21 Best Restaurants in Thornton, CO

Rina Caprarella

Aug 20, 2023 • 24 min read

Hello there, fellow foodie!

If you're anything like me, you're always searching for a new culinary adventure.

Situated in the heart of Colorado, our little city of Thornton offers a delightful mix of flavors that reflect our unique culture and heritage.

From mouthwatering ethnic delights to comforting classics and everything in between, a real gastronomical journey is waiting to be discovered right here at our doorstep.

So, come along with me as we embark on this expedition to the best restaurants in Thornton, Colorado!

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About this article: This article was written by a local contributor based on their own experiences and those around them. While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note that this is an opinion piece, and there are many other exceptional dining establishments that are not featured here.
Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself

Southern Pit Memphis Style BBQ

Something about the smoky aroma wafting from Southern Pit Memphis Style BBQ makes my mouth water before I even get inside.

Nestled within our beloved town, this place quickly became my go-to for a hearty meal.

The food? Simply amazing.

My first bite of the chicken leg was transformative.

I relished every bit of it here as someone who usually skips the skin.

Each bite is a different symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue.

Trust me when I say you won't find BBQ like this anywhere else in Colorado.

Next on my list to try is their Mac and Cheese.

I know it will be a knockout if it's anything like their meats.

And, of course, I can't wait to get my hands on their ribs again.

They're just like the ones I had on a trip to Memphis - tender, falling off the bone, and delicious.

Southern Pit Memphis Style BBQ has captured my heart with its wonderful mix of flavors, friendly staff, and homey ambiance.

Every meal here feels like a warm hug – a much-needed respite in this bustling city.

I can't wait to enjoy more of what they offer!

Yonsei Sushi

When you have an insatiable craving for sushi and live in Thornton, chances are, you're heading to Yonsei.

The impeccably clean environment and inviting ambiance on my regular visits strike me first.

But the authentic, fresh sushi truly makes this place a local hotspot.

What makes Yonsei truly stand out is the quality of its seafood.

I've sampled several sushi places in my day, but the eel here is by far the best I've ever tasted.

The sushi rolls are also not to be missed; meticulously handcrafted, they burst with an array of flavors, each bite leaving you craving for more.

Oh, and did I mention the variety?

Yonsei's menu is extensive, featuring a range of unique options.

One time, I was pleasantly surprised to discover quail eggs on the menu - now that's something you don't see every day!

But let's not forget about the Ninja Roll, Yonsei's take on the classic Surf & Turf combo.

With its perfect balance of land and sea, this roll is a culinary masterpiece in its own right.

So, if you ever find yourself in Thornton with an appetite for sushi, make sure you drop by Yonsei.

Lizeth's Tacos

One bite, and you're transported straight to traditional Mexican cuisine heaven.

That was my first experience with Lizeth's Tacos, and it hasn't changed since.

Picture this, it's a sunny afternoon, you're hanging out with your friends in the backyard, and suddenly, a vibrant food truck pulls up.

It's none other than Lizeth's Tacos, ready to serve a feast that will leave you and your guests raving about it for months.

I first encountered Lizeth and her team during a private party at my house.

I remember how friendly and accommodating they were, effortlessly becoming a part of our celebration.

But the real star of the show? The food, of course.

The tacos were nothing short of amazing.

Each bite was a revelation, revealing layers of flavors that harmonized beautifully.

But it's not just the tacos that are worth a mention.

Whether it's their mouthwatering quesadillas, tasty nachos, or lip-smacking burritos, everything on the menu is a testament to their commitment to delivering authentic taste and quality.

Their reliability and excellent service have proven to be a lifesaver.

When my sister's food vendor canceled last minute for her graduation party, Lizeth’s taco truck came through, turning a potential disaster into a memorable feast.

Lizeth's Tacos has it all: the food, service, and assurance of quality.

Whether you're planning a party or just craving some authentic Mexican food, give them a call.

Mucho Bueno

Who knew Thornton would be home to such a culinary gem?

A friend suggested I try Mucho Bueno, a Mexican restaurant that oozes authenticity and charm.

Now, let me tell you, I was blown away.

