DENVER — A piece of Denver history and Americana is slowly fading away. Diners are struggling to stay relevant in today's foody-obsessed culinary scene.
Tom's Diner has been a fixture on Colfax for years, but the earlier this month The Denver Post reported that a Greenwood Village developer applied for non-historic status along with their proposal to redevelop the land to build an eight-story apartment building.
Like Tom's, many of Denver's other diners appear to have a shaky future as developers gobble up more and more land. But there is still time to visit part of Denver's past and enjoy some classic diner food.
Here is your guide to five iconic Denver diners you should visit!
Tom's Diner
The building was designed by Armet and Davis of Los Angeles in a Googie style and opened in 1967. The diner was part of the White Spot chain of coffee shops. The chain closed in 2001 and became Tom's Diner.
Located:
601 E Colfax Ave.
Highest-rated Yelp review:
"Standard "greasy spoon" diner fare found everywhere. Food was a hearty portion , tasted excellent and service was great ! Great for a on the go breakfast or morning after!"
Denver Diner
This iconic eatery was part of the White Spot chain, too. It was built in the mid-60s and became the Denver Diner in 1990. A 2014 kitchen fire forced the Denver Diner to close for several months but reopened after an extensive remodel.
Located:
740 W Colfax Ave
Highest-rated Yelp review:
"Went there for dinner tonight I've been there many times the food is always great service is wonderful I feel like the prices are very reasonable definitely recommend this restaurant"
Breakfast King
This Denver staple was crowned one of the best breakfast places in the country! The Breakfast King has excellent diner food, responsive wait staff and fun interior colors. It's some of the reasons why this place attracts so many regulars.
Located:
1100 S Santa Fe Dr
Highest-rated Yelp review:
"This is our favorite diner in Denver. The grilled cheese is perfect and the coffee is the best I've had in this city :) I also love the waitresses!"
Sam's No. 3
It's a Denver favorite! Sam's No. 3 has an extensive menu and probably the best green chili anywhere! Established in 1927, it's the only authentic diner in downtown Denver.
Located:
1500 Curtis St
Highest-rated Yelp comment:
"Went once and was thoroughly impressed. Very quick kitchen. Bartender was cool even tho he forgot my coffee... not a big deal."
Pete's Kitchen
The owner of this Denver institution recently passed away at age 85, but his six Denver restaurants remain a tribute to his legacy. Pete Contos opened Pete's Kitchen soon after opening his first restaurant, Pete's Satire Lounge in 1962.
Located:
1962 E Colfax Ave
Highest-rated Yelp review:
"Went there for dinner tonight I've been there many times the food is always great service is wonderful I feel like the prices are very reasonable definitely recommend this restaurant."
