Nine of the Best Places To Eat In Aurora Today

When you think of the State of Colorado, the suburb of Aurora should absolutely be on your bucket list for sights to see. The best places to eat in Aurora are for sure one of the reasons that Aurora’s so great. While there are a lot of suburbs called “Aurora,” all over the United States, each one is unique in its offerings in terms of culture, history, restaurants, and activities. With so much to see and do in just one area, you’re sure to need sustenance in the form of great food. Aurora is known for its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, as well as a number of local museums including the Wings Over the Rockies Space Museum, and the Aurora History Museum. So, read on to learn all about the best places to eat in Aurora. 

In this post, we’ll discuss some of the best places to eat in Aurora, Colorado. Learn about what kinds of cuisine they serve, their prices, and specials. While Aurora got passed over to be included in the newest Michelin Star guide one of the restaurants featured on this list was honored with a James Beard award for the “best chef in the Mountain region.” Whether you’re looking for flavorful Indian food, Burmese, or Mexican, Aurora can deliver. Take your pick between classic American, and French cuisine, and a James Beard award-winner. These are truly some of the best places to eat in Aurora, Colorado. 

1. Monsoon Cuisine of India

24107 East Commons Avenue, Aurora, Colorado 80016

First up we have Monsoon Cuisine of India. It has 4.5 stars on Yelp and serves all kinds of cocktails alongside its classically prepared menu. They have all kinds of curries and clay-baked meats. Ingredients are sourced locally and ethically. The Chefs at Monsoon Cuisine utilize their years of traditional Indian cooking experience to infuse flavor and nuance into the food. Using an open mesquite charcoal fire and tandoor oven, they offer numerous protein options, along with the classic naan flatbread, and dishes like sweet korma, spicy vindaloo, and cucumber-yogurt raita. There are vegetarian options available, and protein alternatives like paneer cheese, and yellow lentils. As an added detail, the Monsoon Cuisine of India offers sustainable, eco-friendly takeout containers.

2. Nile Ethiopian

1951 South Havana Street, Aurora, Colorado 80010

The Nile Ethiopian restaurant is considered one of the best places to eat in Aurora, and a top spot for Ethiopian food. They have protein-based and vegetarian options filled with flavor. Enjoy the classic spread that is perfect for sharing. Try the spongy injera bread paired with tender chicken, beef, lentils, or spicy potatoes. There are so many things to try on this menu, you'll have to try it out for yourself!

3. Urban Burma

10180 East Colfax Avenue, Aurora, Colorado 80010

For more traditional cuisine, check out Urban Burma in Aurora. The first Burmese restaurant opened in 2019 by Siri Tan, and they cater to vegan and vegetarian diners from their traditional menu. Check out their online menu for more details on their noodle dishes, curries, and traditional Burmese tea leaf salad.

4. The French Press

15290 East Iliff Ave, Aurora, Colorado 80014

Next up we have The French Press, which is a local Colora cafe and bakery. They have four locations throughout the State; Denver, Lakewood, Greenwood, and Aurora. Their menu features unique sweet and savory breakfast sandwiches, lunch specials, salads, and other classic bakery items. Try their “Eggs In A Hole On A Shingle,” or “Chilaquiles,” breakfast plates. Or there's the “Almond Trés Leches French Toast,” a classic Rueben sandwich, or a “Turkey, Pear & Brie Croissant.” There's a lot to choose from!

5. Tacos And Tortas Selene

15343 East 6th Avenue, Aurora, Colorado 80011

For a very affordable option, check out Tacos And Tortas Selene. One Google review described this spot as “some of the best street tacos and burritos ever!” With locations in Denver and Littleton as well, this taco spot offers both dine-in, and take-out options for dishes like tacos, burritos, and tortas. The most expensive menu item is their daily special for $13.50, and the rest of the menu is wildly affordable and seemingly very good. At Tacos And Tortas Selene, you'll get some bang for your buck!

6. Borealis

13200 East 14th Place, Aurora, Colorado 80011

Borealis is on the ground floor of the Aurora Hyatt. They serve menu items created from local favorites and classic dishes from the culinary greats. There is also an extensive wine list and lots of cocktails to enjoy alongside your meal. While there is a breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu, we'll take a look at the dinner menu specifically. Take your pick from items like crispy Brussels sprouts and shishito peppers in an ancho aioli, crab cakes with pomme frites, or fettuccini. Try the Borealis ribeye or sustainably sourced salmon in a blood-orange agave glaze.

Since it's located right in the Hyatt, you can get your coffee fix at the Borealis coffee shop, head to Borealis for some breakfast, and then do some sightseeing. Be sure to work up an appetite to return in time for the delicious dinner offerings. Borealis has to be one of the best places to eat in Aurora.

7. Comida

2501 Dallas Street Unit 140, Aurora, Colorado 80010

Comida is one of two restaurants on this list in the Stanley Marketplace. They serve Mexican fare with creative drink pairings. Enjoy unique starters like pimento cheese-stuffed jalapeños, burritos, burrito bowls, pozole, tacos, and quesadillas. Fillings include chorizo, carnitas, spicy shrimp, and roasted veggies. Self-described as “slow-cooked Mexican soul food” this spot started as a food cart before opening a storefront in the Stanley Marketplace in Aurora. They seek out the freshest ingredients to create their flavorful dishes. Try their tasty cocktails, hand-made desserts, and delicious food.

8. Annette

2501 Dallas Street Suite 108, Aurora, Colorado 80010

Annette's chef/owner Caroline Glover took home the James Beard honor of “best chef in the Mountain region,” in 2022. Founded in 2016, the restaurant was named for Glover's great-aunt. Glover was previously nominated for a James Beard in 2020, 2019, and 2018. In 2018 the restaurant was a semi-finalist for the “best new restaurant” category. Annette has won other awards for its distinction as one of the best places to eat in Aurora.

The restaurant serves high-end cuisine the likes of sterling white sturgeon caviar with ruffles and onion cream fries, roasted maitakes and kohlrabi salad, and grilled beef tongue and marrow on toast. They have a creamy ricotta cavatelli, pork schnitzel, a classic “Annette” burger, grouper cheek bouillabaisse, and lemon and thyme raclette. Stick around for their delicious, mouth-watering desserts. Try their pecan pie with sherry malt whiskey ice cream, or the triple chocolate rye with peanut butter ice cream sandwich. They also have a serving of special ice creams and sorbets.

9. Pho 888

539 Sable Boulevard, Aurora, Colorado 80011

Pho 888 has some of the most affordable and best Vietnamese food in the area around Aurora, Colorado. It is a family-run location located right off East 6th Avenue in between City Center North and Chamber Heights. At this great spot, you can order items like tofu Vietnamese egg rolls, crab cheese wontons, and spicy meat-filled salads. Mains feature classic pho noodle soups with bean sprouts, sliced jalapeño peppers, mint, and limes. You can customize your pho with steak tenderloin, brisket, tripe, and beef meatballs. They also have vegetarian offerings. Outside of pho, they offer vermicelli noodle bowls, grilled meat and rice plates, and jelly boba beverages.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©SevenMaps/Shutterstock.com.