We went in search of the CU Anschutz Medical Campus's best restaurants, and you responded. Not surprisingly, when asked about on- and off-campus restaurants that offer delicious food, you expressed an eclectic range of dining tastes.
A campus hub for culinary freshness and conversation emerged as a solid favorite in our inaugural survey, while a flavorful mix of on- and off-campus dining spots rounded out the field. Several of the go-to restaurants for CU Anschutz faculty, staff and students are popular lunch destinations, while others are favorites for carry-out. All of the “best restaurant” choices serve up a combination of tasty-yet-healthy menu items, convenience and value. Thank you for participating in our survey, and bon appétit!
#7 Chai & Chai
Location: 12501 E. 17th St.
Fresh, authentic Indian and Mediterranean food at reasonable prices right on campus. Falafels, chicken shawarma wraps, curry dishes, rice bowls – you’ll find these and more at this restaurant that targets the lunch crowd.
"Great, authentic Indian food with lots of variety for a very reasonable price." - Sharman Ball
#6 University of Colorado Hospital (UCH) Cafeteria
Location: First floor of UCH at 12605 E. 16th Ave.
You’ll find plenty of healthy and tasty options to select from at the University of Colorado Hospital Cafeteria. From a full breakfast menu and baked goods to sandwiches and salads, the restaurant is loaded with fresh and flavorful foods. The UCH Cafeteria draws customers from around campus for its quality fare that is both delicious and easy on the wallet.
#5 Nom Nom Asian Grill
Location: 13700 E. Colfax Ave., Suite 1
Nom Nom indeed. Vietnamese food takes on a create-it-yourself flair at this close-to-campus restaurant. Spring rolls, bowls and Banh Mi sandwiches are the house specialties, and – Chipotle-style – you get to choose marinated meat (or tofu) fillings, fresh toppings and homemade sauces. Pho is also available in a comfortable restaurant that, as respondent Dylan Verden noted, offers “large portions at a fair price, fast service, delicious food.”
#4 Top Pho
Location: 11697 E. Colfax Ave.
Holding down a busy corner on East Colfax, the restaurant looks rather modest from the outside. Don’t be fooled. As its name implies, Top Pho serves up some of the best Pho in the Denver metro area. The restaurant also offers an array of delectable Vietnamese specialties, egg rolls and combination plates. Bonuses: the service is fast and friendly and the price is right.
"Incredibly fresh and healthy with great flavor. Lots of food, so it's great for next day re-heating, plus many menu choices."
- Barb Hayes
#3 Thai Street Food
Location: 11650 Montview Blvd.
Sitting on a nondescript corner of Montview Boulevard a few blocks west of campus, Thai Street Food is worth the trip, especially if you like your dishes on the spicy side. Take special care in choosing the spice level when ordering, however, because the “medium” is hotter than most Thai restaurants’ “Thai hot.” Thai Street Food is carry-out only and all dishes are made to order by, as a survey respondent noted, “one lady who cooks everything.”
"One lady cooks everything, and the taste of every dish is so complex and savory. Best Thai food in Denver hands down."
- Alexis Zukowski
#2 Cedar Creek Pub
Location: 2100 N. Ursula St.
If you’re looking for a relaxed restaurant in which to unwind after work or meet up with the office gang, Cedar Creek Pub, just north of the CU Anschutz Medical Campus, is an excellent choice. Cedar Creek offers an assortment of pub fare such as bangers-and-mash, fish-and-chips and burgers, as well as steaks, tacos, appetizers and salads. It’s also home to a large selection of local beers, wines and cocktails.
"The environment and food has some originality, which make it more special than just the same-old pizza or sub sandwich."
- Lauren Szymanski
#1 Etai’s at Anschutz
Location: First floor of Research 2
The standout winner in our survey, Etai’s has cultivated a loyal following with its wide-ranging menu and always-fresh coffee. Etai’s is located in a bright and airy space on the first floor of Research 2 – a central spot for on-the-go health care professionals and students. Besides being convenient, Etai’s freshly-made sandwiches, salads and soups – not to mention all-day breakfast selections – have clearly won the stomachs of many at the CU Anschutz Medical Campus.
"They always have excellent customer service, their coffee is fantastic, and they have many healthy lunch options."
- Sara Marie Bottaro
March 29, 2024