Jan 17, 2023 - Food and Drink
What to eat at the National Western Stock Show
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The Smokehouse BBQ at the National Western Stock Show in Denver. Photo: Esteban L. Hernandez/Axios
👋 Esteban here.
The National Western Stock Show is home to traditional carnival fare and some delicious barbecue and western fare.
What happened: I went to Sunday's Wild West Show and needed fuel before, during and after.
- Here's what I noshed on this weekend:
The Smokehouse BBQ
- One of several sit-down restaurants at the stock show grounds, this drew me in with its brisket offering. The perfectly prepared slices were even tastier and smokier slathered in BBQ sauce.
- I paired mine with sausage, a side of beans and some corn. Personally, I would avoid the potato salad.
Turkey leg
- This grilled, juicy poultry leg doubles as an upper body workout and pairs well with a Coors Banquet. The skin is grilled and scrumptious. You can find them at the food area between the National Western Complex and the Denver Coliseum.
Texas curly fries
- I wasn't quite sure what made them "Texas style," but these were perfectly salted and freshly fried. If I could get a do-over, I would have lathered the sizzling spuds with some cheese.
Corn dogs
- Hard to go wrong here! I needed a quick snack, and this did its job: It's a classic carnival favorite for a reason, and I've never had a crispier corn dog than this. Again, freshly made and devoured within mere moments.
Bacon-wrapped hot dog
- If there was one snack I regret not trying, it's the bacon-wrapped hot dog. It's pretty self explanatory.