Denver, Colorado, is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, which caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. Among the city’s many gastronomic delights, the breakfast burrito stands out as a beloved staple. Combining hearty ingredients wrapped in a soft tortilla, the breakfast burrito is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on the go or as a sit-down meal. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places in Denver to enjoy a breakfast burrito, highlighting what makes each spot unique.
The Origins of the Breakfast Burrito
Denver breakfast burrito, while widely popular in the Southwestern United States, has roots that trace back to Mexican cuisine. Traditionally, a burrito consists of a flour tortilla filled with various ingredients such as beans, cheese, meat, and vegetables. The breakfast version typically includes scrambled eggs, potatoes, cheese, and often, breakfast meats like bacon, sausage, or chorizo.
In Denver, the breakfast burrito has evolved to include a variety of flavors and ingredients, often with a local twist. Whether you’re a fan of classic combinations or more adventurous options, there’s a breakfast burrito in Denver that will satisfy your cravings.
Top Spots for Breakfast Burritos in Denver
Santiago’s
Santiago’s is a Denver institution known for its delicious and affordable Mexican food. Their breakfast burritos are legendary, offering a perfect blend of scrambled eggs, potatoes, cheese, and green chile. The green chile, in particular, sets Santiago’s apart, adding a flavorful kick that keeps locals coming back for more. Santiago’s has multiple locations around the city, making it a convenient option for a quick and tasty breakfast.
Burrito Giant
Located in the heart of Denver, Burrito Giant is a popular spot for breakfast burritos. Their burritos are generously sized and packed with fresh ingredients. The breakfast burrito options include a variety of meats, such as bacon, sausage, and chorizo, along with eggs, potatoes, and cheese. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, Burrito Giant offers a house-made salsa that perfectly complements their burritos.
El Taco de Mexico
El Taco de Mexico is a no-frills, cash-only spot that has been serving authentic Mexican cuisine since 1985. Their breakfast burritos are a must-try, featuring simple yet flavorful combinations of eggs, potatoes, cheese, and your choice of meat. The addition of their signature green chile elevates the burrito to a whole new level. Despite its humble appearance, El Taco de Mexico has earned a loyal following and is considered one of best breakfast burritos Denver.
La Abeja
For a truly authentic experience, La Abeja offers breakfast burritos that capture the essence of traditional Mexican flavors. This family-owned restaurant uses fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes to create burritos that are both hearty and delicious. Their green chile is particularly noteworthy, providing a rich and savory complement to the burrito’s filling. La Abeja’s welcoming atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to start your day.
Illegal Pete’s
Illegal Pete’s is a Denver favorite, known for its commitment to fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Their breakfast burritos are fully customizable, allowing you to choose from a variety of proteins, beans, and toppings. Whether you prefer a classic combination or something more adventurous, Illegal Pete’s has you covered. The restaurant also offers a range of salsas and sauces, ensuring your burrito is packed with flavor.
Tocabe, An American Indian Eatery
For a unique twist on the traditional breakfast burrito, Tocabe offers a fusion of Native American and Mexican flavors. Their breakfast burrito features blue corn fry bread instead of a traditional tortilla, filled with eggs, potatoes, cheese, and bison sausage. This innovative approach results in a burrito that is both flavorful and satisfying, offering a distinct taste of Denver’s diverse culinary landscape.
Making the Perfect Breakfast Burrito at Home
If you’re inspired to create your own breakfast burrito, here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients: In a skillet, sauté the diced bell peppers and onions until they are tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, cook the bacon, sausage, or chorizo until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Scramble the Eggs: In a bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the eggs into the skillet and scramble until they are fully cooked.
Assemble the Burritos: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon a portion of the scrambled eggs into the center of the tortilla. Add a scoop of potatoes, cooked meat, sautéed peppers and onions, and a handful of shredded cheese.
Roll the Burritos: Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
Serve: Serve the burritos warm, topped with your favorite salsa or green chile.
Conclusion
Denver’s breakfast burrito scene is a testament to the city’s diverse and vibrant culinary culture. From traditional flavors to innovative twists, there’s a breakfast burrito for every palate. Whether you prefer to grab one on the go from a local favorite like Santiago’s or enjoy a leisurely breakfast at El Taco de Mexico, Denver offers a wealth of options that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Exploring these local spots not only provides a delicious start to your day but also offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry that makes Denver’s food scene so unique. So the next time you’re in Denver, be sure to indulge in one of the city’s best breakfast burritos – you won’t be disappointed!
