Denver: RiNo Evening Food Tour with a Local Guide

If you’re looking for a way to experience Denver beyond its well-trodden tourist spots, the RiNo (River North) neighborhood offers a vibrant mix of street art, innovative eateries, and lively breweries. The RiNo Evening Food Tour with a Local Guide, offered by Amazing Adventures, promises a three-hour stroll through this dynamic part of Denver — sampling excellent food, enjoying local brews, and soaking up the culture. While I haven’t taken this exact tour myself, reviews and the itinerary give us a well-rounded picture of what to expect.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the diverse culinary offerings — from authentic Mexican pozole to Tibetan and Nepali street food. Second, the stunning murals that turn RiNo into an open-air art gallery. But a potential consideration? The walking is moderate (about 2 miles), so comfort with some walking is a good idea. Perfect for food lovers, art enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic taste of Denver’s vibrant local scene, this tour packs in a lot for a reasonable price.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience with a knowledgeable guide
• Tastes from four different restaurants and breweries
• Highlights Denver’s street art and murals
• Includes insights into Denver’s history and culture
• Suitable for small groups (up to 6 people)
• Cost-effective at $99 per person for a three-hour experience

This tour offers a unique way to explore Denver’s RiNo neighborhood, especially if you love trying new foods and discovering colorful street art. It’s especially appealing for travelers who prefer guided walks over self-guided explorations, as the local guide shares engaging stories and cultural insights. The combination of delicious food, craft drinks, and artistic scenery makes it a well-rounded outing.

The tour’s price, $99, is quite reasonable considering the variety of foods and drinks included. It’s an excellent value for a culinary adventure that also offers cultural storytelling and lively street art viewing. The fact that the tour is flexible and allows for some choices (like selecting different dishes or trying new drinks) adds to its appeal.

However, since the tour involves walking and standing, those who prefer a very relaxed or vehicle-based experience might find it less suitable. Also, it’s important to note drinks and alcohol are purchased separately, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge.

The tour unfolds over roughly three hours, during which you’ll walk about 2 miles through RiNo’s colorful streets. Our hypothetical journey begins at La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal, an authentic Mexican restaurant. Here, you’ll start with pozole, a hearty, flavorful soup, alongside tacos filled with stewed fillings. The pairing of refreshing margaritas and mezcal cocktails sets a lively tone.

From there, the group usually heads to Pema, a cozy Rinno spot serving up Tibetan, Indian, and Nepali dishes. Their pani puria — crispy shells filled with spiced potatoes and chickpeas — offer a fun, shared snack. Depending on your group’s size, you might also try momos or other Himalayan favorites. It’s a chance to sample something different and enjoy vibrant, spice-laden street food.

Next, the group visits Pit Fiend Barbecue, renowned for its succulent brisket and flavorful smoked meats. You’ll also have the option to taste a beer from Our Mutual Friend Brewery — an added bonus for beer lovers. Keep in mind, Pit Fiend BBQ is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so if your tour falls on those days, the group moves to Corsica Wine Bar instead.

The walk continues to Denver Central Market, a lively hub with 11 vendors. Here, you’ll share a delicious wood-fired pizza from Vero Italian, known for its excellent crusts and toppings. If the group is smaller, you might sample a slice from Redeemer Pizza next door. To finish, you’ll indulge in a Colorado Queen pastry at Izzio Bakery, choosing from flavors like cherry, caramel, or Nutella — a perfect sweet ending to your culinary journey.

Throughout the tour, you’ll pass by some of RiNo’s most stunning murals, which are as much a part of the experience as the food. Your guide offers stories about the art and the neighborhood’s transformation, making it more than just a tasting session.

What truly elevates this tour is the knowledgeable, personable guide. Several reviews praise guides like Jeremy and Grami for their engaging storytelling and friendliness. As one reviewer noted, Jeremy’s stories about Denver and the murals turned a good tour into a memorable one. The small group size (limited to six) ensures a friendly, personalized experience, allowing plenty of opportunity for questions and interaction.

The tour’s flexibility adds to its charm: if there’s something you’re particularly eager to try, just ask. This is not a rigid set menu but an open-ended exploration, which many travelers find refreshing.

At $99, this tour offers a strong value for anyone interested in a curated, small-group experience. The food and drink tastings are generous enough that many finish the tour feeling satisfied, yet not overly stuffed — a perfect balance.

To get the best out of your experience, wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and standing. Bring a camera to capture the vibrant murals, which are especially striking in good weather or better lighting. Also, consider your dietary restrictions, as the tour involves a variety of cuisines, some of which might contain common allergens.

Since drinks are purchased separately, budget for that if you plan to indulge in beers or cocktails at the breweries or bars. The tour ends in a lively part of Denver, perfect for continuing your night with live music or more exploring.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the delicious, diverse food offerings. One reviewer from Israel called the tour “amazing,” noting the variety of cuisines and the fun guide. Another, from the U.S., appreciated discovering murals she had never noticed despite living in Denver for years. The balance of art, history, and flavor seems to resonate well with participants.

The flexibility to try different dishes and the chance to learn about Denver’s food scene and street art make this tour stand out. The small group size fosters a convivial atmosphere, which many find enhances the overall experience.

This RiNo Evening Food Tour is best suited for food lovers eager to sample authentic Denver cuisine and explore a neighborhood famous for its murals and street art. It’s perfect for small groups wanting a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the murals, while casual walkers will enjoy the relaxed pace.

Those interested in local breweries and craft drinks will find the beer tastings and drink options appealing, though drinks are bought separately. The tour’s overall value makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic, culturally rich evening out without breaking the bank.

If you’re after a fun, flavorful introduction to Denver’s vibrant RiNo neighborhood, this tour delivers exactly that — with the bonus of insider stories and a lively atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 12, primarily because of the walking pace and the adult nature of the food and drink.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks and alcohol are purchased separately. You might want to budget for beers or cocktails if you plan to indulge.

How long is the walking involved?
You’ll walk about 2 miles over the course of the tour, passing murals and exploring different neighborhoods. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a small, intimate experience.

Can I customize or choose my food options?
Yes, the tour is flexible. You can request different dishes or drinks along the way, making it a personalized experience.

What does the tour include?
It includes guided visits to four restaurants/breweries, tastings of various dishes, and insights into Denver’s culture and murals.

Is the tour available in the evening?
Yes, typically in the evening, making it a perfect way to kick off or cap your day.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes suitable for walking.

Is there any cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Would I need to make reservations in advance?
Yes, booking ahead guarantees your spot, especially since it’s a small group experience with limited availability.

In essence, the RiNo Evening Food Tour offers an engaging, tasty way to see Denver’s vibrant art scene and taste its diverse culinary offerings. With friendly guides, manageable walking, and a focus on authentic experiences, it’s a memorable choice for anyone wanting to enjoy a lively, flavorful evening in Denver.