13 Wildly Unusual Colorado Restaurants You’ll Brag About Eating At
Colorado doesn’t stop surprising you once the skis come off.
Beyond the postcards and powder days, the state hides dining rooms that feel slightly unreal. Places where the setting sparks conversation before the menu ever does.
You don’t just sit down. You look around first.
Some meals happen with vertigo in the background. Others unfold inside spaces that once served entirely different purposes.
History lingers. Atmosphere does a lot of the talking. Every table comes with a story, whether you ask for it or not.
The food matters here, but so does the experience. Plates arrive knowing they’re part of something bigger than dinner.
These are spots built for reactions. For phones quietly lifted. For “wait until I tell you about this place.”
This list focuses on restaurants that deliver more than flavor. They deliver memory.
If you’re hungry for something unexpected, Colorado already set the table.
1. Buckhorn Exchange
Walking through the doors of Colorado’s oldest liquor license holder feels like stepping onto a Wild West movie set.
The walls practically breathe history, covered floor-to-ceiling with over 500 taxidermy animals and antique firearms collected over more than a century.
President Teddy Roosevelt himself dined here, and the atmosphere hasn’t changed much since those frontier days.
Buffalo prime rib and Rocky Mountain oysters dominate a menu that celebrates game meats most restaurants wouldn’t dare serve.
Elk, yak, and rattlesnake appear alongside more familiar options, giving adventurous eaters plenty to choose from.
The building’s original 1893 architecture adds authenticity that modern themed restaurants can only dream of achieving.
Located in Denver’s historic Lincoln Park neighborhood, this establishment has witnessed the city transform from dusty frontier town to modern metropolis.
Servers dressed in period-appropriate attire enhance the time-travel experience without feeling gimmicky or forced.
Every corner reveals another curiosity, from vintage photographs to artifacts from Colorado’s mining boom.
Visiting here means experiencing a genuine piece of Western heritage while enjoying cuts of meat you won’t find anywhere else.
Address: 1000 Osage St, Denver, CO 80204
2. Casa Bonita
Few restaurants achieve cult status quite like this sprawling pink palace of entertainment.
South Park immortalized it, and now new ownership has breathed fresh life into this beloved Colorado institution.
The moment you enter, mariachi bands compete with crashing waterfalls and cliff divers plunging into pools below.
Multiple themed dining rooms transport guests through different Mexican landscapes, from jungle grottos to desert pueblos.
Arcade games, puppet shows, and wandering performers ensure nobody sits still for long between courses.
The food has improved dramatically under new management, though most visitors come for the spectacle rather than culinary excellence alone.
Cliff divers perform breathtaking thirty-foot plunges every few minutes, drawing gasps from diners at nearby tables.
Black Bart’s Cave offers a darker adventure for those willing to explore the winding tunnels beneath the main dining area.
Sopapillas arrive hot and puffy, perfect for drizzling with honey while watching acrobats tumble past.
This isn’t just dinner out with the family.
It’s an all-evening experience that kids remember for years and adults rediscover with childlike wonder.
Address: 6715 W Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO 80214
3. Sushi-Rama
Conveyor belt sushi might sound gimmicky until you experience the quality and creativity rolling past your seat.
Plates glide by in a rainbow of colors, each shade indicating a different price point for easy decision-making.
The RiNo Arts District location buzzes with energy, attracting a younger crowd looking for affordable quality without stuffiness.
Chefs work behind the bar, constantly replenishing the rotation with fresh nigiri, creative rolls, and unexpected fusion creations.
Grabbing what looks good becomes half the fun, turning dinner into an interactive adventure rather than passive ordering.
Specialty items can be requested directly from the chefs if the conveyor belt doesn’t deliver your craving.
Sake and Japanese whiskey selections complement the seafood without overwhelming casual diners unfamiliar with traditional pairings.
The industrial-chic setting matches the neighborhood’s artistic vibe perfectly, with exposed brick and modern lighting fixtures.
Empty plates stack up quickly as the endless parade of options tempts even the fullest stomachs.
Prices remain surprisingly reasonable considering the prime location and ingredient quality.
This spot proves fast-casual dining can deliver restaurant-quality experiences when done right.
Address: 2615 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
4. The Fort
Built as a replica of Bent’s Fort, this adobe fortress commands stunning Red Rocks views while serving frontier-inspired cuisine.
The building itself stands as a remarkable recreation of an 1830s fur-trading post, complete with authentic architectural details.
Buffalo meat appears in multiple forms here, from tender steaks to savory stews prepared using historical recipes.
Servers fire off black powder rifles to celebrate special occasions, adding explosive punctuation to birthday announcements.
Native American influences shape the menu, incorporating ingredients and preparation methods predating European settlement.
The wine cellar impresses even serious collectors, offering vintages that contrast beautifully with the rustic surroundings.
Sunset dining provides unforgettable views as the rocks glow orange and purple against the darkening sky.
Owner Sam Arnold spent decades researching frontier foodways, ensuring historical accuracy alongside modern palatability.
Elk medallions, quail, and other game meats give adventurous eaters authentic tastes of Colorado’s culinary heritage.
