Introduction
Aurora, Colorado, a city often overshadowed by its neighbor, Denver, is secretly a culinary powerhouse waiting to be explored. This diverse metropolis, a melting pot of cultures and tastes, boasts a food scene as vibrant and varied as its population. Forget what you think you know; Aurora’s food is an experience, a journey for your palate that will leave you craving more. Are you ready to discover the best food in Aurora? This guide will take you on a delicious journey, revealing hidden gems and celebrated staples that make Aurora a must-visit destination for food lovers. From authentic international flavors to modern American cuisine, Aurora offers a vibrant and diverse culinary scene that’s sure to delight any palate. Get ready to eat your way through the city and discover its hidden treasures!
A Taste of Mexico: Authentic Flavors in Aurora
With a significant Latino population, Aurora is a haven for authentic Mexican cuisine. Forget the chain restaurants; here, you’ll find family-owned eateries serving up generations-old recipes, bursting with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. From sizzling fajitas to savory mole, the Mexican food in Aurora is a true celebration of culture and tradition.
Comida Casera
Located on East Colfax Avenue, this unassuming spot is a local favorite. The aroma of freshly baked tortillas wafts through the air, drawing you in like a moth to a flame. Their carnitas are legendary – tender, juicy pork that melts in your mouth. Don’t miss the opportunity to smother it in their homemade green chili, a fiery concoction that will leave you breathless (in a good way!). And for a sweet ending, their churros are the perfect blend of crispy and sweet, served with a rich chocolate dipping sauce. The price range is affordable, making it the perfect spot for a casual and satisfying meal. Comida Casera consistently delivers authentic flavors and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it a top contender for the best Mexican food in Aurora.
Tacos Selene
Next on our list is Tacos Selene, a vibrant and bustling taqueria located on Havana Street. Known for its authentic street tacos, Tacos Selene offers a wide variety of fillings, from classic carne asada and al pastor to more adventurous options like lengua and tripa. Their tortillas are made fresh daily, and the toppings bar is overflowing with cilantro, onions, salsas, and other condiments. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it the perfect spot for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner. The prices are incredibly reasonable, and the quality of the food is outstanding. It’s a haven for lovers of the best tacos.
Los Dos Potrillos
Finally, explore a bit more upscale Mexican cuisine at Los Dos Potrillos. This family-run restaurant is a bit more upscale than your average taco joint, but the food is worth every penny. Their seafood dishes are particularly impressive, featuring fresh catches prepared with authentic Mexican spices and flavors. Be sure to try their camarones a la diabla, shrimp sautéed in a spicy chili sauce. With its elegant decor and attentive service, Los Dos Potrillos offers a more refined Mexican dining experience.
Pho-nomenal: Exploring the Vietnamese Delights
Aurora’s Vietnamese food scene is legendary, attracting foodies from across the Denver metro area. With a large Vietnamese population, the city boasts an abundance of authentic restaurants serving up fragrant pho, crispy spring rolls, and flavorful vermicelli bowls. From hidden gems to bustling eateries, the Vietnamese food in Aurora is a culinary adventure waiting to be discovered.
Pho 95
Pho 95, a staple of the Aurora food landscape, is a must-visit for any pho enthusiast. Located on Federal Boulevard, this bustling restaurant is known for its generous portions, flavorful broth, and fresh ingredients. Their pho tai (rare beef noodle soup) is a classic choice, featuring tender slices of beef in a rich and aromatic broth. But don’t stop there! Their banh mi sandwiches are also exceptional, featuring crusty baguettes filled with savory meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. The prices are incredibly reasonable, making it the perfect spot for a comforting and affordable meal.
Savory Vietnam Restaurant
Looking for something a bit different? Check out Savory Vietnam Restaurant. While they have all the pho classics, they really shine with their other vermicelli and rice dishes. For example, Bún chả is one of the best dishes and it is vermicelli noodles with grilled pork, fresh herbs, and a flavorful dipping sauce. It’s a refreshing and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a warm day. The restaurant has a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience.
