That hankering for crispy fried chicken, creamy grits, and a slice of pecan pie hits hard sometimes, even when you’re miles away from the South. Maybe it’s the comforting flavors, the memories of family gatherings, or just the sheer deliciousness of a perfectly executed plate of Southern comfort food. Whatever the reason, that craving can be a powerful force. Thankfully, for those of us in the Mile High City, satisfying that desire is easier than you might think. Denver, known for its craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and diverse culinary landscape, also boasts a thriving scene for Southern food enthusiasts.
Despite being nestled in the Rocky Mountains, far from the bayous and barbecue pits of the South, Denver offers a surprising and delightful array of restaurants that serve up both authentic renditions and creative interpretations of Southern cuisine. This article will guide you through some of the best spots in the city to find that taste of Southern hospitality and flavor. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey, discovering Denver’s hidden gems and well-loved staples for Southern fare. We’ll explore what makes Southern food so special, and then delve into some of the restaurants that bring those flavors to life here in Denver.
What Makes Southern Food “Southern?” A Taste of History
Before we dive into the Denver scene, let’s quickly explore the heart of Southern food. It’s more than just fried chicken and sweet tea; it’s a tapestry woven with history, culture, and resourcefulness. Rooted in African, European, and Native American traditions, Southern cuisine is a reflection of the region’s rich and complex past. It’s a cuisine born from necessity, transformed by ingenuity, and celebrated for its comforting and soul-satisfying qualities.
Key ingredients often include corn (think cornbread and grits), rice, pork (especially bacon and ham), and a wide variety of greens like collards, mustard, and turnip greens. Cooking techniques often involve slow-cooking, smoking, frying, and a generous use of spices and seasonings.
Regional variations abound. From the low country cuisine of South Carolina with its shrimp and grits to the barbecue traditions of Texas and the Cajun and Creole flavors of Louisiana, Southern food is diverse and nuanced. What binds it all together is the emphasis on community, hospitality, and the shared experience of enjoying a delicious meal. It is a cuisine to be shared with friends, family, or even friendly strangers around a large table.
Finding Authentic Southern Flavors in Denver
Now, let’s get to the good stuff! Denver has quietly cultivated a collection of establishments dedicated to bringing the taste of the South to the Rocky Mountain region. Here are some spots that really stand out for their dedication to quality, authenticity, and Southern hospitality.
Bones
Located in Uptown, Bones has garnered a reputation for serving upscale and reimagined Southern classics. The atmosphere is modern and sophisticated, featuring exposed brick, dark wood, and an open kitchen. Here you can see the culinary magic happen.
Signature Dishes: The Fried Green Tomatoes are a popular starter, offering a tangy and crispy bite. For a heartier option, don’t miss the Shrimp and Grits, where creamy, stone-ground grits are topped with perfectly sautéed shrimp, Andouille sausage, and a rich, flavorful sauce.
Price Range: Expect to pay around thirty to fifty dollars per person for an entree.
Why it Stands Out: Bones elevates Southern cuisine to a more refined level, using high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques while still honoring the traditions of the South. The restaurant focuses on seasonal and local ingredients as often as possible, so the experience is always fresh.
Welton Street Cafe
Considered an institution in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood, Welton Street Cafe serves up authentic Southern and soul food with a side of community love.
Signature Dishes: The fried chicken is legendary – perfectly seasoned, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside. Pair it with their mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread for the full experience. Oxtails and smothered pork chops are also local favorites.
Price Range: Twenty to thirty dollars.
Why It Stands Out: Welton Street Cafe is more than just a restaurant; it’s a gathering place, a testament to the strength of community, and a reminder of the power of good food to bring people together. The cafe is a beloved institution in Denver and known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Smokin Yard BBQ
For those craving true BBQ, Smokin Yard BBQ will satiate the desire. With multiple locations around Denver, this BBQ joint is known for its slow-smoked meats and tangy sauces.
Signature Dishes: The brisket is the star of the show. Slow-smoked for hours until tender and flavorful, it’s a must-try for any BBQ enthusiast. The pulled pork and ribs are also excellent choices. Be sure to try their homemade BBQ sauces.
Price Range: Twenty to forty dollars.
Why It Stands Out: The focus on quality meat, traditional smoking techniques, and flavorful sauces makes Smokin Yard BBQ a go-to spot for barbecue lovers in Denver. They also cater events.
Post Chicken & Beer
With several locations across Denver and Boulder, Post Chicken & Beer is a popular choice for those craving Southern comfort food in a laid-back atmosphere. They put a spin on traditional food with modern updates.
Signature Dishes: As the name suggests, the fried chicken is the main attraction. Crispy, juicy, and flavorful, it’s available in a variety of preparations. They also offer a selection of craft beers on tap, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal.
Price Range: Fifteen to thirty dollars.
Why it Stands Out: The laid-back atmosphere, delicious fried chicken, and impressive beer selection make Post Chicken & Beer a perfect spot for a casual meal with friends and family. The sides are exceptional as well.
Lucile’s Creole Cafe
Lucile’s Creole Cafe brings the flavors of New Orleans to Denver with a focus on breakfast and brunch.
Signature Dishes: The beignets are a must-try. These fluffy, powdered-sugar-dusted pastries are a perfect way to start your meal. The Eggs Benedict, with its creamy hollandaise sauce, is another popular choice.
Price Range: Fifteen to twenty five dollars.
Why It Stands Out: Lucile’s Creole Cafe offers a taste of New Orleans in Denver with its authentic Creole cuisine and lively atmosphere. The restaurant is a local favorite and often has a wait, especially on weekends.
Southern Food Beyond Restaurants Exploring Denver’s Culinary Landscape
The love of Southern cuisine extends beyond restaurants here in Denver. There are other ways to find ingredients and experience the flavors of the South.
Local farmers markets often carry Southern staples like collard greens, sweet potatoes, and okra, offering an opportunity to cook up your own Southern feast. Many grocery stores in Denver, particularly those with a focus on international or specialty foods, carry ingredients like grits, stone-ground cornmeal, and Southern-style seasonings. Food trucks are constantly popping up with various cuisines, and now and then a Southern food truck will hit the streets. Keep your eyes open!
Consider taking a cooking class focused on Southern cuisine. Several cooking schools in Denver offer classes where you can learn to prepare classic Southern dishes like fried chicken, biscuits, and cornbread.
Denver’s Culinary Tapestry and the Southern Thread
Denver’s food scene is thriving and the taste of the South is now more accessible than ever. From upscale restaurants that put a modern twist on Southern classics to neighborhood cafes that serve up authentic soul food, the city has something to offer everyone. The key is to be open to exploring, experimenting, and embracing the diverse flavors that Denver has to offer.
So, whether you’re a Southern transplant craving a taste of home or a Denver native looking to expand your culinary horizons, explore some of the restaurants mentioned and discover your own favorite Southern dishes in Denver. You might just find that the best slice of pecan pie you’ve ever had is waiting for you in the Mile High City!
This culinary journey proves that you can absolutely find genuine Southern hospitality and flavor right here in the heart of the Rockies! So, grab your appetite and get ready for a taste of the South, right here in the heart of the Rockies!
