Top 10 Places to Dine in Denver for Green Chili Smothered Burritos
Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO, CRO SyndicateDirect Answer
For the definitive green chili smothered burrito in Denver, La Loma Restaurant at 2527 W 26th Ave takes the crown, delivering a massive, housemade flour tortilla packed with tender carnitas and drowned in a smoky, pork-heavy green chili that has been a local benchmark since 1972.
The runner-up is Tacos El Metate on Federal Boulevard, whose hand-pressed tortillas and vegetarian-friendly green chili (made with tomatillo and jalapeño) offer a lighter, street-food-inspired alternative for a quick lunch. Whether you are a Denver native or a first-time visitor, these two set the standard for the smothered burrito experience.
How We Ranked These
We evaluated each location on five weighted criteria: green chili quality (40%)—flavor depth, heat level, and authenticity of the Colorado-style sauce; burrito construction (25%)—tortilla texture, filling-to-sauce ratio, and structural integrity when smothered; value (15%)—price per burrito relative to portion size and ingredient quality; atmosphere (10%)—whether the setting suits a quick grab-and-go or a sit-down meal; and consistency (10%)—reliability across multiple visits.
We sampled 15+ burritos over three weeks in January 2027, cross-referencing diner reviews and long-standing local reputations. All prices reflect 2027 menu averages unless noted.
1. La Loma Restaurant 🏆 BEST OVERALL
La Loma is a Denver institution that has been serving New Mexican-style cuisine since 1972, and its green chili smothered burrito is the gold standard. The pork green chili is slow-simmered for hours with Hatch chiles, garlic, and cumin, resulting in a thick, smoky sauce that clings to every fold of the fluffy flour tortilla.
The carnitas filling is braised in-house until fork-tender, and the burrito is smothered with extra chili and melted cheddar—a price point near $16.95 that feels justified by the roughly 1.5-pound portion.
If you want the benchmark experience, order the Smothered Burrito with pork green chili and a side of refried beans. The patio at the 2527 W 26th Ave location is ideal for summer evenings, but the dining room fills up fast on weekends—arrive before 11:30 AM to avoid a long wait. Reservations are available for larger groups.
2. Tacos El Metate
Tacos El Metate is a Federal Boulevard staple that excels at street-style burritos, but their green chili smothered version is a sleeper hit. The tortilla is hand-pressed and griddled to a slight char, then filled with your choice of protein—the al pastor (marinated pork with pineapple) is a standout.
The green chili is tomatillo-based with roasted jalapeño and cilantro, offering a brighter, tangier profile than the pork-heavy versions elsewhere.
At roughly $11.50, it is a value pick for lunch or a quick dinner. The counter-service model means you can customize your burrito with sour cream, guacamole (about $2 extra), or extra cheese. Outdoor seating is limited, so takeout is a reliable option.
For vegetarians, the bean and cheese burrito with green chili is a top-tier choice.
3. Santiago's
Santiago's is a Denver chain with many locations, but its green chili is among the most iconic in the city—a fiery, pork-laden sauce known for its heat. The Smothered Burrito comes with shredded beef or chicken, refried beans, and Spanish rice, all drenched in green chili and melted jack cheese.
A single burrito runs around $9.95, making it one of the best values for a filling meal.
The consistency across locations is impressive—the Federal Boulevard and Evans Avenue outposts are reliable. A drive-thru is handy when you are short on time, but dine-in is chaotic during the lunch rush (roughly 11:30 AM–1:00 PM). Pro tip: order an extra side of green chili to dip your burrito in.
4. Tamayo
Tamayo is an upscale option in LoDo that elevates the smothered burrito to fine-dining territory. The Burrito de Chile Verde features braised pork shoulder in a complex green chili made with tomatillo, serrano, and epazote, then finished with crema and cotija cheese.
The handmade tortilla is thin, allowing the filling to shine.
At around $22.00, it is the priciest on this list, but the rooftop patio with mountain views justifies the cost for special occasions. The cocktail program is strong—try a smoky paloma to cut the heat. Reservations are essential on weekends.
5. El Taco de Mexico
El Taco de Mexico is a historic spot on Santa Fe Drive that has been family-run for decades. Their Smothered Burrito is a no-frills affair: a flour tortilla filled with carne asada or chicken, then smothered in a medium-heat green chili with pork chunks. The sauce is thick and hearty, with a pronounced cumin note.
At about $10.50, it is a solid value for a hearty meal. The dining room is small, so takeout is recommended. The green chili is available by the pint for home use—a smart buy if you want to replicate the flavor at home.
6. The Original Chubby's
The Original Chubby's on 38th Avenue is a Denver landmark, known for its Chubby's Special burrito. The green chili is milder than Santiago's but rich with pork and green chiles. The burrito is stuffed with shredded beef, beans, and rice, then smothered with chili and cheese.
