Best Upscale Mexican Restaurants in Denver | Upscale Mexican Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Mexican Restaurants in Denver | Upscale Mexican Food

• G's Tacos — Mexican · rated 5/5: The air at G's Tacos hums with energy and the irresistible aroma of charred proteins and hand-pressed corn tortillas warming on a hot plancha. Vibrant salsas and zesty garnishes crown each plate, inviting diners to linger in a bright, communal space that captures the soulful, sun-drenched spirit of authentic street-side dining.
• Panaderia Rodriuguez — Mexican · rated 5/5: The air inside this vibrant neighborhood bakery is thick with the comforting scent of toasted yeast and sweet cinnamon, drawing guests into a space filled with the golden glow of freshly baked treasures. Glass cases overflow with an array of sugar-dusted conchas and flaky, fruit-filled empanadas, creating a sensory tapestry where the warmth of the ovens meets the bustling energy of a local gathering spot. Each visit offers a nostalgic journey through traditional flavors, where the simple pleasure of a crusty bolillo or a colorful pastry transforms a morning routine into a celebrated ritual.
• La Fogata — Mexican. * Return ONLY · rated 5/5: Stepping into La Fogata feels like joining a lively celebration centered around the primal glow of an open flame, where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of mesquite smoke and charred spices. Vibrant plates of perfectly seared meats and zesty, hand-pressed tortillas arrive at rustic wooden tables, inviting guests to linger over the bold, sun-drenched flavors of traditional hearth cooking. It is a spirited sanctuary where the warmth of the fire is matched only by the rhythmic energy of the kitchen, creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and exhilarating.
• Uno Mas Taqueria — Mexican · rated 5/5: Vibrant colors and the rhythmic press of fresh masa set the stage at this spirited neighborhood haunt, where the smoky perfume of charred meats wafts from a bustling open kitchen. Zesty, hand-crafted tacos burst with bright citrus and bold chilies, creating a lively social sanctuary where the clink of margarita glasses and the promise of "just one more" keep the energy high long after sunset.
• El Gran Jardin — Mexican · rated 5/5: Step into a sun-drenched sanctuary where lush greenery and vibrant blooms frame a courtyard alive with the rhythmic clinking of glasses and the enticing sizzle of an open flame. The air carries the bright scent of charred citrus and fresh herbs, setting the stage for a menu that celebrates bold, garden-to-table flavors and artfully crafted cocktails. Whether dining under the dappled shade of the midday sun or the soft glow of evening string lights, every meal feels like a spirited escape into a verdant urban oasis.
• Mi Cocina — Mexican · rated 5/5: Mi Cocina pulses with a vibrant energy, where the clinking of salt-rimmed glasses and the aroma of sizzling, spice-rubbed meats create an atmosphere of effortless celebration. Guests are swept into a sleek yet soulful space that honors traditional flavors through hand-pressed tortillas and zesty, house-made salsas, making every visit feel like a spirited gathering among friends. This stylish destination blends contemporary elegance with the comforting warmth of a family kitchen, offering a dining experience that is as visually stunning as it is flavorful.
• Adelitas Cocina Y Cantina — Mexican · rated 5/5: Bathed in the warm glow of vibrant decor and the spirited energy of a neighborhood fiesta, this bustling cantina invites guests to linger over artisanal mezcal cocktails and the rich, complex flavors of traditional Michoacán soul food. From the smoky depth of slow-simmered moles to the bright zest of hand-pressed citrus, every dish celebrates a deep-rooted culinary heritage within a space that feels like a lively, communal embrace.
• The Donut Shop — American · rated 5/5: This cheerful neighborhood haunt welcomes early risers with the intoxicating aroma of warm yeast and simmering sugar, where glass cases shimmer with a kaleidoscope of neon-pink sprinkles, glossy maple glazes, and chocolate-dipped delights. The experience balances sugary indulgence with savory comfort, pairing pillowy-soft raised donuts and dense, old-fashioned cake varieties with hearty, hand-rolled breakfast burritos that provide a warm, satisfying start to the day.
• Jalapeño Deluxe Restaurante — Mexican · rated 5/5: Jalapeño Deluxe Restaurante hums with a festive spirit, drawing guests in with the comforting scent of slow-simmered menudo and the irresistible pull of bubbling, molten cheese. From the morning glow of spice-laden chilaquiles and hearty omelets to the evening’s lively parade of zesty hot wings and crisp, loaded nachos, every dish is a vibrant celebration of bold textures and soulful warmth. Steaming bowls of briny shrimp soup and golden appetizers create a communal atmosphere where every meal feels like a spirited gathering of friends and family.
• Pupusas Paradise — Mexican · rated 5/5: The rhythmic patting of masa sets the tempo at this vibrant neighborhood gem, where the air is thick with the savory scent of toasted corn and melting cheese. Hand-patted pupusas emerge sizzling from the griddle, their golden crusts giving way to molten centers of earthy loroco, tender pork, or garden-fresh zucchini. Best enjoyed with a generous topping of crunchy, pickled curtido, these comforting pockets of tradition offer a soul-warming experience that feels like a seat at a family table.
