Colorado Springs is rapidly evolving, transforming from a historical military hub into a vibrant city known for its stunning natural beauty, burgeoning arts scene, and perhaps most excitingly, its impressive culinary renaissance. For any traveler or local wondering What To Eat In Colorado Springs, the options now span far beyond the expected, offering everything from sophisticated fine dining and innovative modern cuisine to authentic international flavors and beloved local comfort food.
This guide dives deep into the diverse gastronomic landscape of the Springs, helping you navigate its best eateries and uncover the stories behind the dishes that define this dynamic city’s food scene. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey that connects you not just to incredible food, but to the culture, history, and spirit of Colorado Springs itself. If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide on what to eat colorado springs, you’ve come to the right place.
A Taste of El Salvador at Monse’s
Stepping into Monse’s Taste of El Salvador feels less like entering a restaurant and more like arriving at a warm, lively backyard gathering. Located in the charming Old Colorado City, this family-owned treasure captures the essence of Salvadoran hospitality and cuisine. The atmosphere is genuinely laid-back, complete with Latin American music filling the air and a patio inviting you to relax in lawn chairs. It’s the kind of place where you instantly feel welcome.
The menu is a celebration of authentic Salvadoran dishes, featuring favorites like savory arepas, perfectly steamed tamales, and crispy flautas. But the undisputed star is the pupusa. These thick, handmade corn tortillas, lovingly stuffed with fillings such as gooey cheese, seasoned pork (chicharrón), or beans, are served piping hot. Each order comes with traditional accompaniments: house-made curtido (a tangy, slightly fermented cabbage slaw) and a vibrant, spicy tomato salsa.
Alongside your pupusas, you can choose from delicious sides like sweet fried plantains, garlicky yucca fries, Mexican street corn, or Spanish rice. The portions are generous, the prices are incredibly reasonable, and the margaritas pack a punch – perhaps plan on an Uber! Monse’s offers a truly authentic experience, showcasing how simple ingredients, prepared with care, can create profoundly satisfying dishes rooted in cultural tradition.
Plates of food at Monse
Four by Brother Luck: Southwestern Innovation
Chef Brother Luck, a James Beard nominee known for his appearances on Chopped and Beat Bobby Flay, has made a significant mark on the Colorado Springs dining scene with Four by Brother Luck. Since 2017, this restaurant has been a beacon of modern American cuisine heavily influenced by the cultural heritage and ingredients of the American Southwest. Chef Luck’s approach is strategic, balancing bold, distinct flavors with innovative techniques, often highlighting locally sourced produce and proteins.
A meal here is an exploration. You might start with the blue cornbread, elevated with wojapi (a traditional berry sauce), Pueblo chile, honey, and crema – a dish that beautifully marries indigenous ingredients with contemporary flair. Main courses might feature perfectly cooked halibut fillet, brightened by a mango jalapeño relish and served with creamy mashed plantain and a delicate coconut tuile. The dishes are not just food; they are compositions designed to tell a story of the Southwest.
If you opt for the wine pairing, expect selections that are thoughtfully chosen to accentuate the unique notes in each plate, like a sauvignon blanc whose guava hints perfectly complement the mango in the halibut. And for a truly memorable, albeit secretive, experience, inquire about how the vanilla dippin’ dots for the root beer flan are made – you might just get a behind-the-scenes peek and even a chance to try making them yourself. Four by Brother Luck is where culinary artistry meets regional identity, offering a refined answer to the question of what to eat in Colorado Springs for a special occasion.
Ephemera: The Hidden Culinary Gem
Imagine discovering a five-course tasting menu experience tucked away inside a bustling food hall. That’s the delightful surprise awaiting you at Ephemera. Located beneath a greenhouse-style roof on the second floor of Coati, Ephemera offers an experimental, prix-fixe dining journey focused entirely on seasonal and local ingredients. The very name “Ephemera” suggests something fleeting, temporary – perfectly reflecting a menu that changes almost daily based on what’s fresh and available.
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The dedication to locality is profound. During one visit, a featured cocktail was crafted with apricots picked just that afternoon from a nearby tree. The ever-evolving menu might present unexpected delights like a refreshing cauliflower gazpacho with pumpernickel, kale, and green apple, or a sophisticated herb pork tenderloin paired with a macadamia-asparagus salsa, carrot kraut, cherries, and quinoa.
While the tasting menu is the highlight, Ephemera also offers a limited à la carte menu and a three-treat dessert flight, providing options for different levels of culinary adventure. This is a place for those who seek discovery and appreciate the connection between plate and place, making it a compelling answer to finding unique experiences and what to eat in Colorado Springs.
