Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Rib spots for lunch in Denver

A midday break with a plate of ribs is the only way to properly reset before the afternoon begins.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Tasty Pot image 1
Tasty Pot image 2
Tasty Pot image 3
View all
Asian restaurant

Dining room centers on a cherry blossom tree with adjustable flame hot pot bowls adding interactive fun. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, suited for mid-size parties with on-point music enhancing the vibe. Cocktails stand out with creative options like Wake Up in Saigon and Melona Dream.

Korean short rib skillet comes caramelized and tender with just the right char. The BBQ Beef Short Ribs Sizzling Plate arrives hot and sizzling, perfectly cooked with a satisfying spice level.

Lunch specials include Chinese food and mini hotpots with very good deals. Meals come with house-made tea, often sweetened jasmine or black tea, complementing the food well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and served in an unexpected way."

"I loved their Taiwanese hotpot with honey crispy chicken."

"I was still obsessing over the short rib skillet with udon noodles."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu offers discounted items from 4-6pm daily.

2

Lunch deals provide great value with mini hotpots starting at $10.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

02
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.

Black pepper short ribs stand out with their tender texture and rich flavor. The pepper ribs deliver a super flavorful and delicious experience.

A hidden spot with a laidback vibe serves lunch smoothly even when busy. Staff handle orders with excellence and the menu suits easy, casual meals.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot's noodles have a perfect texture and unforgettable flavor."

"The beef short ribs were so tender and flavorful."

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.

03
Ragin' Hog BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Cozy barbecue spot with low lighting and a hole-in-the-wall vibe inside a small, simple dining room. Atmosphere feels like visiting family, quiet and unpretentious with cafeteria tables and one TV. Known for generous portions and a community-focused spirit.

Ribs come out fall off the bone tender with a crispy exterior while staying moist inside. They pair well with sides like cornbread and mac and cheese, and come with two kinds of BBQ sauce.

Busy during lunch with staff that guides you to the perfect sandwich and ensures you enjoy your meal.

People are saying

"The BBQ ribs here are fall-off-the-bone perfection."

"The pie here is to die for, especially the buttermilk."

"The ribs here are fall-off-the-bone perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to order takeout before 3-4 pm.

2

Parking is free and available in the shared lot with Safeway.

3

The combo meal costs $25 and includes two sides, a dessert, and a drink.

04
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue image 1

Small space with about eight tables offers a laid-back Hawaiian vibe and minimal decor featuring murals that evoke local Hawaiian life. Relaxing Hawaiian music plays consistently, creating a welcoming, home-like atmosphere. Outdoor seating and self-order kiosks support a mostly to-go dining pattern.

Short ribs come out flavorful and tender with a barbecue style that stands out. They pair well with sides like Mac salad and rice, making for a consistently delicious meal.

Offers Hawaiian plate lunches with flavorful options. Serves quick meals suitable for lunch or catered work events.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the katsu, is delicious."

"The short ribs here are flavorful and tender."

"This lunch spot has huge, generous servings that feed two."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers large portion sizes, perfect for sharing.

2

They recently opened a new location with extended hours.

3

Expect a variety of unique Hawaiian dishes not found elsewhere.

05
Mecha Noodle Bar image 1
Noodle shop

Noodle shop features unique wood ceiling designs and a vinyl record collection that sets a cool vibe. Music plays a key role, with anime visuals adding to the atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a relaxed space away from the street, while seating includes backless stools and varied options.

Meaty ribs stand out as a favorite appetizer and come in variations like spare ribs and sweet and sour ribs. They pair well with dishes like dumplings and kale salad for a solid meal.

Lunch offers KFC Bao, Pork Belly Bao, and Coconut Shrimp Bao, all flavorful and consistent. Service stays attentive but not overbearing, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed meal.

People are saying

"The pork belly bao was spot on."

"The ramen at this lunch spot took forever to arrive."

"The ribs here are so meaty and top-notch."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 50% off appetizers and sake from 4-6pm daily.

2

Expect small portion sizes; consider ordering multiple dishes.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred for tips.

06
Now Phở image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Bright, clean space with red patio and cheery decor creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Music shifts from Korean to Vietnamese, adding to the authentic vibe. Open late, it attracts pho lovers seeking quality broth and a friendly setting.

Short ribs come in a thinner cut and offer remarkable flavors, especially the Korean style. The ribs are consistently excellent and pair well with other dishes like grilled meat pho.

Offers quick bites and lunch combos that draw people in for casual meals. Suitable for dates or group lunches with friends.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, is so flavorful."

"I thought the short ribs were absolutely delicious."

"This lunch spot's pho is rich, flavorful, and made with fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Now Phở is open until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Late-night dining is available on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

A new lunch combo will be available soon.

07
Mama Jo's Chicken, Biscuits, BBQ image 1

Square dining room with natural light and string lights creates a welcoming, small town vibe. Walls display funny chicken pictures and hanging plants add charm. Space feels like a roadside shack perfect for casual BBQ and beer.

