17 Must-Try Restaurants in Aurora, CO
Aurora, Colorado, is a culinary treasure trove only 30 minutes from busy Denver.
Aurora has become a must-see for food lovers because it has many flavors worldwide. In the city, you can eat American, Mexican, German, Italian, Thai, Indian, and other types of food.
There are also gastropubs in the area that serve hearty pub food and beer made in the area. Everyone can find what they want.
If you’re a true food lover, want to try something new, or want to eat in a charming setting, this city has you covered.
So, we’ve made a list of 17 best restaurants in Aurora. Check out these best dining spots, each promising a unique, memorable meal.
Restaurants in Aurora
Rosie’s Diner Aurora
Rosie’s Diner serves traditional American food at 14061 E Iliff Avenue in Aurora.
1950s memorabilia, like Betty Boop merchandise, adorn its interior. The Jukebox near the entrance and on booth tables add to the atmosphere.
The menu has a range of dishes like pancakes, hamburgers, hot dogs, turkey sandwiches, meatloaf, and an all-day breakfast.
You’ll love their fried chicken. The chicken is juicy and crispy every time.
The restaurant is famous for its old-fashioned handmade milkshakes and malts, boasting over 20 flavors.
The atmosphere at Rosie’s Diner whisks guests back in time, providing a unique and nostalgic dining experience.
Rosie’s Diner can host big groups and has many drink options, tasty starters, and traditional dinner food.
Athenian Restaurant
You can find The Athenian near Wheel Park in Aurora. It’s a family-run place serving real Greek food since 2000.
They’ve changed the way people eat. The menu is simple. They make dishes like gyros, Greek salad, moussaka, and Avgolemono soup, a rich chicken orzo soup with a lemony twist.
You’ve got to taste their Gyro Plate. It’s got rice, veggies, gyro, pita, and Tzatziki sauce.
Besides their delicious food, the restaurant offers a selection of imported drinks and Angie’s homemade desserts.
The dining room is rustic and cozy, perfect for enjoying significant portions of Greek classics.
The Athenian is open for dine-in and takeout, and the hours change during the week.
Denver Biscuit Company
Denver Biscuit Company is a popular place at Stanley Marketplace. Their delicious gourmet biscuit sandwiches and platters are well-known.
The restaurant is in a cool retro space with a full bar. It’s in an old aviation factory, adding to its unique ambiance.
The aroma of fresh biscuits and crispy bacon fills the air when you walk through the door.
Daily service begins with breakfast and continues through lunch and dinner. Buttermilk biscuits, fried chicken, bacon, eggs, and gravy are all available for dining pleasure.
One standout item is the “Cinnamon Roll French Toast.” Cinnamon-infused brioche soaks in creamy custard and cooks on hot rills, creating a decadent treat for your taste buds.
You can eat their biscuit sandwiches, which have won awards, in-house or have them delivered or picked up. Check Denver Biscuit Company if you are in the North Aurora Division area.
Pearl of Siam
Located at 18660 E Hampden Avenue in Aurora, Pearl of Siam is a well-loved, family-owned Thai restaurant. The owners are friendly and create a soothing atmosphere.
Readers of Asian Avenue Magazine have given this restaurant in Denver/Aurora a top ranking, making it renowned.
You can find Thai dishes, including traditional curries and stir-fries.
Their menu has many choices, including Grilled Chicken, Sweet and Sour, Ginger, and Basil Seafood.
You should try the Drunken Noodle and Panang Curry. They have unique flavors.
They cater to different tastes, offering spicy dishes with chili peppers or curry and milder options for those who prefer less heat.
Pearl of Siam takes pride in using fresh ingredients and making meals quickly to keep them healthy and tasty.
Helga’s German Restaurant & Deli
Situated at Aurora City Square, Helga’s serves authentic German flavors with home-style cuisine and drinks.
The restaurant started in 1989 as a joint venture between a mother and daughter and has expanded while maintaining a warm and friendly atmosphere.
The e menu featuring classic German dishes like schnitzel, bratwurst, and sauerbraten.
You can also find a deli section offering fresh German meats, breads, cheeses, and bakery treats such as cheesecakes, strudels, and specialty tortes.
Don’t miss the Bier Garden at Helga’s, where you can enjoy various beers in a European-inspired setting.
Browse the restaurant’s gift store for a fantastic selection of imported European chocolates, candy, magazines, German music, and more.
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Cafe Paprika
Situated at 13160 E Mississippi Avenue, Cafe Paprika is a cozy family-owned eatery.
Since its start in 1993, the restaurant has earned acclaim for its delicious Moroccan and Mediterranean fare.
Chefs Abdellah and Chakib masterfully prepare these dishes, using unique spices and traditional Moroccan ingredients to provide an authentic culinary experience.
