When it comes to the food scene, Denver might not be as distinguished as New York or Vegas. However, the city has a special place for steakhouses in its heart. In the middle of seasonal delights, freshly grilled steaks have always been a preferred choice for Denverites.
Coexisting with acclaimed celebrity-owned restaurants, new American diners, and global chains, the beloved steakhouses in Denver have steadfastly maintained their reputation and remained a favourite haunt for foodies.
Whether it's independently run establishments or major food chains, no restaurant compromises on the flavour and texture of the steak. So, you won't have to worry about scrolling through the internet to find the best pick. Still, if you want to get a little more assistance, here are the top picks for you to explore.
7 Must-Visit Steakhouses In Denver CO
1) Columbine Steak House and Lounge
What looks like a gas station from the outside, this restaurant will leave you mesmerised with the aromas of freshly cooked steaks once you enter. Columbine Steak House’s unpretentious vibe and delicious platter are what make it a standout destination for steak lovers. With the simple, cash-only policy, every dish here is reasonably priced. The variety of steaks like the porterhouse and sirloin steak are all available for as low as $28. Along with this, the pork chops, shrimp, chicken, and fish are also a must-try.
Location: 300 Federal Blvd, Denver, CO 80219
Timings: Mon-Sat: 11 am–9 pm; Sun: Closed
Must Try: Porterhouse And Sirloin Steak, Pork Chops, Shrimp, Chicken, And Fish
Price for 2: $60 approx.
2) Buckhorn Exchange
Since 1893, Buckhorn Exchange has been serving some of the best steaks in Denver for which it earned the title "Denver's original steakhouse." What once only catered to miners and railroad workers has now become a National Historic Landmark. With dishes like fried alligator tail, red chile, lime-marinated rattlesnake, and Rocky Mountain oysters (bull testicles), this restaurant is not for the fainthearted or vegetarians. Meat lovers will also get premium meat steaks along with aged steaks that make up for a satisfying feast.
Location: 1000 Osage St, Denver, CO 80204
Timings: Mon-Thu: 5–9 pm; Fri-Sat: 4–9:30 pm; Sun: 4–9 pm
Must Try: Premium Meat Steaks, Fried Alligator Tail, Red Chile, Lime-Marinated Rattlesnake
Price for 2: $70 approx.
Image Credit: Buckhorn Exchange
3) Urban Farmer
The historic charm of this downtown Denver gem’s sustainable practices and locally sourced recipes makes it the best spot for having the freshest steaks. Urban Farmer prioritises a farmers-first approach and collaborates with nearby ranchers and farmers to sustainably source the best ingredients straight from the farm. The unique thing about this place is they repurpose livestock parts into making utterly delicious dishes like stocks and sausages that maintain their zero-waste model. The seasonal menu features top-notch steaks along with cocktail and wine pairings. The king's choice of meat to the dry-aged T-bone is a must-try on the menu.
Location: 1659 Wazee St, Denver, CO 80202
Timings: Mon-Fri: 4–10 pm; Sat: 9 am–10 pm; Sun: 9 am–9 pm
Must Try: King's Choice Meat To The Dry-Aged T-Bone
Price for 2: $70 approx.
Image Credit: Urban Farmer
4) Guard and Grace
Helmed by the renowned chef Troy Guard, the award-winning restaurant Guard and Grace focuses on bringing out modern twists to traditional steak dishes. This restaurant’s speciality is its wood-fired recipes that bring out the best taste in every dish. Small plates like meat tartare, house charcuterie, and succulent 22-ounce porterhouse and some of the highlighting dishes on the menu, were raved by numerous diners. You should also try an oak-fired appetiser, the freshest seafood options, and non-steak selections like braised Colorado lamb and Skuna Bay fish.
Location: 1801 California St, Denver, CO 80202
Timings: Tue-Thu: 11 am–2 pm, 4–10 pm; Fri-Mon: 4–10 pm
Must Try: Meat Tartare, House Charcuterie, 22-Ounce Porterhouse, Colorado Lamb And Skuna Bay Fish
Price for 2: $60 approx.
Image Credit: Guard and Grace
5) Elway's
Since this restaurant made its way into the dining scene of Denver in 2004, it has been a favourite location for locals to get the juiciest steaks in the city. This John Elway's namesake steakhouse is a revered destination to get USDA prime meat seasoned with a 35-ingredient rub. The prime hand-cut steaks are a signature of this restaurant along with local lamb and fish dishes. The seasonal special flavours and sides, complemented by craft cocktails, add more fun to the meal. Do not miss the lamb chop fondue, grilled artichoke appetiser, spicy steak chilli, and freshly baked chocolate chip cookies.
Location: 2500 E 1st Ave Unit 101, Denver, CO 80206
Timings: Sun-Mon: Closed; Tue-Sat: 4–9 pm
Must Try: Lamb Chop Fondue, Grilled Artichoke Appetiser, Spicy Steak Chili and Freshly Baked Chocolate Chip Cookies
Price for 2: $50 approx.
Image Credit: Elway's
6) Bastien's
Since the 1930s, Bastien's has been known for its signature sugar steak. This dish features sugar-rubbed steak grilled to perfection until tenderised and caramelised. The juices oozing out of the meaty layers promise a satisfying bite. Along with this, the "4x4" combo with four scallops and a 4-ounce filet is a must-try with different topping options like balsamic or gorgonzola. The steaks, priced from $34 to $52, come with choices of different sides, soups, and salads to make a complete meal.
Location: 3503 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206
Timings: Mon: Closed; Tue-Thu: 4–9 pm; Fri-Sat: 4–10 pm; Sun: 4–9 pm
Must Try: Sugar Steak, "4x4" combo
Price for 2: $50 approx.
Image Credit: Bastien's | Instagram
7) Shanahan's
Named after former Broncos coach Mike Shanahan, Shanahan's serves up modern classic dishes with top-quality USDA prime meats and specialty bone-in cuts. The restaurant's ambiance exudes an extraordinary charm which sets a perfect backdrop for a satisfying family feast. The walls are decorated with Bull cowhide benches and Lombardi trophies, which makes it a perfect destination for Super Bowl and sports fans. The 28-day aged USDA prime steaks like the filet mignon or dry-aged Kansas City strip are among the top picks for steak lovers. You also get up to 750 wine selections to pair with your meals.
Location: 5085 S Syracuse St, Denver, CO 80237
Timings: Mon-Sat: 5–10 pm; Sun: 5–9 pm
Must Try: Filet Mignon, Dry-Aged Kansas City Strip
Price for 2: $50 approx.
Relish the perfect steak cuts in these amazing steakhouses in Denver and savour the juiciest meats that you will ever find in Colorado. These top picks in the city will surely delight your platters with tender and quality meats.