Concourse C, every corner of DIA offers a taste of Denver’s rich food scene. Whether indulging in a mouth-watering MVP burger at Elway’s Taproom & Grill or savoring the unique flavors of Little Man Ice Cream, you won’t be disappointed. So, even if you’re just passing through, take a moment to enjoy some of the immaculate food offerings Denver International Airport has to offer. Have you ever found yourself stuck in an airport and wondering where you can get a decent meal? If so, you’re in luck! Denver International Airport (DIA) is the perfect place for foodies with a long layover. Most travelers heading in and out of DIA are often unaware of the hidden gastronomical gems this massive airport has to offer. Let’s dive into some of the underrated dining options in DIA that boast immaculate food.
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Discovering DIA’s Culinary Delights
Denver International Airport, colloquially known as DIA, offers more than just speedy transits and efficient connections. This bustling travel hub is a sanctuary for food lovers. With an area of 53 square miles, larger than both San Francisco and Boston, DIA is teeming with unique dining spots across its three concourses (A, B, and C) and the Jeppesen Terminal.
Why Choose DIA for a Layover?
DIA is not just an airport; it’s a city in itself. Having such a vast area, it’s no surprise that the airport is flooded with top-notch culinary stations that cater to everyone’s taste buds. Whether you’re craving breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the variety of restaurants here ensure you won’t leave hungry.
Jeppesen Terminal
Boulder Beer Tap House
Are you a craft beer enthusiast? The Boulder Beer Tap House in Jeppesen Terminal is the place for you. This spot allows you to sample local beers from Colorado’s first craft brewery. Their pub-style menu includes bratwurst marinated in their Planet Porter, claimed to be the state’s oldest craft beer. They also serve a decadent Planet Porter shake if you’re in the mood for something sweet.
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
If chocolates are more your speed, head over to the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. This Durango-based company has chocolates that once beat global giants like Godiva in a blind taste test. Whether it’s their creamy truffles or crunchy almond bark, it’s a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
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Concourse A
Local Coffee Gems
While you’ll find Starbucks in abundance, why not opt for a more local experience with Dazbog Coffee or Novo Coffee? These Denver-native coffee shops offer a range of unique blends that a regular coffee chain couldn’t rival. Both options are perfect for a caffeine fix before your flight.
| Local Coffee Options | Founded |
|---|---|
| Dazbog Coffee | 1996 |
| Novo Coffee | 2002 |
Mercantile Dining & Provision
How does the idea of a Michelin Guide-recommended meal sound? At Mercantile Dining & Provision, you can enjoy breakfast with lamb meatballs, wagyu pastrami, or farm-to-table entrées like miso salmon rice bowls. Founded by Chef Alex Seidel in Denver’s historic Union Station, this eatery is a must-visit for gourmet lovers.
Denver Central Market
For a smaller, adapted version of the food hall located in Denver’s RiNo (River North) Art District, Denver Central Market is a haven for food lovers. With vendors like Vero Italian, Sushi-Rama, and Snarf’s Sandwiches, there’s a broad spectrum of flavors to explore. Snarf’s, famous for its scrumptious sandwiches and hot giardiniera peppers, is a staple here.
Elway’s Taproom & Grill
Named after NFL legend John Elway, this taproom is not just for football fans. The restaurant’s walls are adorned with memorabilia from Elway’s impressive career, and their MVP burger is a must-try. Don’t miss out on their Mile High omelet, a delightful concoction of mushrooms, spinach, bacon, and cheddar cheese.
Concourse B
Smashburger: A Local Favorite
Did you know that Smashburger got its start in Denver? The Concourse B location sticks to the roots with specialties like the mouth-watering smoked bacon brisket burger and the tangy Colorado burger topped with pepper jack cheese and a spicy chipotle bun.
Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs
More of a hot dog enthusiast? Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs offers unique variations like the Denver dog, wrapped in a flour tortilla with chili con carne and hearty fillings. Their Thumann’s franks provide an authentic base for regional specialties such as the Dallas dog and Chicago dog.
Voodoo Doughnut
Craving something sweet? The first-ever airport location of Voodoo Doughnut will surely hit the spot. Once you see the blue alien mascot welcoming customers, you know you’re in for a treat.
| Doughnut Options | Unique Feature |
|---|---|
| Portland Cream | Filled with Bavarian cream |
| Maple Bacon Bar | Topped with maple icing and bacon |
Snooze: An A.M. Eatery
Snooze is open for 16 hours a day, so don’t let the “A.M. Eatery” name fool you. The breakfast burrito loaded with cheese, eggs, hash browns, and black beans is one of their most popular dishes. Their “bacon but different” dish, flavored with brown sugar, cayenne, chili flakes, and Sriracha maple syrup, is a morning game-changer.
Concourse C
Root Down
USA Today named Root Down one of Denver’s top 10 best restaurants. Known for its eco-conscious design, the airport version offers dishes like the Thai carrot curry, wok-charred edamame, and Colorado lamb sliders. Root Down focuses on locally sourced, organic ingredients, delivering garden-fresh meals every time.
Little Man Ice Cream
Want some dessert to cap off your meal? Little Man Ice Cream, situated in Concourse C, offers quirky flavors like Purple Cow (black raspberry ice cream with chocolate chunks) and their Illuminati milkshake, a cheeky nod to the DIA conspiracy theories.
Coors Brewery at Silver Bullet Sports Bar
Quench your thirst at Silver Bullet Sports Bar with a variety of beers brewed just outside Denver at the Coors Brewery in Golden, Colorado. It’s the perfect pit-stop for beer lovers!
More Smashburger
The Concourse C Smashburger leans more towards chicken than its counterpart in Concourse B, offering Häagen-Dazs shakes to round off your meal.
DIA: A Foodie’s Dream Destination
DIA’s impressive array of dining options showcases Colorado’s rich culinary landscape. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast, a burger buff, or someone with a sweet tooth, you’ll find an ideal spot that captures Denver’s authentic taste.
Editor’s Pick
It’s no wonder that DIA is Food & Wine’s Editor’s Pick for one of the best airports for food. With such diverse and quality dining choices, being stranded here on a layover isn’t a curse but rather an opportunity for a delightful culinary adventure.
Conclusion
The next time you’re at Denver International Airport, venture beyond the usual chain restaurants and Starbucks. Whether you’re in Jeppesen Terminal or any of the three concourses, you have a plethora of delightful dining options to explore. From craft beers and gourmet bites to breakfast delicacies and sweet treats, DIA offers more than just a gateway to your next destination. It’s a foodie’s haven waiting to be discovered.
So, the next time you find yourself at DIA, take a culinary journey without leaving the airport! Bon appétit!
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