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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of West, Denver

Authentic spots

Made for those who value the integrity of a dish over the polish of its presentation.

Based on 838 Opinions
+835
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Updated May 2026
01
Los Socios Birrieria image 1
Los Socios Birrieria image 2
Los Socios Birrieria image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot with authentic birria and delicious tacos. Clean, remodeled space feels friendly and lively. Live music and sports on TV create a casual neighborhood vibe.

Offers authentic Mexican cuisine with mouthwatering birria and delicious tacos that stand out for their genuine flavors.

People are saying

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

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

"I've had some of the most authentic birria here."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has street parking only, so plan accordingly.

2

Prices are reasonable, with veggie tacos costing about $10.50 for two.

3

The establishment is very clean and well-maintained.

02
J's Noodles Star Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall spot offers authentic Thai spice with fresh, homemade meals. Casual, homey vibe matches its family-run charm. Limited hours and quick fills show its no-frills diner style focused on real flavors.

Dishes come with authentic ingredients and pack the typical spicy kick of true Thai food. Meals taste homemade and fresh, delivering consistent, flavorful experiences.

People are saying

"I thought the Pad Thai was the best I've ever had."

"I found the food to be authentic, delicious, and fresh."

"The owners here are so welcoming and genuinely care about your experience."

Good to know

1

Expect about an hour wait for food during busy times.

2

The parking lot is small, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Takeout and dine-in options are available.

03
Paborito - Filipino BBQ (Take-out) image 1

Shared kitchen space hosts about 20 ghost kitchens with electronic ordering and lockers for pickup. Known for authentic Bacolod-style chicken inasal and generous portions, it offers genuine Filipino BBQ in a plain, industrial setting with minimal seating.

Authentic Bacolod-style chicken inasal stands out as a key dish here. Filipino BBQ and other dishes deliver genuine Filipino flavors that locals recognize and appreciate.

People are saying

"I found the Filipino food here tasted like home."

"This takeout is amazing, especially the flavorful beef and lumpia."

"The BBQ pork skewers were a hit."

Good to know

1

Paborito operates as a ghost kitchen, so there is no dine-in option.

2

Parking is limited, with drivers often waiting for orders to pick up.

3

Finding the entrance can be tricky; it’s around back in an alley.

04
SUVIPA Thai Food image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, family-run Thai spot serves ultra authentic flavors with huge portions in a cozy, clean space. Owners provide friendly, attentive service that makes guests feel at home. Dishes are fresh, spicy, and truly traditional, far from Americanized fare.

Food offers ultra authentic Thai flavors that feel like being in Thailand. Dishes are fresh, spicy, and homey, reflecting true Thai recipes.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is amazing, with excellent flavor and spice."

"I found the food to be authentic, delicious, and affordable."

"The green papaya salad's flavors were a delicious, fresh mix."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves authentic Thai cuisine with a focus on traditional recipes.

2

Portions are large, often enough for two people.

3

Dishes are priced around $20 each.

05
Antojitos Salvadoreño Restaurante image 1

Cozy spot serves authentic Salvadoran cuisine with freshly made pupusas and vegetarian options. Enjoy a pleasant atmosphere with a small, quiet crowd. Pair meals with Salvadoran beer for a genuine taste experience.

Food offers authentic Salvadoran flavors that are flavorful and not greasy. Options include vegetarian dishes and authentic Salvadoran beer.

People are saying

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

"These tamales are so authentic and melt in your mouth."

"I found the food here to be really authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9 pm on weekdays.

2

Prices are considered great for the amount of food served.

3

The menu includes a variety of traditional native foods beyond Pupusas.

06
Harbor Dim Sum & Cuisine image 1

Dim sum carts serve authentic Cantonese flavors in a lively space with traditional rosewood chairs. Fresh Szechuan dishes complement the classic dim sum experience. The upscale decor and warm conversation create a social, inviting atmosphere.

Dim sum comes out hot and fresh from carts, offering authentic Cantonese flavors. The menu features fresh, authentic Szechuan cuisine and classic dishes like 虾饺 that taste like real Chinese food.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is exceptional and authentic Chinese food."

