Is your stomach rumbling after a day exploring Horsetooth Reservoir? Or perhaps you’re simply looking to escape the familiar haunts of Old Town and discover something new? Fort Collins, Colorado, and its surrounding areas are a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. Beyond the well-trodden paths, lies a treasure trove of dining experiences, from cozy cafes to elegant restaurants, all showcasing the region’s commitment to fresh, local ingredients.
This guide is your passport to the best food near Fort Collins. We’re diving deep into the culinary landscape, offering recommendations to satisfy every craving and suit every occasion. Get ready to embark on a delicious adventure!
Defining “Near Fort Collins”: Setting the Culinary Boundaries
Before we dive into the restaurants, let’s clarify what we mean by “near Fort Collins.” For the purpose of this guide, we’re casting a wide net, encompassing establishments within a twenty-mile radius of the city center. This allows us to explore hidden gems in neighboring towns and along scenic routes, revealing culinary experiences you might otherwise miss. To make your search easier, we’ll loosely group our recommendations by geographical direction, helping you find fantastic food whether you’re traveling north, south, east, or west of Fort Collins.
Brewery Bites: Where Craft Beer Meets Delicious Food
Fort Collins is synonymous with craft beer, and many local breweries have elevated their food offerings to match their award-winning brews. Forget basic bar snacks; these breweries are serving up seriously delicious dishes that complement their beer perfectly.
Purpose Brewing and Cellars
Tucked away in a quiet corner of town, Purpose Brewing isn’t just about the beer; their food is a destination in itself. Their curated menu features artisanal pizzas with inventive toppings, gourmet sandwiches bursting with flavor, and charcuterie boards that are perfect for sharing. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed evening. Try the “Prosciutto & Fig” pizza paired with one of their signature sour ales for an unforgettable experience.
Odell Brewing Company
A Fort Collins institution, Odell Brewing Company goes beyond the typical brewery fare. Their menu features a diverse selection of globally-inspired dishes, from tacos to burgers to salads, all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The outdoor patio is a popular spot year-round, and the vibrant atmosphere makes it a great place to gather with friends. Don’t miss their “Green Chili Mac & Cheese,” a local favorite that pairs perfectly with their flagship IPA.
New Belgium Brewing
Beyond its iconic brewery tour and world-famous beers, New Belgium also features a delicious restaurant with food that is creative and very well prepared. With a spacious outdoor seating area that is a great place to spend the afternoon New Belgium serves up snacks, salads, soups and burgers. It is also a very vegan friendly place with many vegan options.
Casual Eats: Quick, Delicious, and Budget-Friendly
Sometimes, you just need a quick and satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Fort Collins offers a plethora of casual dining options perfect for a lunchtime pit stop, a grab-and-go dinner, or a laid-back weekend treat.
Choice Market
While technically a convenience store, Choice Market is anything but ordinary. This unique establishment offers a curated selection of locally sourced groceries, prepared meals, and craft beverages. Their grab-and-go sandwiches and salads are made fresh daily, and their coffee bar is a popular spot for a caffeine fix. It’s the perfect place to fuel up before a hike or grab a quick bite on your way to work.
Cheba Hut
Craving a unique sandwich experience? Cheba Hut is your answer. This weed-themed sandwich shop serves up toasted subs with creative names and satisfying flavors. It’s a fun and quirky spot with a loyal following, known for its laid-back atmosphere and generous portions. Try the “Kush” sub for a classic Cheba Hut experience.
Spoons Soups & Salads
Looking for a light and healthy lunch? Spoons is your spot for fresh soups and salads. They have many different fresh options and soups change daily, offering a big variety to choose from. It’s a perfect spot for a quick bite that wont leave you feeling guilty.
Music City Hot Chicken
A unique restaurant that serves delicious Nashville hot chicken. They have many levels of spice, allowing people to pick how spicy they would like their chicken. If you like spicy food you definitely have to try this spot.
Upscale Dining: Elevating Your Culinary Experience
For those special occasions or simply when you want to treat yourself, Fort Collins boasts a sophisticated dining scene with restaurants that offer impeccable service, elegant ambiance, and exceptional cuisine.