Walking into Mucho Bueno, I immediately felt a sense of warmth and family.

You're not just a customer here – you're part of their family.

The food?

Ah, it's a feast for the senses.

I had heard great things about their Tacos El Carbon, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.

The portion sizes were generous, and the flavors were out of this world.

My better half chose the Mexican hamburger, and they were practically swooning with every bite.

Every dish was a testament to their commitment to serving great and authentic Mexican food.

But the delight doesn't end with the food.

Their drinks are a whole other level of amazing.

I tried one of their cocktails, and it was simply a flavor explosion.

What I love the most is that despite its fantastic food and ambiance, Mucho Bueno hasn't lost its touch of modesty.

It's not one of those places that are always teeming with people.

Instead, this cozy little place allows you to enjoy good food and company without overwhelming crowds.

So, if you're ever in Thornton craving good Mexican food, Mucho Bueno is the place to go.

Tacos Los Viejones

I still remember my first bite at Tacos Los Viejones.

The first thing that caught my attention was the warm aroma of the tacos that welcomed me as I walked through the door.

Taking a seat at the counter, I ordered a couple of tacos; I recall biting into my taco, the flavors exploding in my mouth.

The tacos tasted authentically Mexican, and I could tell each ingredient was carefully chosen for its quality.

This was an experience.

I have been a regular customer since that day, recommending Tacos Los Viejones to anyone needing a good meal.

With their excellent customer service and authentic Mexican flavor, they've won over my taste buds and heart.

A visit to this place is a must for anyone looking for a real taste of Mexico in our town.

Cheesesteak & Gyros

Let me tell you about a spot quickly becoming a favorite in my town, Cheesesteak & Gyros.

It is a haven for Greek Salad lovers like me.

Every visit, I am greeted with a delicious, fresh, and generously portioned Greek salad that never fails to satisfy me.

It's a feast, especially when I ask for that little extra meat, all for just $12.

The warmth and politeness of the new owners are a bonus.

They've managed to maintain the same quality and taste that I've come to love, making the experience even better.

While I am yet to try their Philly cheese steaks, I've heard nothing but raves from fellow patrons.

Speaking of rave reviews, a friend recently shared her delightful experience with their cheese steak.

She was all praises about the ample steak, the perfectly melted cheese, and the flavorsome onions.

The gyro, she said, was equally impressive.

It came neatly packed in a sleeve to avoid any messy drips.

And the fries? Let's just say the mild salt and pepper seasoning was a hit.

Their earlier location was a regular haunt for me, and now, with them moving even closer to my house, I couldn't be happier.

Every dish I've tried here has been a delight, and I've never had a bad experience.

A tip for you - a call ahead can save you some waiting time, making the experience smoother for everyone.

Ponsawan Thai Cuisine

So, I was driving down to my usual sandwich spot when I noticed a new addition to our little strip mall.

Ponsawan Thai Cuisine had quietly made its home next to the Subway, and my curiosity led me on a gastronomic journey that I can't help but share with you.

Their menu boasted a range of Thai classics, and being a Pad Thai lover, I knew what I had to order.

Let me tell you. It was the absolute best Pad Thai I've ever had!

Tender noodles, a sauce that exploded with flavor, perfectly cooked chicken, and just the right amount of bean sprouts, green onions, and peanuts.

The balance was perfect!

Not one to restrict myself, I also indulged in their Thai sausage, which was something out of this world.

Seriously, the flavors were phenomenal.

And then there was the country-style curry.

My taste buds were doing a happy dance.

It was a culinary journey that transported me straight to the heart of Thailand.

Oh, and did I mention how clean and welcoming the restaurant was?

It had a relaxed vibe that immediately made me feel at home.

Now, I often find myself ditching the sandwich shop next door.

Who knew this unassuming restaurant, tucked away in a strip mall, would become my new favorite spot?

Trust me, Ponsawan Thai Cuisine is a hidden gem in our town.

It's a 10/10 experience that I'll be repeating soon.

Pete's Cafe

"Get in my belly!" my stomach screams every time I enter Pete's Cafe.

This family-owned gem tucked away in the heart of our city is one of my favorite breakfast joints.

