There’s really no brunch like a Creole brunch, and Lucile’s is proof of that. Lucile’s has been around for over 30 years, and it shows. The classic Southern and Creole plates have been perfected. Yes, it’s one of those places that always has a line out the door — but it’s also one of the few places where the wait is 100% worth it, so just order yourself a delicious Bloody Mary and hang out.
Must try: The beignets (they’re fluffier than in NoLa). Also get some of their enormous, flaky buttermilk biscuits — if they don’t come with your dish (add sausage gravy, of course). And anything smothered in crawfish sauce of course!
Location: Lucile’s has 2 locations in Denver — as well as locations in Littleton, Boulder, Longmont, and Fort Collins.
I almost didn’t include Snooze on this list, because a lot of people might tell you it’s overrated. Yes, they have so many locations now, and their food is pretty typical, and the lines and wait times are ridiculous. However, they’re still the best option for those of us who are gluten-free. Brunch is really hard for the GF crowd, and Snooze does an amazing job making almost any dish GF (including pancakes and french toast).
Pro tip: Go for breakfast during the week if you can, not Sunday brunch. The line for Sunday brunch can be 2+ hours. Get in line on Yelp in advance if you can, or send a sacrificial lamb to wait.
Location: There’s a Snooze everywhere, and not just Colorado. My go-to is the one at Union Station, but there’s also Ballpark (not the best neighborhood), Colorado Blvd, Tech Center, Fort Collins, Lone Tree, Centennial, Colorado Springs, Boulder, and two in Westminster.
There is no spot trendier or more unique for brunch right now than Happy Camper in LoHi. It’s a Chicago-based restaurant and bar known for its fun décor and atmosphere that recently opened a location in Denver. It’s perfect for a big group brunch with friends, especially on a nice day when the sun is shining down on the enormous patio (although there’s covered space, too). It’s basically one big party all day (the “Big Ass Lemonade” and champagne gravity bongs are a testament to that). The décor is basically an Instagrammer’s paradise — from the flamingos, to the disco balls, to the fire pits, to the fairy lights, to the bathtub seating. The food is actually surprisingly good, too, and includes dishes like jalapeño poppers, mini potato boats, and a variety of pizzas.
Pro Tip: Reservations are pretty much a must, as this place gets packed, especially in good weather.
Location: 3211 N Pecos St, Denver, CO 80211
Steuben’s is essentially what happens when a classic, old-school diner meets modern hipster brunch mania — in the best and worst sense of the idea. I say “worst” only because there’s always a line out the door for brunch and the drinks aren’t cheap. I also say “best” because the food is delicious and the retro atmosphere is awesome. The famous dish to try is the gravy cheese fries, which is exactly what it sounds like: an enormous plate of fries topped with gravy and perfectly melted cheese that you’ll need a fork to eat (pictured). Show up right before they open to avoid the brunch line.
Must try: Gravy Cheese Fries, Monte Cristo Sandwich, Cast Iron French Toast
Location: 523 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80203
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I’m so excited The Post opened a location near me in LoHi in 2022. Not only is their fried chicken perfectly crispy on the outside and brined and juicy on the inside — but it’s also gluten-free! Their 1/2 fried chicken can also be ordered in “bottom half” — or dark meat only. And that’s just better. For brunch, you can also get a bottle of bubbles for $22 (and a choice of juices on the side to make your own mimosas). I’m a fried chicken & champagne for brunch kind of gal!
Must try: the fried chicken (duh)
Location: 1575 Boulder St in LoHi, but also Rosedale, Lafayette, Boulder, Longmont, Fort Collins, and Estes Park
Sam’s No. 3 is that classic, down-to-earth diner that’s been around forever and fills you with a sense of nostalgia — and also huge plates of breakfast food. The menu is almost ridiculously extensive and offers an eclectic combination of American diner classics, as well as Greek and Mexican dishes.
Must try: One of the breakfast burritos. There’s an entire page of these to choose from, they’re absolutely enormous, and they’re smothered in green chile and cheese. If you’re not from Colorado, green chile in itself is an absolute must-try around here.
Location: Currently, there are three Sam’s locations around Denver. The downtown location also boasts a feature on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
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Sunday brunch is becoming increasingly popular at Denver Milk Market thanks to a rotating list of wonderful drag queens hosting Drag Queen Bingo Brunch! There’s music, bottomless mimosas, a plethora of food options from all the Dairy Block restaurants, and of course, prizes! This is always a super positive, upbeat atmosphere — without going over the top crazy or risqué. I’d even call it family-friendly.
Location: Denver Milk Market / Dairy Block (sometimes in the alley, sometimes on the patio out front on 18th & Wazee)