When it comes to breakfast, nothing quite hits the spot like a hearty burrito packed with flavorful ingredients. Denver, known for its vibrant food scene, is a city that takes its burritos seriously. From traditional Mexican-style burritos to creative modern twists, Denver offers some of the best breakfast burritos you’ll ever taste. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, here’s a guide to finding the best breakfast burritos in Denver and exploring the city’s most beloved burrito spots.
The Appeal of the Breakfast Burrito
The breakfast burrito is a perfect fusion of convenience and flavor. Wrapped in a warm tortilla, this handheld meal combines classic breakfast staples like eggs, cheese, potatoes, and meats with the bold flavors of salsa, chiles, and avocado. It’s a dish that can be customized to fit any taste, whether you’re a fan of spicy chorizo, smoky bacon, or vegetarian options loaded with fresh veggies.
In Denver, where the culinary scene thrives on creativity and authenticity, the breakfast burrito has become a staple. The city’s diverse food culture, influenced by its Hispanic roots and modern food trends, ensures that you’ll find a variety of options, each with its unique twist on this classic dish.
Santiago’s: A Denver Icon
No discussion about the best breakfast burritos in Denver would be complete without mentioning Santiago’s. A true Denver institution, Santiago’s has been serving up mouthwatering breakfast burritos since 1991. With multiple locations across the city, this local favorite is known for its consistency and flavor.
Their breakfast burrito is a simple yet satisfying combination of eggs, potatoes, and green chile, with the option to add meat like bacon, sausage, or chorizo. The green chile, in particular, is what sets Santiago’s apart – it’s flavorful with just the right amount of heat, making each bite a delight. Locals swear by this burrito as a go-to morning meal, and it’s easy to see why Santiago’s has become synonymous with breakfast burritos in Denver.
Denver Biscuit Company: A Creative Take
If you’re looking for a breakfast burrito that pushes the boundaries of tradition, the Denver Biscuit Company is the place to go. Known for their innovative takes on breakfast classics, this popular spot offers a burrito that’s anything but ordinary.
Their Elmer Burrito features scrambled eggs, fried chicken, cheddar cheese, and a creamy sausage gravy, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. The combination of crispy chicken and rich gravy makes this burrito a must-try for anyone looking to experience a unique twist on the classic breakfast burrito. It’s hearty, indulgent, and packed with flavor, making it one of the best breakfast burritos in Denver for those who love a little creativity with their morning meal.
Illegal Pete’s: A Customizable Experience
For those who love options, Illegal Pete’s offers a customizable burrito experience that allows you to create the perfect breakfast burrito to suit your taste. With several locations in Denver, Illegal Pete’s is a go-to spot for both locals and visitors looking for a hearty meal to start their day.
At Illegal Pete’s, you can choose from a variety of ingredients to build your ideal burrito. Start with a base of eggs and potatoes, and then add your choice of meat, cheese, beans, and fresh toppings like pico de gallo, guacamole, and green chile. The result is a burrito that’s tailored to your preferences, ensuring that every bite is exactly what you’re craving. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic combo or something a bit more adventurous, Illegal Pete’s has you covered.
Pete’s Kitchen: A Denver Classic
When it comes to Denver’s culinary history, Pete’s Kitchen stands out as a true classic. This iconic diner has been serving Denverites since 1942, and their breakfast burrito is a testament to their long-standing commitment to quality and flavor.
Pete’s breakfast burrito is a no-frills, satisfying option that’s perfect for starting your day off right. It’s filled with scrambled eggs, hash browns, cheese, and your choice of meat, all smothered in their famous green chile. The green chile at Pete’s Kitchen is rich and flavorful, adding just the right amount of spice to the burrito. For a taste of Denver’s culinary history, this is one spot you don’t want to miss.
The Universal: A Gourmet Twist
If you’re in the mood for a gourmet breakfast burrito, The Universal is a must-visit spot. This popular brunch destination offers a burrito that’s both sophisticated and satisfying.
Their breakfast burrito features scrambled eggs, potatoes, black beans, cheddar cheese, and a choice of bacon, sausage, or avocado, all wrapped in a flour tortilla and smothered in house-made green chile. What sets The Universal’s burrito apart is the quality of the ingredients and the attention to detail in every component. It’s a burrito that’s both filling and flavorful, making it one of the best burritos in Denver for those who appreciate a gourmet twist on a classic dish.
Conclusion: A Burrito Lover’s Paradise
Denver is a city that knows how to do breakfast burritos right. Whether you’re looking for a classic, no-frills option or a creative, gourmet experience, you’ll find some of the best burritos in Denver to satisfy your cravings. From Santiago’s iconic green chile-smothered burritos to The Universal’s gourmet creations, the variety and quality of breakfast burritos in Denver are second to none.