Tacos from Ephemera
Sushi Row: Modern Asian Flavors
For lovers of Japanese cuisine and creative cocktails, Sushi Row is a downtown destination that promises both style and substance. The ambiance is immediately appealing: moody lighting, polished live wood tables, exposed brick, and a striking firewall on the patio create a chic and contemporary setting perfect for a date night or an evening out with friends. However, it’s the food and drink that truly set Sushi Row apart.
The menu features creative sushi rolls that push boundaries, along with classic, melt-in-your-mouth sashimi and nigiri. Don’t miss the hot plates, such as the crispy karaage fried chicken. For an indulgent roll, the Surf & Turf, featuring spicy crab, cucumber, tempura shrimp, A5 wagyu beef, jalapeño, and a balsamic reduction, is a standout.
The miso black cod, marinated for three days to intensify its rich flavor, is another highly recommended dish. Sushi Row’s craft cocktail list is equally inventive, offering playful takes on classics like the Matcha-rita. For something light and refreshing, try the Tokyo 23, a blend of gin, yuzu, shiso, and sake. Sushi Row adds a sophisticated Asian flair to the list of what to eat in Colorado Springs.
MacKenzie’s Chop House: A Classic Steakhouse Experience
Since opening in 1997, MacKenzie’s Chop House has been a cornerstone of the fine dining scene in Colorado Springs, embodying the timeless elegance of a classic American steakhouse. The interior features rich wood-paneled walls, comfortable leather booths, and historical black-and-white photographs that transport you back in time, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.
While renowned for its tender filets and robust ribeyes, MacKenzie’s also boasts a surprisingly diverse selection of seafood options, flown in daily to ensure peak freshness. Their weekly specials, like crab-stuffed mushrooms or short rib ravioli, keep the menu exciting for regulars. Complementing the impressive food offerings is an extensive wine list, which can be explored at the intimate bar area – a perfect spot for pre-dinner drinks or a relaxing nightcap. And take a tip from the locals: whatever you do, do not pass up the ciabatta bread served at the table. It’s simple, yet unforgettable. MacKenzie’s offers a taste of refined tradition when considering what to eat in Colorado Springs.
Scallops from MacKenzie
Shuga’s: Eclectic Global Comfort
Nestled within a historic home just south of downtown, Shuga’s exudes an effortlessly eclectic and inviting vibe. The restaurant’s charm is matched by a menu that draws inspiration from culinary traditions around the globe, resulting in a collection of dishes that feel both unique and comforting.
One signature dish that has garnered a loyal following is the Brazilian coconut shrimp soup – a flavorful bowl with just the right amount of heat, balanced by rich coconut milk and bright, fresh herbs. Stop by during happy hour to sample another favorite: the sake-ginger fried chicken, served with marinated cucumber. Shuga’s is also ideal for sharing, with a selection of small plates and shareable bites like bruschetta topped with roasted grapes, goat cheese, and rosemary, or the generous Mully’s Picnic charcuterie board.
To complement your meal, choose from their signature cocktails, often served in carafes perfect for groups, or explore their array of nonalcoholic sips, from lavender lemonade to a coconut ginger fizz. Shuga’s provides a cozy, globally-inspired answer to what to eat in Colorado Springs for a relaxed meal.
Till Neighborhood Bistro & Bar: A European Escape
If you’re dreaming of a European getaway but can’t hop across the pond, Till Neighborhood Bistro & Bar offers a convincing escape right here in Colorado Springs. This stylish eatery captures the relaxed charm of a European sidewalk cafe, making you feel instantly transported. The interior design, featuring rustic wood furnishings, brown leather chairs, soft lighting, and fresh flowers on every table, is chic yet entirely unpretentious, creating a space that feels like a mini-vacation.
The menu at Till, though concise, prioritizes quality and the use of locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. Each dish reflects a commitment to freshness and flavor. Visit in late summer, for example, and you’ll find the sweet influence of Palisade peaches featured prominently. A highlight might be the beef short rib stroganoff, elevated with mushrooms sourced from Microvora, a local Springs farm.
To cap off your meal, explore the seasonal cocktail menu, which features creative concoctions like the Fireside Date, a warm blend of tequila, rum, amaro, and sherry finished with a Medjool date. Till offers a sophisticated, locally-focused dining experience that brings a touch of European elegance to what to eat in Colorado Springs. For those considering colorado vacation packages all inclusive, a meal at Till offers a refined local experience.
A plate of food from Till, accompanied by a cocktail and a vase of flowers.
The Rabbit Hole: An Underground Adventure
True hidden gems are often hard to find, and The Rabbit Hole takes this quite literally. To reach this trendy subterranean restaurant, you must locate a seemingly out-of-place red British-style phone booth on Kiowa Street and descend the stairs within. Housed in a former morgue, this unique spot is inspired by Alice in Wonderland, blending a nod to classic literature with serious culinary creativity. The result is a whimsical yet sophisticated dining experience.
