Illegal Pete's Northside

This place is in severe need of a deep clean and make over. The cross contamination on the food line is crazy. Chicken in the steak, meat in the taco night. Holes in the booths, grime everywhere and it looks like the food line exploded. The glass is even covered in food. So grody. The food quality is poor and the flavor severely lacking.

If you like chipotle then you are gonna love this place. I have never had a bad time at illegal Pete's. I've been to a few around the city and this was a little harder to spot than I'd like because the signage doesn't exactly stand out but other than that we had a great time. My kids were happy they had self serve horchata. This place is more like an adult version of a chipotle, you order at the front but you have a full bar if you are so inclined. I much prefer the atmosphere here as well.

Pretty disappointed with the portion size, and it's definitely been trending downward the past few times I've ordered here. When you order tacos, you expect the taco shell to be filled up halfway at the very least, right? There's hardly any protein in there!

I went to a different IP a couple weeks ago, I liked it and wanted my husband to try it. So we went to the one in my old neighborhood [Northside]. We had such a great time, my husband loved his Mules, we enjoyed the food, music was just what we needed and the overall vibes were KICKIN'!! Big time cheers🍻 to Isaac and Deshawn [Deshaun] who made an already fantastic experience fantabulous! 10/10 recommend, we will definitely be back!!!

I used to stuff once a week and never had any issues. Always great food hardly any mistakes. Had to stop because it became more and more consistent that the food would be gross sometimes old always dry. So I figured I only got it once a month instead what are the odds it would still consistently be bad every time. Well it is every single time. It's not even a gamble anymore. It's going to be bad It's not going to be the correct food and it's barely going to be edible. Taco Bell's not great but at least it's consistently edible. It is kind of insane how bad this place has gotten when thinking about how good it used to be. Is it new ownership or something? Private equity?

I cant stand that they use a single cloth towel, that looks not even clean, to wipe the entire line down and then they just toss it aside to use again later. yuck. I did get sick one time a few years ago at this location, wont be going back. Staff needs to take ServSafe classes and actually practice safe food handling and cleaning with the correct sanitary buckets.

This is super great!! I'm a huge fan of Chipotle, and I think this is even better! Staff was friendly, and food was scrumptious! It's nice and quiet inside as well. I went for the 3 tacos and they were super great! The steak is also amazing! It's super tender and juicy. Keep up the good work, Illegal Pete's!

I will NEVER EVER set foot in another Illegal Pete's in my life. Came in this location on 11\13\1025 at around 8pm. Walked in with friends and they were not super busy. So we stood by the bar for drinks and no one acknowledge us at all. So I stepped to the bar to ask for service and this trash person behind the bar, When I asked for service huffed out loud, rolled her eyes and kept walking to the end of the bar. We immediately left. There was no way I was spending my money in there with that attitude and high level of disrespect. We went across the street to Esters and it was the best thing we could have done. Had an amazing time at Esters. I really can't believe the disrespect from the bar lady when we were planning to spend some money because it was a special occasion. As a person of color I will absolutely discourage people of color from entering any Illegal Pete's doors. It's sad and upsetting that a person in customer service has absolutely none. She needs to be in the back somewhere and definitely not dealing with customers. I will however will absolutely be going back to Esters. I wish I could give negative numbers for this place.

Awesome burrito spot! Think Chipotle, but a bigger and better burrito, and a local chain. Burrito was delicious and filling. Was not expecting there to be a bar inside off to the side, but I thought it was a great addition to the vibe they have. Was able to get a drink after eating my burrito and watch a few different sports on the TVs. Definitely a nice, local watering hole spot. I would definitely recommend and return here. Both for a burrito (to take to go, or eat there), and also if I was just looking for a casual spot to get a drink and maybe watch some sports.