I have been frequenting Pete's for years now, and their mushroom and steak skillet is a meal I swear by.

Even on the busiest days, the food comes out fast, hot, and generously portioned.

My favorite is the sausage omelet - a hearty, flavorful delight that keeps me stuffed well into the afternoon.

My partner swears by the one-egg breakfast, a classic done just right.

One of the best things about Pete's is that they serve real maple syrup.

It may not be Wisconsin maple syrup, but it's the real deal and makes all the difference to your pancakes or waffles.

However, what sets Pete's apart for me is the welcoming atmosphere.

I often bring visiting family to Pete's; they all leave, raving about the food and ambiance.

If you ever find yourself in town, make sure to stop by.

Doug's Diner

Do you ever wonder what it's like to wake up on a lazy Sunday morning and head out for a comforting breakfast at a local diner?

That's precisely what I did at Doug's Diner in Thornton.

When I first strolled in, I had expected it to be just another sandwich spot, but I was in for a surprise!

The menu had my eyes darting around like a kid in a candy store.

I'm the kind that loves to decide my order within the first 30 seconds, and I couldn't help but be drawn to the Carne Asada fries with an egg on top.

A twist on the classic breakfast, wouldn't you say?

I paired it with hash browns and red chili - quite the hearty meal!

Spoonful after spoonful, the deliciousness never seemed to end.

If you're a fan of loaded breakfasts, this dish will be your paradise.

On another occasion, I remember ordering the Reuben, even though I wouldn't call myself a fan.

But at Doug's, they seem to have mastered the art of making even the skeptics enjoy their fare.

The Reuben was delightful, priced reasonably, and the portion size kept my hunger at bay.

One thing you can't miss out on at Doug's Diner is their burgers.

I tried the Bison Burger topped with bacon and blackberry jelly.

Though the bacon and jelly dominated the first few bites, I eventually got the taste of the bison.

It was a unique blend of flavors that I hadn’t experienced before.

Also, do yourself a favor and get the creamy coleslaw.

It was good on its own, but the taste elevated even more when some bacon fell into it.

Doug's Diner is more than just a breakfast and burger venue.

It's a place that surprises you with its menu, impresses you with its service, and keeps you coming back for more.

And as a Thornton local, I can vouch that it is a delightful choice for a hearty American feast any day of the week.

Bluebird Cafe

Oh, the joy I feel when I step into Bluebird Cafe, my favorite breakfast nook!

It's always bustling with people, but that's part of its charm.

The anticipation adds to the experience, after all.

They have an ingenious system to keep things flowing where you enter your name and receive a text when your table is ready.

Neat, isn't it?

The staff has been attentive and friendly every time I've been, even amidst the morning rush.

And their menu? Talk about spoilt for choice!

I've sampled quite a bit of their offerings, and let me tell you, I have yet to be disappointed.

The Parisian Eggs Benedict, in particular, is a dream.

Just the right balance of flavors – it's like a little piece of Paris on a plate.

A friend of mine had the sausage gravy the other day for breakfast, and while it may not be what you'd call 'Southern,' it wasn't half bad.

She loved their potatoes, and her eggs were cooked just right.

And oh boy, do they make a mean iced tea!

Forget the watered-down stuff you usually get here; their tea is the real deal.

The Bluebird Cafe is a must-visit if you're in the area or even if you're just passing through.

It's the kind of place that just makes you feel at home, and the food is simply top-notch.

I can't wait to visit again with my friends – there's still so much on the menu we need to try!

Plentea

I remember the first time I stumbled upon Plentea, nestled in the heart of our town - a quaint family-owned takeaway offering a captivating blend of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors.

The gigantic gyros and a wide range of sandwiches quickly became my go-to comfort food.

Each gyro platter is incredibly flavorful and generously portioned, making it perfect for sharing with friends or family.

Delighting a sweet tooth like mine, Plentea also serves a fantastic variety of bubble teas.

Their taro boba is a revelation in itself!

As an avid bubble tea maker at home, I am pretty particular about my boba.

But Plentea's version is the best I have had in a long while, exceeding my expectations with every sip.