The location near Red Rocks Amphitheatre makes this an ideal pre-concert dinner destination.
Trading blankets and period furnishings throughout the restaurant enhance the immersive historical atmosphere.
Address: 19192 CO-8, Morrison, CO 80465
5. Linger
Dining in a former mortuary might sound creepy until you taste the globally-inspired small plates coming from this innovative kitchen.
The building’s past adds intrigue rather than discomfort, with clever design transforming funeral spaces into vibrant dining areas.
Rooftop seating offers panoramic Denver skyline views, especially magical during sunset happy hours.
The menu travels the world without leaving your table, featuring flavors from Morocco to Korea to Mexico.
Small plates encourage sharing and sampling, perfect for groups wanting to experience multiple culinary traditions.
Cocktails match the food’s creativity, incorporating unusual ingredients and international spirits into balanced, Instagram-worthy drinks.
The LoHi location attracts a fashionable crowd, though the atmosphere remains welcoming rather than pretentious.
Exposed brick and industrial touches honor the building’s history while feeling thoroughly modern.
Weekend brunch draws lines, with dishes like green chile pork shoulder hash justifying the wait.
The restaurant’s name cleverly plays on both the building’s past purpose and the experience of savoring great food.
Staff knowledge runs deep, with servers offering genuine guidance through the eclectic menu options.
Address: 2030 W 30th Ave, Denver, CO 80211
6. Beau Jo’s
Colorado-style pizza deserves its own category, and this mountain institution has been perfecting it since 1973.
The crust rises thick and pillowy, strong enough to support generous toppings while remaining tender inside.
Braided crust edges arrive perfect for dipping in honey, a sweet finish that surprises first-time visitors.
The Idaho Springs location occupies a charming mountain town setting, ideal for refueling after hiking or skiing.
Whole wheat or white crust options let diners customize their experience, though both versions impress equally.
Toppings pile high without making the pizza soggy, thanks to careful layering and proper baking techniques.
The casual, family-friendly atmosphere welcomes everyone from toddlers to grandparents without fuss.
Local artwork covers the walls, giving the space a community gathering place feel rather than chain restaurant blandness.
Salads and calzones round out the menu, though pizza remains the undisputed star attraction.
The honey tradition started accidentally but became beloved enough to define the entire dining experience.
Portions run generous, with even small pizzas feeding two hungry hikers comfortably.
Address: 1517 Miner St, Idaho Springs, CO 80452
7. Sushi Hai
Boats literally sail across the dining room here, delivering sushi in the most theatrical presentation Colorado offers.
Remote-controlled vessels navigate between tables, captivating children while impressing adults with the novelty.
The gimmick could easily overshadow the food, but the fish quality and preparation hold their own against Denver’s best.
Traditional nigiri shares menu space with creative fusion rolls that push boundaries without losing authenticity.
Chefs trained in classical techniques ensure proper rice temperature, fish cuts, and flavor balancing throughout.
The suburban location might seem unlikely for exceptional sushi, yet this spot consistently delivers beyond expectations.
Families appreciate the entertainment value while serious sushi lovers respect the ingredient sourcing and knife skills.
Watching boats glide past adds an element of surprise to each course arrival.
Sake selections run deep, with knowledgeable staff helping navigate options from dry to sweet.
The restaurant manages to feel special occasion-worthy without intimidating casual diners unfamiliar with Japanese cuisine.
Reservations help, especially on weekends when boat traffic reaches peak entertainment levels.
Address: 9635 E County Line Rd, Greenwood Village, CO 80112
8. Denver Biscuit Company
Biscuits the size of softballs arrive stuffed with fried chicken, gravy, and enough calories to fuel a full day of mountain adventures.
The line often stretches out the door, but regulars know the wait pays off in flaky, buttery perfection.
Southern comfort food meets Colorado appetites in combinations that sound impossible until you see them on your plate.
The Franklin sandwich piles fried chicken, sausage gravy, and eggs between biscuit halves that barely contain the overflow.
Vegetarian options exist, though this spot truly shines for unapologetic meat and carb lovers.
Counter service keeps things casual, with no pretense beyond delivering seriously satisfying breakfast and lunch.
The Colfax location embraces its neighborhood’s eclectic character without trying too hard to be hip.
Biscuits arrive hot from the oven throughout service, ensuring freshness regardless of arrival time.
Sides like pork green chile and bacon cheddar grits complement the main attractions perfectly.
Coffee flows strong and plentiful, necessary fuel while waiting for your order during peak hours.
This isn’t delicate brunch fare.
It’s bold, unapologetic comfort food executed with skill and served with a smile.
Address: 3237 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206
9. The Sink
Robert Redford once worked here as a janitor, and the restaurant proudly celebrates its connection to the Hollywood legend.
The walls disappear beneath layers of graffiti, signatures, and artwork accumulated over decades of student patronage.
Located steps from the University of Colorado campus, this spot has fueled generations of students with pizza and burgers.
The Sink Burger achieves local legend status, perfectly seasoned and cooked with toppings that complement rather than overwhelm.
Booth seating encourages lingering conversations, with each table bearing its own history of carved initials and inside jokes.
