Denver Colorado is the proud home of an ever-growing immigrant population, many of whom immigrated from Mexico. The result of this immigration has been a culinary revolution within the city, providing Denver locals with a vast array of authentic Mexican restaurants and food trucks to choose from.
During my 3+ years living in Colorado, I have sampled a large number of these authentic eateries on a quest to find the best Mexican food in Denver. After careful thought and consideration, I present to you my personalTop 4 Quick Mexican Eats in Denver.
Pay attention corn lovers, because the Corn Roaster is a mobile food cart serving up the best elote in the city of Denver. For those of you who are unfamiliar with this dish, elote is grilled Mexican street corn known for its sweet and spicy flavor. At this wonderful little cart customers have the option to have their elote come on a stick or in a cup. The cart is fitted with a custom flame grill specifically made to grill corn to perfection. Expect a long line when you see this cart, but rest assured it is well worth the wait!
#2 Barbacoa el Oso (3000 S Federal Blvd, mobile cart)
It is not often in this world that you find perfection, however, the fine folks at Barbacoa el Oso have come pretty darn close. This restaurant and food truck combo has been satisfying customers with their melt in your mouth barbacoa for years. Do you like options? Well this is not the place for you. At Barbacoa el Oso simplicity is key with your only option being tacos, burrito, or torta. No matter the medium, costumers receive their meal topped with onions and cilantro, with the option of fresh salsas. I would recommend barbacoa el Oso to anyone looking to satisfy a craving for meat.
#3 Tacos Rapidos (2800 W Evans Ave, and 2345 W Alameda Ave)
Tried and true, this 24 hour Mexican drive through has been serving Denver locals and over intoxicated college kids for over 10 years. With two convenient locations, Tacos Rapidos is never out of reach. Great prices and large portions are what set this place apart from the rest. Do not be alarmed if both drive through lanes are full, even late into the night. Diners at Tacos Rapidos also have a vast array of delicious breakfast options to choose from. If you are craving tasty Mexican comfort food, and a lot of it, Tacos Rapidos is the place for you.
#4 Los Gallitos Taquería (2630 W Alameda Ave)
Los Gallitos, the undisputed king of quick Mexican eats in Denver, is the final restaurant on my list. This drive through/sit down spot serves up everything from lengua (beef tongue) tacos to oysters on the half shell. Though the menu is vast, and at times intimidating even, you can rest assured that every item will leave you wanting more. A local favorite, Los Gallitos is never without cars in the drive through lane. Here you will find large portions at
a low price point, making it the perfect grab and go lunch spot. We cannot bring up Los Gallitos without mentioning their mouth watering homemade salsas, which truly put every dish over the top.
