July 22, 2019

Explore Colorado Springs’ culinary scene

Situated at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is home to world-famous trails, breath-taking scenery, and an equally impressive culinary scene. Colorado Springs’ culinary industry has steadily grown over the past ten years, with a net gain of 120 food and drink establishments since 2008. With the largest concentration of locally-owned restaurants in the region, the sky is the limit for both our mountain range and our dining opportunities.

Quantity does not forego quality in Colorado Springs. Developers and investors have invested $675 million in the city center, supporting downtown renovations and local businesses, with several breweries and restaurants driving the local economy. Let’s dig into some of Colorado Springs’ hidden gems, culinary achievements, and notable establishments.

Dining in the Rockies

You don’t have to skimp out on quality time with the great outdoors when you dine in Colorado Springs. A few culinary hotspots with stellar views include:

Cheyenne Mountain Resort’s Mountain View Restaurant has an outdoor terrace that offers sweeping views and a variety of daily fresh selections and expertly prepared meals.
Colorado Springs is lucky to be home to Colorado’s only Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond restaurant: Penrose Room. This traditional fine dining experience includes artful entrees, enchanting views and the food never disappoints.
Take in panoramic views of downtown and be treated to tableside preparation at The Peppertree, dubbed one of the “100 Most Scenic Restaurants in America” in 2017 by Open Table.
Looking for a little spot that packs a big punch? Rudy’s Little Hideaway is a hidden gem with an outdoor patio, serving incredible Mexican food along with fresh air and mountain views.

Restaurants worthy of the gods

Garden of the Gods is a must-see attraction for visitors and a frequent playground for the locals. With all the biking and hiking trails you can dream of swing by some of these fun spots to refuel after an adventurous day outdoors.

If you dine at Garden of the Gods Market and Café, you’re in for a heavenly culinary experience. The eclectic café menu and gourmet food market continues to be recognized among “The Best of Springs” by the Gazette.
A Colorado Historic Landmark, King’s Chef Diner, has been serving breakfast all day since 1956 and is featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives for its super-sized portions and famous green chili.
Your taste buds will be starstruck by Four by Brother Luck’s unique southwestern style dishes and creative cocktails. In fact, the restaurant’s chef was a contestant on Bravo’s Top Chef and Food Network’s

Pitcher perfect beverages

In case you needed more evidence that Colorado Springs’s culinary scene is thriving with local vittles, the region’s culinary expertise extends into beverages as well!

If you’re a coffee, tea or pastry lover, Story Coffee has you covered. This hidden gem is the world’s first Tiny House Coffee Shop and is known for being fast, convenient and most importantly, delicious.
In the realm of craft beer, Colorado Springs’ largest outdoor beer festival, Springs Beer Fest, showcases the latest and greatest in our craft beverage industry. It features more than 50 craft breweries with unlimited samples, live music, and vendors.
Distillery 291 crafts award-winning whiskey that embodies the “taste, smell and folklore of the Wild West” and was recognized as the Best American Rye in 2018 by Whiskey Magazine.
Bristol Brewing Company sends you back in time with their award-winning craft beer. Located in a former elementary school, they brew and serve beer in classrooms with student’s artwork decorating the walls.

Colorado Springs’ culinary scene doesn’t end there. You can even join the Colorado Springs Culinary Enthusiasts that offer adult and youth classes if you’re looking to become a force in the kitchen. There are so many ways to explore Colorado Springs’ culinary scene and our award-winning local businesses.