Pho Duy
Finally, Pho Duy is another highly rated local restaurant that has earned the reputation for one of the best places to grab Vietnamese in Aurora. Their Pho is consistently rated highly and their spring rolls are fresh and flavorful.
An Ethiopian Feast: A Taste of East Africa
Aurora is home to a vibrant Ethiopian community, and that means you can find some of the best Ethiopian food in the state right here. The experience is unlike any other – you use injera bread to scoop up flavorful stews and curries, sharing a communal plate with friends and family. It’s a celebration of flavors and culture that you won’t soon forget.
Nile Ethiopian Restaurant
One standout is Nile Ethiopian Restaurant. Located on East Colfax Avenue, this restaurant is a local favorite for its authentic dishes and welcoming atmosphere. Their vegetarian platter is a must-try, featuring a colorful array of lentil stews, collard greens, and other vegetable dishes. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The restaurant is known for its warm hospitality and inviting ambiance, making it the perfect spot for a memorable Ethiopian dining experience.
Abyssinia Restaurant
Another popular choice is Abyssinia Restaurant. This restaurant is known for its flavorful and spicy dishes, perfect for those who like a bit of heat. Their doro wat (chicken stew) is a classic choice, featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich berbere sauce. Abyssinia offers a more upscale Ethiopian dining experience, perfect for a special occasion.
American Comfort: Modern Twists on Classic Dishes
While Aurora boasts a diverse international food scene, it also offers plenty of options for those craving classic American comfort food. But these aren’t your average diners – these restaurants are putting a modern spin on familiar favorites, using fresh, local ingredients and innovative cooking techniques.
Helga G’s
Helga G’s is a popular brunch and lunch spot in Aurora. Helga G’s offers delicious breakfast and lunch options from fresh pastries to savory crepes and is a great place to start the day.
Stanley Marketplace
Stanley Marketplace is the place to be for delicious food. Multiple restaurants and food vendors allow you to explore everything from Denver Biscuit Company to some great Pho.
Sweet Endings: Bakeries and Dessert Shops
No culinary adventure is complete without a sweet ending, and Aurora has plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth. From artisan bakeries to decadent dessert shops, you’ll find everything from freshly baked pastries to creamy ice cream.
The French Kitchen
The French Kitchen is a delightful bakery located in Aurora. The French Kitchen is known for its exquisite pastries, cakes, and other treats. Their croissants are flaky and buttery, their macarons are delicate and flavorful, and their cakes are simply stunning. The French Kitchen is the perfect spot for a special occasion or a sweet treat.
Urban Burma
For some tasty dessert, check out Urban Burma. Urban Burma is one of the few places that you can experience Burmese food in Aurora. It also serves a delicious dessert.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Aurora is home to a number of hidden gems that are beloved by locals. These are the places that offer something truly special, whether it’s a unique dish, a cozy atmosphere, or a friendly owner who makes you feel like family.
Seoul Korean BBQ
One such gem is Seoul Korean BBQ. This restaurant is located in an unassuming strip mall and is known for its generous portions, high-quality ingredients, and affordable prices.
Cafe Paprika
Another local favorite is Cafe Paprika. This restaurant is known for its delicious comfort food, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
Aurora’s Up-and-Coming Food Scene
Aurora’s food scene is constantly evolving, with new restaurants and food trends emerging all the time. Keep an eye out for innovative pop-up dinners, international street food festivals, and collaborations between local chefs. The future of food in Aurora is bright, and we can’t wait to see what deliciousness awaits!
Conclusion: Aurora – A Culinary Destination
Aurora’s food scene is a testament to the city’s diversity, creativity, and passion for good food. From authentic international flavors to modern American cuisine, Aurora offers something for every food lover. So, the next time you’re in Aurora, be sure to embark on your own culinary adventure and discover the best food this vibrant city has to offer! What are *your* favorite Aurora restaurants? Share them in the comments below!
