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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Denver

Cool chili spots

A bowl of chili that is genuinely cool to eat without sacrificing the depth of flavor you expect.

Based on 567 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Breakfast restaurant

Storage-container setup creates a modern, cozy atmosphere with intimate indoor seating and a dog-friendly patio. Chill vibes mix with a killer playlist that sets a fun, hipster mood. The spot draws a low-key crowd seeking high-quality breakfast sandwiches and coffee.

Green chili stands out with a good flavor that impresses even those usually not into it. Breakfast burritos come smothered in green chili, adding a rich, spicy touch.

Trendy space inside a shopping container gives a unique vibe. It serves as a cool neighborhood coffee stop with a laid-back feel.

People are saying

"The staff here is so kind and genuinely cares about their work."

"I thought the green chili was amazing."

"This place has a really cool, trendy space."

Good to know

1

Expect a line out the door during peak breakfast hours.

2

The seating area is small; more than 3 people may feel cramped.

3

Vegan options are available on the menu.

02
Pig and Tiger image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines dark moody design with big bay windows and brick walls for a hip, upscale vibe. Music sets a vibey atmosphere that supports conversation without shouting. Cocktails offer creative spins on classics, complementing innovative Taiwanese-inspired dishes.

Housemade chili crunch stands out as one of the best. The chili crisp adds a nice kick for spice lovers. Their chili oil boosts flavor in dishes like sesame noodles.

Great food pairs with good service and cool plants as decor. The spot offers a cool experience that feels fresh and inviting.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The food here is so flavorful and has great texture."

"The chili here is fantastic with many vegetarian options."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when the restaurant is busy.

2

The menu includes many gluten-free options, accommodating celiac diners.

3

Expect to spend around $100 for two people, including tip.

03
Yaqui Tacos, Tequila, Mezcal image 1

Dining room centers on a big tree and features unique artwork by the owner, creating an authentic Mexican vibe with soft twinkle ceiling lights and spacious seating. Outdoor patio and private event spaces add variety to the setting. The atmosphere balances clean and cozy perfectly for relaxed dining.

Green chile offers a pleasant flavor and smooth mouthfeel. Chili oil-based sauce brings spicy, bold flavor that stands out alongside tacos, quesadillas, and empanadas.

Inside features very cool trees and artwork that stand out. The overall vibe and space feel cool and inviting.

People are saying

"Their Mexican food tacos are delicious and reasonably priced."

"I plan to ask for a bowl of green chili on my next visit."

"The artwork and interior design here are really cool."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers gluten-free options, including a dedicated fryer for chips.

2

Prices are very reasonable, making it an affordable dining choice.

3

The menu features authentic Sonoran Mexican food, which is rare in Denver.

04
Monaghan's Bar and Grill image 1

Old-school dive bar with an Irish theme and a game floor featuring pool, darts, and a lottery machine creates a cozy, neighborhood vibe. Music varies widely while TVs show sports like horse racing and baseball, adding to the welcoming, friendly atmosphere. Patio space and local charm make it a hidden gem for casual hangouts.

Green chili stands out with its homemade quality and rich flavor. Chili rellenos come smothered in green chili, making them a fantastic choice.

Old skool dive bar vibe sets a cool tone. Neighborhood spot feels nice and easy to hang out at.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and amazing."

"It's a cool neighborhood bar, a great dive with a patio."

"It's a cool neighborhood bar, a nice old skool dive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Free poker night is held every Monday at 7pm.

3

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos all day.

05
Carne RiNo image 1
Restaurant

Retro wood decor and a 70โ€™s style cocktail and steak lounge create a laid-back, inviting atmosphere. A wine wall lets diners select bottles directly from shelves, adding a unique touch. Crowded tables and an upstairs lounge with craft cocktails shape a lively, intimate vibe.

Green chili cheese potatoes stand out with their bold flavor and creamy texture. They pair well with other dishes like the Mexican shrimp cocktail and provoleta.

A Wine Wall lets you pick bottles with clear prices. The spot has a retro vibe and lots of antique swag around.

People are saying

"I thought the Wagyu steak was like a different, better meat."

"The chili cheese potatoes were a hit."

"The steak here is cooked to perfection, especially the Argentinian Bife de Chorizo."

Good to know

1

Reservations often run 15-20 minutes past their scheduled time.

2

Parking is not available at Carne RiNo.

3

The price per person averages over $100 for food.

06
Highland Tavern image 1

Large garage doors open to reveal city views and create an airy, inviting space. Multiple TVs show sports, and pool tables and arcade games add lively entertainment. The atmosphere feels local and comfortable, drawing groups and sports fans alike.

Green chili comes in pork and Hatch varieties, paired well with tater tots. Red chili also appears as a notable option.

A cool hangout with decent food and drinks sets the vibe here. Pool tables add to the relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"This local spot has amazing bar food, especially the Bombshell sandwich."

"It's a cool place to hang out with decent food and drinks."

