A Culinary Journey: The Denver Food + Wine Festival

As the leaves begin to hint at autumn, Denver transforms into a gastronomic paradise, hosting an event that has become a cornerstone of the city’s culinary calendar—the Denver Food + Wine Festival. This vibrant celebration of flavors and libations is not just an event; it’s an experience, a journey through the diverse and innovative food scene in Colorado.

A Feast for the Senses

Picture this: giant white tents set on lush lawns, with peaks arching gracefully towards the sky. Beneath these elegant canopies, a symphony of scents and sounds beckons food lovers to explore. From the moment you step inside, the festival envelops you in its lively atmosphere. The air is filled with the aromas of gourmet bites, crafted by top chefs from across the state, while a DJ sets the rhythm for a day of indulgence and discovery.

The festival isn’t merely a showcase of culinary excellence; it’s a testament to the camaraderie and creativity of our local restaurant industry. Over 50 local spots participate in the Grand Tasting alone, including standout names like the award-winning Brutø and Blackbelly, Chez Maggy, and La Diabla Pozole Y Mezcal. Each brings their A-game to impress the palates of attendees. From savory bites to refreshing sips, the variety is expansive, making the Denver Food + Wine Festival one of the top things to do in Denver post Labor Day.

The Exclusive VIP Experience

For those seeking the ultimate indulgence, the VIP experience at the Denver Food + Wine Festival is unparalleled. VIP guests are granted early access, arriving an hour before general admission to explore the festival’s offerings without the crowds. This extra time allows VIP attendees to savor limited and exquisite bites from 10 high-end restaurants, available only in the VIP area.

Throughout the event, the VIP area remains a haven of exclusivity, where attendees can enjoy their own dedicated restrooms and a more leisurely pace, sampling gourmet bites from top chefs and reserve wines only being poured for VIP, while mingling with fellow food enthusiasts. The extended access not only provides more opportunities to delight in the festival’s culinary wonders, but also offers a tranquil escape with dedicated seating areas designed to enhance the overall experience. “The VIP experience elevates the festival to new heights,” said an attendee from last year’s festival, as noted in a community review.

Adding to the allure of the VIP experience are the exclusive tasting seminars held within the VIP area. These sessions provide an intimate setting for guests to learn from Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits beverage professionals and broaden their appreciation for fine food and wine; in 2024, there will be tasting seminars on whiskey, tequila, and, of course, wine. With a focus on both education and enjoyment, these seminars are a must for any VIP ticket holder seeking to elevate their festival experience. 

Highlights and Must-Try Bites

The Denver Food + Wine Festival is renowned for its delicious variety of flavors and innovative dishes. This year’s lineup includes standout creations such as crab patacon, a fresh crab salad served on fried plantains with a passion fruit sabayon from Brutø, a Mexican-inspired delicacy that pairs beautifully with a glass of bubbly. Chez Maggy transports guests to France with their  endive salad, while Reckless Noodle House offers a taste of refined comfort with their mala-braised beef-cheek noodles and lobster rangoon bao. These culinary delights are not to be missed and make the Grand Tasting among the most exciting Denver events this September!

Culinary Stars Shine Bright: A Mosaic of Flavors

The Denver Food + Wine Festival is a vibrant showcase of culinary diversity, celebrating some of the brightest talents from Colorado and beyond. Each chef brings their unique flair, transforming the festival into a tapestry of global flavors that caters to every palate. Let’s take a closer look at the different culinary styles featured at this year’s festival and the chefs who make them shine.

Colorado Flavors

Bringing the spirit of the Rockies to the festival are pro bartenders like Teddy Lamontagne from Rootstalk Breckenridge, who is infusing his Shake + Brake Showdown cocktail with fresh strawberries from local farms. Award-winning Grand Junction chef Josh Niernberg, who is bringing Bin 707 Foodbar to the VIP experience at the Grand Tasting, is using local beef, Jimmy Nardello peppers, corn, and Palisade peaches in his dishes. Chef Hosea Rosenberg, of Top Chef fame, is cooking Colorado lamb from Superior Farms for his Grand Tasting bite, while chef Brother Luck, of Four by Brother Luck, is serving savory blue cornbread with green chile. 