Ribs fall off the bone and come super tender and flavorful. They pair well with seasoned sides like mac and cheese, greens, and baked beans.

Lunch offers delicious dishes that make it a great stop during the day.

People are saying

"The barbecue here is some of the best American food I've ever tasted."

"These ribs are so tender, they just fall off the bone."

"The fried green tomato sandwich is amazing and filling."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, with street parking around the block.

2

The beef brisket is only available on Saturdays.

3

All sauces are made in-house.

08
Ma’s Kitchen Next Door image 1
Asian restaurant

Small dining area features red color scheme and quirky decor like a wall full of rolling pins, creating a warm, welcoming vibe with cozy, casual atmosphere. Space feels intimate and comfortable, with lighting that supports easy conversation. Outdoor seating includes heaters to maintain warmth.

Braised pork ribs come tender and deeply savory with a polished touch. Garlic spare ribs fall off the bone, are well seasoned, and not oily. Pork ribs have a flavor reminiscent of honey-glazed ribs.

Lunch offers a great atmosphere and enjoyable food that suits gatherings with friends. The experience encourages return visits, even considering dinner on the same day.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"This lunch spot has amazing food and a great experience."

"The pork ribs had a honey-glazed flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is available next to the restaurant.

2

The restaurant is small, seating about 30 people.

3

Expect longer wait times on Fridays and Saturdays.

09
Brothers BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Man cave style barbecue restaurant offers a cozy vibe with fun decorations and comfortable seating. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting but focuses on delivering excellent BBQ with fast service and a variety of sauces.

Ribs come out very tender and fall off the bone easily, with a juicy, meaty texture. Packaging uses heavy-duty wrapping to keep flavor and texture intact even when reheated.

Pork rib lunch and burnt ends stand out as super delicious options. The spot suits quick lunches and works well for business meals.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is amazing, especially the tender and flavorful ribs."

"I thought the ribs here were the best BBQ ribs ever."

"This lunch spot's pulled pork sandwich and mac & cheese were super delicious."

Good to know

1

Thursday rib night offers a great deal on ribs.

2

They serve six house-made sauces, including mustard and spicy flavors.

3

Expect fast takeout service with accurate orders.

10
Chopstix Fusion image 1
Restaurant

Small dining area creates an intimate atmosphere with cozy, lively ambiance. Outdoor seating offers a comfortable alternative to the compact indoor space. The place stands out for its handmade desserts and authentic fusion cuisine with bold flavors.

Pork ribs come perfectly crispy and well-seasoned, often served with fried garlic for extra flavor. They pair well with sides like chow fun and steamed or fried rice.

Lunch specials cost $12.50 and offer good value with great flavor for a fast meal. Reserved tables and attentive service make group lunches smooth and enjoyable.

People are saying

"I thought the Chinese food, especially the kung pao chicken, was very good."

"The garlic pork ribs were perfectly crispy and seasoned."

"This lunch spot has seriously authentic Chinese food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get busy during peak hours.

2

The lunch special is $12.50 per meal, offering good value.

3

Vegetarian options are available and can be accommodated.

11
Yazoo BBQ Company image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Industrial design shapes a spacious barbecue restaurant with a covered open-air rooftop terrace and a full bar upstairs. The atmosphere stays friendly and relaxed, with a chill vibe enhanced by sports on big screens. Ribs and sauces stand out as signature features, drawing a crowd that enjoys classic barbecue in a casual setting.

Ribs stand out as outstanding and amazing with a rich flavor. Rib tips and brisket tips also show wonderful taste and texture.

Reliable delivery and consistent flavor make this spot a go-to for company lunches and family outings. Pricing stays reasonable, adding to its appeal for midday meals.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ here was excellent."

"The ribs here are fall-off-the-bone tender and juicy."

"The chicken at this Lunch Spot was amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect limited menu items; brisket and baked beans may run out by evening.

2

Parking is limited and may feel sketchy; plan accordingly.

3

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

12
Kona Hawaiian BBQ- Pecos image 1

Building resembles fast food but offers fresh Hawaiian BBQ with generous portions and affordable prices. Atmosphere is clean and no frills, focusing on straightforward dining. Menu features standout items like Kona Fire Chicken and seafood boil, attracting those seeking authentic Hawaiian flavors without travel.

Short ribs come out tender and impeccable, often served with teriyaki and katsu sauces on the side. The BBQ mix includes beef, chicken, and ribs, all cooked to a soft, flavorful finish.

Lunch offers flavorful plate lunches with solid quality and quantity. The spot works well for casual meals with co-workers or family.

People are saying

"I found the seafood boil to be absolutely delicious and addictive."

"The Japanese Food here, especially the katsu chicken, is amazing."

"This lunch spot's Hawaiian barbecue is delicious and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

The cost is $35 for two full plates, providing generous portions.

2

Kona Hawaiian BBQ- Pecos offers a 15% discount on the seafood boil.

3

One entree is large enough for most people to split.