"The seafood here is delicious, especially the salt & pepper shrimp and squid."

"The dim sum here is so fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and seating is usually immediate on weekends.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially around holidays.

3

The menu features a wide variety of dim sum and traditional Chinese dishes.

07
Las Hijas de La Chilanga image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor charcoal grills create an authentic Mexican vibe with fresh salsas and large portions. Quiet, laid-back atmosphere features occasional live guitar music. Horchata is a standout for authentic flavor and taste.

Mexican dishes here deliver authentic flavors true to the country. The horchata stands out as both authentic and delicious.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be delicious and flavorful."

"I thought the charcoal-grilled chicken here was super good."

"The salsas here are fresh and flavorful, with spicy options."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a nightmare, especially during peak hours.

2

A 12% service charge is added to all bills without prior notice.

3

The restaurant offers large portions, suitable for families or meal prepping.

08
La Villa Real image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck setting with authentic Mexican flavor offers a lively vibe and quick service. Tacos like barbacoa and carne asada are tasty and affordable under $3. Picnic benches create a casual spot perfect for genuine Mexican street food.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavor with clean presentation and quick service.

People are saying

"This Mexican food truck is spot on and delicious."

"I found the tacos here to be the best I've ever had."

"The authentic Mexican food here is really good."

Good to know

1

The food truck is located at W Alameda Ave and S Decatur St.

2

The second location is at 84th and Conifer Rd for North Denver.

3

Tacos are priced under $3, making them affordable.

09
La Estacion Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Freight liner truck offers authentic tacos with fresh flavors. Outdoor seating under awnings creates a lively atmosphere with good music. A condiment bar and loudspeaker order system add unique touches to the experience.

Fresh food delivers authentic flavor with tacos that stand out as some of the most authentic in town.

People are saying

"These tacos are delicious and truly amazing Mexican food."

"The food here is amazing and authentic."

"The tacos here are amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $3 each, which is average for food trucks.

2

The food truck is very clean inside and out.

3

Cash is recommended for payment instead of cards.

10
O Lien Kitchen image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Spacious spot serves authentic Hue cuisine with unique dishes like banh beo and Bánh Huế plates. Atmosphere shifts from casual dining to lively when busy, mostly welcoming Vietnamese families. Decor is cozy with Vietnamese style and bright lighting.

Many dishes reflect authentic Hue cuisine with flavors closely matching those found in Vietnam. The menu includes street foods like banh beo and banh ram and unique Bánh Huế plates not common at other spots.

People are saying

"The Bun Bo Hue here is authentic and flavorful."

"The banh xeo here is super crispy and flavorful."

"I found the Vietnamese food here to be so authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

O Lien Kitchen specializes in authentic Hue cuisine, offering unique dishes not found elsewhere.

2

The restaurant is closed on Thursdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Happy hour starts at 4 pm with special pricing on select items.

11
Tacos El Herraderro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot serves authentic carne asada and al pastor tacos with bold flavors. Casual vibe shines with a self-serve salsa bar and lively soccer games on TV. Prices stay modest, making it a great place for flavorful Mexican eats in a welcoming setting.

Carne asada and al pastor tacos deliver authentic Mexican flavor like street tacos in Mexico. The food stays modestly priced with a simple, welcoming atmosphere for enjoying genuine Mexican cuisine.

People are saying

"These tacos taste like authentic street tacos from Mexico."

"The salsa bar here is the best part, with fresh, delicious options."

"The food here tastes like authentic Mexican cuisine, just like back home."

Good to know

1

Daily specials are available, offering different deals each day.

2

Condiments, including four salsas, cilantro, lime, onion, and sliced cucumber, are self-serve.

3

Expect reasonable prices, with meals for three averaging around $75.

12
Cultura Chocolate image 1
Chocolate cafe

Cozy cafe offers authentic Mexican hot chocolate and rich coffee in a space filled with local art. Warm aromas and thoughtful decor create an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and community events. Outdoor seating enhances the cultural experience.

