When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
Illegal Pete's Lodo
Why Illegal Pete's Lodo is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Illegal Pete's LoDo is a standout destination for friends seeking a lively, casual dining experience in the heart of Downtown Denver. Located at 1610 16th Street, this Mission-style burrito joint offers a bright and welcoming atmosphere highlighted by a spacious, southwest-facing patio that boasts stunning sunset views over the Rocky Mountains. The spot's design blends colorful interior walls with industrial black steel accents, creating a vibrant backdrop for social gatherings. Since opening its expanded location in the former Lucky Pie space, Illegal Pete's has become a go-to spot for not only burritos but also fish tacos, salads, nachos, quesadillas, and their famed signature queso. The venue’s full bar and daily happy hour from 3-6pm provide additional reasons for groups to meet up and relax. With inclusive menu options catering to vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diets, Illegal Pete's accommodates a wide variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Their commitment to crafting fresh, responsibly sourced food, along with live music events and the energy of Denver’s bustling LoDo neighborhood, makes this restaurant an exceptional hub for friends to connect over great food and a fun atmosphere.
Here's what people think of Illegal Pete's Lodo
As of recent, Illegal Pete's Lodo holds a 4.4-star rating based on 3328 reviews.
Customer reviews for Illegal Pete's LoDo are predominantly positive, resulting in a solid 4.4-star rating from over 3,300 reviews. Many patrons praise the restaurant for its consistently delicious and generously loaded burritos, alongside tasty fish tacos, queso, and a variety of southwestern cuisine options. The lively patio and casual vibe are frequently highlighted as perfect for socializing, enhanced by friendly staff and regular live music. Visitors appreciate the inclusive menu that accommodates vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free preferences, making it accessible to diverse groups. Happy hour and the full bar experience also receive favorable mentions for complementing the food well. On the other hand, some negative feedback mentions occasional inconsistency in portion sizes and food quality, with a few reviews describing underwhelming meals compared to past visits. There are also sporadic remarks about customer service experiences that fall short of expectations. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the overall consensus reflects a vibrant, enjoyable dining destination that balances quality menu offerings with a welcoming, energetic atmosphere. Illegal Pete's LoDo continues to be a popular spot for locals and travelers alike, sustaining its reputation as a go-to place for great burritos and good times in downtown Denver.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lawan Wijayasooriya
I had a smothered burrito. It was delicious and I liked it. The service was fast and the staff was friendly.
Katelynn Kellogg
In researching where to eat in Denver, this restaurant came up multiple times so I put it on the list of MUST VISIT places. When I arrived, I was very underwhelmed. Idk if it was just hyped up too much or what, but it felt like a regular chipotle, freebirds, etc. Nothing special about the place that I could tell. I got a burrito bowl and chips, which was good, but really messed my stomach up. I took home leftovers and ended up throwing them away because my stomach was so destroyed after my visit. The staff were great, the restaurant had indoor and outdoor seating, which was great, but it just seemed like an average place. Nothing great about it, nothing bad. Just a spot for lunch. 3.5 stars overall.
Samuel Edmondson
The bowl was pretty good, and I liked the burrito a lot. The green chili was good, and the queso was solid. I can't wait to go back and try a margarita.
Joshua McCauley
A great fast casual store: easy to get you burrito etc how you like it, and seating is plentiful while also clean. An upgrade over chipotle, glad to see there's other competitors in this space. Smothered carnitas burrito was what I got. It's filling and has as much flavor as you'd expect for the price point.
Ravi Tej Ambati
The Baja fried fish quesadillas were perfect! It’s not on the menu, but they were kind enough to make it for me.
How to reach Illegal Pete's Lodo
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Why Illegal Pete's Lodo may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Illegal Pete's Lodo with your friends?
Gathering with friends and family is about creating memorable moments in a welcoming atmosphere, and Illegal Pete's Lodo stands out as a top choice for just that. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Denver’s iconic Downtown district, this spot offers more than just food—it delivers an experience. The casual, energetic vibe mixed with friendly service makes it easy to feel at home while enjoying delicious, handcrafted Mexican-inspired fare. Whether you’re celebrating a casual night out or a special occasion, the spacious seating options accommodate groups comfortably, encouraging lively conversation and shared moments. The presence of live music on certain nights adds an extra layer of entertainment, transforming an ordinary meal into a festive gathering. Additionally, its reputation for high-quality, responsibly sourced ingredients shows a commitment to both taste and community values, making every bite feel like a part of something bigger. With a solid 4.4-star rating based on thousands of reviews, this venue is proven to satisfy both the palate and the social spirit, making it a prime destination to rally with friends over tasty food and good times.
What types of food and drinks can groups enjoy at Illegal Pete's Lodo?
Illegal Pete's Lodo specializes in mission-style burritos, fish tacos, salads, nachos, quesadillas, and their signature queso, all crafted with care and fresh ingredients to please a variety of palates. The menu’s diversity ensures that every member of a group finds something tempting, from hearty meat options to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices, catering thoughtfully to dietary preferences and restrictions. Beyond flavorful food, the bar component enhances group meetups with a broad selection of drinks, including craft beers, specialty margaritas, wines, and well-curated cocktails. The happy hour specials, available daily from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, offer fantastic deals like $1 off draft beers and house margaritas, $4 off party margaritas, and $3 off pitchers of beer, making it both affordable and enjoyable to share drinks and unwind together. This combination of diverse, high-quality food and an extensive drink menu creates an inviting environment ideal for groups looking to relax, celebrate, or just enjoy a flavorful meal in downtown Denver.