TOP. NOTCH. This place was a lifesaver today -- their program for a free meal for touring performing artists has been a critical point for our morale :) The food itself was awesome--the burrito beats Chipotle by a mile and the employees were super cool. Rock music playing on the speakers, and a full bar for those interested. Thanks again Illegal Pete's :))

Great food, but service was rude. Not consistent menu with the one on Broadway (allowing for lunch meats on the breakfast burritos). Bartender was plenty nice, but took a while to come around. Not bad, but Broadway is better.

This location is typically pretty busy but make up for it for the portions. The atmosphere inside is relaxed and a fun environment. Burrito was packed to the max and always mix the insides before closing, a key aspect to a good burrito. Always gotta add the potatoes bites inside. They are cut very small and nice and crispy. This was our first time getting drinks and I will be getting these more often! The bartender started to pour and my eyes got big because it was a FAR pour. He laughed and said yeah this is how we always pour, not just me. It was $16, with tip, for two strong margaritas. You want a nice strong drink? IP's is def your place. Overall, IP's always is a great burrito, not long wait, and fun environment to eat your meal in or hang out while you wait.

Came here since the local taco shop we intended to visit was closed on Sunday. Go figure. We usually frequent the colfax location but punted and came here. The location and patio were the draw. We got in line. No other people waiting and seven staff behind the counter and we just stood there waiting. Finally some kid became alert enough to advise that they will be right with us. Wait some more and the newby takes our order. Felt like everyone in the place was high, customers and all. Slow...motion... Food was good. Chicken burrito and chicken nachos. Nothing crazy. Standard issue, add potatoes and a drink and out the door. $15pp w/tip. Food was as expected honestly. Large quantity. Lots of cheesy stuff. We caught the last glimmer of sun on a fall afternoon. It was nice.

Great catering experience from this location. Staff was awesome, accommodated a last minute major change I made to my order and were super helpful on pickup, with a great attitude. Food was delicious. Couldn't recommend them enough.

This is the only Petes I look forward to after a shitty work day. Staff hustles, always seem to be smiling a little bit more, always has a great soundtrack on... what more doc you need. Shut up and take my money ‍

We enjoy grabbing brunch here with their stellar mimosa and breakfast burrito and quesadillas deals. The staff is always super nice and friendly, and they keep the place clean. Bonus that this location has a large dog friendly patio.

Two stars because it's edible, but certainly not enjoyable. My husband and I frequent many illegal Pete's locations and this one happens to be because it's closest to us, but we intentionally drive the extra 10 minutes further to go to the location on Colfax (which I highly recommend!). Quality is less than desirable, portion sizes are laughable, ambiance is average, and the queso is always grainy. I'm confused a great deal about how this location has so many reviews like my own and yet they do not change. The people have spoken! Adjust.

My band is on tour and the fed us for free!! the we got great service from Salem, Madelein, and Trent. i was nervous the burritos would be bad but beggars cant be choosers right?? wrong! the burrito was so good that i was almost upset we got breakfast earlier! i couldnt eat the whole thing!! the vibe is nice, we had some good conversation and they play some dope music!

This was my first order from this location. It was horrible. $14 for the smallest breakfast burrito I've ever seen. Other locations have always been solid, but this is just pathetic. Also, they forgot our drinks. Drive a little farther. Go to a different location.

Everything was just eh... it's been years since I've had Illegal Pete's and I've never had this location even though we live close by. So maybe it was just this location because I don't remember not liking what I've gotten at other locations. I did a carnitas burrito with all my fav toppings and it just wasn't great. It was packed with rice and very little carnitas or any of the other toppings for that matter. I also had to warm it up when my husband brought it home (we live close) because it was lukewarm.

Get into it: First time here & I will definitely be back. I've been in Denver for 3 years now & I've passed by Illegal Pete's on 38th almost everyday, not thinking to stop in. Today was different. I wanted something quick without the hassle of waiting for a server or bartender. I got the burrito bowl with chicken and just about every topping they had lol. It's so fresh. I also tried the coin margarita and it's one to be reckoned with. My bartender squeezed fresh lime into a tin, added reposado tequila and a tad bit of agave. Only for $7 bucks? YAS PLEASE. Oh & happy hour is everyday from 3pm-6pm. You're welcome. See y'all soon!