Offers authentic Mexican hot chocolate and traditional coffee with rich, genuine flavors. The cafe showcases a beautiful authentic atmosphere that reflects culture and traditions clearly.

People are saying

"The chocolate chai here has an incredible depth of flavor."

"The coffee shop's atmosphere is warm, inviting, and perfect for work."

"I found the Mexican hot chocolate to be amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

Cultura Chocolate hosts various events, including tamale and mole festivals throughout the year.

2

Payment methods include credit cards and mobile payments; cash is also accepted.

3

The shop does not have indoor seating but offers a welcoming outdoor space.

13
Alameda Café image 1
Restaurant

Rustic decor and colorful murals create a warm atmosphere. Green chilaquiles and flautas offer authentic flavors. High ceilings and an open kitchen add spaciousness while a full bar serves drinks with affordable prices.

Green chilaquiles and flautas showcase authentic Mexican flavors. Breakfast and brunch menus focus on traditional dishes with genuine ingredients.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast here was delicious and great quality."

"I found the prices to be affordable for the quality and amount of food."

"I found the green chilaquiles and flautas to be very authentic."

Good to know

1

The café offers $5.25 handheld burritos to go.

2

Parking at the café can be tight.

3

The café closes at 3 p.m. daily.

14
Mamacitas image 1
Restaurant

Cozy Mexican spot with authentic tacos and a salsa bar that stands out. Air conditioning keeps the space cool and clean. Family-friendly vibe with TVs showing football games creates a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Food offers clean and authentic flavors. Tacos bring a taste reminiscent of Mexico study abroad experiences.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the burritos, is amazing and huge."

"The salsa bar has so many fresh, amazing options."

"I found the food here to be clean and authentic."

Good to know

1

Mamacitas only offers delivery through Doordash from 1pm to 5pm.

2

There is sometimes a 15–30 minute wait during peak hours.

3

Ample parking is available in the strip mall.

15
Hong Kong BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small spot with authentic Cantonese BBQ and a classic Chinatown vibe. Known for Peking duck and crispy roast pork that capture true Hong Kong flavors. Cozy and inviting atmosphere stays quiet except busy dinners.

Food shows authentic Cantonese style with a focus on Hong Kong cooking. Duck stands out as a very authentic dish.

People are saying

"The Cantonese BBQ here is fantastic, especially the duck."

"The salt and pepper fish fillets were amazing and crispy."

"I found the food here to be super authentic, especially the Cantonese style."

Good to know

1

The restaurant can get busy during weekdays and sell out of major items by evening.

2

Parking is available out front, but it can be sketchy at times.

3

Prices are generally affordable, with generous portions.

16
Happy Cafe Express image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small space buzzes with authentic Cantonese and Sichuan flavors. Tables sit close, creating a casual, welcoming vibe. Classic American-style Chinese dishes bring nostalgic comfort with fresh, spicy ingredients.

Authentic Chinese dishes focus on traditional Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine with good spice and fresh ingredients. The flavors stay true to different Chinese provinces, offering a rare genuine taste in the US.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Cantonese dishes here to be flavorful and delicious."

"The seafood dishes were flavorful, satisfying, and affordable."

"This lunch spot serves hearty, familiar comfort food that's delicious."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is small, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

Takeout portions are large, making it a good value for money.

3

They calculate the tip before tax, which is unusual.

17
La Vecindad De La Chilanga image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic Mexican flavors with homemade dishes that avoid processed tastes. Colorful décor and photo-worthy spots recreate El Chavo del 8's set, creating a homey atmosphere. Loud music fills the open porch and cozy space, making it lively and inviting.

Authentic Mexican food features rich flavors and homemade dishes that avoid processed tastes. The menu offers genuine recipes reflecting traditional cuisine.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious."

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be the best I've had."

"The food here is amazing, truly authentic Mexican."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on beer and margaritas.

2

The restaurant serves breakfast all day.

3

Expect large portion sizes; bring your appetite.

