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Denver Food Scene Sucks
S7 E12: Denver Food Scene Sucks
The Denver food scene sucks.
At least, that's what I used to think.
After living in Colorado for nearly six years, I realized my opinion wasn't based on experience—it was based on assumptions. Too often, I found myself saying, "This place sucks," before I'd actually taken the time to explore it. The truth is, I was wrong.
Welcome to 10,000 Tacos. I'm Isidro Salas, proud son of taqueros.
In this episode, we're breaking down why so many people think Denver's food scene falls short, how personal experiences shape our tastes, and the deep roots of Mexican culture throughout Colorado. Along the way, I'll share a few of my favorite spots, plus several restaurants that are next on my list.
Favorite Spots El Gaucho Food TruckFor authentic Tijuana-style flavors, El Gaucho consistently delivers. The picaña, aguachile, and straightforward, no-nonsense guacamole make this one of my favorite stops.
Location: 45 E Collins St Eaton, CO 80615 (Parked at NAPA Auto Parts)
Fiestas Tacos Mexican FoodTheir birria strikes the perfect balance—rich without being overpowering. They even created a birria pizza for me that completely changed my expectations. The family running the truck also reminds me of my own parents, which makes every visit special.
Location: 1360 New Beale Street Castle Rock, CO 80108 (Lowe's parking lot)
Rosa Mexican KitchenThis is what I call true DenMex. The owner brings flavors and techniques from Zacatecas while putting his own creative spin on the menu. Don't leave without trying the crunchy chile relleno and the Red Taco.
Location: 8355 N Rampart Range Rd #109 Littleton, CO 80125
On My RadarThere are still plenty of places left to explore, and these are at the top of my list:
La Calle Taqueria y Carnitas1565 Federal Blvd Denver, CO 80219
Tacos El Huequito2001 S Federal Blvd Denver, CO 80219
Chile con Quesadilla1234 E Colfax Ave Denver, CO 80218
The Taco EconomyA special thank you to my childhood friend, Efrain Carrasco, for sharing a story that perfectly captures the spirit of the taquero community.
While visiting Big Sur Taco in Carmel Valley, Efrain watched a customer approach the counter and nervously ask whether his card could be tested before ordering. Without hesitation, the taquero replied:
"Don't worry about the card. What would you like to eat? You can pay me when it works."
That is the taco economy.
That is the friendship economy.
The story immediately reminded me of how my parents treated people through their own work. Acts of kindness like this continue to prove that generosity and community are very much alive.
Gracias, Efrain.
Connect With 10,000 TacosInstagram:@10ktacos Facebook:@10ktacos TikTok:@10ktacos
Thank you for listening, downloading, and following along.
See you on the next episode.
View all episodes
By Isidro Salas
4.7
4949 ratings
S7 E12: Denver Food Scene Sucks
The Denver food scene sucks.
At least, that's what I used to think.
After living in Colorado for nearly six years, I realized my opinion wasn't based on experience—it was based on assumptions. Too often, I found myself saying, "This place sucks," before I'd actually taken the time to explore it. The truth is, I was wrong.
Welcome to 10,000 Tacos. I'm Isidro Salas, proud son of taqueros.
In this episode, we're breaking down why so many people think Denver's food scene falls short, how personal experiences shape our tastes, and the deep roots of Mexican culture throughout Colorado. Along the way, I'll share a few of my favorite spots, plus several restaurants that are next on my list.
Favorite Spots El Gaucho Food TruckFor authentic Tijuana-style flavors, El Gaucho consistently delivers. The picaña, aguachile, and straightforward, no-nonsense guacamole make this one of my favorite stops.
Location: 45 E Collins St Eaton, CO 80615 (Parked at NAPA Auto Parts)
Fiestas Tacos Mexican FoodTheir birria strikes the perfect balance—rich without being overpowering. They even created a birria pizza for me that completely changed my expectations. The family running the truck also reminds me of my own parents, which makes every visit special.
Location: 1360 New Beale Street Castle Rock, CO 80108 (Lowe's parking lot)
Rosa Mexican KitchenThis is what I call true DenMex. The owner brings flavors and techniques from Zacatecas while putting his own creative spin on the menu. Don't leave without trying the crunchy chile relleno and the Red Taco.
Location: 8355 N Rampart Range Rd #109 Littleton, CO 80125
On My RadarThere are still plenty of places left to explore, and these are at the top of my list:
La Calle Taqueria y Carnitas1565 Federal Blvd Denver, CO 80219
Tacos El Huequito2001 S Federal Blvd Denver, CO 80219
Chile con Quesadilla1234 E Colfax Ave Denver, CO 80218
The Taco EconomyA special thank you to my childhood friend, Efrain Carrasco, for sharing a story that perfectly captures the spirit of the taquero community.
While visiting Big Sur Taco in Carmel Valley, Efrain watched a customer approach the counter and nervously ask whether his card could be tested before ordering. Without hesitation, the taquero replied:
"Don't worry about the card. What would you like to eat? You can pay me when it works."
That is the taco economy.
That is the friendship economy.
The story immediately reminded me of how my parents treated people through their own work. Acts of kindness like this continue to prove that generosity and community are very much alive.
Gracias, Efrain.
Connect With 10,000 TacosInstagram:@10ktacos Facebook:@10ktacos TikTok:@10ktacos
Thank you for listening, downloading, and following along.
See you on the next episode.