Denver’s N Line, a commuter rail marvel connecting Union Station to the northern metro area, has been transforming commutes and opening up exciting possibilities for dining out. Since its launch on September 21st, this line, serving Denver, Commerce City, Northglenn, and Thornton, has made accessing northern Denver’s vibrant food scene easier than ever. And with ongoing incentives for N Line riders, now is the perfect time to explore the diverse culinary landscape near these stations. This guide highlights some top restaurant picks, all conveniently located within a mile of an N Line stop, with a special focus on the beloved Mercedes Restaurant Northglenn.
Whether you’re planning a unique date night, seeking a convenient spot for a meal while traveling north, or simply want to discover new local favorites, these restaurants offer a range of flavors and experiences easily accessible via the N Line.
Vietnamese Cafe
Photo via Vietnamese Cafe’s website.
Where: 3744 E. 104th Ave., Thornton. 0.2-mile walk from Thornton Crossroads / 104th Ave. Station.
Directions from the N Line: Exit the Thornton Crossroads / 104th Avenue Station and remain on the west side of Colorado Boulevard. Walk north to the nearest shopping center. Enter the shopping center and follow the main walkway west, passing Safeway until you reach Vietnamese Cafe.
The Lowdown: Vietnamese Cafe in Thornton provides a refined and welcoming atmosphere, adorned with beautiful artwork, making it an ideal choice for a sophisticated date night. This locally owned gem offers a comprehensive menu featuring martinis, Boba smoothies, and a wide selection of Vietnamese dishes. Diners can choose from beef, chicken, pork, seafood, or vegetarian options for dinner, and indulge in signature desserts to complete their meal.
Allegro Coffee Company
Photo via Allegro Coffee Company’s website.
Where: 12799 Claude Ct., Thornton. 0.6-mile walk from Eastlake / 124th Station.
Directions from the N Line: From the Eastlake / 124th Station, proceed through the parking area on the west side towards Claude Court. Follow the sidewalk north on Claude Court to the intersection with East 128th Avenue, crossing Claude at the intersection. Head west towards the Adams 12 Five Star Schools parking lot entrance, where Allegro Coffee is situated.
The Lowdown: Attached to Allegro Coffee Company’s headquarters, this Thornton location provides a tranquil and less crowded alternative to their Denver cafes. It’s perfect for those wanting to savor Allegro’s renowned espresso drinks, teas, and hot chocolate. Note that this location operates until 2 p.m. on weekdays and is closed on weekends, making it an ideal spot for a morning or early afternoon coffee break.
Extra Point Sports Bar
Photo via Extra Point Sports Bar’s website.
Where: 4050 E. 100th Ave., Denver. o.5-mile walk from Thornton Crossroads / 104th Ave. Station.
Directions from the N Line: Upon exiting the Thornton Crossroads / 104th Avenue Station, proceed to Colorado Boulevard and walk south towards 100th Avenue. At the intersection with 100th, cross to the shopping center on the east side of the street to find Extra Point Sports Bar.
The Lowdown: Extra Point Sports Bar in north Denver is a lively venue offering both dine-in and pickup options. This sports bar boasts a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. From classic hot wings and flavorful tacos to sweet churros and a selection of gourmet burgers, there’s something for everyone. Popular burger choices include the fiery Volcano Burger smothered in green chili and the savory Bacon Swiss Mushroom Burger.
The Glenn Bar & Grill
Photo courtesy of The Glenn Bar & Grill on Facebook.
Where: 11140 Irma Dr., Northglenn. o.7-mile walk from Northglenn / 112th Ave. Station.
Directions from the N Line: From the Northglenn / 112th Avenue Station, walk south on York Street and cross 112th Avenue. Turn right and continue until Irma Drive, then head south to The Glenn Bar & Grill.
The Lowdown: The Glenn Bar & Grill in Northglenn strikes a perfect balance between a relaxed and upscale dining experience. With a versatile menu featuring a wide array of salads and burger options, The Glenn caters to diverse palates. Guests can also enjoy a daily happy hour from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Dine-in is available, but reservations, which can be made online or by phone, are required to ensure a table.
Mercedes Mexican Restaurant
Photo via Mercedes Mexican Restaurant’s Facebook.
Where: 11165 Irma Dr., Northglenn. o.7-mile walk from Northglenn / 112th Ave. Station.
Directions from the N Line: Depart the Northglenn / 112th Avenue Station and walk south along York Street, crossing at the 112th intersection. Head east on 112th and cross at Irma Drive before turning left onto Irma. Mercedes Mexican Restaurant will be on your right.