18
New Saigon Bakery and Deli image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Mini market offers authentic banh mi with bold Vietnamese flavors in a cozy, nostalgic space. Snacks and drinks add variety, while the take-out only model keeps it simple and inviting. Great value and genuine taste make it a solid choice.

Vietnamese dishes here have authentic flavors that stand out. Banh mi sandwiches taste genuine and delicious, making it a solid spot for authentic Vietnamese food.

People are saying

"I thought the Banh Mi here was the best I ever had."

"The vegan banh mi here is delicious and authentic."

"The banh mi here is so authentic, it's like tasting Vietnam."

Good to know

1

The bakery is take-out only, with no dine-in options available.

2

Prices for sandwiches range from $8 to $8.50, offering good value.

3

Portions are large, making it a filling meal for the price.

19
DGO Cocina Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers bold authentic flavors with standout tacos and delicious dishes. Rustic, classy decor creates a calm, welcoming atmosphere with comfortable seating and stadium views. Stylish bar serves notable margaritas perfect for diners seeking genuine Mexican cuisine.

Bold authentic flavors define the dishes here, especially the tacos that stand out for their genuine taste. Every plate offers delicious Mexican food that feels elevated without being pretentious.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the gorditas."

"The authentic Mexican food here is outstanding and packed with bold flavors."

"The happy hour deals here are unbeatable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 6 PM, Monday through Friday.

2

Enjoy $2 tacos during happy hour.

3

The happy hour menu features great deals on food and drinks.

20
Golden Phở & Grill image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small space offers an authentic atmosphere with traditional Vietnamese dishes served in huge portions. The vibe is welcoming and often filled with families enjoying generous servings. Unique menu items and affordable extras make it stand out.

Flavors stay true to traditional Southeast Asian recipes with authentic Vietnamese dishes that capture the essence of home. The food offers a genuine taste experience without shortcuts.

People are saying

"I found the pho broth to be rich, hot, and delicious."

"The spring rolls here are enormous and feed so many people."

"The food here is authentic and reminds me of home."

Good to know

1

Golden Phở & Grill has huge portions and is generous with the protein.

2

The platter is enough food to feed 6 people and costs under $40.

3

It costs only $2 to add extra ingredients to the Pho.

21
Phở Hong image 1
Asian restaurant

Large Asian restaurant shines with authentic pho and fresh dim sum that taste like home cooking. Bright, clean space feels cozy and lively, drawing a younger crowd. Friendly staff and an in-house butcher add to the inviting vibe.

Pho and Mi Quang deliver authentic Vietnamese flavors that taste like home cooking. Chinese food and dim sum also maintain traditional recipes and strong flavor profiles.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, has amazing broth."

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"I found the pho here to be authentic with a rich, flavorful broth."

Good to know

1

The prices at Phở Hong are higher than they used to be.

2

Expect no wait times during most visits.

3

Dim Sum prices are lower than at other local restaurants.

22
Ponchos Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small corner diner offers authentic Mexican cuisine with bold flavors and fair prices. Cozy bar serves a full selection of drinks in a lively, festive atmosphere. Easy off-street parking and multiple TVs create a welcoming, hometown vibe.

Authentic Mexican cuisine stands out with delicious flavors and reasonable prices. A full bar complements the genuine dishes served here.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the tacos, to be excellent."

"I'd come back for the delicious dinner plates and combos."

"I found the food to be authentic and amazing."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer $1 tacos, making it a popular event.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during Taco Tuesdays.

3

The restaurant is family-owned, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.

23
Far East Center image 1
Shopping mall

Shopping mall shines with authentic Asian food and a lively vibe. Vietnamese goods and fresh ingredients create a welcoming atmosphere. Local businesses offer diverse offerings that capture Southeastern Asia's spirit.

Authentic Asian food and bakery stand out here. A Vietnamese perspective confirms the authentic flavors.

People are saying

"I found this mall to be a one-stop shopping center for local goods."

"The Vietnamese food here is really good, especially the pho."

"I found authentic Asian items like anime merchandise here."

Good to know

1

Parking at Far East Center can be a challenge occasionally.

2

The food trucks operate until 10:00 p.m.

