11 Colorado Restaurants Locals Recommend To Friends And Family
Colorado’s culinary scene is as diverse and breathtaking as its mountain landscapes, with hidden gems tucked into every corner of the state.
When locals have out-of-town guests or want to celebrate something special, they skip the tourist traps and head straight to these beloved spots.
From cozy bistros in mountain towns to innovative eateries in bustling cities, these restaurants have earned their place in the hearts of Coloradans.
Get ready to discover the dining destinations that locals guard like secret trails—until now!
1. The Rabbit Hole
Stepping into this Colorado Springs treasure feels like tumbling down Alice’s famous passageway into a world of culinary wonder.
The Rabbit Hole serves up American comfort food with creative twists that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Their menu changes seasonally, ensuring fresh ingredients and exciting new flavors every visit.
Locals rave about the inventive brunch options and dinner plates that balance familiar favorites with adventurous flair.
The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between quirky and comfortable, making it ideal for both special occasions and casual gatherings.
Location: 101 N Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
2. Shuga’s
Breakfast lovers have found their promised land at this Colorado Springs institution where morning meals are taken seriously as an art form.
Shuga’s has built a legendary reputation on fluffy pancakes, creative benedicts, and portions generous enough to fuel a mountain hike.
Their sweet and savory options cater to every breakfast craving imaginable, from traditional favorites to innovative combinations.
Weekend mornings see lines out the door, but locals insist the wait is absolutely worth it.
The friendly staff treats regulars like family while making newcomers feel instantly welcome.
Location: 702 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
3. Corinne Denver
Sophistication meets warmth at this downtown Denver gem that’s redefining what French-inspired dining can be in the Rocky Mountain region.
Corinne Denver showcases locally sourced ingredients transformed into elegant dishes that honor classic techniques while embracing Colorado’s agricultural bounty.
The thoughtfully curated menu changes with the seasons, ensuring peak freshness and creativity.
Locals love bringing visitors here to prove Denver’s culinary scene rivals any coastal city.
The ambiance exudes refined elegance without feeling stuffy, perfect for celebrating milestones or impressing someone special.
Location: 1455 California St, Denver, CO 80202
4. Mercantile
Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, this Union Station neighborhood favorite champions the farm-to-table movement with genuine passion and expertise.
Mercantile operates both as a restaurant and market, offering house-made bread, pastries, and provisions that showcase Colorado’s finest producers.
Their commitment to seasonal cooking means the menu evolves constantly, highlighting whatever’s freshest.
Locals appreciate the casual-yet-polished vibe that works equally well for business lunches and family dinners.
The open kitchen adds energy and theater to the dining experience.
Location: 1701 Wynkoop St #155, Denver, CO 80202
5. Steuben’s Uptown
Nostalgia gets a delicious upgrade at this Uptown Denver spot that channels classic American diners while elevating everything to gourmet status.
Steuben’s menu reads like a greatest hits album of comfort food—think mac and cheese, fried chicken, and meatloaf—but executed with exceptional ingredients and technique.
Their famous lobster roll has achieved cult status among Denver foodies.
The retro atmosphere transports diners to a simpler time, complete with vintage decor and a jukebox vibe.
Locals bring friends here when they want to showcase Denver’s fun, unpretentious side.
Location: 523 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80203
6. Margot
Tucked into a charming South Pearl Street corner, this intimate bistro feels like discovering a secret European hideaway without leaving Denver.
Margot specializes in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine that emphasizes simple preparations allowing quality ingredients to shine brilliantly.
The rotating menu reflects whatever’s seasonal and spectacular, from house-made pastas to perfectly grilled proteins.
Reservations fill up quickly because locals know this small space delivers big flavors in an atmosphere that encourages lingering conversations.
The knowledgeable staff guides diners through menu choices with genuine enthusiasm.
Location: 1551 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
7. Potager
Long before farm-to-table became trendy, this Capitol Hill pioneer was already celebrating Colorado’s agricultural treasures with reverence and creativity.
Potager sources ingredients from local farms and their own gardens, crafting menus that change daily based on what’s available and perfect.
Vegetable-forward dishes shine here, though meat and seafood options are equally thoughtfully prepared.
The intimate setting feels like dining in a friend’s charming home, with service that’s warm and knowledgeable.
Locals treasure this spot for special occasions that call for exceptional food.
Location: 1109 Ogden St, Denver, CO 80218
8. Simple Eatery
Sometimes the best meals come from straightforward preparations of quality ingredients, which is exactly the philosophy driving this beloved Buena Vista establishment.
Simple Eatery focuses on fresh, wholesome food that fuels outdoor adventures without weighing you down.
Their breakfast and lunch menus feature creative sandwiches, nourishing bowls, and baked goods that taste like someone’s talented grandmother made them.
The relaxed vibe attracts hikers, rafters, and locals who appreciate honest food served with a smile.
It’s become a community gathering spot.
Location: 402 E Main St, Buena Vista, CO 81211
9. Shavano
Salida’s dining scene got a serious upgrade when this contemporary American restaurant opened, quickly becoming the go-to recommendation for discerning locals.
Shavano balances innovation with approachability, serving dishes that surprise and delight without alienating traditional tastes.
Their menu rotates seasonally, always highlighting Colorado ingredients prepared with creative techniques.
The modern space maintains character befitting a historic mountain town while feeling fresh and current.
Locals love having a restaurant this caliber in their backyard.
Location: 113 E Sackett Ave, Salida, CO 81201
10. Red Diamond Gastro Pub
Gastropub culture thrives at this Woodland Park favorite where elevated pub fare meets mountain town hospitality in the most delicious ways possible.
Red Diamond takes familiar comfort foods and amplifies them with quality ingredients and skilled preparation, resulting in dishes that satisfy on every level.
Their creative menu proves pub food can be both approachable and impressive.
The welcoming atmosphere makes everyone feel like a regular, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.
Locals consistently bring out-of-town guests here.
Location: 112 S Elm St, Woodland Park, CO 80863
11. The Fort
Perched dramatically in the foothills outside Morrison, this legendary establishment has been serving authentic frontier and Native American cuisine since 1963.
The Fort offers a dining experience unlike anywhere else in Colorado, featuring historic recipes, game meats, and dishes inspired by the Old West.
Their commitment to authenticity extends from the adobe architecture to the period-accurate food preparations.
Locals treasure this restaurant as both a culinary destination and a piece of living Colorado history. The stunning Red Rocks views add magic.
Location: 19192 CO-8, Morrison, CO 80465