However, like all places, Plentea does have its quirks.

For instance, the interior is small, with limited seating.

Prices might be slightly higher than other local food joints, and you might have to wait a while for your order.

But trust me, the food here is worth every penny and minute.

One of the standout items on the menu for me is the banh mi sandwich.

Stuffed with thick slabs of flavorful meat and fresh veggies, it's a delightful surprise packed into a sandwich.

They don't skimp on the butter and pâté, which won me over instantly.

Every visit to Plentea is a culinary adventure.

Your Pie Pizza

Nothing quite like the aroma of fresh pizza wafting from the oven and the taste.

That's the experience you get every time at Your Pie Pizza.

They allow you to customize your pizza down to the tiniest detail.

You can choose your dough, cheese, sauce, and topping.

But it's not just the pizza that pulls me to this place; they also offer gelato and a variety of microbrews that perfectly complement their mouthwatering pizzas.

Once, I ordered a gluten-free, vegan pizza, and it's safe to say that it was the best I've ever had.

I have celiac disease, so I'm always extra cautious regarding my food.

And the waiting time is sometimes longer than anticipated.

So, a word to the manager: consider hiring more hands because Your Pie Pizza is a treasure too good to lose!

I recommend this place for its high-quality pizza and excellent customer service.

Japon Rolls & Bowls

Do you have that one place where you know you'll get a great meal every time?

Well, for me, it's Japon Rolls & Bowls.

Nestled in the heart of our bustling city, this unpretentious counter-service restaurant brings the authentic flavors of Japan and Korea right to our doorstep.

What I love about this place is the sheer variety.

From their signature sushi rolls to their hearty bowls, there's always something to satisfy whatever I crave.

My personal favorite? The Korean Bibimbap Bowl.

Imagine a bowl of perfectly cooked rice topped with colorful vegetables, and flavourful meat, all crowned with a glistening fried egg.

Each bite celebrates flavors and textures, and you can't help but reach for another spoonful.

But it's not just about the food here.

The prices are surprisingly affordable, meaning you can enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank.

In a city teeming with eateries, Japon Rolls & Bowls stands out with its commitment to quality and authenticity.

It's one of those places you find yourself returning to, again and again, a testament to their consistent delivery of great food and service.

If you're ever in the area and fancy a taste of East Asia, don't miss out on this local favorite.

Vietnamese Cafe

An ordinary weekday became an extraordinary culinary experience when I found myself at the Vietnamese Cafe.

I'd heard cheerful chatter about this place for a while, but this was my first time savoring their offerings.

I started my meal with their Beef and Vegetables, which were nothing short of fantastic.

The beef was tender and perfectly cooked, and the vegetables added a fresh crunch to the dish for a delightful balance.

But the real surprise was their Crab Wonton.

One bite, and I knew this was different from any other wonton I'd had.

It wasn't just an air-filled wrapper; it was stuffed with abundant succulent crab meat that made each bite better than the last.

This wouldn't have been a complete Vietnamese experience without trying their coffee.

A sip of their Vietnamese coffee was all it took to realize that this was no ordinary brew.

The flavor was robust, and the sweetened condensed milk added an incredibly satisfying unique richness.

The distance from my place to the Vietnamese Cafe is a bit of a trek, but their exquisite cuisine makes every mile worth it.

From the fresh Combination Noodle Bowl to the sweet Strawberry Boba, each offering is a testament to the culinary prowess of the chefs.

The Vietnamese Cafe is a gem in our town, blending authentic Vietnamese flavors with a relaxed dining atmosphere.

I can't wait to go back and try more dishes from their varied menu.

A word of caution, though, once you dine here, you might return more often than you'd expect.

Country Thai

I remember the first time I set foot into Country Thai.

The air was filled with the aroma of spices and fresh herbs, a comforting invitation into Thai cuisine.

The decor is simple yet authentic, making you feel like you've been transported straight to Thailand.

Country Thai serves various dishes encompassing the full spectrum of Thai flavors.

My personal favorite is their appetizer sampler.

Who can resist the perfectly cooked chicken skewers, Thai dumplings, egg rolls, and crab Rangoon?

