Denver’s a foodie paradise with a diverse range of cuisines, but many forget the city’s ranching roots. Once a gold rush boomtown, meat became big business out west. Denver’s booming food scene means there are plenty of new eateries to try, but despite being spoilt for choice, it’s hard not to crave a big, juicy burger every once in a while. 

The All-American burger joint has withstood the test of time and appealed to generations of hungry Coloradoans with each neighborhood home to its own favorite. The best burgers in Denver are known both for their innovative and classic flavors and are sure to leave a satisfying taste in your mouth. Often featuring house-made sides and local craft brews, you don’t want to miss out these Denver staples.

The Classic Denver Burger Joint: Cherry Cricket

You can’t talk about the best burger joints in Denver without mentioning the Cherry Cricket. A long-time institution of over 70 years, the Cherry Cricket has been featured on numerous food shows, and for good reason.

Located in the high-end neighborhood of Cherry Creek, the Cricket (as locals lovingly call it) is a no-frills trucker-bar that’s retained its dive bar feel and simple menu despite the neighborhood becoming more and more gentrified over the years. They’re known for their create your own combinations with an exhaustive list of toppings that includes everything from your standard bacon and cheddar to herbed cream cheese and peanut butter (don’t knock it til’ you try it) on a sesame bun.

Your Favorite Neighborhood Haunt: Highland Tap & Burger

The Highlands has long been known for their hip and hot eateries with Highland Tap & Burger one of the trendsetters. A true neighborhood staple, this Denver burger joint serves up a variety of different flavors. From the ‘Shroom Lovah (beef and mushroom patty topped with foie gras) to a paleo burger sans bun for the diet-conscious crowd, they know how to cater to their clientele.  

Happy Hour Heaven: Park Burger

With multiple locations across the city, this homegrown burger chain is always popping. Aside from their traditional patties, the Royale (grilled onions bleu cheese, and bacon), El Chilango (cheddar, jalapeno and guac), and the Scarpone (provolone, crispy pancetta, giardiniera with truffle-garlic aioli) are all reasons to stop by Park Burger. The extensive beer menu features $2.50 happy hour pours and $2 sliders, making it an optimal after-work stop for networking and socializing. This place comes to life for the best hour of the day, so be sure to stop by one of the many locations in the Highlands, RiNo, South Pearl Street, and Hilltop to check it out.

One of Denver’s Oldest Eateries: My Brother’s Bar

Nestled in the heart of LoHi is one of Denver’s most historic watering holes, the oldest saloon in the city. Jack Kerouac used to write here, and the bartender still wears a bowtie so if that doesn’t set the scene, I don’t know what will. Libations aside, My Brother’s Bar also dishes up some of the best burgers in Denver with the JCB, Jalapeno cream cheeseburger. These unlikely flavors paired with homemade onion rings create a mouth-watering dish that just might leave you feeling inspired too.

Note: closed Sundays

Hot and New: 5280 Burger

For the best burger in downtown Denver, head to the 16th Street Mall (yes, it’s touristy, but sometimes for good reason). Their stacked patties come with a variety of toppings, but the Perfect Burger is just about everything you’d ever crave with gruyere cheese, bacon and onion jam, lettuce, garlic aioli, and house-made pickled red onions. The perfect place to escape the office at lunchtime, it’s a chef-driven concept that evolved out of a beloved food truck. They also just so happen to own the ice creamery next door if you’re looking to top it off with a sweet treat.