Nearby
Sazón
Located on Park Meadows Drive in Lone Tree, next to a better-known Mexican restaurant, it is my go-to for tacos and margaritas. This mom-and-pop spot serves Mexican and Latin American fare. The unbeatable Taco Tuesday deal offers each taco at just $2.99. My top pick is the Vampiro, a unique creation that's a delightful blend of a taco, tostada, and quesadilla. It all starts with a grilled corn tortilla, layered with Sazon's signature Mexican cheese blend, grilled hanger steak, chorizo, bacon, onion, cilantro, and a hint of lime.
GQue BBQ
This fast-casual BBQ joint is tucked away on a secluded street at The Vistas at Park Meadows mall. Despite its hidden location, it’s a bustling spot that's always worth a visit. Like all great BBQ spots, they tend to run out of food later in the evening, so arrive early. Their smoked wings, potentially among the best in town, are a must-try. To top it off, they offer a selection of beer, wine, Bourbon, and their own ice cream shop, Ice Cream Farm.
Red Llama
Definition of a hidden gem located in a strip mall on County Line and Willow Street in Lone Tree. They serve authentic Peruvian cuisine, and they change the menu daily. Run by a husband and wife team, he cooks, and she runs the front of the house. The ambiance is cozy and the service is friendly. Don’t be intimidated by not knowing what to order. The first question is, have you tried Peruvian food before? The Peruvian Ceviche and Lomo Saltado are to die for. Lomo Satado is top loin strips marinated with Peruvian seasonings and fused with Asian influences. This dish is stir-fried with red onions, parsley, and tomatoes.
Urban Village Grill
Located by Nordstrom in Park Meadows Mall, this Indian restaurant offers a fresh take on Indian cuisine. The Kale Chaat is one of my all-time favorite dishes made with fried kale, onions, tomatoes topped with mint & cilantro purée, tangy tamarind, and cucumber yogurt.
Nami Ramen and Poke
Even though the address is Englewood, it’s actually located just east of I-25 on Lincoln on Oswego Street. Expect to experience ramen like it was meant to be – with thick, rich broth in perfect balance with handmade noodles. Discover a wide array of authentic toppings, from tender pork chasu to a perfectly cooked and seasoned poached egg to fresh garlic, that will take your ramen bowl to the next level. Then, elevate your experience further by pairing it with small plates. Chef Zhang will bring you an authentic taste of Japan. He has over 7+ years of experience as a Sushi Chef at Sushi Den, the legendary sushi restaurant in Colorado.
Not Too Far
Carrera’s Tacos
This is one of my favorite restaurants ever. The Carrera brothers are bringing West Coast Mexican food where they grew up to Greenwood Village. Go hungry as their portions are generous. It doesn’t matter what you order; your eyes will roll back in your head no matter what you try. A few must-haves are the Elote, Spicy Pork Ribs, Buffalo Chicken Sandwich on a Concha, and always finish with the made-to-order Churro bites.
Bud’s Cafe & Bar
Open in Sedalia since 1948, they are in the conversation for the best burger in the South Metro, especially for the price. The menu only has a choice of burger or cheeseburger. You can make it a double for less than $8 and it comes with a bag of chips, no fries! Also, bring cash as they don’t take credit cards.
Colonna’s Pizza and Pasta
Located next to the Safeway on Arapahoe and Quebec in Centennial, this ex-New Yorker is a pizza snob and is my go-to spot for authentic New York-style pizza. They always have traditional and not-so-traditional slices available, including a fantastic Buffalo Chicken pizza. Insider Tip: Try the sausage fajita pizza.
Pat’s Steaks and Subs
This is my favorite sandwich shop in the South Metro, brought to you by an ex-Philadelphian. Yes, his cheesesteaks are the real deal, but he also makes a great pastrami sandwich, hamburger, and Cubano. Try the Ocn Eats sandwich with grilled turkey, creamy cole slaw, Thousand Island, bacon, and melted pepper jack cheese on a perfect baguette.
CoArk Collective
Find this Korean food hall in Centennial on the corner of Parker and Arapahoe Roads. They opened on January 2023 with 10 vendor stalls featuring over 300 items of Korean street food, desserts, and beverages.
Larry Herz of Ocn Eats is a New Yorker turned Coloradan, former restaurateur, food influencer, YouTube personality, and restaurant promoter. What he isn't ... a food critic. Now, he uses his passion for great food to highlight the remarkable dining that the Denver Metro and Boulder areas offer.
Find him at ocneats.com or @Ocn_Eats