And let's not forget the standout peanut sauce that comes with it, rich, creamy, and bursting with robust flavors.

Being adventurous, I tried their Thai fried rice.

Although it didn't strike me as extraordinary, the subtlety of its flavors served as a decent palate cleanser between the more robust flavors of the other dishes.

I dived into their shrimp and basil dish on a more adventurous night.

The sauce was a pure delight, packing just the right amount of heat to tickle your taste buds.

The place may not be full service, but they serve you at your table from your to-go box, which is unique.

Moreover, the green curry and garlic pepper chicken, to name a few, have been nothing short of exemplary.

So if you're ever in the mood for a bit of Thai, I'd highly recommend trying Country Thai.

Whether you dine in or take your food to go, I assure you, the flavors of Country Thai will transport your taste buds to another world.

Zero Degrees Thornton

When you think you've seen it all in Thornton, you stumble upon a hidden gem, and that's precisely what happened with Zero Degrees.

Tucked away in a quiet corner, this tiny spot can easily be missed.

But let me tell you, this place is worth a visit if you're into adventurous eating and drinking experiences.

I was just passing by one day when I stopped for directions and saw this place.

It might not catch your eye initially, but once you step in, you'll find it hard to leave.

The food and drinks are fantastic, while the shakes are simple yet satisfying.

But it's the Mangonadas that keep bringing me back.

The place may seem a bit beat up, with its banged-up walls and a slightly dirty dining area.

My first order here was the watermelon slush and shrimp and noodles.

The food is prepared quickly and served hot.

And the watermelon slush was so refreshing. It tasted like a freshly cut watermelon.

I've been here a couple of times, and each visit reassures me that there's no place quite like Zero Degrees in Thornton.

You can check them out at Zero Degrees Thornton if you're interested.

Believe me when I say it's worth the detour!

Other Restaurants Nearby

The Wishbone Family Restaurant (Westminster)

Have you ever stumbled upon a place that just feels like home?

That's precisely how I experienced The Wishbone Family Restaurant.

Hidden in the heart of our little town, I discovered this gem serving up the most delicious American comfort food since 1963.

It's a family-owned and operated diner that offers both dine-in and take-out options.

The warm, inviting atmosphere hits you as you walk through the door.

You can't help but feel a certain nostalgia for the simpler times.

The decor is a throwback to the old times, with Elvis pictures adorning the walls.

A true blast from the past!

But what keeps me coming back is the food.

The fried chicken, in particular, is out of this world.

It's perfectly cooked, and the coating is delightfully crunchy.

The flavor comes out in every bite, and trust me when I say it's possibly the best fried chicken you'll find in Colorado.

Every table at Wishbone is equipped with honey, a touch I adore because who doesn't like love with their fried chicken?

It's a match made in heaven.

They're also very consistent with their food quality.

I've visited countless times, and they've never failed to amaze me.

The Wishbone Family Restaurant may be a bit of a drive from Denver but trust me, it's worth every mile just to sink your teeth into that crispy, juicy fried chicken.

Uncle Henry (Westminster)

One of the greatest joys of this town is living just a stone's throw away from Uncle Henry.

Imagine having the luxury of savoring dishes that bring back nostalgic memories of your grandmother’s cooking.

It's a feeling hard to put into words, and Uncle Henry has managed to recreate that same magic.

Every visit to this place feels like a journey down memory lane.

Step into the restaurant, and you are instantly greeted by the tantalizing aroma of fresh ingredients being cooked to perfection.

It's like a warm, inviting hug that wraps you in comfort and anticipation.

Start your meal with their fried pork - slightly sweet and incredibly tender.

The Peking duck, a well-loved delicacy, is a treat for the taste buds, cooked just right and seasoned to perfection.

Their specialized bowls are a must-try too.

They offer better protein portions than straight protein plates and are an absolute delight.

Don't forget to try their saliva chicken, even if you don't have a high threshold for spice.

The flavors are robust and bring out the meat's natural taste.

While on the subject of chicken, their fried chicken leg quarter is a dish that deserves recognition for its well-seasoned and perfectly fried (not dry/overcooked) meat.