• HOJA — Taiwanese · rated 5/5: Sun-drenched and spirited, this inviting neighborhood haunt hums with the vibrant energy of a perfect brunch, where the aroma of freshly roasted coffee mingles with the spice of simmering salsas. Diners dive into artfully layered chilaquiles and hearty breakfast burritos, complemented by the cool sweetness of house-made horchata or a sparkling morning cocktail. The space radiates a welcoming warmth that balances sophisticated sips with family-friendly comfort, making every shared plate feel like a soulful celebration.
• Little Anita's - Foods of New Mexico — Mexican · rated 5/5: Little Anita’s transports diners to the sun-drenched heart of the Southwest, where the air is thick with the inviting aroma of roasted green chiles and the rhythmic crunch of warm, salted chips dipped into velvety queso. From the vibrant zest of hand-mashed guacamole to the comforting sizzle of grilled quesadillas, every plate captures a festive spirit that turns a simple meal into a soulful celebration of New Mexican heritage.
• Que Rico — Mexican · rated 5/5: Que Rico pulses with the vibrant energy of a sun-drenched market, where the rhythmic sound of cleavers and the smoky aroma of charred meats draw you into its lively embrace. Hand-pressed tortillas serve as the warm foundation for zesty street tacos, each topped with a kaleidoscope of fresh salsas and bold spices that capture the soulful essence of traditional street-side dining.
• Renegado Tacos and Margaritas — Mexican · rated 5/5: Renegado Tacos and Margaritas pulses with a spirited energy, where the sizzle of seasoned meats and the rhythmic shake of icy cocktails set the stage for a bold culinary escape. Warm tortillas become a canvas for vibrant experimentation, from the smoky depth of slow-cooked carnitas to the zesty brightness of citrus-marinated chicken and herb-forward chimichurri steak. Crisp, salt-rimmed margaritas provide the perfect cooling counterpoint to the kitchen’s fiery flair, inviting guests to linger in a space where traditional street food is reimagined with a modern, daring edge.
• Barquentine Brewing Company — American · rated 5/5: Step into a sun-drenched taproom where maritime charm meets the communal warmth of a traditional beer hall, filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bierocks and salty kettle chips. Pints of crisp Mexican-style lagers and sunset-hued saisons flow freely, perfectly paired with golden, doughy pastries that offer a savory, old-world comfort. The experience captures the breezy, adventurous spirit of a day spent on the water, making it an inviting harbor for both craft beer enthusiasts and casual snackers alike.
• Anna's Donuts & Burritos — Mexican · rated 5/5: The morning air at this beloved local haunt is thick with the irresistible scent of warm yeast and sizzling chorizo, drawing in a steady stream of early risers seeking a soulful start to the day. Pillowy, hand-glazed donuts share the counter with hefty, foil-wrapped burritos bursting with fluffy eggs and melted cheese, creating a delightful harmony of sugary indulgence and savory satisfaction. It is a place where the simple joy of a fresh pastry meets the hearty warmth of a homemade breakfast, offering a comforting ritual for the neighborhood.
• Mariscos El Rey 3 — Mexican · rated 4/5: This vibrant coastal escape pulses with the energy of a traditional Mexican marisquería, where the air is bright with the scent of fresh citrus and the lively rhythm of a neighborhood celebration. Guests gather around tables laden with overflowing seafood towers and zesty aguachiles, pairing bold, ocean-fresh flavors with salt-rimmed micheladas for a dining experience that feels like a sun-drenched afternoon by the shore.
• Torchy's Tacos — Mexican · rated 4/5: Vibrant neon signs and a rebellious spirit pulse through this high-energy taco haven, where the irresistible aroma of sizzling meats and legendary green chile queso fills the air. Guests feast on creatively overstuffed tortillas that blend bold, spicy ingredients with a rock-and-roll attitude, all washed down with frosty margaritas in a bustling atmosphere that celebrates unpretentious, flavor-packed fun.
• Los Carboncitos — Mexican · rated 4/5: Los Carboncitos captures the spirited essence of a coastal escape, where the air is thick with the savory, salt-kissed aroma of simmering broths and fresh lime. Diners dive into chilled goblets of vibrant seafood cocktails and hearty, steam-filled bowls of "7 Seas" stew that celebrate the ocean’s bounty with every spice-infused spoonful. This bustling neighborhood gem offers a soulful retreat where the bold, refreshing flavors of the sea are served with warmth and tradition.
• Perdida — Mexican · rated 4/5: Perdida captures the sun-drenched energy of a coastal escape, where the rhythmic crunch of warm tortilla chips and the bright, citrusy zing of fresh ceviche set the stage for a spirited social feast. The kitchen balances bold heat with cooling textures, offering everything from the smoky, indulgent depth of birria-smothered fries to the delicate char of street corn and golden, crispy potato flautas.