"The pork green chili is a good choice."

Good to know

1

Highland Tavern has a happy hour with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The tavern gets busy during games for the Nuggets, Broncos, or Buffs.

3

A 5% livable wage fee is added to all food orders.

07
LingLon Dumpling House image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Tiny dumpling restaurant with modern sleek design and handsome wooden furniture offers a laid back, casual vibe that feels homey and welcoming. Busy atmosphere suits those seeking authentic Chinese fast food in a clean, no-frills setting. Self-serve lemon water adds a simple, practical touch.

Tables have chili oil that is both very good and spicy. The oil varies from not too spicy to quite hot, so use caution.

Staff shows a super nice attitude, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The interior feels clean and cool, with a vibe that is calm but inviting.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is made with so much care."

"The chili oil here is very good and hot."

"The dumplings here are really great and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

LingLon Dumpling House is closed on Mondays.

2

Parking is spacious and easy.

3

The restaurant is suitable for a quick, tasty lunch without a long wait.

08
Red Rooster Cafe image 1

Old school diner with laid back atmosphere and small town vibe hosts mostly locals in construction gear. Robot server delivers food playing cheerful tunes, adding a unique touch. Space feels clean and spacious with charming, tacky decor.

Green chili offers a good flavor with a noticeable kick. It pairs well with burgers and stands out as an outstanding option on the menu.

Cool decor fills the space with unique decorations. A robot adds a fun, unexpected touch that catches attention. The overall atmosphere feels fresh and interesting.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with huge portions."

"The green chili has a good flavor and a kick."

"The atmosphere and decor here are really cool."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers breakfast all day.

2

Expect a friendly atmosphere for special occasions like birthdays.

3

The portions are large and provide good value for the price.

09
ADOBO Restaurant & Bar image 1

Open space with live music and a pool table creates a laid-back vibe. Sports on TV and a bar area attract groups and families. The aroma of freshly smoked whole pig adds a unique touch to the atmosphere.

Green chili stands out with rich flavor and generous portions. Both red and green chile appear in dishes like the Christmas smothered burrito and fries, offering bold, authentic taste beyond typical chili cheeseburgers.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The pork belly mac and cheese at these dinner spots is delicious."

"The pork belly tacos here are amazing and the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $2 tacos and $3 tacos with $2 beers.

2

Wings and beer are $0.75 during happy hour on Wednesdays.

3

Comedy Night takes place every Thursday at 8pm.

10
Noodles by Nina image 1
Noodle shop

Open kitchen showcases chefs hand-pulling noodles live, creating an engaging and lively vibe. Interior features dark wood floors, spacious layout, and a glassed-in bar area that adds to a cozy, modern atmosphere. Crowds gather frequently, drawn by the unique noodle-making craft and calming ambiance.

Chili oil and paste here pack a very flavorful and spicy punch. Wonton in chili sauce stands out, and extra chili on the table lets you boost the heat.

Watching the chefs pull noodles is a really cool and tasty experience. You can see the noodle-making process right there.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was the best I ever had."

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"The chili here is so chewy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation or calling ahead is recommended due to high demand.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours as the restaurant is very popular.

3

Parking is available in their own lot, but it can fill up quickly.

11
Illegal Pete's - Park Hill image 1
Burrito restaurant

Large patio with misting features offers a quieter alternative to the lively indoor space filled with live music and a chill bar setup. Atmosphere shifts from fun and busy during events to inviting and clean overall. Frequented by locals including families and students, it stands out for its kid and dog friendly environment.

Cubed potatoes stand out in the vegan green chili. Barbacoa pairs well when smothered with green chili. The green chili cheese mix adds a rich flavor.

Indoor and outdoor spaces create a cool vibe. The outdoor patio area adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"The burritos here are stuffed with flavor in every bite."

"I found the outdoor patio area to be pretty cool."

"You have to try the green chili with cubed potatoes."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on Wednesdays, making it a great family dinner option.

2

Happy hour runs until 8 pm with decent drink and appetizer specials.

3

Tuesdays feature buy-one-get-one-free deals for health care workers.

12
Kalaka Mexican Kitchen - Berkeley image 1

Large, bright space with dog-friendly patio and attractive decor creates a welcoming atmosphere. Music stays low, allowing easy conversation and adding to the cool, vibrant vibe. Crowd varies from chill to busy, with a neighborhood feel and a well-regarded bar.

Green chili features prominently, smothering the carne asada burrito and serving as a dip for the chicken and spinach quesadilla. The green chili queso sometimes causes the cheese to overheat or react oddly, noted on multiple visits.

Cool atmosphere sets a chill tone with great vibes throughout. The location adds to the overall cool and relaxed feel.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is flavorful, fresh, and satisfying."

"The atmosphere here is really cool with great vibes."

"The chili here is outstanding."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices, but service can be slow during this time.

2

A 4% kitchen charge is added to all bills, not listed on the check.

3

Parking can be difficult at this location, so plan accordingly.

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