Asian Delights

Kawa,ni Denver, led by chef Bill Taibe, will serve a beautiful squash curry topped with crunchy puffed rice in the VIP experience, while chef Long Nguyen of Pho King Rapidos is bringing his divine al pastor banh mi to the Grand Tasting tent. Dave Hadley of Samosa Shop will cook an aloo tikki chaat and Hannah Cho of Shin Myung Gwan Korean BBQ is bringing her tender, savory pork bulgogi, fish cakes, and, of course, house kimchi. And Now Pho’s superior egg rolls and watermelon tea will definitely delight!

Middle Eastern Innovations

Lady in the Wild, known for farm-fresh Mediterranean fare, is serving beet-cured salmon with lemon-dill hummus on sourdough, while Sawa Mediterranean Restaurant & Buffet, a new spot near the University of Denver, is bringing their epic beef-stuffed buns. You won’t want to miss these beautiful bites.

Latin American Treats

Many restaurants at the Grand Tasting – and food trucks at the Shake + Brake Showdown – are inspired by the cuisines of Mexico and Latin America, which means this year’s Denver Food + Wine Festival is going to be THE most delicious place to be September 4 through 7. Toro by Richard Sandoval is cooking tacos de pato (duck tacos), while Smōk is serving smoked beef tamales with tallow verde salsa and cotija. Lucina Eatery & Bar will prepare their famous seafood paella on site at the Grand Tasting, while Chile con Quesadilla food truck is back at the Shake + Brake Showdown to defend its two-time title as winner of Best Food Truck! 

Global Influences

Not only are there culinary options for all kinds of food lovers – omnivores, vegetarians, and vegans! – but the flavors of the world are available, too. The Shake + Brake Showdown features the tender injera and hearty stews of the Ethiopian Food Truck; Mile High Tikka Express is serving modern Indian fare; Luchador Mexican Food Truck will compete with Chile con Quesadilla for best bite; and Mukja will be serving their epic Korean-inspired cheese dogs. At the Grand Tasting, there will be Italian, French, Latin American, and more to enjoy.

This remarkable diversity not only highlights the culinary talent present at the festival but also underscores Denver’s position as a burgeoning hub of top-tier cuisine. With such a wide array of flavors and styles, the Denver Food + Wine Festival stands out as a celebration of culinary artistry, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about food. These chefs are not just presenting dishes; they are redefining the culinary landscape, inviting everyone to savor the world right in the heart of Denver. Explore our full list of talent. 

Supporting a Greater Cause

Beyond the indulgence, the festival serves a noble purpose by supporting the Colorado Restaurant Foundation. Proceeds help fund:

• Apprentice Program: Offers hands-on culinary training and career development for aspiring chefs.
• Angel Relief Fund: Provides financial assistance to restaurant workers facing hardships, such as illness or natural disasters.
• Scholarship Programs: Support students pursuing education in hospitality and culinary arts.
• Colorado ProStart®: High school hospitality education program serving 2,000+ Colorado students

These initiatives underscore the festival’s commitment to enhancing the local food industry and make it a meaningful choice among Denver events.

A Festival of Community and Culture

The Denver Food + Wine Festival is more than a culinary event; it’s a celebration of community and culture. It’s where foodies, chefs, and restaurateurs gather not just to eat and drink, but to connect, share stories, and celebrate the vibrant tapestry of our local dining scene. Each bite and sip tells a story, weaving a rich narrative of tradition, innovation, and passion. “It’s a testament to the strength and creativity of our community,” remarked a local chef in a recent festival article.

Navigating the Culinary Wonderland

The festival map reveals a sprawling layout, guiding guests through a labyrinth of culinary delights. From the bustling main tents to the more secluded VIP areas, each corner offers a new adventure. Whether you’re sampling a taco from one of the city’s beloved food trucks or savoring a gourmet dish from a Michelin contender, every moment is designed to delight. With so much to explore, it’s clear why this festival is one of the top things to do in Denver.