• Latinto Café — Mexican · rated 4/5: Latinto Café invites guests into a sun-drenched sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of warm guava and toasted cheese drifts from the ovens to greet the morning. Golden-brown buñuelos and pillowy almojabanas offer a comforting symphony of textures, while flaky cachitos and sweet coconut breads provide a vibrant, authentic taste of Latin American baking traditions. It is a lively neighborhood hub where every bite of a sugar-dusted empanada or buttery enrollado feels like a warm embrace, perfect for a slow coffee break or a sweet afternoon escape.
• Delicias Del Barrio — Mexican · rated 4/5: The air is thick with the savory perfume of toasted corn and sizzling meats, drawing diners into a vibrant space that feels like a warm embrace from the heart of a Mexican neighborhood. Hand-pressed masa takes center stage as golden gorditas and oversized huaraches are piled high with vibrant toppings, while the legendary tacos acorazados offer a comforting, multi-layered feast of rice and slow-cooked proteins. From the spicy, guajillo-soaked crunch of a pambazo to the tender, steamed perfection of tacos de canasta, every bite celebrates the soulful, time-honored traditions of authentic street-style comfort.
• Black Box Bakery — American · rated 4/5: Step into a modern sanctuary of flour and butter where the air is heavy with the intoxicating scent of caramelizing sugar and golden, oven-warm dough. The glass cases display an otherworldly array of artisanal pastries, from gravity-defying Nutella "spaceships" to decadently twice-baked croissants that reinvent classic flavors like Mexican hot chocolate and strawberry shortcake. Each bite offers a masterclass in texture, blending shatteringly crisp, laminated layers with imaginative, velvety fillings for a truly elevated morning indulgence.
• Las Delicias — Mexican · rated 4/5: Las Delicias invites guests into a lively sanctuary where the air carries the savory aroma of sizzling chorizo and golden, melted cheese. Towering platters of carnitas-topped nachos and overstuffed quesadillas anchor the table, creating a communal feast best enjoyed alongside zesty, hand-mashed guacamole and chilled shrimp cocktails. It is a vibrant celebration of indulgence, where every dip of a crispy tortilla chip into a bowl of warm, velvety queso feels like a festive escape.
• Butcher Block Cafe — American · rated 4/5: The air at Butcher Block Cafe is thick with the irresistible scent of yeast and warm spice, drawing early risers into a bustling space where hearty comfort is the order of the day. Towering, house-made cinnamon rolls dripping with icing share the stage with the legendary Roundhouse, a mountain of breakfast staples smothered in savory green chili that promises to fuel any morning adventure. Whether you’re tucking into a handheld breakfast sandwich or a massive, sauce-drenched burrito, every plate captures the soul of a classic neighborhood haunt where no one ever leaves hungry.
• Cain's Creative Cakes — American · rated 4/5: Step into a whimsical sanctuary of sugar and flour where towering wedding tiers draped in silken fondant stand alongside playful, custom-designed treats that spark joy for every generation. The sweet perfume of vanilla and freshly baked cookies fills the air, harmonizing with the unexpected, savory aroma of hearty breakfast burritos that provide a warm, soulful start to the morning. This creative hub transforms simple ingredients into edible art, whether crafting an elegant centerpiece for a grand celebration or a cheeky, spirited confection for a milestone birthday.
• Town Hall Collaborative — Mexican · rated 3/5: Sunlight dances across this expansive, industrial-chic gathering space, where the toasted aroma of Queen City Collective Coffee invites lingering mornings over steaming, artisanal mugs. As the golden hour settles in, the atmosphere shifts into a spirited social sanctuary where vibrant seasonal cocktails are shaken with precision and the air hums with the effortless warmth of community connection.
• Bule Bule Neveria y Malteadas — Mexican · rated 3/5: This vibrant, retro-inspired retreat captures the nostalgic spirit of a classic soda fountain, where neon accents and a playful energy set the stage for pure indulgence. Velvety scoops of artisanal ice cream and towering, decadent milkshakes are transformed into edible art with whimsical toppings, creating a sensory celebration of sweetness in every chilled sip and spoonful.
• Junction Food & Drink — American · rated 3/5: This bustling culinary crossroads pulses with energy, drawing guests into a vibrant tapestry of global aromas that range from the fragrant spices of Indian masalas to the comforting steam of authentic ramen. Diners navigate a curated landscape of open kitchens to discover hand-crimped empanadas, wood-fired pides, and zesty Jamaican flavors, all while the central bar serves as a social anchor for craft cocktails and conversation. The space offers a communal feast that celebrates the spirit of discovery, whether you are lingering over a morning espresso or sharing a platter of street tacos in the heart of this high-energy destination.
• Reverence Brewing company — American · rated 2/5: Reverence Brewing Company serves as a modern sanctuary for craft enthusiasts, where the rhythmic pull of the taps releases a kaleidoscope of flavors ranging from crisp, sun-kissed Mexican lagers to the velvety, nitrogen-infused richness of a milkshake IPA. The air hums with communal energy as guests explore an adventurous lineup that bridges the gap between old-world Nordic traditions and bold, fruit-forward sours. Every pour, whether a delicate French saison or a nostalgic house-made root beer, reflects a deep-seated devotion to the art of the brew and the spirit of discovery.