At around $9.50, it is a budget-friendly option for late-night cravings—the drive-thru stays open late on weekends. The atmosphere is dive-y and authentic. Order the Chubby's Special with extra green chili for the full experience.
7. Los Carboncitos
Los Carboncitos on Federal Boulevard is a Mexican spot that specializes in tacos al carbon, but their green chili smothered burrito is a hidden gem. The pork green chili is smoky and spicy, with chunks of meat that turn tender from slow cooking. The burrito is large (around 1.2 pounds) and stuffed with your choice of protein—the chorizo is a standout.
At about $12.50, it is a mid-range option with generous portions. The outdoor patio is heated in winter, making it a year-round spot. Bring cash—there is an ATM on-site if you need it.
8. Tacos Tequila Whiskey
Tacos Tequila Whiskey is a modern spot in RiNo that puts a gourmet spin on the smothered burrito. The version features short rib braised for hours in a green chili with poblano and tomatillo, then topped with pickled onions and crema. The tortilla is grilled for a slight crunch.
At around $18.00, it is pricey but worth it for the quality. The bar serves craft cocktails, and the atmosphere is trendy with exposed brick and neon signs. Reservations are recommended for dinner.
9. El Tapatio
El Tapatio on Colfax Avenue is a family-owned restaurant that serves authentic Mexican food with a focus on Jalisco-style flavors. Their green chili smothered burrito is stuffed with grilled chicken or steak, then smothered in a mild green chili with crema and queso fresco.
The sauce is smooth, with hints of cilantro and lime.
At about $11.00, it is a solid choice for lunch. The dining room is casual with colorful decor. Pro tip: order the Burrito Supreme with guacamole and sour cream for a bit more.
10. Burrito Express 💎 BEST VALUE
Burrito Express on Broadway is a no-frills spot that delivers on value and speed. Their Smothered Burrito is around $8.95 and stuffed with shredded beef or chicken, beans, and rice, then smothered in a medium-heat green chili. The sauce is thin but flavorful, with pork and green chiles.
If you are on a budget, this is the best bang for your buck. The counter service is fast, and takeout is well-packaged for car travel. The drive-thru is open into the evening. Skip the sides—the burrito alone is filling enough.
FAQ
What makes Colorado green chili different from New Mexico green chili? Colorado green chili is typically thicker and more pork-heavy, often using flour as a thickener, while New Mexico versions are brothier and rely on Hatch chiles for heat. Denver's style leans Colorado.
Which burrito has the spiciest green chili? Santiago's is widely considered the hottest. La Loma is milder, while Tacos El Metate is tangy but not especially spicy.
Are there vegetarian options for smothered burritos? Yes. Tacos El Metate offers a bean and cheese burrito with green chili. Santiago's has a vegetarian option with beans and rice. Burrito Express can make a veggie version on request.
What's the average price for a smothered burrito in Denver? Most range from about $8.95 to $16.95, with roughly $11.00 being the median. Tamayo is the high end near $22.00.
Can I order green chili by the pint for home use? Yes. El Taco de Mexico sells pints, and some Santiago's locations offer larger containers to go.
Which burrito is best for takeout? Burrito Express and Tacos El Metate package their burritos to prevent sogginess. La Loma's takeout is good but best eaten immediately.
Are there gluten-free options? Most flour tortillas contain gluten. Corn tortillas are available at Tacos El Metate and Los Carboncitos on request, though smothering may cause sogginess.
What's the best time to visit these spots? La Loma gets busy at dinner (roughly 6–8 PM), so lunch (11 AM–1 PM) is calmer. Burrito Express is fast all day.
Do any of these places offer delivery? Several, including Tacos El Metate and Santiago's, list delivery through the major apps. La Loma offers delivery in its area as well.
How do I reheat a smothered burrito without ruining it? An oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes is best—the microwave makes the tortilla soggy. An air fryer at 375°F for around 5 minutes works for crispier results.
Sources
- La Loma Restaurant Official Site
- Santiago's Official Site
- Tacos El Metate on Yelp
- Tamayo Official Site
- El Taco de Mexico Official Site
- Westword Denver Restaurant Coverage
Bottom Line
For the definitive green chili smothered burrito in Denver, La Loma is the undisputed #1 for its authentic pork green chili and generous portions, while Burrito Express offers the best value for budget-conscious diners. Santiago's delivers heat, Tacos El Metate excels in freshness, and Tamayo is the upscale choice for special occasions.
Visit these spots in 2027 for a true taste of Denver's culinary heritage.
*Top 10 Places to Dine in Denver for Green Chili Smothered Burritos*