From Stars to Dine Out: A New Friday Experience

In the past, the Denver Food + Wine Festival featured the beloved “Dinner Under the Stars” event—an enchanting evening where attendees enjoyed a lavish, al fresco, multi-course dinner prepared by five incredible local chefs. This event was not only a feast for the senses but also supported mental health initiatives within the industry, benefiting the Colorado Restaurant Foundation’s Angel Relief Fund.

This year, the festival introduces an exciting new chapter with “Dine Out,” a dynamic online auction series that transcends geographical boundaries, allowing food enthusiasts from across the country to participate. “Dine Out” is a culinary extravaganza featuring a lineup of unique experiences, from chef-counter dinners to exclusive kitchen tours, all culminating in an online auction. This innovative format allows you to bid on one-of-a-kind culinary experiences, with proceeds supporting the Colorado Restaurant Foundation.

This new experience offers an incredible opportunity to enjoy exceptional dining while supporting a vital cause. Whether you’re in Denver or beyond, you can be part of this nationwide culinary celebration. For more details and to join the “Dine Out” experience, visit the Dine Out page.

“Dine Out” not only promises unforgettable gastronomic adventures but also underscores the festival’s commitment to supporting the industry’s workforce and ensuring the continuation of its legacy in culinary excellence.

The Fun Doesn’t Stop Here

As the Denver Food + Wine Festival wraps up its Grand Tasting and Shake + Brake events, the vibrant city of Denver invites you to continue the excitement with a plethora of activities and events. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s so much more to explore and enjoy.

Thursday Highlights

Begin your festival weekend with the enchanting performance of Wicked at Buell Theatre. This captivating show offers a blend of music and storytelling that promises to mesmerize audiences. 

For a more laid-back evening, join the fun at Spirit Hound Distillers for Rock ‘N Roll Bingo, where you can enjoy a unique mix of music and gaming—a perfect start to your Denver adventure.

Friday Explorations

On Friday, immerse yourself in Denver’s rich cultural tapestry. Spend your day exploring the stunning exhibits at the Denver Art Museum or wandering through the historic Larimer Square, where boutique shops and chic cafes beckon. 

As the sun sets, dive into Denver’s dynamic nightlife, with options ranging from trendy rooftop bars to live music venues. Make sure to conserve some energy for the Grand Tasting, an unmissable culinary experience!

Saturday Excursions

Saturday promises more excitement with The Mavericks – Moon & Stars Summer Tour at the Paramount Denver. Dance to their unique blend of Tex-Mex and rock rhythms for an unforgettable evening. 

Also, don’t miss the Broadway Drag Brunch at Apple Blossom, where entertainment and dining come together in a fabulous show.

For more events and activities, be sure to check out the Denver Post event calendar. This resource is your gateway to discovering all the dynamic and diverse happenings around Denver during the festival weekend.

Conclusion: A Culinary Celebration at Its Finest

As the weekend unfolds, the Denver Food + Wine Festival stands at the heart of the city’s vibrant culinary scene, offering an unparalleled showcase of gastronomic artistry. This festival is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of flavors, creativity, and the passion of culinary talents from Colorado and beyond.

The Grand Tasting is a must-attend highlight, where you can indulge in a diverse array of dishes crafted by top chefs, each bringing their unique flair to the table. From innovative creations to comforting classics, every bite is a testament to the creativity and skill that defines the festival.

Don’t miss the excitement of the Thursday night Shake + Brake Showdown, where the art of mixology meets the culinary world of food trucks, offering a thrilling experience that delights the senses. This is the perfect opportunity to discover new flavors and witness the artistry of both chefs and mixologists in action.

The Denver Food + Wine Festival is a culinary showcase like no other, inviting you to savor the diverse flavors and innovative dishes that continue to redefine Denver’s culinary landscape. As you explore the festival, let your taste buds embark on a journey of discovery, making it an unforgettable highlight of your weekend in the Mile High City.