Like all good 911 dispatchers, finding a good restaurant is half of the fun for me when traveling. Although, I like all of the review sites like Yelp, I’ve found that you have to go out on your own sometimes and talk to the locals to really find the best places to eat.
That being said, here’s where you’ll be sure to find some tasty food near the convention center:
Pizza Republica - This place has great pizza and salads. I usually split the pear and goat cheese salad, along with the Giacomo pizza, with my wife when we go. Everything I have had here is delicious. If you fancy yourself a glass of wine, their house red is pretty darn good as well.
Rio Grande Mexican – This gem is known for its margarita limit of three! They serve smooth, powerful (hence the limit) margaritas that go great with Mexican. I personally like the chili rellenos.
Sam’s #3 – This is a great diner that has even been featured on the TV show, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. They serve classic diner food as well as beer. (What else do you need?) I get the Reuben when I go there. They also have breakfast available 24/7 for all of the people who like to stay out until the morning.
The Corner Office – This restaurant is a little more expensive than the ones mentioned above. They offer wonderful homestyle cuisine, but it includes a modern twist. They also have delectable cocktails, so if you are not totally into the beer thing, this is a great place to go. Last time I was there, the kid’s meal came with fresh cotton candy for the dessert. It might be worth hiring a kid for dinner just for this fact.
Us Coloradans love our beer, so you’ll be able to find tons of local breweries around the Denver area. If you have a car, or if you use Uber (even better if you’ll be drinking), here are some great places to hit while you’re in town:
Breckenridge Brewery is not too far from the convention center. It naturally has lovely beers, and the food is pretty great as well.
The Chophouse is close to Coors Field, which means it’s about 10 blocks from the convention center. If you’re looking for high-end steaks and a fantastic beer selection, this is the place for you.
Prost Brewing Company makes German-style beers, but you will need transportation to get there; it’s about a 10 minute drive from the convention center. Yes, it has a beer garden.
Denver Beer Company has an eclectic mix of beers, a beer garden, and an array of food trucks. It's pure Heaven. You will also need transportation to get there, however.
The Green Russell is a classic speakeasy, and it even has a secret entrance. It’s true; Google it up. It is downstairs off of Larimer Street (where you will find about 30 great restaurants to go with the list above). They have a large menu of drinks, so pick one you like or maybe try something new. If you’re feeling spontaneous, consider ordering the bartender’s special. I would advise you to get there before 8 p.m.
If you’re looking for something familiar, you’ll find Fado Irish Pub, Old Chicago, and The Cheesecake Factory, so you really can’t go wrong.
There is lots of fun stuff for all of the dispatchers to do when they get away from the office for a bit, and if you stop by Xybix at our booth #707, we can help point you in the right direction!
Or if you have time, come see Xybix's dispatch furniture manufactuing facility in beautiful Littleton, CO for a personal guided tour and delicious food, by American Grind food truck! YUM!
See you in Denver at NENA!