Quick answer
Denver's burger scene is a delicious testament to the city's evolving culinary identity, offering everything from time-honored classics in historic pubs to gourmet creations in trendy gastropubs. This guide is your definitive roadmap to navigating the Mile High City's sizzling burger landscape, ensuring every bite is a memorable one.
- Best overall
- Cherry Cricket
- Top pick
- Cherry Cricket — Unbeatable classic Denver experience with endless customization.
Top verdicts
- Cherry Cricket: Anyone seeking a truly classic Denver burger joint with a bustling, friendly vibe and the freedom to create their perfect patty.
- My Brother's Bar: History buffs and purists looking for a straightforward, delicious burger in an iconic, unpretentious setting.
- Park Burger: Those seeking a step up from the classic, with innovative burger combinations and a great selection of sides and drinks.
The humble burger has a rich history in Denver, evolving from simple diner staples in the mid-20th century to sophisticated, chef-driven creations today. Influences range from the classic American diner tradition to more modern farm-to-table movements, reflecting Denver's growth as a foodie destination. Many establishments pride themselves on sourcing local Colorado beef, adding a distinct regional flavor to their patties.
You'll find a wide array of burger styles across Denver. From thick, juicy patties served on toasted brioche with artisan toppings to classic smashburgers griddled to perfection, and even innovative plant-based options. Whether you're a fan of green chile-smothered burgers, a purist who prefers a simple cheeseburger, or an adventurous eater seeking unique flavor combinations, Denver has a burger for every preference.
Area map
All 10 spots at a glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cherry Cricket | Classic American | mid | Cherry Creek |
| 2 | My Brother's Bar | Dive Bar | budget | Central Platte Valley |
| 3 | Park Burger | Gourmet | mid | Platt Park |
| 4 | Highland Tap and Burger | Gastropub | mid | Highlands |
| 5 | Steuben's Uptown | American Comfort | mid | Uptown |
| 6 | Bad Daddy's Burger Bar | Customizable | budget | LoDo |
| 7 | Hopdoddy Burger Bar | Craft Burger | premium | LoDo |
| 8 | 5280 Burger Bar | Upscale Casual | premium | Downtown / 16th Street Mall |
| 9 | LoHi Steakbar | Upscale American | premium | LoHi |
| 10 | Smashburger | Fast Casual | budget | Capitol Hill |
1Cherry Cricket
activityQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone seeking a truly classic Denver burger joint with a bustling, friendly vibe and the freedom to create their perfect patty.
- Strengths
- Cherry Creek
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- A Denver institution since 1945, Cherry Cricket is famed for its build-your-own burgers, allowing for endless customization with a vast array of toppings. The lively, unpretentious atmosphere makes it a local favorite for a quintessential burger experience.
- What to order
- The Cricket Burger – build your own with green chile, cheddar, and a fried egg, alongside a basket of their famous onion rings.
🕐 Opening hours
2My Brother's Bar
activityQuick comparison
- Best for
- History buffs and purists looking for a straightforward, delicious burger in an iconic, unpretentious setting.
- Strengths
- Central Platte Valley
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Denver's oldest continuously operating bar, My Brother's Bar offers a timeless, no-frills experience with a perfectly grilled burger that speaks for itself. It's a true classic, full of character and local history, serving simple excellence.
- What to order
- The JCB (Jalapeño Cream Cheese Burger) for a subtle kick, or the standard cheeseburger with a side of fries. Don't forget a local craft beer.
🕐 Opening hours
3Park Burger
activityQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking a step up from the classic, with innovative burger combinations and a great selection of sides and drinks.
- Strengths
- Platt Park
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- With multiple locations, Park Burger has cemented its reputation for gourmet burgers made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Their creative toppings and perfectly cooked patties make for an elevated yet casual dining experience.
- What to order
- The Park Burger (classic cheeseburger done right) or the Shroom Burger for a rich, earthy flavor, paired with sweet potato fries.
🕐 Opening hours
4Highland Tap and Burger
activityQuick comparison
- Best for
- Beer lovers and foodies who appreciate a thoughtful burger menu paired with a fantastic tap list in a bustling neighborhood setting.
- Strengths
- Highlands
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- A vibrant gastropub known for its excellent selection of craft beers and equally impressive gourmet burgers. Highland Tap and Burger offers a lively atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal or a night out with friends.
- What to order
- The Shroom & Swiss Burger or the Tap Burger, and definitely explore their rotating craft beer taps for a perfect pairing.
🕐 Opening hours
5Steuben's Uptown
activityQuick comparison
- Best for
- Families and anyone craving elevated comfort food, especially those who appreciate a well-executed classic burger in a stylish retro setting.
- Strengths
- Uptown
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Steuben's Uptown channels classic American diner vibes with a refined touch, serving up comfort food favorites including a highly acclaimed burger. It’s a nostalgic yet modern spot perfect for a hearty meal.
- What to order
- The Steuben's Burger, a classic cheeseburger with all the fixings, accompanied by their famous poutine or crispy fried chicken.
🕐 Opening hours
6Bad Daddy's Burger Bar
activityQuick comparison
- Best for
- Diners who love customizing their meals, with endless options for patties, cheeses, and unique toppings.