Don't order through DoorDash, you won't get the full order. Thanks for the sides but No thanks. Be careful too. I found a frickin rock in the taco!! WTH

Place was an absolute pig sty. Food scraps under a bunch of tables, my beer glass had weird red specks around the rim, and there were flys flying around the bar. Man it was gnarly. However, I have extremely low standards so that did not deter me from devouring my burrito. Pretty good burrito. Bonus points for being true to name. If the health inspector came this place would absolutely be illegal

Stopped here after landing in Denver on our way up the mountains. This was on my list to try their Mexican Coke Carnitas burrito. There was a line waiting to order their food, but it went fairly quick. Got the carnitas with a ton of fixings that was HUGE. Ate half of it onsite and then wrapped up the rest for another day on the slopes. Ate the other half up at Summit House Keystone. Even cold, this burrito hit the spot. There are multiple Illegal Pete's and it will be my go-to when heading up the mountain.

I've come here a handful of times and always have had a great experience. Some Coloradans swear by Illegal Pete's (vs chipotle and qdoba) and I can see some of the reasons. My favorite part about illegal Pete's is that I can get reverse nachos or a bowl and still get their amazing chips on side. The full bar they have is also great! Didn't give it a 5/5 because I have never been WOWED w my meals. Personal opinion!! Parking: has a small lot, ample street parking

We ordered online for pickup and got 2 burritos and chips and queso. I had been to illegal Pete's a few times years ago but found their vegetarian options pretty bland, but my partner pointed out that they had a few vegan items on their menu now including vegan green Chile so we decided to give it another try. I got a burrito and paid an up charge to add potatoes and the vegan Chile. Total for one burrito came out to be around $14-15. There was an option to sub the sour cream and cheese for guacamole so I opted for that. I was excited to try it. Got home and the burrito tasted pretty dry, so I figured the guac was just closer to the middle. I went to pour the Chile and it was mostly potatoes. I guess they decided to add the potatoes to the chile instead of the burrito? I opened up my burrito after a few bites because the inside was still pretty dry. There was no guacamole or avocado or any kind of sauce at all in it. Ended up adding my own salsa and taco sauce at home. For the price, it was pretty disappointing. My partner got a burrito with meat in it and ended up only eating half, said it was just "okay". We were both pretty disappointed. We probably won't be eating there anytime again soon

shout out to Salem, Madelein, and Trent. They hooked up my tour bus of 10 people literally just to support the arts. Food was well presented and tasted perfect, thanks guys!

Super friendly and helpful. Went to Chipotle the other day and remembered why I stopped going there once I'd been to Illegal Pete's One of my favorite Denver spots that I've been going to for forever.

As fast food goes, this is top tier. Fresh ingredients and green chili really set Pete's apart. I often get a bowl with chips on the side, but the fried fish tacos are also delicious.

This place has delish food and drinks. I personally like the burrito bowl. It's like a local chipotle! It is not like your typical restaurant in the sense you do not have a server you order through. There is a food bar in the restaurant and you go up and order then can take your food to go or eat it somewhere there. Only knock is they are a bit under staffed right now so the wait for drinks and food was pretty long..

I recently ordered a vegan burrito and vegan green chili from the North Denver location. Both items were delicious! The vegan burrito was not only hearty, but was a good generous size. The vegan green chili had potatoes in it and again, this was hearty as well. Their prices were very reasonable for what you get, I did curbside pick up which was great and convenient. A real plus is that they offer guacamole in place of dairy cheese, and I like that. I did ask for Primavera Veggies in my burrito, but the red peppers were way too huge and could have been chopped much smaller. I know they have a new store opening in Wheat Ridge at some point, but not sure when. Thank you for offering vegan options, Illegal Pete's is the best as far as I am concerned.