3

The Lunar New Year Festival features cultural performances and food.

24
Mariscos Los Cantaritos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant shines with authentic seafood and live mariachi music. Quiet ambiance invites diners seeking bold flavors and a full bar. Prices range from reasonable to higher, matching the quality and experience.

Seafood here stands out for its authentic Mexican flavors and freshness. The spot offers a delicious, genuine taste that feels true to traditional recipes.

People are saying

"I found the seafood here to be fresh and delicious."

"The salsa here is homemade and wonderfully spicy."

"I found the seafood here to be authentic, fresh, and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on Morrison street, behind the restaurant, or nearby.

2

The fish tacos cost only $2.50 each.

3

The restaurant charges a high price for meals, averaging $96 per person.

25
El Alamo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot buzzes with authentic menudo and homemade corn tortillas. Spicy dishes like barbacoa bring real flavor. Sundays shine with live artist performances, creating a warm neighborhood vibe.

Menudo and barbacoa feature authentic Mexican flavors with dishes like cachete de res and pozole. Burritos also reflect traditional preparation, making the menu consistently genuine.

People are saying

"The menudo here is the best Mexican food I've ever tasted."

"The food here is delicious and unbeatable for the price."

"I found the menudo here to be the most authentic in the area."

Good to know

1

Parking can be hard to find, especially during peak hours.

2

The restaurant is small, making it more suitable for takeout.

3

Expect a diverse clientele, primarily from the Hispanic community.

26
Saigon Street Food image 1

Hole-in-the-wall spot serves authentic Vietnamese flavors with classic recipes. Family-owned vibe creates a community feel that draws many locals. Known for original boba and customizable dishes, it stands out from typical places.

Food here shows authentic Vietnamese flavors with dishes that taste very legit and traditional. The menu sticks closely to classic recipes without shortcuts.

People are saying

"I found the Vietnamese food here to be very authentic."

"I found the Vietnamese food here to be very authentic."

"Their Vietnamese coffee will keep you wired all day."

Good to know

1

Restrooms are currently closed to patrons, so plan accordingly.

2

You can customize your order to avoid internal organs or pork blood.

3

The menu features a great selection of flavors, especially for boba.

27
The Empress Seafood Restaurant image 1

Massive dining room suits large groups with a calm vibe. Dim sum shines with authentic flavors and affordable prices. Old-school interiors mix with modern touches like a robot server and a huge TV for games.

Dim sum offers authentic flavors with a focus on traditional recipes. Prices stay extremely affordable while maintaining a genuine Chinese dining experience.

People are saying

"I loved the variety of Chinese food options, especially the dumplings."

"I loved the dim sum options available at these dinner spots."

"I found the dim sum here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekends.

2

Dim sum is served all day until 7:45 pm, including for pickup.

3

Expect minimal wait times, usually under 5 minutes, even on weekends.

28
Viet's Restaurant image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Modern design and warm lighting create a cozy vibe for groups and couples. Bold, authentic flavors shine in traditional Vietnamese dishes. A dedicated vegan menu offers great options for plant-based diners.

Bold and authentic flavors define the Vietnamese dishes here. The food delivers a strong sense of traditional taste with genuine ingredients.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and the flavors are incredible."

"This place is great for date night."

"I found the food here to have very authentic flavors."

Good to know

1

Viet's Restaurant has a dedicated vegan and vegetarian menu.

2

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

3

Prices are reasonable, but a 20% gratuity is automatically added for groups.

29
Los Mesones Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with authentic flavors and generous portions. Enjoy inexpensive prices in a warm atmosphere that feels like home. Quiet and clean, it’s a true hidden gem for genuine meals.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with fresh, hot dishes. Breakfast burritos and entrees come at inexpensive prices and taste genuine.

People are saying

"The breakfast burrito here is excellent, especially with chorizo."

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic, hot, and delicious."

"Fernando's service made me feel welcomed and at home."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer half-off tacos, making it a popular night to visit.

2

Expect generous portion sizes for all menu items.

3

Prices on the menu may differ from what is charged at the restaurant.

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