The Lowdown: Mercedes Restaurant Northglenn is a beloved, locally owned Mexican restaurant and a true gem near the N Line. With two locations in Colorado, the Northglenn branch on Irma Drive is a convenient and delicious stop. Opening early at 7 a.m. on weekdays, Mercedes Mexican Restaurant Northglenn is renowned for its extensive breakfast menu, offering both classic American and authentic Mexican breakfast dishes. It’s also an excellent choice for lunch, serving up a wide variety of Mexican favorites. Whether you’re craving huevos rancheros in the morning or flavorful enchiladas for lunch, Mercedes Restaurant Northglenn provides a warm and inviting atmosphere with consistently praised food quality and friendly service, making it a must-visit when exploring dining options near the N Line’s Northglenn station. For those seeking authentic Mexican flavors and a welcoming local experience, Mercedes Restaurant in Northglenn is a standout choice.
Lisa Anne’s Country Cupboard Bakery
Photo via Lisa Anne’s Country Cupboard Bakery’s website.
Where: 12400 First St., Thornton. 0.1-mile walk from Eastlake / 124th Station.
Directions from the N Line: From the Eastlake / 124th Station, walk southeast on First Street and cross at the intersection with E. 124th Avenue. Lisa Anne’s is situated on the corner of this intersection.
The Lowdown: For those with a sweet tooth, Lisa Anne’s Country Cupboard Bakery is the perfect stop near the N Line. Step into this charming bakery for freshly baked pastries and a nostalgic, old-fashioned ambiance. Lisa Anne’s is particularly famous for its handmade cinnamon rolls and sticky buns. The menu also features an impressive selection of muffins with 10 different flavors, nine varieties of cookies, as well as pies and cakes, all made fresh daily.
Papa Mazzotti’s Italian Restaurant
Where: 2252 Lake Ave., Thornton. 0.1-mile walk from Eastlake / 124th Station.
Directions from the N Line: From the Eastlake / 124th Station, cross First Street at the intersection with Lake Avenue and head towards Second Street. Papa Mazzotti’s is located just off the corner of Lake and Second.
The Lowdown: Papa Mazzotti’s Italian Restaurant in Thornton offers a heartwarming, old-school Italian dining experience, evident in its homemade-style recipes and classic red-checkered tablecloths. This family-owned restaurant specializes in a range of Italian-American favorites including sandwiches, pizzas, and pasta dishes. Papa Mazzotti’s is open Wednesday through Saturday, making it a great weekend dining destination accessible via the N Line.
Lake Avenue Inn
Photo via Lake Avenue Inn’s Facebook.
Where: 2181 Lake Ave., Eastlake. 200-foot walk from Eastlake / 124th Station.
Directions from the N Line: From the Eastlake / 124th Station, descend the stairs on the northeast side of the train tracks. Cross First Street at the crosswalk with Lake Avenue, which is adjacent to the light rail station, to reach Lake Avenue Inn right on the corner.
The Lowdown: Lake Avenue Inn is a lively sports bar and nightclub open daily from 11 a.m. Enjoy Happy Hour from 4 to 7 p.m. on weekdays and extended hours from 4 to 8 p.m. on weekends. With live music performances and attractive drink specials, Lake Avenue Inn is one of the most energetic spots to visit in the historic Eastlake area, easily accessible from the N Line.
Trailside Saloon
Photo via Trailside Saloon’s Facebook.
Where: 10360 Colorado Blvd., Thornton. 0.2-mile walk from Thornton Crossroads / 104th Ave. Station.
Directions from the N Line: From the Thornton Crossroads / 104th Avenue Station, head east and cross Colorado Boulevard at the traffic light adjacent to the parking garage. On the east side of Colorado, walk one block north to find Trailside Saloon.
The Lowdown: Trailside Saloon, conveniently located across the street from the Thornton Crossroads / 104th Ave. Station, welcomes guests for dine-in and features live music events. With bands performing on Friday nights and metal bands on Saturdays, Trailside Saloon offers a vibrant nightlife option. Expect a mood-lit setting, performances by local bands, and a menu packed with flavorful options at this popular Thornton bar.
The N Line has truly enhanced accessibility to a diverse range of dining experiences in Denver’s northern suburbs. From the authentic Mexican flavors of Mercedes Restaurant Northglenn to cozy cafes and lively sports bars, there’s a culinary adventure waiting for every N Line rider. So hop on board and explore the delicious destinations along the line!
