5 Colorado Steakhouses Visitors Adore Plus 5 That Locals Say Truly Stand Out
When it comes to steak, Colorado does it bigger, bolder, and better. Here, every cut tells a story: buffalo sizzling over an oak fire, ribeye rubbed with secret spices, or a sugar-coated steak that defies tradition.
Tourists come for the iconic names, while locals know the hidden addresses where the real magic happens.
Whether you’re chasing a bucket-list meal in Denver or craving an old-school T-bone served on a paper plate, these ten steakhouses prove why Colorado might just be America’s most underrated steak destination.
1. Guard & Grace: Denver’s Sleek Meat Paradise
Stepping into Guard & Grace feels like entering a meat lover’s modern fantasy. The soaring ceilings and glass drink displays create an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and welcoming – not stuffy like some upscale spots.
My filet mignon arrived perfectly medium-rare with a peppercorn crust that still haunts my dreams. What truly sets this downtown Denver hotspot apart is their oak-fired cooking method that infuses steaks with a subtle smokiness.
Tourists flock here for the impressive raw bar and extensive drink list, but don’t skip the house-made charcuterie board. The restaurant’s name honors chef Troy Guard’s daughter, adding a heartwarming touch to this sleek carnivore’s paradise.
2. Buckhorn Exchange: Wild West History On A Plate
Mounted animal heads watch over diners at Colorado’s oldest restaurant, established in 1893 with license #1 to prove it! The Buckhorn Exchange isn’t just a meal – it’s a time machine to the Wild West, complete with vintage firearms and historical memorabilia covering nearly every inch of wall space.
Buffalo, elk, and rattlesnake might sound like a dare rather than dinner, but trust me – their exotic game steaks are mouthwateringly tender. I still chuckle remembering how my out-of-town friends’ eyes widened at the Rocky Mountain oysters menu listing.
Visitors love snapping photos with the 575+ taxidermy specimens, but locals know to request the limited prime rib when available. The building’s National Historic Landmark status is just gravy on an already memorable meat experience.
3. Elway’s Downtown: Touchdown-Worthy Steaks
Football legend John Elway’s namesake steakhouse scores big points without riding on celebrity fame alone. Located in The Ritz-Carlton, the restaurant balances upscale dining with Colorado’s signature laid-back vibe – I’ve seen cowboys in boots sitting next to businesspeople in suits!
Their bone-in ribeye deserves its own hall of fame induction. Perfectly charred outside, juicy inside, and seasoned with a proprietary rub that enhances rather than masks the beef’s natural flavor. Out-of-towners love spotting Denver celebrities or maybe even #7 himself.
The lamb chops with green chile cheese grits showcase Colorado’s agricultural bounty beyond just beef. Pro tip from a local: skip dessert and order their iconic smashed potatoes instead – the crispy-creamy texture is worth sacrificing your diet for.
4. The Capital Grille: Corporate Luxury That Delivers
Yes, it’s a chain, but don’t let that fool you – The Capital Grille’s Denver location consistently outperforms expectations. The dark wood paneling and oil paintings create an old-money atmosphere that makes tourists feel like they’ve discovered something exclusive.
Their dry-aged steaks develop a complexity that’s worth the premium price tag. During my last visit, I splurged on the porcini-rubbed bone-in ribeye with 15-year aged balsamic – a combination so good it made me temporarily forget my credit card limit!
Visitors appreciate the impeccable service and predictable excellence. Meanwhile, locals know it’s a reliable special occasion spot when entertaining out-of-town guests who prefer traditional steakhouse experiences. The drink list features over 350 selections, making oenophiles as happy as carnivores.
5. Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse: Sizzling Plates That Impress Visitors
That signature sizzle! Ruth’s Chris might be nationwide, but their Denver location delivers a reliable luxury experience that out-of-towners consistently praise. The first time I brought my Midwestern in-laws here, they couldn’t stop talking about the theatrical presentation of steaks arriving on 500-degree plates.
The USDA Prime beef comes slathered in butter, creating that famous sizzle that continues at your table. Their consistency impresses travelers who want a guaranteed excellent meal without culinary surprises. The downtown location offers panoramic city views that add to the experience.
Tourists love the predictable excellence and generous portions. While locals might consider it somewhat mainstream, even Colorado beef snobs admit the temperature-perfect cooking and luxurious sides make this chain worthy of its reputation. Their sweet potato casserole secretly steals the show!
