A Local’s Guide to Dining in Golden, CO
Wondering where to eat in Golden, Colorado? Whether you’re a day-tripper from Denver, a tourist just passing through on your way to the mountains, or a local looking for new recommendations, this list is for you.
Golden may be a small mountain town, but its food scene packs a serious punch. From casual breakfast spots and cozy cafés to laid-back breweries, lively bars, and sit-down dining options, there’s no shortage of great Golden, CO restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re searching for the best place for breakfast, a quick lunch, a relaxed beer, or a memorable dinner downtown, you’ll find plenty of standout options here.
So why take my word for it?
Every restaurant on this list has been tried and tested by yours truly—no guesswork, no hype-only recommendations. I’ve personally eaten, sipped, and explored my way through Golden’s restaurants downtown, breweries, and cafés to bring you honest insights on the food, beer, atmosphere, and overall dining experience.
This guide covers some of the best restaurants in Golden, Colorado, whether you’re craving comfort food after a hike, planning a date night, meeting friends for drinks, or simply looking for a great meal in town.
Consider this your go-to resource for dining in Golden—broken down by breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with plenty of local favorites along the way.
Let’s dig in.
Breakfast
1. Bonfire Burritos
Price: $$
Cuisine: Southwestern
Vibe: Very casual, counter service
My order: Golden Goose burrito
If you can only visit one breakfast spot in Golden, I’d recommend Bonfire Burritos.
They make some of the best breakfast burritos I’ve ever had and the quality is always consistent.
Their menu consists of a dozen burritos, which you can also turn into a burrito bowl or tacos, and includes some vegetarian options.
The only negative is that it’s a little pricy in my opinion and there can sometimes be a long wait since it’s so popular.
2. Cafe 13
Price: $$
Cuisine: American cafe
Vibe: Casual, counter service
My order: Breakfast croissant sandwich with a seasonal latte
You can’t leave Golden without stopping by the most popular cafe in town, Cafe 13.
They have the best fresh pastry and bread selection out of all the Golden cafes and you can’t go wrong with any of their menu items, which includes several gluten free and vegan options.
I love their drinks and all of their seasonal lattes I’ve had have been delicious.
This is another places that can get pretty crowded, especially on the weekends, but it’s worth the wait if you’re not in a rush.
Bonus: It has dog friendly outdoor section and an outdoor ordering window so you don’t have to go inside if you have your pup with you.
3. Humble House Cafe
Price: $$
Cuisine: American cafe
Vibe: Cozy casual, counter service
My order: Specialty latte
If you’re looking for a nice little coffee shop off of Washington Ave, the main street in downtown Golden, then Humble House Cafe is the place.
It’s more than just a coffee shop, they serve breakfast, brunch, and they also serve alcoholic beverages like wine and cocktails (Etta Jeanne).
This cafe also has a small store where you can purchase handmade products from around the world.
Their seasonal latte menu is always so impressive and original with flavor combinations you won’t find anywhere else.
The vibe is so cute and cozy, you’re going to want to hang out here for hours!
4. Launch . Espresso . Food . Spirits — Cafe
Price: $$
Cuisine: American coffeehouse
Vibe: Casual, counter service
My order: Americano and a burrito
Launch Cafe is conveniently located off of I-70, the last exit before you head into the mountains, so you can easily drop by this cafe before or after your mountain adventures.
They have a diverse menu that features coffee, fresh plates, and even cocktails—it’s a one stop shop for whatever you’re craving at the moment.
It has a cozy interior with a fireplace for the colder months and an outdoor patio for when it’s warm and you want some fresh air.
It gives industrial, hipster coffee shop vibes.
Lunch
5. Bob’s Atomic Burgers
Price: $
Cuisine: Classic American
Vibe: Very casual, counter service
My order: Classic cheeseburger
Bob’s Atomic Burgers is the best burger joint in town if you’re wanting a fresh, quality patty without the hefty price tag.
There simple menu is straight to the point with no frills, you can’t go wrong with the basics— burgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches.
The staff is super friendly, laidback, and provide excellent customer service.
It’s the perfect place to stop at after a hike in Golden or in the Front Range.
Speaking of hikes, if you’re looking for the some super cool hike in Golden, read this: The Best Hikes in Golden, CO—From a Local
6. Cheese Ranch Deli
Price: $
Cuisine: American & European Deli
Vibe: Casual, counter service
My order: The Diego sandwich and a side of homemade potato salad
Cheese Ranch is a favorite among locals.
You’re going to want to go here if you want a gourmet sandwich, made with artisan meats and cheeses, with out breaking the bank.
They offer a variety of fine cheeses that are locally made or imported from abroad.
They also sell cheese plates and charcuterie boards if you’re looking for something a little more fancy.
7. The Golden Mill
Price: $$$
Cuisine: a little bit of everything… (it’s a food hall)
Vibe: Casual, counter service
My order: Republik of Chicken
The Golden Mill is one of the most popular restaurants in downtown Golden, Colorado—and rightfully so.
The food hall features multiple cuisines such as Japanese, American, BBQ, and Mexican dishes.
They also have an ice cream shop for when you’re craving a cold sweet treat on a hot summer day.
I can’t talk about the Golden Mill and not mention one of their most popular features: the self-serve draft beer wall where you can sample a variety of local and domestic beers.
This restaurant has breathtaking views of Clear Creek, South Table Mountain, and the surrounding area, so it’s a great spot to hang out at for a while.
There are plenty of seating options inside, outside, and on the rooftop—with the outdoor patio being dog friendly.
