Colorado Springs Rocky Mountains, USA Travel Guide
Colorado Springs developed as a resort town and a supply center for mining communities. This history shaped a culinary scene that values robust flavors and satisfying portions, often with a nod to traditional American comfort food.
Casual dining is common in most establishments. For fine dining or popular restaurants, especially on weekends, making reservations is recommended.
Tipping (15-20% of the bill) is standard for waitstaff. Asking for a "to-go" box for leftovers is common due to generous portion sizes.
Diners typically wait to be seated. Many restaurants offer happy hour specials for food and drinks in the late afternoon (3:00 PM - 6:00 PM).
A quintessential Colorado staple. This flavorful and often spicy sauce, made from roasted green chiles, appears in various forms: stews, smothered over burritos, or on burgers.
Many local Southwestern or Mexican restaurants proudly serve their own versions.
Bison meat is leaner and often richer in flavor than beef. Many steakhouses and casual restaurants throughout the city feature bison burgers or steaks.
Provides a taste of the American West.
Colorado boasts a thriving craft beer scene, and Colorado Springs is no exception. Numerous local breweries present a wide range of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts.
Sampling local brews is a popular activity.
Food trucks are popular, especially at local events, breweries, or designated food truck parks. Keep an eye out for diverse food truck offerings.
Farmers markets (warmer months) feature a bounty of seasonal produce. Food festivals throughout the year present special regional cuisines.
Colorado's only Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five-Diamond restaurant, The Penrose Room at The Broadmoor, offers exquisite European cuisine.
Till Kitchen has American cuisine focusing on fresh, local ingredients. Springs Orleans serves delicious Cajun/Creole cuisine downtown.
Numerous fast-casual restaurants, pizza places, and local diners present affordable meals.
Multiple locations during warmer months. Fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal cheeses, and local products.
Great for experiencing local life.
Modern food hall downtown. Various food vendors, diverse cuisines, central bar.
Offers a lively social atmosphere.
Excellent options throughout the city.
Various options from casual to upscale.
Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese options exist.
Indian and Middle Eastern restaurants widely available.
Dedicated Halal or Kosher restaurants are limited. Some larger grocery stores may carry certified products.
Confirm with establishments or online resources.
Many restaurants readily accommodate dietary restrictions. Always inform your server to ensure a safe dining experience.
Review online menus for GF or V indications.
Online resources and local guides feature recommendations and reviews for various dining types. Exploring these sources assists in finding the perfect spot.
For fine dining or popular spots, especially on weekends, securing reservations in advance is a good practice.
Some local culinary schools or specific restaurants offer classes to prepare regional or international cuisine.
Guided culinary explorations, visiting several eateries and learning about the city's food history.
During late summer, opportunities exist to visit local farms or orchards for Palisade peaches.
The resort features multiple high-end dining venues, each with a distinct ambiance and menu, presenting luxury culinary journeys.
Examples: Penrose Room, Summit.
Phantom Canyon Brewing Co. Operates in a historic downtown building. Bristol Brewing Company is in a former elementary school.
CO.A.T.I. Upland Food Park offers a dynamic social dining experience with diverse vendors.
Multiple locations during warmer months. Fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal cheeses, and local products.
Look for diverse food truck offerings at local events, breweries, or designated food truck parks.
Check local event calendars for food and wine festivals. These present opportunities to sample regional specialties.
Making reservations for popular restaurants, especially on weekends, is advised to avoid wait times.