Their menu includes favorites like Tajines, Couscous, Bastilla, and gluten-free choices.
Take the chance to savor their must-try dishes, the chicken Bastilla and Apricot Lamb! If you’re a lamb fan, this is the place to be for perfectly cooked lamb!
Cafe Paprika boasts charming decor and a peaceful atmosphere, creating a soothing dining experience. They’re open from Tuesday to Sunday, with varying hours.
Black Bear Diner Aurora
Located at 14100 East Iliff Avenue, Black Bear Diner is a charming chain restaurant known for its relaxed atmosphere and all-day fare.
As you step inside, it’s hard not to appreciate the mountain cabin vibes surrounding you.
The retro music box, bear-themed decor, and booth chairs add to the unique experience.
The menu includes the Chicken Avocado Club, Turkey Club, Chicken Fried Steak, and Reuben sandwiches.
Their vegetarian omelet, accompanied by their unique sauces, is a standout.
And if you’re in the mood for a drink, they offer a selection of beer, wine, and other beverages.
It’s a winning combination with good coffee, attentive wait staff ensuring your cup and water glass are always full, and reasonable prices.
Just a tip: weekends can get quite busy for breakfast, so it’s a good idea to have someone from your group arrive early to secure a table.
Sam’s No 3
At 2580 S Havana Street, Sam’s has served breakfast and brunch since 1927.
Sam’s stands out in today’s culture of employees leaving quietly because it consistently retains quality workers and serves delicious food.
Over a hundred unique offerings span this restaurant’s breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Great flavor combinations and exciting takes on traditional dishes are more important than anything else.
They prepare classic green chili, one of their specialties, in mass quantities daily.
There’s plenty of room to spread out, and the buzz of people talking will keep you entertained.
Sam’s has become one of the best Aurora restaurants thanks to its long history and unwavering dedication to quality.
Monsoon Cuisine Of India
Monsoon is a modern Indian restaurant in Southlands in Aurora. It opened in 2013 and serves a variety of traditional Indian dishes.
They use traditional cooking techniques and fresh ingredients without artificial flavors or colors. At Monsoon, you’ll savor slow-churned curries and clay oven-baked meats with rich flavors.
The menu has vegetarian dishes like Navratan Korma, Paneer Makhni, and Chana Masala. The spices in their tikka masala are extraordinary, leaving you curious about their secret.
For a complete dining experience, pair your meal with some garlic naan, creating a symphony of flavors.
Monsoon also offers a well-stocked bar with diverse wines and spirits. The staff here is attentive but also friendly and knowledgeable, ensuring exceptional service throughout your visit.
The French Press
Nestled at South Chambers Road near Wheel Park, The French Press is a charming cafe renowned for its breakfast and lunch offerings.
If you’re hunting for a morning meal spot, you’ll stumble upon this cozy gem. This comfortable place can fit about 20 people inside. But the best part is the outdoor seating, especially when the inside is complete.
The French Press offers diverse dishes, including sweet and savory breakfast options, sandwiches, salads, and beverages.
Standouts include the French Toast, Huevos Rancheros, Bennie, and their delectable. While the interior may be little to write home about in terms of decor, the breakfast and service more than compensate.
You’ll see tantalizing plates from the kitchen as you ponder your order. This is undoubtedly a must-visit spot if you find yourself in Colorado!
Annette
Situated in the Stanley Marketplace, Annette is a culinary gem started by Chef Caroline Glover in 2016.
This Aurora restaurant offers seasonal, modern American dishes and presents craft cocktails.
The restaurant has garnered praise for its warm, homey hospitality and skillful, relaxed cooking.
The space feels cozy and spacious, with high ceilings. There is also a small bar area and a large enclosed patio.
The menu displays dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, mirroring Glover’s dedication to farming and culinary arts.
The must-try items on the menu include the beef tongue, marrow toast, and roasted chicken, though any choice will meet.
If you like fish, order the Bouillabaisse. The fish poaches perfectly—super fresh and tender. It comes with charred bread to soak up the stew.
As one of the best restaurants in Aurora, add Annette to your list for unique dining experiences.
Golden Saigon
Golden Saigon has emerged as the best Aurora restaurant for authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
Their menu is a treasure trove of Asian delicacies that cater to all palates. The meticulous diligence in each dish truly distinguishes this restaurant.
The chefs’ pride in their craft can be tasted in their dedication to using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Find fresh spring rolls, steamed gyoza, crispy lettuce wraps, Clay Pot Curry with shrimp, beef salad, seafood soup, and beef noodle soup. Also, the scratch-made ginger ale and iced coffee will rock your world.
If you’re looking for authentic Vietnamese specialties or an unforgettable dining experience, Golden Saigon should be your first stop.