It's Friday evening at 7pm. I ordered a burrito and my husband got a quesadilla. We waited over 20 minutes for his quesadilla. My food was cold by the time we got his. It wasn't overly busy. They didn't seem to care that it took so long. This location is not great.

I am normally the biggest Illegal Pete's fan you'll ever come across. but something was just off about this location when i visited. that's really the only way to put it. food didn't taste how it normally does at the other locations. Not like terrible or anything, but just not up to the standard i'm used to at the other locations around denver.

Have ordered online twice from this location and both times they've messed up our orders. It almost seems like it's on purpose as both times they didn't put guac on either of nachos. The staff also ignored customers while we wait to pick up order even though you must go to the cashier to pick up your food. Food is good, but other illegal Pete's locations are better than this one.

I love Illegal Pete's. I have never been disappointed at any of their locations, even when they're really busy and the service is slow - which is often. But everyone who works here is always so friendly. This time, however, Pete's was not too packed so my boyfriend and I were able to get our food quickly! The burritos never disappoint - I just love how you can customize with fresh ingredients. They were also doing happy hour all day because the Broncos were playing - pretty sweet! So of course I got a marg which was very strong - just how I like them haha. They never skimp on their tequila, even on happy hour! I'll obviously be back again and again.

Illegal Pete's is my number 1 recommended place for locals and visitors to go to and is my general "I don't want to cook dinner" place. Although this location isn't my favorite (off a super busy road, limited parking) and it's not my regular, it's still just as consistently delicious. Go tos include reverse nachos (queso and chips on the side, bowl with chips and a small side of queso, and a breakfast burrito smothered in queso and green chili (Colorado style). There margaritas are also 100%!

I love Pete's!! They always have really good music playing and it's just a great place to hangout and get a bite to eat. Their Fish Tacos are some of my favorite and can't go wrong with a margarita. Hit up Northside Illegal Pete's for good vibes & good food

Food is incredible and always the same, dope environment, pricing keeps rising. Get the gamblers sauce

We order from this location once a month and both the green chili and guacamole were almost inedible they were so salty. Why almost? Because I got my reverse nachos with queso, lettuce and sour cream. Until I tasted the sides of these items I also purchased to go with additional food. Gak

I travel all the way from SC, and I can say this was one of the best restaurants I've stopped at yet! The restaurant is very clean and well taken care of. The service was fast and friendly, the cashier even gave us a little discount since we were out of state! The food was so amazing as well! Can't beat fresh ingredients!

First place we visited while on vacation. It did not disappoint and we stopped again before we left. Food is flavorful and delicious, staff is super polite. You could compare this place to Qdoba or Chipotle, but this place is 1000% better.

Great food, great vibe and awesome staff! I love a Moscow mule in a actual copper mug

thank you so much for taking care of me. I was an illegal Pete's late this afternoon. I ordered my food and proceeded to lock my keys in the car. They helped me with AAA As I waited for my AAA,Joshua at the bar was a complete gentleman and helped serve me all my spicy margaritas while I waited ,and in the process find me an Uber driver. I will never forget you guys. Thank you so much I stopped by on the whim, and was completely taken aback by your friendliness. You're good food and also by the way you took care of me. Thanks to illegal Pete's. I didn't get pulled over drinking and driving, they are saving my car for me tomorrow Ps. the fish tacos are to die for!