8. Kona Bowls
Price: $$
Cuisine: Hawaiian inspired
Vibe: Casual, counter service
My order: Smoothie or Acai Bowl
For those looking for healthier dining options that are vegan and vegetarian friendly, check out Kona Bowls.
It’s located on the main street in downtown Golden in the heart of the mountain town, so it’s hard to miss.
All of their menu items are super refreshing and are made with high quality ingredients.
I would recommend ordering a smoothing and then taking a walk along Clear Creek Trail.
9. New Terrain Brewing Company
Price: $
Cuisine: Beer. That’s a cuisine, right?
Vibe: Very casual, counter service
My order: any light beer
New Terrain Brewing Company is one of the most beloved breweries in Golden because of it’s venue, seating options, and proximity to hiking and biking trails.
If you’re someone who seeks out locally crafted beer, New Terrain has to be on your list of places to visit in Golden.
Although the only sell beverages inside, they usually have several food trucks on site so you can order a bite to eat if you’re hungry.
It’s the perfect trail to tap combination if you’re looking for a place to grab a beer after your hike.
Want to find other hikes that end in beer? Read 7 Trail to Tap Combinations in Golden, CO
10. Sherpa House Restaurant and Cultural Center
Price: $$
Cuisine: Nepalese
Vibe: Nice casual, sit-down
My order: The sample platter with naan
Another restaurant you don’t want to skip is Sherpa House.
The have a wide variety of flavorful Nepalese dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options.
This restaurant structure and grounds is absolutely beautiful and is the perfect spot in any season, it’s cozy in the winter and has beautiful outdoor seating in the summer.
Get a taste of the Himalayas and experience a little bit of Nepalese culture with much of the decor designed to mimic parts of Nepal.
You’re going to want to make sure this is on your list of restaurants to visit in Golden, CO.
11. Windy Saddle Cafe
Price: $$
Cuisine: American Cafe
Vibe: Casual, counter service
My order: Quiche and a matcha latte
The Windy Saddle Cafe is a traditional cafe conveniently located off of Washington Ave. in downtown Golden.
Their menu features items like sandwiches, salads, and homemade pastries, all of which you will love.
It’s a local favorite and has a comforting, welcoming feel to it with plenty of seating options inside and outside. Although it can get full on the weekends.
Dinner
12. Buffalo Rose
Price: $$$
Cuisine: Regional American with a western influence
Vibe: Nice casual, sit-down
My order: Elk burger and a side salad
If you love history and the wild west, you’re going to want to eat at Buffalo Rose, which resides in the oldest building in Golden, CO.
They have a unique menu offering dishes like bison meatloaf and elk burgers, something you won’t find just anywhere.
I was very impressed with the quality and taste of everything I ordered and would recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting Golden.
13. La Huacha
Price: $$
Cuisine: Mexican
Vibe: Nice casual, sit-down
My order: House margarita
La Huacha is a new Mexican restaurant in town and is a hidden gem you’d drive past if you’re not looking for it.
It’s off the beaten path, but it’s totally worth visiting if you’re looking for some good Mexican food and phenomenal margaritas.
Not to mention, the interior is super sleek and has a nice modern feel to it perfect for get togethers with friends and celebrations.
PSA: They have $2 tacos on Tuesdays!
14. Nosu Ramen
Price: $$$
Cuisine: Japanese
Vibe: Nice, sit-down
My order: Pork belly ramen
Nosu Ramen is the place you want to dine at if you’re looking for some warm, comforting food on a cold winter or spring day.
Their menu consists of a variety of small plates, like dumplings and boa buns, as well as noodle dishes.
It’s a great option if you’re looking for something than American cuisine that dominates downtown Golden.
15. Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse
Price: $$
Cuisine: Classic American & BBQ
Vibe: Nice casual, sit-down
My order: Beef brisket sandwich
Another iconic restaurant located in the heart of downtown Golden—the Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse.
If you’re craving some freshly smoked meats right of the grill, then you’re going to want to eat here.
The beef brisket sandwich I ordered was absolutely delicious and I can’t wait to go back and try more.
16. Sushi Ukora
Price: $$
Cuisine: Japanese
Vibe: Nice, sit-down
My order: Sunrise Roll, Tokyo Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll
Sushi Ukora is a hidden gem and very popular among local Golden residents.
It’s difficult to find fresh sushi in Colorado, but Sushi Ukora is a place you can count on and isn’t insanely expensive.
They have some of the best specialty sushi rolls in town and also have a great order to-go deal that I like as well.
It’s tucked away in a neighborhood, so it’s easy to miss, but make sure you don’t drive by.
It’s perfect for date nights!
17. Table Mountain Grill & Cantina
Price: $$$
Cuisine: Southwestern
Vibe: Nice, sit-down
My order: Santa Fe Hot Chicken Sandwich and a strawberry marg
Located inside Table Mountain Inn, Table Mountain Grill & Cantina is a popular spot for Southwestern-inspired dishes and craft cocktails.
Here you’ll find classic dishes with a Southwestern or Mexican inspired twist that are unique to this restaurant.
It’s a solid option for a relaxed but elevated dinner in Golden.
18. Woody’s Wood-fired Pizza
Price: $$
Cuisine: American
Vibe: Casual, sit-down
My order: The all you can eat pizza buffet which comes with soup and salad
Woody’s Pizza is always hopping and you have to see what all the buzz is about—and make sure you come hungry.
They offer classic American fare, but are known for their pizza buffet.
For about $17, you can get an all you can eat pizza buffet which includes unlimited salad and their famous beer cheese potato soup (it sounds weird but it’s good, I promise).
I love the pizza buffet because they create unique topping combinations that you won’t find at a traditional pizza place.