6. The Fort: Secret Mountain Spot With Presidential Approval
Hidden in the foothills of Morrison sits a full-scale adobe replica of Bent’s Fort where culinary history comes alive. Presidents and celebrities have dined at The Fort since 1963, yet many visitors miss this hidden gem just 30 minutes from Denver.
Game meats shine here – the buffalo filet mignon melts like butter with a flavor profile that’s simultaneously familiar yet distinctly different from beef. My Colorado-native grandpa introduced me to this spot, insisting their preparation methods honor both Native American and Western pioneer traditions.
Locals treasure The Fort’s dramatic Red Rocks-adjacent setting and historically accurate frontier recipes. The “historian’s platter” offers a sampling of elk, quail and buffalo – perfect for adventurous eaters. Don’t miss their legendary drink made with prickly pear cactus juice that locals drive miles to enjoy.
7. Bastien’s Restaurant: Mid-Century Charm With The Famous Sugar Steak
Stepping into Bastien’s feels like time-traveling to 1958 – because practically nothing has changed since then! This family-owned Denver institution sports the original sunken bar, vintage light fixtures, and retro booths that locals fiercely protect from modernization.
Their legendary sugar steak sounds bizarre but tastes miraculous. The secret caramelized sugar rub creates a uniquely sweet-savory crust that’s converted even the most traditional steak purists. My grandfather brought me here for my 21st birthday, continuing a family tradition spanning three generations.
Locals cherish Bastien’s unpretentious atmosphere and reasonable prices in an era of increasingly expensive steakhouses. The nostalgic mid-century vibe attracts architecture enthusiasts, while the classic drink(properly strong and under $10) keep regulars coming back. Their twice-baked potatoes should be classified as a controlled substance – they’re that addictive!
8. Columbine Steak House: No-Frills Cash-Only Local Legend
Don’t let the humble exterior fool you – this cash-only, no-reservations joint serves some of Denver’s best steaks without the fuss or high prices. Columbine Steak House looks like it hasn’t changed since the 1970s, and that’s precisely why locals adore it.
The open grill lets you watch your steak cook while standing in the cafeteria-style line. My first visit, I laughed when they handed me my perfect medium-rare T-bone on a paper plate – until I tasted it and understood why generations of Denverites have kept this place packed.
Locals know to arrive early to avoid lines that sometimes stretch out the door. The straightforward menu offers just a few cuts at prices that seem impossible in today’s market. Their steak-and-salad combo costs less than an appetizer at fancy steakhouses, yet delivers pure beefy satisfaction that needs no pretentious presentation.
9. Urban Farmer: Farm-To-Table Flair That Visitors Adore
Housed in the historic Oxford Hotel, Urban Farmer blends rustic charm with modern culinary techniques that particularly impress out-of-town guests. The restaurant’s commitment to local sourcing goes beyond buzzwords – they actually display the names and locations of their Colorado ranching partners on a giant wall map!
Their steak tasting flight offers three different beef varieties side-by-side, educating your palate on how cattle breed and diet affect flavor. During my anniversary dinner there, our server’s passionate explanation of grass-finished versus grain-finished beef turned our meal into a delicious education.
Visitors appreciate the Instagram-worthy presentation and farm-chic aesthetic. The house-churned butter flight with different infusions makes even bread service memorable. While some locals consider it somewhat touristy, the quality and creativity of their meat program earns respect from even the most discerning Colorado carnivores.
10. Steakhouse 10: Under-The-Radar Spot Locals Keep Secret
Tucked away in an unremarkable strip mall in Englewood, Steakhouse 10 embodies the saying ‘don’t judge a book by its cover.’ The unassuming exterior gives way to a surprisingly elegant interior where local business deals and anniversary celebrations happen without tourist crowds.
Their aged prime steaks arrive with minimal fuss but maximum flavor. My neighbor has been celebrating his birthday here for 15 years straight – ordering the same perfect ribeye and twice-baked potato. The tableside Caesar preparation remains one of the few authentic versions in the state.
Locals treasure the old-school service where longtime waiters remember your preferences from previous visits. The bar area features live piano music on weekends, creating an atmosphere that feels simultaneously special yet comfortable. Their drink cellar hides exceptional bottles at prices that haven’t caught up with trendier establishments – a secret weapon for impressing dates.