Fort Collins, Colorado, boasts a vibrant culinary scene, offering a diverse range of dining experiences to satisfy any palate. From upscale restaurants to casual eateries, this foodie haven has something for everyone. This guide explores some of the best plates you can find in Fort Collins, categorized for easy navigation, ensuring you discover your next culinary adventure.
What are some of the best restaurants in Fort Collins?
This question opens the door to a wide array of possibilities, depending on your preferences. To answer comprehensively, we’ll break down some of the top contenders by cuisine type:
Upscale Dining:
- Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant: Known for its upscale ambiance and creative takes on classic Mexican dishes. Expect high-quality ingredients and a sophisticated dining experience.
- The Regional: This farm-to-table restaurant emphasizes seasonal ingredients and innovative preparations, offering a refined dining experience with a focus on local produce.
- Coopersmith's Pub & Brewing: While a pub, Cooper's offers elevated pub fare with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients and their own craft beers. Expect delicious gastropub plates.
Casual Dining:
- Ace Gillett's: A long-standing Fort Collins favorite, Ace Gillett's offers a classic, comfortable atmosphere with a menu featuring American comfort food and tasty burgers.
- Beau Jo's Pizza: A Colorado institution, Beau Jo's is famous for its unique mountain pies – deep-dish pizzas with a light and crispy crust.
- Ginger and Baker: A bakery and café, Ginger and Baker also offers casual upscale lunch and dinner options, alongside their famous pastries and bread.
Ethnic Cuisine Highlights:
Fort Collins also boasts diverse ethnic options. Some standouts include:
- Old Town Square: This area contains numerous restaurants representing a variety of cuisines, offering plenty of variety in a single location.
- Various international restaurants: Explore the diverse offerings throughout Fort Collins - you're likely to find options to satisfy your craving for Thai, Italian, Vietnamese, and more!
What are some good restaurants in Old Town Fort Collins?
Old Town Fort Collins is a hub for dining, offering a concentrated collection of restaurants in a charming historic setting. Many of the restaurants mentioned above, like Rio Grande and Ginger and Baker, are located within Old Town. Exploring the area itself will unveil many additional gems depending on your preferences. Look for restaurants offering outdoor seating, a great feature of Old Town’s character.
What are some romantic restaurants in Fort Collins?
For a romantic dinner, consider these options, keeping in mind that ambiance is subjective:
- The Regional: Its refined atmosphere and focus on high-quality ingredients create a sophisticated and romantic setting.
- Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant: The upscale ambiance and delicious food make it a perfect choice for a special occasion.
- Many restaurants with patios: Several restaurants in Old Town, and elsewhere, offer charming patio seating ideal for a romantic evening, especially during warmer months.
Where can I find the best brunch in Fort Collins?
Fort Collins offers many excellent brunch spots, and the best one for you will depend on your preference:
- Ginger and Baker: Known for their creative brunch menu and beautiful setting.
- Many cafes and restaurants: Explore various cafes and restaurants throughout the city; many offer brunch menus on weekends. Check local guides and online reviews for current offerings.
What restaurants in Fort Collins have outdoor seating?
Many restaurants in Fort Collins, especially those in Old Town, offer outdoor seating. This is best determined by checking individual restaurant websites or using online mapping services to review photos and details. Outdoor seating is particularly popular during the warmer months.
This guide offers a starting point for your culinary explorations in Fort Collins. Remember to check restaurant websites for menus, hours, and reservations, as availability may vary. Happy eating!
