Restaurants in Colorado: A Friendly Travel Guide to Culinary Delights
Welcome to the beautiful state of Colorado, a place known for its breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, and friendly people. In this travel guide, we’ll explore some of the best restaurants in Colorado that are sure to satisfy any food lover’s cravings. From elegant fine dining to casual, down-to-earth eateries, Colorado has something for everyone. Let’s dive into a culinary journey that you won’t soon forget!
Denver: A Thriving Food Scene
As the capital of Colorado and its largest city, Denver is a hub of culinary innovation and variety. Here, you’ll find a range of dining experiences to suit every taste and budget.
Acorn
Located in the trendy RiNo (River North) neighborhood, Acorn is an acclaimed restaurant housed within The Source, an artisan food market. Offering an eclectic, contemporary American menu, Acorn is known for its wood-fired dishes and creative small plates. Don’t miss the oak-grilled artichoke or the shrimp and grits!
Root Down
Root Down is a popular farm-to-table eatery with an emphasis on locally-sourced, organic ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring the freshest and most delicious flavors. With a cozy atmosphere and stunning city views, Root Down is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special night out with friends.
Boulder: A Culinary Haven for Foodies
Just a short drive from Denver, Boulder is a city known for its natural beauty and thriving food scene. Home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, Boulder is a must-visit for any food lover.
Frasca Food and Wine
This award-winning Italian restaurant is renowned for its exquisite Friulian cuisine and impressive wine list. Inspired by the culinary traditions of Friuli, Italy, Frasca offers a seasonal menu that is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition. Be sure to try their house-made pasta and indulge in a glass (or two) of their carefully selected wines.
The Kitchen
Located on Pearl Street in the heart of downtown Boulder, The Kitchen is a community bistro committed to sustainability and local sourcing. The relaxed, inviting atmosphere is perfect for enjoying their delicious New American fare, such as the pan-roasted chicken or the mushroom stroganoff.
Aspen: Mountain Elegance and World-Class Dining
Aspen, a world-famous ski resort town, is also a destination for gourmands seeking exceptional cuisine amidst stunning mountain vistas.
Element 47
Set within the luxurious Little Nell hotel, Element 47 offers an unforgettable fine dining experience. With a focus on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, the menu is both innovative and approachable. Enjoy dishes like Colorado lamb loin or Alaskan king crab while admiring the elegant dining room and impeccable service.
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro
For a unique dining experience, look no further than Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro. Nestled at 10,740 feet on Aspen Highlands Mountain, this European-style chalet is only accessible by ski lift. Warm up by the fire with a mug of mulled wine before tucking into delicious alpine classics like fondue and raclette.
Fort Collins: A Taste of Northern Colorado
Fort Collins is a charming college town with a flourishing food scene, offering
a diverse range of dining options for visitors and locals alike.
The Regional
The Regional is a true celebration of American cuisine, showcasing dishes from different regions of the country. The menu changes frequently to highlight the best ingredients from local farmers and artisans. Don’t miss their New England clam chowder or the Southern-inspired shrimp and grits.
Rare Italian
If you’re in the mood for authentic Italian cuisine, look no further than Rare Italian. This cozy trattoria specializes in house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and dry-aged steaks. Their commitment to using the highest quality ingredients results in a delicious and memorable dining experience.
Colorado Springs: A Blend of Classic and Contemporary
Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is home to an array of dining establishments that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences.
The Broadmoor’s Penrose Room
Located within the historic Broadmoor resort, the Penrose Room is the epitome of fine dining. As Colorado’s only Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five-Diamond restaurant, the Penrose Room offers European-inspired cuisine in an elegant setting. Enjoy dishes like Colorado rack of lamb or pan-seared scallops, all expertly prepared and beautifully presented.
Shuga’s
For a more casual, yet equally delicious dining experience, head to Shuga’s. This funky, eclectic eatery offers a diverse menu of globally-inspired dishes, from their famous coconut shrimp soup to the Moroccan-spiced lamb sandwich. With a lively atmosphere and a creative cocktail list, Shuga’s is a must-visit spot in Colorado Springs.
From the vibrant food scene of Denver to the charming eateries of Fort Collins, Colorado offers a wealth of dining experiences that are sure to delight your taste buds. No matter your culinary preferences, you’ll find something to love in this beautiful, diverse state. So, pack your bags and your appetite, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey through the best restaurants in Colorado!