The menu features modern American fare with playful twists. Standouts include a rich, bacon-wrapped rabbit meatloaf, served with a sweet and smoky honey chipotle demi-glace, classic mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, and fresh herbs. The truffle mac and cheese strikes a perfect balance between comforting indulgence and gourmet refinement. Given the “mad” theme, the cocktail program is, predictably, quite imaginative.
The signature White Rabbit martini, made with vanilla vodka, coconut rum, and cream, topped with a flaming marshmallow, is as theatrical as it is delicious. Just be careful – one too many might have you feeling like you’re running late for a very important date. The Rabbit Hole offers an unforgettable, uniquely themed answer to what to eat in Colorado Springs for dinner.
Summit: Fine Dining at The Broadmoor
The Broadmoor resort is synonymous with luxury, and its French-American bistro, Summit, certainly lives up to that reputation. Even among the resort’s array of fine dining options, Summit stands out, earning four stars on Forbes’ highly sought-after luxury travel guide. Known for its seasonal tasting menus, Summit offers a refined culinary journey. The winter tasting menu might focus on the luxurious truffle, featuring dishes like truffle risotto and a decadent chocolate truffle cake.
Beyond the tasting menu, the à la carte options highlight a commitment to quality ingredients, many sourced locally. A crispy duck confit tostada is elevated with Pueblo chile mole and peach brûlée, blending textures and regional flavors. Discover local Colorado produce and proteins in dishes like striped bass from Alamosa paired with Olathe corn, or pan-seared salmon served with local asparagus, caviar, and a light lemon butter sauce that allows the fresh fish to shine.
If you have room for dessert, the matcha lavender mousse is a must-try. Ask your server for a pairing recommendation from Summit’s extensive cellar, featuring over 500 international wines, to perfectly complement your final course. For those seeking an upscale experience, Summit is a premier choice for what to eat in Colorado Springs. Couples considering colorado honeymoon packages will find Summit an exquisite dining option.
The interior of Summit, featuring dining tables and large chandeliers.
Atmosphere Gastropub: Elevated Comfort
Atmosphere Gastropub lives up to its name, providing an inviting and relaxed setting perfect for unwinding after a busy day exploring Colorado Springs or celebrating with friends. This spot offers the comfortable feel of a neighborhood grill but elevates its menu beyond typical pub fare. It’s approachable without being simplistic, offering sophisticated twists on comfort food classics.
Their menu features elevated dishes such as decadent lobster tater tots and a gourmet burger topped with smoky bacon jam, taking familiar concepts and giving them a refined touch. The drink list is equally impressive, featuring a collection of signature cocktails alongside a carefully curated selection of craft beers from across the region and beyond. On any given visit, you might find highly-regarded drafts from breweries like Russian River Brewing or Block 15 Brewing. Atmosphere Gastropub provides a great option for enjoying well-crafted food and drinks in a casual, friendly environment when deciding what to eat in Colorado Springs.
Golden Bee Gastropub: A Piece of British History
Walking into the Golden Bee Gastropub at The Broadmoor is an experience steeped in history and authenticity. This isn’t just a pub designed to look British; it is a British pub. The entire establishment, from its rich wood-paneled walls and brass fixtures to its very soul, was meticulously disassembled in England in 1961 and shipped piece by piece across the Atlantic to be reassembled on the grounds of The Broadmoor. The result is a space that feels genuinely transported from another era and place.
The atmosphere is lively and convivial, enhanced by nightly piano sing-alongs where patrons join in. The friendly servers sometimes even gift embroidered bee patches as souvenirs, adding a touch of whimsy. The food adheres to classic, hearty British pub fare designed to stick to your ribs. Menu staples include perfectly battered fish and chips, rich Guinness short rib stew, and traditional bangers and mash.
To drink, guests can choose from an impressive selection of international beers and ales, famously served in signature half-yard and yard-long glasses. Interestingly, the Golden Bee holds a unique place in history as the spot where former President George W. Bush reportedly had his last alcoholic drink. He later returned to sign a bottle of wine, which is now displayed in The Broadmoor’s lobby. The Golden Bee offers a truly unique historical and cultural dining experience when exploring what to eat in Colorado Springs.
Plates of food, including fish and chips and chicken skewers, at the Golden Bee.
Grand View: Dining with a View
Perched within the luxurious Garden of the Gods Resort and Club, the Grand View offers a dining experience where the food is as spectacular as the scenery. Following a recent renovation, the restaurant boasts a brand-new bar, an expansive dining room, and a modern terrace dotted with fire pits that offer unparalleled views of Pikes Peak and the iconic red rock formations of Garden of the Gods. The name “Grand View” is certainly earned.
