The Black Pearl (Pearl & Florida)
When I first started going to The Black Pearl back in college, bottomless mimosas were $5. Last time I went about a year ago (October 2010), the price had gone up $2 to $7. Needless to say, I still think it's worth it. This place is swanky; the waitstaff and bartenders are nice eye candy - always a plus! Expect to pay a bit more for a meal but it's worth it, you won't be disappointed.
The Crushery (Pearl & Florida)
Not even a block from it's boozy, more upscale brother is The Crushery. Cute and quint, the front the store rolls up like a garage door. Most the time you can find people sitting on the back porch or hanging out with their kids and dogs (warning: you might feel out of place
Snooze (Multiple Denver locations)
Started by two University of Denver alumni (Yeah Pios!), Snooze has become a Denver landmark when it comes to brunching. Rich food adorns the menu and you'll probably not eat all day after having your meal here. Last time I checked they did not take reservations. So make sure you show up early, before 9 a.m. on a weekday or weekend, as all three locations (Downtown, Colorado Blvd, Southglenn) become packed quickly.
Lucile's (2 Denver + 1 Boulder location)
There is always a line to be found at Lucille's but it's worth the wait! This Creole cookhouse is delicious; the drinks are strong, the biscuits are mouthwatering and the meals reasonably priced (if you're coming from NYC, it's dirt cheap). Many of the ingredients come from the very own Lucile farm. Coloradans love organic, locally grown food, especially Boulderites! Try the french toast - I order it every time and have yet to be disappointed.
Racine's (6th ave and Lincoln)
I've actually never eaten at Racine's - that's why it made the list, I still want to go but the wait is always so long. Racine's has breakfast, lunch, dinner and, on the weekends, brunch. I also hear they make a killer margarita.
Steubens (E. 17th btw Pearl & Pennsylvania)
Two words: Food truck. That's right! Follow the truck on Twitter at @SteubensTruck as it motors around Denver. The food is good old American comfort food. I personally like the meatballs, Benny's chorizo & avocado, and cast iron french toast.
Gaia's Bistro (Pearl & Florida)
Located between The Black Pearl and The Crushery, sits an old house that was converted into a restaurant for breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner (check the times though as they aren't open for all meals everyday of the week). Guests can dine inside, outside in the yard or on the patio. My favorite spot is the yard near the fence so you can check out all the people and dogs wandering the street. I can't remember what I've eaten here but I remember being satisfied every time I've left.
Next time your in Denver, check out these places and let me know if you have any favs I should taste.
