3 Diners, Drive Ins & Dives Restaurants at Denver Airport
It’s no secret that Denver Airport has some great food, but did you know that some of its restaurants have city locations that were featured on Diners, Drive Ins and Dives?
As a longtime fan of the show, I’ve always loved how Guy Fieri showcases local gems that capture the true spirit of their communities. There’s something magical about discovering those hole-in-the-wall spots that serve up incredible food with heart and history.
Whenever I travel to a new city, I always look up which Triple D restaurants are nearby – it’s one of my go-to methods for finding authentic local eats that actually deliver on flavor.
I know I’m not alone in this approach, and fellow food lovers who use the same strategy will be thrilled to discover that you can get a taste of Flavortown without ever leaving DIA.
Whether you’re rushing to catch a connecting flight or starting or ending your Colorado adventure, these airport outposts bring the same flavors that made Guy stop his famous red convertible.
FYI – all of these restaurants are in Concourse A. But – dont worry! If you’re flying out of another concourse, you can easily hop over to Concourse A within a matter of minutes (and no need to go through security, etc).
The Bagel Deli
Location: Near Gate A38
Hours: Daily, 5 a.m. – 9 p.m
The Bagel Deli brings three generations of authentic deli tradition to Denver International Airport, serving everything from fresh bagels in eight varieties to classic New York-style sandwiches.
Whether you want a simple bagel with cream cheese, a hearty breakfast burrito, or a proper deli sandwich like their Corned Beef Reuben or Pastrami on Rye, they’ve got the authentic flavors that make you forget you’re in an airport.
With options ranging from hot off-the-steam-table classics to cold sandwiches and even gluten-free bagels, it’s a genuine taste of old-school deli culture at 30,000 feet.
If you’re lucky enough to visit their original Denver location, I highly recommend the Cheese Blintzes, which unfortunately aren’t on the airport menu.
Maria Empanada
Location: Near Gate A24
Hours: Daily, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m
Maria Empanada brings authentic South American flavors with their handcrafted empanadas that are a refreshing departure from typical airport fare, giving travelers a taste of acclaimed empanada artistry before they even leave Denver.
My favorite thing about Maria Empanada is that it’s easy to eat while on the go – a perfect match for airport travel.
While the airport location doesn’t have the full menu that you’ll find at other locations throughout Denver, it has a good variety of the best-selling empanadas. You’ll also find some dessert options, too!
Tocabe
Location: Near Gate A38 (and right next to The Bagel Deli)
Hours: Daily, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m
Tocabe brings Native American cuisine to Denver International Airport, making it the first Indigenous-owned restaurant in any U.S. airport.
The DIA menu includes all menu items served at Tocabe’s North Denver location—such as bison ribs, fry bread tacos and green chili stew—with the addition of a breakfast menu.
The menu is crafted to highlight Indigenous ingredients and traditions, giving travelers a unique opportunity to experience authentic American Indian cuisine rooted in ancestral recipes and locally sourced ingredients.
Final Thoughts
So next time you’re flying through Denver, skip the typical airport food and treat yourself to some Guy Fieri-approved local flavor that proves you don’t have to leave the airport to experience the best of what the Mile High City has to offer.
