According to 2016 Census Bureau data, most transplant Coloradans move from either California, Texas, or Florida, says Colorado state demographer Elizabeth Garner. If you’re among the top three and missing a taste of home, here are a few Denver restaurants that have you covered.
Craving Cali cuisine?
With the news that the coastal state’s beloved In-N-Out burger won’t arrive here until 2020, homesick Californians will have to look elsewhere this year. For now, check out Native Foods Café, a self-described “California-style” eatery that focuses on vegan fare and mock-meat dishes in a quick-serve setting. 680 S. Colorado Blvd., Glendale; 1675 29th St., Boulder.
Hankering for hometown Texas BBQ?
Head north on U.S. 36 for a taste of the south. Transplant Texans love the familiar stylings of Wayne’s Smoke Shack, a meat market–style smokehouse modeled after ones in central Texas. All Wayne’s sides are cooked in-house and all meats are hormone- and antibiotic-free. 406 Center Drive, Superior.
Missing your Florida Cuban sammy?
At Cuba Cuba, the sidewalk lined with 8-foot banana palms is just the start of the experience. Owner Kristy Bigelow, a Miami-born Cuban American, says she started the restaurant 17 years ago after looking around the area for her favorite Cuban dishes and coming up short. Enjoy a robust menu of Cuban classics in any of its five Denver-area locations.