13
The Small Batch Smokehouse image 1

Small, quaint space offers gentrified Caribbean barbecue vibes with laid back atmosphere and intimate setting. Music and sports on TV create a casual mood while a bar with curated beverages complements the experience.

Ribs come with a unique spice blend that stands out. The rib tips and pork ribs are especially tasty and flavorful.

Lunch features jerk wings and other smoked items. The spot suits casual midday meals with friends or travelers.

People are saying

"The American Food brisket here is amazing, juicy, and tender."

"I thought these ribs were some of the best BBQ I'd ever tasted."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

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

2

Oxtail special is available on Thursdays; check availability.

3

Street parking is available around 5pm on Saturdays.

14
Com Nha Kitchen & Bar image 1

Mid-century Modern design shapes a clean, warm space with big windows and an open bar seating. Music bumps lively, creating an inviting, relaxed vibe where vintage arcade machines and TVs add unique touches. Guests enjoy creative hand-washing displays and a mix of exotic cocktails alongside rich Vietnamese dishes.

Beef ribs stand out with insanely delicious flavor and tender texture. Korean short ribs add a unique twist beyond typical Vietnamese dishes.

Lunch features fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce and a Pho Banh Mi. Service is quick and attentive, with easy seating even mid-afternoon.

People are saying

"The food here is genuinely surprising and incredibly tasty."

"This lunch spot's pho broth is clean and flavorful."

"The ribs here are insanely delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with fantastic deals.

2

Karaoke happens on Fridays and Saturdays, making it a lively night.

3

The restaurant has a parking lot available for guests.

15
Kona Hawaiian BBQ image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Hawaiian restaurant with fun, friendly atmosphere and clean, cool interior offers authentic Hawaiian BBQ with large portions and quick service. The vibe is relaxed and focused on enjoying flavorful dishes like teriyaki chicken and macaroni salad. It stands out for its excellent value and distinctive Hawaiian decor.

Short ribs stand out with a full portion in combo plates. Spare ribs come as a solid option alongside marinated beef and chicken. Combos often include macaroni salad and vegetables with rice.

Lunch hour gets very busy with tables filling up quickly. It serves as a reliable spot for business lunches and casual midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always served hot and fresh."

"The lunch spot food is always hot and fresh."

"I found the ribs here to be insanely good."

Good to know

1

Kona Hawaiian BBQ is not a sit-down restaurant, making it suitable for quick service.

2

The portions at Kona Hawaiian BBQ are decent-sized, but some may find them small.

3

Expect to pay a premium for kids' meals at Kona Hawaiian BBQ.

16
Ultreia image 1
Spanish restaurant

Spanish restaurant inside historic Union Station offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere with an intimate second-floor setting ideal for dates. The open kitchen adds sensory depth with visible smoke and aromas, while the patio overlooks the station plaza, perfect for people watching. Cocktails stand out with a variety of Negroni options and expertly crafted drinks.

Ribs fall off the bone with no struggle and carry a Moorish spice that stands out. They pair well with bacon wrapped dates and other flavorful dishes like croquetas de jamon.

Salads stand out as a fantastic lunch option here. The atmosphere stays lively and casual, fitting for a relaxed midday meal, though the price can be high for lunch.

People are saying

"The Spanish wines and tapas here are incredible and fresh."

"The ribs here just melt off the bone."

"You have to try the corn toast at this Lunch Spot; it's delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 pm to 6 pm with a limited menu.

2

Expect great value during happy hour with tapas and wine specials.

3

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

17
Elway's image 1
Restaurant

Airport restaurant offers quiet, comfortable atmosphere with nice window views for plane spotting. Seating includes power outlets and cubbies for convenience during layovers. Decor features sports memorabilia and attention to detail, creating a calm yet engaging environment.

Short ribs come crispy on the outside and tender in the middle, often served boneless. The short rib Benedict is a popular breakfast choice, and mashed potatoes pair well with the ribs.

Asian slaw salad offers a light and flavorful option for lunch. Meals here suit a leisurely pace during longer airport waits.

People are saying

"I had the best airport food I have ever had."

"This lunch spot's food is always solid and delicious."

"The short ribs were tender and crispy, truly exceptional."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices due to the airport location.

2

Reservations are not accepted; seating is first-come, first-served.

3

The restaurant is located in Concourse B of the airport.

18
Texas Roadhouse image 1
Steak house

Rustic steakhouse with old western American theme and high energy, lively atmosphere. Busy and often crowded, it features bottom-coated lightbulbs enhancing cozy booths and TVs showing football. Staff offer bags of peanuts and celebrate occasions with spirited interactions.

Ribs here are fall off the bone tender and juicy. Half racks and full racks come out so soft you don't need a knife to eat them.

Lunch arrives within a half hour to 45 minutes and tastes delicious. Staff provide great care during the meal, making it a solid spot for a midday break.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and super fresh."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was so attentive and amazing."

"These ribs are so tender, they just fall off the bone."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

This location does not celebrate birthdays, so don't expect special singing.

3

Online check-in can significantly reduce your wait for a table.

Discover more

Denver, Colorado

Area guide
Loading Map...