Looking for a late night bite after hitting the downtown bar scene, a group of friends and I walked to Illegal Pete's and were stoked to see their great menu options for an affordable price. Open until 2:30 am on Saturdays, they have outdoor and indoor seating, ideal for groups, and a nice little bar for the solo flyers. What's on the menu? You can build your own burrito, bowl, nachos, tacos or salad with their suggested ingredients and add ons at an extra cost. My favorite add ons are the potatoes and poblano pesto. They also have queso and guac, all cost about $2 to add on. For protein they have carnitas, grilled chicken and steak, shredded beef or grilled veggies. They also have a Smothered option where they can top your order in their homemade pork or vegan green chile. Illegal Pete's also offers a full bar, happy hour from 3 - 8pm daily and a nice breakfast menu. The staff were super cool, orders came out quickly and their prices were average for the Denver market, ranging $8-10 a meal. I would definitely recommend this spot for late night eats and will be back next time I'm in the area.

Haven't been here in 7 months and things have IMPROVED!! Seems like they have new crew in here and our burritos were what they used to be. They didn't skimp on ingredients and they were good quality, no gristle in the meat and we talked about how happy we were as ate our food. Whoever is managing- KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK! This is how I remember Pete's burritos back in the day! I'm talking 2003 on Pearl Street!

Conner is the bomb bartender. This place has a great outdoors. Staff is super cool and friendly. Place is clean and the fish is prepared in a Coors Beer Batter. Always fresh and full of zest. I love this location the best.

Went to this location last night. Very busy. Which all the locations are. Staff is very friendly. Food is always amazing! Just be aware they do charge for certain things. Guacamole, green chili, and a few other things. More options than their competitors. Cheers!

I came here in hopes to find good breakfast tacos. Denver typically offers breakfast burritos, so I got excited seeing this offered on the menu. Definitely not their specialty, but still good. The salsa is put on the tacos rather than on the side so make sure you request when ordering. Taquitos & queso are delicious! Inside/patio seating with plenty of tv's to watch a game. Friendly staff. I will be back to try their lunch menu!

Bad service, incredibly condescending. Bar staff even worse. Bland food. Any taco truck is better than this and are guaranteed to be friendlier. Extremely rude staff and management. Green chile had no heat or flavor

Very delicious food and even better drinks! Awesome service. bussin. Now I'm just filling in word limit

First time here, great food! Had the steak tacos, chicken burrito and chips and queso. All the food was fresh and delicious. So good we came back two days in a row. Great Sunday brunch menu and drinks. This trip had the smothered steak burrito, so good ! I'm glad this in my neighborhood.

Like you'll see a lot of other people say, similar to chipotle but better! They have a lot similar ingredients to what you you'd expect at chipotle with some additional seafood and plate options. Their drinks are pretty good and I highly recommend their happy hour margarita pitchers. Every time I've been there all the staff has been super nice. Overall I felt like the food was a good value for the price.

It is OK. For me, nothing to get excited about. The beer selection is good and the prices are reasonable. Way better than Chipotle (Sorry, Steve). My carnitas burrito was average. Chipotle is as good or better. + Wi-Fi + Bus service - Paper napkins

I'm not from Colorado, so my best description of this place would be that it's like Chipotle, but the meat is better and they have a full on bar. It's also a little more pricey, but it's totally worth it. Update: their breakfast tacos are bomb, and I'm sad we don't have them in California.

Man, this sucks. I've been coming to Pete's for my burrito fix since the OG opened downtown. Perhaps it's just this location, but my wife just pulled a chicken bone out of her burrito. The fajita veggies in my bowl were sour and old. I mean for shits sake...$22 bucks for a burrito and a bowl...at least fish out the bones, bruh. BARF

Been going to IP's since 2008 - when there was just the grungy one downtown and food was THE BOMB. I get skimpflation and everything, but seriously this place had lost its original vibe and quality. The fact it's getting compared to Chipotle should make them embarrassed. Last few times there I've gone away with mostly rice filled bowls and urine weak margs. Also, $7 for a queso that's only half filled and tastes suspiciously like valveeta from Costco...well at least chipotles fresher and cheaper!

Awesome happy hour and a great atmosphere! Came to visit for an event but liked it so much, we came back within the week! This location is perfectly placed and seems to always be poppin! Cheers