Highland Tavern
Restaurant seen on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives

About
HIGHLAND TAVERN

There's just something about a place with history in its bones that adds an extra layer of flavor to the food—and Highland Tavern in Denver, Colorado, serves up both. Tucked inside a building that's been standing proud since 1901, this neighborhood gem mixes old-school charm with comfort food that hits all the right notes. It's the kind of joint where the creaky wooden floors, exposed brick, and vintage fixtures whisper stories from over a century ago while you tuck into a pastrami sandwich that could change your whole perspective on deli meats.

Since opening its doors in 2006, Highland Tavern has carved out its own piece of the Denver food scene. It's managed to keep that “everyone knows your name” vibe alive, all while plating up seriously crave-worthy eats that are anything but basic. This isn't your average dive bar fare—they've taken bar food staples, kicked them up with bold flavors and scratch-made ingredients, and somehow kept it all unpretentious and reasonably priced. You walk in expecting a casual bite and a beer, and leave full, happy, and planning your return visit.

Let's talk about those Tavern Tots. If there's one dish that's synonymous with Highland Tavern, this is it. These aren't your frozen-from-a-bag kind of tots. These golden, crunchy nuggets are made in-house, from scratch, and they're a textural masterpiece—crispy on the outside, soft and pillowy on the inside. They come with a creamy, slightly tangy house-made dipping sauce that elevates them from late-night snack to signature dish status. People make pilgrimages just for these tots, and once you've had them, you get why.

But they don't stop there. Highland Tavern is also known for their Pork Rinds, which arrive still crackling from the fryer, hot and seasoned just right. There's something primal and satisfying about biting into a pork rind that fresh—it's loud, salty, and just plain fun to eat. They're the perfect bar snack, and they go hand-in-hand with the selection of cold, budget-friendly beers on tap. Speaking of the bar, Highland keeps things classic and approachable—plenty of local brews, a solid whiskey list, and a bartender who knows how to pour without a fuss.

Now, if you really want to sink your teeth into something special, don't miss the Pastrami Bombshell Sammich. This bad boy is a labor of love—brined in-house for 15 days, the pastrami is juicy, tender, and stacked high between slices of toasted bread with melty Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles that add just the right amount of bite. It's smoky, savory, and deeply satisfying. It's one of those sandwiches you tell your friends about for days afterward.

And while the Bombshell steals the spotlight, the rest of the menu holds its own. Their El Guapo Burger is no slouch—it's packed with Hatch green chile, cheddar, bacon, and a fried egg for good measure. It's messy, sure, but worth every napkin. If you're feeling something sweet and sticky, the Dr. Pepper Spare Ribs are a must. They're slow-cooked, fall-off-the-bone tender, and lacquered with a glaze that brings out the depth and tanginess of the soda in the best way.

For folks who like a little kick with their meal, the Green Chile dishes—whether smothered on a burrito or served as a side—bring that bold, roasted heat you can only find in this corner of the country. They've even got Buffalo Wings that stand out from the crowd, balancing heat and flavor with house-made sauces that keep things interesting. And if you just want to snack and sip the afternoon away, the bar snacks menu's got enough to keep you parked in your seat a while longer.

One of the best things about Highland Tavern is that it's more than just a place to eat—it's a place to hang. Locals swing by after work, regulars post up at the bar, and there's a comfortable rhythm to the place that makes it easy to settle in. It's not rare to see someone drop in for a sandwich and end up staying through happy hour, chatting with the staff and swapping stories with the folks at the next table. There's no rush here. It's the kind of place that invites you to slow down and enjoy.

That laid-back atmosphere extends to the service, too. The staff here know the menu, they know the neighborhood, and they know how to treat you like a friend. It's not forced or rehearsed—it's genuine. You feel welcome from the moment you walk in, whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth.

In a world full of fast-casual chains and over hyped hotspots, Highland Tavern stands out by keeping things simple and doing them well. They focus on fresh ingredients, time-tested prep, and a little bit of grit and soul in every plate. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best food doesn't need to be fancy—it just needs to be made with care.

So if you find yourself in Denver and looking for a place to fuel up with food that satisfies every craving, Highland Tavern is calling your name. Come for the tots, stay for the Bombshell, and stick around for the atmosphere. Just don't be surprised if it becomes your go-to stop anytime you're in town. Places like this don't come around often, and when they do, they're worth savoring one bite—and one story—at a time.
Aired on April 22, 2013
Updated March 17, 2025

Address / Location

3400 Navajo St
Denver, CO 80211

303-433-1990 website