The Cache
Located in a historic building in downtown Fort Collins, The Cache offers a refined dining experience with a focus on contemporary American cuisine. Their menu features seasonal dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients, and their wine list is extensive. The atmosphere is elegant and romantic, making it an ideal spot for a special occasion.
Rare Italian
Craving authentic Italian cuisine? Rare Italian is the place to go. This upscale restaurant offers a menu of classic Italian dishes prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their pasta is made in-house, and their wine list features a selection of Italian wines. The atmosphere is sophisticated and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner. Be sure to try their handmade pasta, it’s exceptional.
Taste of Thai
For an authentic Thai dining experience, Taste of Thai stands out. Known for its intricate flavors and vibrant dishes, this restaurant presents a menu brimming with traditional Thai recipes, including flavorful curries, fresh noodle dishes, and aromatic soups. The elegant setting and meticulous preparation make Taste of Thai a prime location for a memorable evening, whether you’re sharing a meal with loved ones or celebrating a special event.
International Flavors: A Global Culinary Journey
Fort Collins’ culinary scene extends beyond American fare, offering a diverse array of international flavors to tantalize your taste buds.
Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
No trip to Fort Collins is complete without experiencing the Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant. They are known for their margaritas and delicious mexican food. They also have beautiful and spacious outdoor seating.
Jay’s Bistro
This restaurant is an eclectic mix of traditional bistro fare and contemporary American dishes, served in a cozy setting that enhances the dining experience. Known for its intimate atmosphere and live jazz performances, Jay’s Bistro features a menu crafted with seasonal ingredients, emphasizing flavors that are both familiar and innovative. Diners often rave about the carefully curated wine list and the restaurant’s commitment to creating a memorable meal that combines culinary excellence with artistic flair.
Hidden Gems: Unearthing Fort Collins’ Culinary Secrets
Venture off the beaten path and discover these unique and under-the-radar restaurants that offer a truly special dining experience.
Snack Attack
Snack Attack is a cozy spot that specializes in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and other comforting snacks. It’s a perfect place to go if you just want a simple snack that is delicious.
The Gold Leaf Collective
Vegan restaurant featuring many delicious and unique dishes. They also have a great selection of vegan pastries. It’s located a little outside of Fort Collins but is worth the visit.
Ginger and Baker
While technically a bakery, Ginger and Baker offers so much more. This charming spot features a full restaurant with a menu of seasonal dishes, as well as a bakery counter filled with delectable pastries and pies. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great place to gather with friends or enjoy a leisurely brunch. Their pies are legendary, so be sure to save room for dessert!
Seasonal Sensations: Embracing Local Flavors
Keep an eye out for restaurants that embrace seasonal ingredients and offer special menus showcasing the best of what’s in season. Fort Collins’ culinary scene is deeply connected to the local agricultural community, and many restaurants pride themselves on using fresh, locally sourced produce.
Dietary Considerations: Catering to Every Need
Fort Collins is a welcoming city for those with dietary restrictions. Many restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and chefs are generally happy to accommodate special requests. Don’t hesitate to ask about modifications to dishes to suit your specific needs. Most restaurants list if they have vegan, vegetarian or gluten free options on their menus online so check before heading out.
Planning Your Visit: Reservations and Parking
For popular restaurants, especially on weekends, making reservations is highly recommended. Many restaurants also offer online booking options. Parking in Old Town Fort Collins can be challenging, so consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services. Outside of Old Town, parking is generally more readily available.
Your Culinary Adventure Awaits
Fort Collins and its surrounding areas offer a diverse and exciting culinary landscape. Whether you’re craving craft beer and artisanal pizza, a quick and satisfying sandwich, or an elegant dining experience, you’re sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and discover your own hidden gems.
Now it’s your turn! What are your favorite places to eat near Fort Collins? Share your recommendations in the comments below. What hidden gems can people find outside of Fort Collins? Be sure to leave reviews of the places that you visit from this list!
