inexpensive restaurants in denver

Inexpensive Eats: A Guide to Affordable Restaurants in Denver

Denver’s culinary scene is booming, but you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy delicious food. Numerous restaurants offer tasty and budget-friendly options, ranging from international flavors to classic American fare. This guide highlights some of the best inexpensive restaurants in Denver for satisfying your cravings without emptying your wallet.

Cheap Eats in Denver: Where to Find Them

Finding affordable eats in Denver requires a little exploration, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Look for restaurants slightly outside the downtown core or in neighborhoods known for their diverse populations, like Aurora or Federal Boulevard. Lunch menus are often cheaper than dinner, and happy hour specials can provide significant savings on both food and drinks.

Top Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Denver

Here are some spots known for their delicious and affordable food:

* **Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs:** This Denver institution offers unique and creative hot dogs featuring exotic meats like elk and rattlesnake, all at reasonable prices.
* **City O’ City:** A vegetarian restaurant with hearty portions and flavorful dishes, City O’ City is a great option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Their creative menu features comfort food classics and international-inspired dishes.
* **Tacos Selene:** Offering authentic Mexican street tacos, Tacos Selene provides flavorful and filling meals at incredibly affordable prices. With multiple locations across the city, finding a location is easy.
* **Pho 95:** Enjoy a large bowl of comforting and flavorful pho for a fraction of the price you’d pay at more upscale Vietnamese restaurants. Pho 95 is a local favorite for a reason.
* **Jerusalem Restaurant:** For delicious and budget-friendly Middle Eastern food, Jerusalem Restaurant offers flavorful falafel, shawarma, and hummus plates that won’t break the bank.

Tips for Eating Affordably in Denver

* **Utilize Happy Hour:** Many Denver restaurants offer discounted appetizers and drinks during happy hour.
* **Look for Lunch Specials:** Lunch menus are often cheaper than dinner menus.
* **Check Out Ethnic Enclaves:** Neighborhoods like Aurora and Federal Boulevard are known for their affordable and diverse dining options.
* **Embrace Food Trucks:** Food trucks offer a wide variety of cuisines at competitive prices.
* **Cook at Home Sometimes:** While eating out is fun, cooking at home remains the most budget-friendly option. Check out [Denver’s Public Market](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_market “Denver’s Public Market”){rel=”nofollow”} for fresh, local ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: What’s the average price for an inexpensive meal in Denver?**

A: You can typically find a satisfying meal for under $15 at many of the inexpensive restaurants mentioned above.

**Q: Are there any good inexpensive restaurants in downtown Denver?**

A: While downtown can be pricier, searching for lunch specials and happy hour deals can help you find affordable options.

**Q: Where can I find the best tacos in Denver on a budget?**

A: Tacos Selene is a highly recommended option for authentic and affordable tacos.

**Q: Are there any vegetarian options at these inexpensive restaurants?**

A: Yes, City O’ City is a dedicated vegetarian restaurant, and many other restaurants offer vegetarian dishes.

**Q: How can I find more affordable restaurant options in Denver?**

A: Online reviews, local blogs, and word-of-mouth recommendations are great ways to discover new and budget-friendly restaurants.

Summary

Denver offers a wide range of affordable dining options, from gourmet hot dogs to authentic tacos and flavorful pho. By exploring different neighborhoods, utilizing happy hour specials, and keeping an eye out for lunch deals, you can enjoy the city’s vibrant culinary scene without overspending.