By Administrator Fuel Up Before You Fly: Pre-Security Dining Options
Root Down DIA
A Denver favorite brought to the airport. Root Down DIA is known for its globally-inspired cuisine with a strong focus on locally sourced ingredients and vegetarian options.
Cuisine: Eclectic, globally inspired
Price Range: Moderate to High
Must-Try: The Root Down Burger, any of the seasonal vegetable dishes. They also have amazing cocktails.
Vibe: Trendy, vibrant, and relaxed
Ideal for: A sit-down meal, a pre-flight cocktail, vegetarians and those seeking healthier options.
Pour La France!
A French-style bakery and cafe. A perfect option if you’re craving a quick and tasty French pastry or sandwich before your flight.
Cuisine: Bakery/cafe, French inspired
Price Range: Moderate
Must-Try: Croissants, sandwiches and coffee
Vibe: Casual
Ideal for: Quick breakfast and coffee
McDonalds
For when all else fails and you just need a quick and easy meal that you know and love, McDonalds has your back.
Cuisine: Fast food
Price Range: Budget
Must-Try: Big Mac
Vibe: Fast food
Ideal for: Quick meal
Beyond these standout restaurants, you’ll find familiar coffee shops like Starbucks, perfect for a caffeine boost and a quick pastry, and grab-and-go options for sandwiches and salads if you’re truly pressed for time. These are located throughout the terminal, offering convenience for those rushing to check in or simply wanting to grab something for the plane.
Concourse Cuisine: Post-Security Dining Adventures
Once you’re through security, each concourse (A, B, and C) presents a unique collection of dining experiences. Let’s explore them one by one.
Concourse A
This concourse is generally known for its mix of familiar chains and local favorites.
Denver Chophouse
Offers a more upscale dining experience with steaks, seafood, and a full bar. It’s a good spot if you’re looking to unwind before a long flight or celebrate a special occasion.
Cuisine: Steakhouse/American
Price Range: High
Must-Try: Steak, Seafood, Cocktails
Vibe: Upscale
Ideal for: Business travelers, celebratory meals, steak and seafood lovers.
Breckenridge Brewery
Get a taste of local Colorado brewing at this spot. They offer a range of craft beers paired with classic pub fare.
Cuisine: Pub fare/Brewery
Price Range: Moderate
Must-Try: Craft beer, burgers and fries.
Vibe: Lively, casual
Ideal for: Beer enthusiasts, casual dining, sports viewing.
Quiznos
A classic sandwich chain restaurant that never fails to provide a good sandwich.
Cuisine: Sandwiches
Price Range: Budget
Must-Try: Sandwiches
Vibe: Quick Service
Ideal for: Passengers in a rush
Concourse B
This concourse tends to have a wider variety of options, catering to diverse tastes and budgets.
Elway’s
Named after the legendary Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway, this restaurant offers a high-end dining experience with a focus on steaks and seafood. Expect a sophisticated atmosphere and impeccable service.
Cuisine: Steakhouse/American
Price Range: High
Must-Try: Steak, Seafood, Cocktails
Vibe: Upscale, sophisticated
Ideal for: Special occasions, business travelers, steak and seafood aficionados.
City Bar
A good place to grab a drink and relax while waiting for your flight to board.
Cuisine: Pub fare/Bar
Price Range: Moderate
Must-Try: Drinks and appetizers
Vibe: Casual, lively
Ideal for: Travelers looking to unwind and grab a drink.
Smashburger
A well-known fast food chain that serves tasty burgers, fries, and shakes.
Cuisine: Fast food
Price Range: Budget
Must-Try: Smashburger and Smashfries
Vibe: Quick Service
Ideal for: Passengers in a rush
Concourse C
This concourse offers a mix of local and national chains.
Modern Market Eatery
A Colorado-based chain focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients and healthy options. It’s a great choice for salads, sandwiches, and grain bowls.
Cuisine: Healthy/American
Price Range: Moderate
Must-Try: Salads, bowls, fresh juices.
Vibe: Casual, health-conscious
Ideal for: Travelers seeking nutritious meals, vegetarians, gluten-free diners.
Que Bueno! Mexican Grille
A fast-casual spot that offers tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites. It’s a quick and affordable option for a satisfying meal.
Cuisine: Mexican
Price Range: Budget
Must-Try: Burritos, tacos
Vibe: Casual, fast-casual
Ideal for: A quick and affordable Mexican meal.
Great Divide Brewing Co
Another local brewery outpost. Enjoy craft beers and pub fare in a relaxed setting.
Cuisine: Pub fare/Brewery
Price Range: Moderate
Must-Try: Craft beer
Vibe: Relaxed, casual
Ideal for: Beer lovers, those seeking a casual pub experience.
Catering to Every Appetite: Specific Dietary Needs and Preferences
Traveling with dietary restrictions or specific preferences? Denver Airport is increasingly accommodating.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Root Down DIA, Modern Market Eatery, and several of the grab-and-go spots offer substantial vegetarian and vegan choices. Look for plant-based burgers, salads, and bowls.
Gluten-Free Options
Many restaurants offer gluten-free alternatives or have items that are naturally gluten-free. Inquire with the staff about modifications. Modern Market Eatery is known for its gluten-free friendly options.
Healthy Choices
Modern Market Eatery is your go-to for lighter fare, salads, and healthier options. Many restaurants also offer grilled chicken or fish as healthier alternatives to fried foods.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
Most of the casual restaurants and fast-food chains are suitable for families. Consider Breckenridge Brewery for a relaxed atmosphere where kids are welcome.
A Taste of Colorado: Embracing Local Denver Flavor
Denver Airport is making an effort to showcase the city’s culinary scene.
Look for restaurants that source ingredients locally and feature Colorado-made products.
Several local breweries have outposts at the airport, allowing you to sample the state’s craft beer scene.
Keep an eye out for dishes that are representative of Colorado cuisine, such as anything with green chili!
Making the Most of Your Meal: Tips for Dining at DIA
To ensure a smooth dining experience, keep these tips in mind:
Plan Ahead
Check restaurant hours online, especially if you have an early morning or late-night flight. Hours can vary, and some restaurants may have limited menus during off-peak times.
Mobile Ordering
Many restaurants offer mobile ordering for faster service. This can be a lifesaver if you’re short on time.
Time Management
Allocate enough time to eat, especially if you’re dining post-security. Factor in security line wait times and potential delays.
Budgeting
Airport prices can be higher than you might expect. Be aware of the cost of your meal and consider bringing snacks to supplement if you’re on a tight budget.
Check for Updates
Restaurants and locations can change, so check the Denver Airport website or app for the most up-to-date information.
Free Wifi Access
Take advantage of the airport’s free Wi-Fi to browse menus, read reviews, and place online orders.
Beyond the Layover: A Delicious Denver Departure
Denver Airport is no longer a culinary wasteland. With a growing selection of restaurants catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs, you can enjoy a satisfying and even memorable meal before your flight. From local craft beers to globally inspired cuisine, DIA offers a taste of Denver’s vibrant food scene and a welcome respite from the stresses of travel. So, the next time you find yourself with time to kill at Denver Airport, ditch the pre-packaged snacks and explore the culinary options. You might just discover your new favorite airport restaurant and turn that travel inconvenience into a delightful dining experience. Don’t just endure your layover; savor it! Search for ‘Denver Airport Food’, ‘DIA Restaurants’, or ‘Best Airport Food in Denver’ for the latest updates and reviews. Happy travels, and bon appétit!