Their salt & pepper pork ribs are a match made in heaven for the chicken, offering an unforgettable taste.

I've also had their roast meats like duck.

And to cap off your meal, save some room for their fresh hot sugar donuts.

They are sinfully delicious and the perfect way to end a hearty meal at Uncle Henry's.

If you are looking for a place that serves good food, gives you a sense of nostalgia, and makes you feel welcome, Uncle Henry's is the place to be.

Big Mac & Little Lu's Seafood (Westminster)

There's a little gem tucked away in Colorado that I always find myself returning to: Big Mac & Little Lu's Seafood.

This family-run restaurant and grocer never fail to hit the spot with its variety of fresh fish on the menu and on display in ice-filled cases.

Seeing all the mouthwatering dishes being served around, I couldn't resist and decided to dine in.

I've had my fair share of seafood, but the dishes at Big Mac & Little Lu's are the best in Colorado.

For example, I tried the Nachos, the sweet and spicy shrimp, and the Mahi tacos - every bite was a revelation of fresh, tantalizing flavors.

Another favorite of mine is their Louisiana-fried shrimp.

It packs a punch and leaves you wanting more.

I've also enjoyed their clam chowder, a creamy bowl of comfort that hits just the right spot.

For a lighter meal, the shrimp Caesar salad is a treat for the palate.

And, if you're in for lunch, do not miss their jumbo shrimp basket - it's simply awesome.

Their dessert menu is not one to be overlooked either.

The key lime pie is delightful, with a unique twist to the presentation.

And if you're a chocolate lover like me, you'll fall head over heels for their Oreo cheesecake.

Big Mac & Little Lu's cultivates a sense of community with its relaxed ambiance and friendly staff.

My experience here has always been a blast, and I can't wait to return for more.

No wonder this place is so prevalent in the evenings!

Volcano Ramen (Westminster)

If you're looking for a thrilling culinary adventure, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more unique experience than dining at Volcano Ramen.

It's like stepping into a different world, where the staff greets you with contagious enthusiasm, and the atmosphere is utterly captivating.

My first impression was of the electrifying décor.

The place is adorned with incredible decorations that thrill your meal.

Each decor piece tells a story, and you can't help but be entranced by the place's vibe.

The food is a novel experience in itself.

It's not your typical fare, and that's part of what makes it exciting.

Their spicy ramen is a roller coaster ride of flavors - it's spicy but not overwhelming, a perfect balance that keeps you coming back for more.

The Kobe beef is another highlight, boasting a rich flavor profile that leaves a lasting impression.

But they don't just stop at great food.

Despite being empty on one of my visits, the service and speed were top-notch.

The fantastic shishito peppers mainly took me.

However, I did find the standard beef a bit too thick for my liking, but that's entirely a matter of personal preference.

Overall, Volcano Ramen is a uniquely wonderful experience.

The fusion of exotic food, fantastic service, and an electrifying atmosphere make every visit an adventure.

Whether you're a fan of ramen or just looking for something out of the ordinary, it's an experience worth having.

Law’s Chophouse (Westminster)

Our town has a gem that could easily be overlooked if you're not in the know.

It's called Law’s Chophouse.

Its reputation may seem intimidating due to the price range, but trust me. You'll find that every dollar spent is worth it.

They serve fantastic food that you can't forget.

For instance, the creativity that goes into flavoring the steaks is impressive.

The green chili gorgonzola, in particular, was a delightful surprise that left an unforgettable taste in my mouth

But the cherry on top was the ice cream sundae.

It was a sweet ending to a beautiful dining experience.

Law’s Chophouse also served an unforgettable beef stroganoff, and the chicken plates were simply out of this world.

I highly recommend Law’s Chophouse for special occasions or just to spoil yourself on a random day.

This place is worth a try.

You'll be amazed by the quality and creativity of their food.

The warm ambiance and excellent service just add to the overall experience.

You'll be glad to see them open and serving great food.

Final Thoughts

Thornton has a diverse and delicious array of cuisines to satisfy any palate.

The culinary delights of Thornton, Colorado, are a testament to the town's multicultural spirit.

I can't wait to see what new culinary treasures will appear next.

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