- Strengths
- LoDo
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Bad Daddy's Burger Bar is all about creative, chef-driven burgers and crafting your own masterpiece from a vast selection of fresh ingredients. It's a lively spot known for its energetic atmosphere and extensive menu.
- What to order
- The Bacon Cheeseburger on Steroids or design your own with unique toppings like fried eggs and specialty sauces. Don't skip the Tater Tots.
🕐 Opening hours
7Hopdoddy Burger Bar
activityQuick comparison
- Best for
- Burger aficionados looking for creative, gourmet options and unique flavor profiles in a lively, modern setting.
- Strengths
- LoDo
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Originating from Austin, Hopdoddy brings its craft burger philosophy to Denver, focusing on fresh, natural ingredients, inventive combinations, and scratch-made buns. It's a vibrant and popular choice for a high-quality burger.
- What to order
- The El Diablo Burger for a spicy kick or the Magic Shroom with a side of their renowned truffle fries.
🕐 Opening hours
85280 Burger Bar
activityQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those looking for a slightly more upscale burger experience downtown, with excellent shake options and quality ingredients.
- Strengths
- Downtown / 16th Street Mall
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Situated on the bustling 16th Street Mall, 5280 Burger Bar offers an upscale casual dining experience with a focus on premium burgers, house-made condiments, and decadent milkshakes. It's a great spot for a refined yet relaxed meal.
- What to order
- The 5280 Burger with local Colorado beef, or their Green Chile Cheeseburger, and absolutely try one of their boozy milkshakes.
🕐 Opening hours
9LoHi Steakbar
activityQuick comparison
- Best for
- Diners seeking a high-end, perfectly executed burger in a chic, modern steakhouse environment, ideal for a special meal.
- Strengths
- LoHi
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- While primarily a steakhouse, LoHi Steakbar's burger holds its own as a standout, crafted with high-quality beef and meticulous attention to detail. It offers a sophisticated dining experience in the trendy LoHi neighborhood.
- What to order
- The LoHi Burger, typically a blend of high-quality cuts, perfectly cooked, often served with unique house-made pickles or relish.
🕐 Opening hours
10Smashburger
activityQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone looking for a quick, consistently good burger experience with a focus on flavor and customizability at an accessible price point.
- Strengths
- Capitol Hill
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- A Denver original, Smashburger revolutionized the fast-casual burger scene with its signature 'smashing' technique, creating a crispy, flavorful crust on every patty. It's a quick and satisfying option for a quality burger on the go.
- What to order
- The Classic Smashburger with a side of their iconic Smashfries (tossed with rosemary, olive oil, and garlic).
🕐 Opening hours
Frequently asked questions
What defines a 'Denver-style' burger?
While there isn't one single 'Denver-style' burger, many local favorites prominently feature green chile. This can be in the form of a smoky green chile relish, a mild green chile sauce, or even a generous helping of roasted green chiles on top of the patty. Colorado beef is also a common and prized ingredient.
Are there good vegetarian or vegan burger options in Denver?
Absolutely! Many of Denver's top burger joints, including Park Burger, Hopdoddy, and Bad Daddy's, offer excellent vegetarian and vegan burger patties, often featuring black bean, impossible, or Beyond Meat options. Always check their specific menus, but the city is quite accommodating to plant-based diets.
What's the typical price range for a burger in Denver?
The price for a burger in Denver can vary widely, generally ranging from $10-$20 for a basic, delicious burger at a dive bar or fast-casual spot, to $20-$35+ for a gourmet, chef-driven burger at an upscale restaurant. Sides and drinks are usually extra, so plan accordingly.
Which Denver burger spots are best for families?
Many of the burger restaurants in Denver are family-friendly. Park Burger, Steuben's Uptown, and Cherry Cricket are excellent choices, offering diverse menus, casual atmospheres, and often kids' menus. Smashburger is also a great quick and easy option for families.
Do Denver burger places use local ingredients?
Yes, many establishments in Denver pride themselves on sourcing local Colorado beef and other fresh, regional ingredients. Places like Park Burger and 5280 Burger Bar often highlight their commitment to local sourcing on their menus, contributing to the unique flavor profile of their burgers.
Is it easy to find parking near Denver's best burger restaurants?
Parking in popular Denver neighborhoods like LoDo, Cherry Creek, and the Highlands can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Street parking is often metered, and garages can be expensive. For venues downtown or in busy areas, consider using public transportation (RTD) or ride-sharing services.
What's the best time to visit for a burger without a long wait?
To minimize wait times, it's best to visit during off-peak hours. Aim for a late lunch (around 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM) or an early dinner (before 5:30 PM) on weekdays. Weekends, particularly Friday and Saturday evenings, will almost always involve a wait at the most popular spots.
Are there any food challenges or unique burger events in Denver?
Denver's culinary scene is dynamic, and while specific long-standing burger challenges might vary, many restaurants occasionally host special burger weeks or limited-time offerings. Follow local food blogs and restaurant social media for announcements. Some pubs might have eating challenges, so ask staff directly.