Angry Chicken
Angry Chicken is a must-visit if you’re seeking delicious Chicken bursting with flavor.
The restaurant boasts ample seating and large TVs, making it an ideal gathering spot. You’ll appreciate the indoor seating style, featuring private alcoves for a cozier meal with friends or family.
What truly sets Angry Chicken apart is its use of rice flour in its breading. This gluten-free alternative yields a crispy, light, and moist texture, free from the usual greasiness of fried Chicken.
Their Soy Sauce Chicken is a must-try dish, an absolute delight with its crispy, wet, and flavorful Chicken complemented by a spoon-worthy sauce. Beyond fried chicken, their roast chicken offers a wholesome alternative.
Their portions are so generous that sharing becomes a delightful choice, turning Angry Chicken on South Havana Street in Aurora into a place worth returning.
El Tequileno Family Mexican Restaurant
El Tequileno is a Colorado Mexican chain at 2790 South Havana Street. It’s famed for its authentic Mexican flavors, creating a journey to old Mexico.
The restaurant boasts a vast tequila choice and expertly crafted margaritas, setting a lively and relaxed ambiance that turns every day into a fiesta.
Passionately prepared dishes use fresh ingredients and traditional Mexican recipes.
Try the mole enchiladas; the sauce strikes a perfect balance, neither too chocolatey nor smoky.
And don’t forget the mouthwatering carne asada plate – fresh and generously portioned.
El Tequileno goes beyond delectable food with live mariachi performances every Friday. Its inviting atmosphere, delightful cuisine, and vibrant entertainment make it a must-try for Aurora’s authentic Mexican dining experience.
Katsu Ramen
Looking for Japanese food in Aurora? Head to Katsu Ramen. They specialize in traditional Japanese dishes: rice bowls, ramen, and curry.
An experienced Japanese chef from Osaka, Japan, makes the steamy broth and fresh noodles, ensuring an authentic taste.
Their menu features Fried Rice Bowls, Spicy Chicken Ramen, Black Garlic Tonkotsu, Gyoza, and meat-filled dumplings.
They also offer vegetarian ramen and allow customizations with tofu, egg, or spices. The place is small, so it gets busy quickly, but the wait is worth it. You won’t disappoint.
Urban Burma
Siri Tan and his brother Martin opened Urban Burma, the first Burmese restaurant in the state, in 2019. The restaurant is in the Mango House food court.
The restaurant has a trendy and welcoming feel, with stylish fabrics and furniture from the mid-century. It captures the urban character of Burma. Nearby countries like China, Thailand, and India influence the food, creating unique flavors.
You can choose from Burmese foods like Nan Gyi Dok, Shan noodles, Burmese Fried Rice, beef curry, and tea leaf salad. If you prefer vegan or vegetarian, they can make it for you.
Additionally, Urban Burma runs a food truck, appearing at breweries, farmers markets, and private events. If you want to try Asian cuisine beyond the familiar Thai fare, give Burmese food a shot; it’s truly distinct.
Bettola Bistro
Bettola Bistro is an intimate Italian restaurant known for its high-quality food and exceptional service. The restaurant boasts lovely decor and a boutique-feeling place that lets guests relax and savor their meals.
The menu features Italian favorites like Chicken parmesan, scallops, halibut, gelato, and cheesecakes.
They also serve house wines, limoncello, white wines, espresso, tea, and ginger beer. You can share your wine preferences, and they’ll bring you something fantastic.
The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, efficient, and patient, ensuring a warm welcome and excellent service.
Located in lliff Pointe Shopping Center, the restaurant’s ambiance is perfect for date nights or special occasions. We recommend making reservations for those seeking a seat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kinds of food can I find in Aurora?
You can find American, Mexican, Moroccan, German, Thai, Vietnamese, Indian, Greek, Indian, and other types of food.
Are these restaurants in Aurora affordable?
Many of these restaurants have different prices, so you can find something that works for your wallet. Some places have cheap eats, while others are all fancy and stuff.
Can I find gluten-free or vegetarian food at Aurora restaurants?
Many restaurants offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options so that everyone can discover something they like. You should call each restaurant to find out what choices they have.
Are there live shows or other events at any of these Aurora restaurants?
There may be live music or other restaurant events on certain days or nights. You can ask each restaurant about upcoming events to keep you entertained while you eat.
Do I need to make reservations at these Aurora restaurants?
Some restaurants take reservations and restaurants that serve people as they come in, especially during busy times. If you have a big group or want to eat at a busy time, it’s best to make a reservation beforehand.
Note: Since all the information in this article is based on the date of publication, for some reason (health, economic, social), these businesses may be temporarily or permanently closed or moved to another location.
