Top Spots For Vegetarian Chili In Denver

When thinking of winter comfort foods, chili is one of the first dishes to come to mind. Colorado is known for green chile, which is served with a variety of dishes, and for an abundance of chili cook-offs. Chili is also an excellent tool for warming up during cold winter months, and it is a staple on many restaurant menus in Denver. And not all of them have to be stuffed full of meat. Many of them also offer meatless varieties for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Stop by one of these restaurants for vegetarian chili.

Javier's Diner
3801 Tennyson St.
Denver, CO 80212
(303) 433-4005
www.facebook.com/javiers-diner

This Highlands area restaurant offers vegetarian green chile smothered over cheese fries for two comfort foods in one. Its green chile offers the perfect amount of kick, warming you from the inside. Javier's Diner offers delicious food coupled with fast, friendly service in one of Denver's best neighborhoods for restaurant hopping. Its menu is varied, with plenty of options for everyone, and the food is affordable. Stop in and check out the chili cheese fries and any of Javier's Diner's other dishes.

Vine Street Pub & Brewery
1700 Vine St.
Denver, CO 80206
(303) 388-2337
www.mountainsunpub.com

One of Denver's famous brewpubs, Vine Street Pub & Brewery has an array of beers and an extensive menu with a wide variety of vegetarian options. Its black bean vegetarian chili is both delicious and healthy. For vegetarians and people who are looking to cut some meat from their diet, this dish offers an excellent balance of flavors. Pair the chili with one of Mountain Sun's famous brews, or have it with the black bean burger. Although Mountain Sun is known primarily for beer, the food is excellent as well.

Rackhouse Pub
2875 Blake St.
Denver, CO 80205
(720) 570-7824
www.rackhousepub.com

Another pub known for killer cocktails, Rackhouse Pub also has a good menu that offers a break from traditional pub fare. Its menu includes vegetarian chili which mixes red and black beans with spicy ingredients and red bell peppers for the classic kick of chili and none of the meat. The menu also includes other vegetarian dishes — including a black bean burger or a portabello mushroom sandwich — so you can take your chili on the side or eat it alone. While you're at the restaurant, be sure to check out the inventive cocktails, which includes a selection of beer cocktails that will give you a break from traditional brew.

Related: Top Brew Pubs in Denver

Tamales By La Casita
3561 Tejon St.
Denver, CO 80211
(303) 477-2899
www.tamalesbylacasita.net

For a Mexican take on classic chili, check out Tamales by La Casita. This restaurant has been serving up Mexican cuisine since 1975, and it's still a popular location. Get your vegetarian green chile with vegetarian tamales for a spicy winter pick-me-up. Tamales by La Casita uses fresh ingredients, and the results are authentic and tasty all without breaking the bank. It also has fast, friendly service, making for an enjoyable day out, so pop in and check out the green chile.

Boulder Baked
1911 Broadway
Boulder, CO 80302
(303) 444-4999
www.boulderbaked.com

Although Boulder Baked is mainly known for its cakes and other baked goods, it also offers a few comfort foods for people who want to pop in and grab a quick lunch. Included on the menu is a vegetarian chili alongside customizable grilled cheese sandwiches. With the best of both worlds at your fingertips, you can eat the vegetarian chili for lunch and enjoy a vegan cupcake for dessert. Boulder Baked also offers delivery services for orders $12 and over, so you don't even have to venture out into the cold.

Related: Top Bakeries In Denver

Alaina Brandenburger is a freelance writer living in Denver. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.