The menu has also been completely revamped, presenting dinner entrées that are both refined and inviting. Consider the seared salmon, served with flavorful crab fried rice, spring peas, toasted almonds, and a luscious crab butter – a dish that combines textures and rich flavors. The seared diver scallops, accompanied by creamed corn, spicy andouille sausage, pickled peppers, and a whole-grain mustard-butter sauce, offer another compelling option.
The sommelier is available to guide you through the extensive wine list, ensuring a perfect pairing for your meal. Alternatively, explore the bar menu for specialty cocktails like the GoG old fashioned, featuring Milam & Green Port Finished Rye Whiskey, amaro, and plum bitters. Grand View provides a truly elevated answer to what to eat in Colorado Springs, especially when seeking a meal with a breathtaking backdrop.
Blk Mgk: Coffee, Brunch, and Beyond
Adding a touch of modern cool to the downtown area, Blk Mgk (pronounced “Black Magic”) opened inside the historic Mining Exchange Hotel. This isn’t just a coffee shop; it’s a full-service coffee bar and restaurant that takes its brews and its bites seriously. Blk Mgk proudly serves locally roasted beans from Hold Fast Coffee Co., crafting creative coffee concoctions that go beyond the standard. Imagine a banana s’more latte, made with espresso, steamed graham cracker whole milk, Banana Reàl syrup, and dark chocolate, garnished with a toasted marshmallow – it’s a dessert and a coffee in one.
Beyond the impressive coffee program, Blk Mgk offers a selection of elevated breakfast and lunch bites perfect for a morning fuel-up or a midday meal. Try the sourdough toast topped with English pea hummus, fresh asparagus, quinoa, hot honey, and arugula for a savory and wholesome option. For those with a sweet tooth, the toasted slice of brioche smothered in whipped ricotta, coffee cream, and cocoa is pure indulgence. Blk Mgk brings a contemporary, high-quality option to the table for those wondering what to eat in Colorado Springs for breakfast or lunch, blending expert coffee craft with innovative light fare.
Plates of sandwiches at Blk Mgk.
Red Leg Brewing Company: Brews and Food Trucks
For a more casual and community-focused dining and drinking experience, head to Red Leg Brewing Company. Located conveniently near Garden of the Gods, this brewery is not just about the beer; it’s a hub for some of the Springs’ best food trucks. This creates a dynamic environment where you can pair Red Leg’s locally brewed IPAs, lagers, and stouts with a variety of culinary delights from rotating vendors.
You might find Chef Bob’s Lobstah Trap serving overflowing lobster rolls that pair perfectly with a crisp IPA, or the PH Burger Bunker offering bourbon-glazed portobello burgers that complement an amber lager. Sweet tooth? Grab an oatmeal pastry stout to enjoy with a snickerdoodle from Sasquatch Cookies. Red Leg embraces the Colorado outdoor lifestyle with a sprawling, partially dog-friendly patio where local musicians often play in the summer and impromptu games of cornhole are a common sight year-round.
It’s a relaxed, fun spot that offers a taste of local craft beer culture and diverse casual eats, adding a lively dimension to what to eat in Colorado Springs. For those interested in combining outdoor activities with their dining plans, Red Leg is an ideal stop. If you’re planning a trip that might involve activities like skiing, checking out all inclusive ski packages colorado could be helpful, perhaps followed by a visit to Red Leg upon your return.
The Warehouse: Rocky Mountain Cuisine & Art
Steeped in Colorado history and personal legacy, The Warehouse restaurant is run by a dedicated husband-and-wife duo out of a building that once served as a storage facility for both local miners and wealthy guests of The Broadmoor. The building’s history is palpable, and the restaurant is also a significant part of Chef James Africano’s story – he worked there for years before eventually returning to purchase it. This deep connection to the place influences the dining experience, making it feel both sophisticated and genuinely approachable.
The menu at The Warehouse offers a creative take on Rocky Mountain cuisine, focusing on regional ingredients and flavors. Notable dishes often include wild game, such as the hearty wild boar and Pueblo green chile stew, elk strip loin, or bison ribeye. These dishes celebrate the landscape and its bounty.
After your meal, take some time to explore the adjoining art gallery, which adds another layer to the cultural experience offered by the restaurant. The Warehouse is a place where history, art, and regional cuisine intersect, offering a unique and flavorful perspective on what to eat in Colorado Springs. For a broader look at dining options, exploring what are the best places to eat in colorado springs can provide even more ideas.
Colorado Springs’ culinary scene is as dynamic and diverse as its landscape. From hidden tasting menus and historic steakhouses to authentic international bites and breweries with food trucks, the city offers a wealth of delicious experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re seeking fine dining, cultural immersion through food, or just a great casual meal, exploring what to eat in Colorado Springs promises a rewarding journey for your taste buds.