What activities and social experiences does Illegal Pete's Lodo offer for group meetups?
Illegal Pete's Lodo is more than just a dining spot; it’s a social hub where groups can connect through shared experiences. The presence of live music on select evenings provides an engaging backdrop, elevating the atmosphere with acoustic performances that encourage mingling and relaxation as guests savor their meals. The space itself features a grungy yet cozy feel that appeals to a wide crowd, balancing lively energy with comfortable seating arrangements well-suited for groups of all sizes. Outdoor seating options when weather permits add to the venue’s appeal by offering fresh air and a view of the bustling LoDo neighborhood, perfect for people-watching or enjoying Denver’s vibrant street life. Whether it’s a casual dinner, a late-night hangout, or a birthday celebration, the convivial vibe at Illegal Pete’s supports lively conversation and group bonding. Moreover, the staff’s reputation for friendly and accommodating service ensures that group needs are met efficiently, contributing positively to the overall experience and making guests feel genuinely welcomed.
Why is the location of Illegal Pete's Lodo ideal for hosting a meetup?
Illegal Pete’s Lodo benefits greatly from its prime location in downtown Denver’s LoDo (Lower Downtown) district, making it highly accessible and convenient for all group members. Situated at 1610 16th Street, the restaurant is surrounded by notable landmarks, entertainment venues, and ample public transit options, allowing attendees to easily converge from different parts of the city. This central positioning is ideal for groups planning to extend their outing to nearby bars, theaters, or late-night hotspots, enabling a seamless transition for continuing the social vibe after dining. Parking is fairly accessible with street parking and neighboring lots, which is valuable for larger groups traveling together by car. Additionally, the lively neighborhood atmosphere enhances the meetup with the buzzing city energy, nearby shops, and scenic urban streetscapes providing plenty of pre- or post-meetup entertainment possibilities. Ultimately, the LoDo location elevates the convenience and excitement, helping to turn an ordinary meetup into a vibrant day or night out on the town.
How accommodating is Illegal Pete's Lodo for diverse group needs?
Illegal Pete’s Lodo is notably inclusive and accommodating when it comes to group dining, catering thoughtfully to various needs to make every visit comfortable and enjoyable. The menu’s vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options demonstrate a commitment to providing great food choices regardless of dietary restrictions, making it easy to include everyone in the group without worry. The venue is wheelchair accessible, and there are seating options suitable for all comfort levels, ensuring physical accessibility is well addressed. With free Wi-Fi, it’s convenient for groups who may want to coordinate plans or simply stay connected while enjoying their meal. The restaurant accepts a broad range of digital and credit card payments, making transactions simple and stress-free, especially for larger parties splitting the bill. Friendly and attentive staff enhance the experience by accommodating special requests and managing group orders efficiently, which is crucial when hosting meetups where coordination and timing matter.
What makes the atmosphere at Illegal Pete's Lodo perfect for a group setting?
The ambiance at Illegal Pete's Lodo strikes an inviting balance between casual comfort and energetic excitement, making it particularly suited for groups gathering to socialize and enjoy themselves. The interior features an industrial yet warm décor, blending rustic elements with modern finishes that create a cool, relaxed environment where everyone can feel at ease. Large communal tables and ample seating options facilitate shared dining experiences and active conversation flows, which are essential ingredients for successful meetups. The background soundtrack, occasionally complemented by live musicians, adds just the right amount of liveliness without overwhelming interaction. The outdoor seating area expands the atmosphere with urban charm on warmer days, providing a laid-back yet vibrant setting that perfectly matches the dynamic energy of a group meetup. This unique combination of aesthetics and vibe encourages guests to linger longer, savor their meals, and deepen their social connections in a setting that feels simultaneously spontaneous and familiar.
How does Illegal Pete's Lodo support late-night gatherings and flexibility?
Illegal Pete’s Lodo caters excellently to groups looking for flexibility in timing, staying open until 10:00 PM on weekdays, 11:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 9:00 PM on Sundays, ensuring ample opportunity to meet after work or extend an evening out. The late-night hours are perfect for those who prefer to start socializing later or want a casual yet lively dinner option before hitting other nighttime venues in downtown Denver. Their clearly marked happy hour coincides with early evening times, providing an affordable way to kick off the gathering while enjoying great food and drinks. The menu’s versatility also spans from breakfast on weekends to late dinners, fitting easily into a wide range of meetup schedules and preferences. Takeout and delivery options further increase convenience and choice for groups who might want to start at Illegal Pete's but finish the evening elsewhere, making it a flexible hub in any group’s social plans.
What do customers say about their group experiences at Illegal Pete’s Lodo?
Customer reviews consistently emphasize the friendly, accommodating nature of the staff and the quality of the food as cornerstones of a positive group experience at Illegal Pete's Lodo. Numerous visitors highlight the welcoming atmosphere and the comfortable, slightly grungy vibe that feels authentic and inclusive. Positive remarks often mention how busy and lively the place is without feeling chaotic, suggesting that it perfectly suits social gatherings. Live music nights are particularly praised for enhancing the ambiance and adding a special sensory layer to the meetup. Groups appreciate the ample food options that cater to various tastes and diets, noting how this inclusivity strengthens the appeal for diverse friend circles or family groups. While some reviews acknowledge the bustling environment, this busy energy is usually framed as a sign of the restaurant’s popularity and fun atmosphere rather than a downside, confirming Illegal Pete's Lodo as a dependable spot for memorable group outings.