Pizza arrives New York-style thin, foldable, and satisfying in that perfect late-night study session way.
The basement bar hosts live music, adding another dimension to the already layered atmosphere.
Boulder’s counterculture history permeates every corner, from political statements to peace signs covering available surfaces.
Locals and tourists mix easily here, united by appreciation for unpretentious food and genuine character.
The restaurant survived multiple eras of Boulder’s evolution, adapting without losing its essential soul.
Visiting feels like joining an ongoing party that started in 1923 and never quite ended.
Address: 1165 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302
10. Root Down
An old gas station transforms into one of Denver’s most sustainability-focused restaurants without sacrificing flavor or creativity.
Garage doors open during warm weather, blurring the line between indoor dining and patio seating.
The menu changes seasonally, reflecting what Colorado farms produce at their peak rather than forcing year-round availability.
Globally-inspired dishes incorporate local ingredients in unexpected ways, like bison meatballs with Korean barbecue glaze.
The building’s industrial bones show through in exposed ductwork and concrete floors that feel intentional rather than unfinished.
Cocktails feature house-made ingredients and creative combinations that match the kitchen’s adventurous spirit.
Vegetable dishes receive the same attention and creativity as proteins, making this a rare spot where vegetarians feel truly considered.
The Highlands location attracts a diverse crowd, from families to date-nighters to solo diners at the bar.
Composting and waste reduction practices operate behind the scenes, though the restaurant never preaches about its environmental commitments.
Brunch draws particular crowds, with dishes like lemon ricotta pancakes justifying early weekend wake-up calls.
The space manages to feel both trendy and timeless, likely to age well beyond current dining trends.
Address: 1600 W 33rd Ave, Denver, CO 80211
11. Hops & Pie
Craft beer obsessives meet pizza perfectionists at this Berkeley neighborhood gem that excels at both equally.
The tap list rotates constantly, featuring rare releases and local favorites that keep beer geeks returning weekly.
New York-style pizza emerges from the ovens with perfectly charred crusts and high-quality toppings that respect tradition.
The Grandma Pie achieves cult status among regulars, with its thin, crispy base supporting fresh mozzarella and basil.
Limited seating creates a cozy atmosphere, though waits during peak hours test patience before rewarding it.
Knowledgeable staff can guide both beer novices and experienced drinkers toward new discoveries from the extensive selection.
The neighborhood location feels authentically local rather than trying to attract tourists or chase trends.
Simple ingredients receive careful attention, from imported Italian tomatoes to locally-sourced sausage.
Slices available by the piece make this perfect for a quick bite paired with a single exceptional beer.
The restaurant embraces its small size rather than fighting it, creating intimacy that larger spaces can’t replicate.
Regulars know to arrive early or late to avoid the dinner rush, though some consider the wait part of the experience.
Address: 3920 Tennyson St, Denver, CO 80212
12. Switchback Smokehouse
Authentic Texas-style barbecue smokes low and slow in the Colorado mountains, creating an unlikely but wildly successful combination.
The location along Highway 74 makes this an ideal stop between Denver and mountain destinations.
Brisket achieves that perfect pink smoke ring, tender enough to pull apart while maintaining structure and flavor.
Ribs fall off the bone without being overcooked, a balance many barbecue joints struggle to achieve consistently.
The outdoor seating area lets diners enjoy mountain air while savoring meat that spent hours in custom smokers.
Sides like jalapeño cheddar grits and smoked mac and cheese hold their own against the starring proteins.
The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from motorcyclists to families, united by appreciation for serious barbecue.
Sauce options range from vinegar-based Carolina-style to sweet Kansas City, letting diners customize their experience.
The restaurant sources quality meat and refuses to rush the smoking process, even when it means selling out early.
Locals know to call ahead on weekends, as popular items disappear once the day’s batch runs out.
Combining mountain scenery with genuine pit-smoked barbecue creates a uniquely Colorado experience worth the scenic drive.
Address: 520 Myers Ave, Kittredge, CO 80457
13. Zorba’s Restaurant
Authentic Greek cuisine thrives in an unexpected Colorado Springs strip mall location that regulars guard like a secret.
The family behind Zorba’s brings genuine recipes passed through generations, not Americanized approximations of Mediterranean food.
Gyros arrive properly prepared, with meat carved from rotating spits and wrapped in warm, fluffy pita bread.
Moussaka layers eggplant, potato, and seasoned meat beneath creamy béchamel sauce that tastes like somebody’s grandmother made it.
The restaurant’s unassuming exterior belies the care and authenticity found inside, where hospitality matches the home cooking.
Spanakopita flakes perfectly, revealing spinach and feta filling seasoned just right without overwhelming delicate phyllo.
Portions run generous, with most entrees providing enough food for lunch the next day.
The family atmosphere extends to service, with owners often greeting regulars by name and remembering their usual orders.
Colorado Springs lacks the dining diversity of Denver, making this authentic ethnic option particularly valuable to locals.
Baklava provides the perfect sweet ending, honey-soaked and nutty without being cloyingly sugary.
Strip mall location aside, the food transports diners straight to a Greek island taverna.
Address: 4316 N Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80918