At the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region offer breathtaking natural beauty and a vibrant culinary scene.
Over the past several years, the region has experienced something of a culinary renaissance, with an explosion of microbreweries and a growing number of internationally inspired-restaurants.
Whether you’re a beer lover or a foodie, there’s something for everyone to savor in this thriving community.
Beer Aficionados, Rejoice!
One of the standout features of the culinary scene in Colorado Springs is the remarkable growth of microbreweries. These establishments have become a cornerstone of the local culture, attracting beer lovers from near and far.
Among the must-visit breweries in the area is Atrevida Beer Company, which prides itself on offering “diversity on tap.”
Recently featured on Samantha Brown’s “Places to Love” episode dedicated to Colorado Springs, Atrevida Beer Company offers a unique and varied selection of craft beers that will please any palate.
Another notable brewery in the region is Bristol Brewing Company, situated within the historic Ivywild School. This brewery has not only mastered the craft of brewing but also preserved the heritage of the building, creating a unique and charming atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their handcrafted beers.
Cerberus Brewing Company is a dog-friendly brewery with a fantastic outdoor space and delicious bites to complement its brews.
Goat Patch Brewing, located in a renovated Lincoln Center school, provides a distinctive experience with its creatively crafted beers.
And for those seeking small-batch craft beer and limited releases, Metric Brewing is the place to be. OCC Brewing, a newer addition to the local brewery scene, offers a cozy neighborhood setting in Old Colorado City, complete with a fabulous rooftop patio.
A Flourishing Culinary Scene
While the microbrewery scene has flourished, Colorado Springs’s culinary landscape has also attracted renowned chefs who have made their mark nationally and locally.
Chef Brother Luck, owner of Four by Brother Luck and Folklore, gained a significant following after competing on Bravo’s Top Chef. His culinary expertise and creativity have made his establishments must-visit destinations for food enthusiasts.
Another local favorite, Chef Eric Brenner, owner of Red Gravy, secured his place in the culinary spotlight by winning Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games.
The culinary talent doesn’t end there, as the region has had the honor of having seven restaurants featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, further solidifying its reputation as a culinary destination.
The Taste of Pikes Peak festival is held annually in July to celebrate the flourishing culinary scene. This festival provides a platform for local restaurants and chefs to showcase their talents, allowing attendees to indulge in regional culinary delights.
It’s an event that brings the community together and highlights the diversity and creativity of the local culinary scene.
International Flavors, Rocky Mountain Air
One of the most surprising aspects of the Colorado Springs culinary scene is the vast array of international cuisine.
Despite being the second-largest city in Colorado after Denver, Colorado Springs has pockets of incredible international flavors scattered throughout its expansive landscape.
A testament to this cultural diversity is the “Colorado Springs Culinary Passport,” curated by a local influencer. This passport showcases over 50 countries, allowing residents and visitors to embark on a culinary journey without leaving the city.
Among the standout international restaurants in Colorado Springs is Angie’s Latin Food, where you can savor Latin America’s rich and vibrant flavors.
Edelweiss offers a taste of Germany with its authentic German dishes, while Little Nepal introduces diners to the vibrant and aromatic world of Indian cuisine.
Monse’s Pupuseria brings the flavors of El Salvador to the forefront, offering traditional pupusas bursting with flavor.
Nom Nom Thai invites patrons to experience the intricate balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that make Thai cuisine so beloved.
And Uchenna offers a delightful journey into the world of Ethiopian cuisine, with its diverse array of aromatic stews and injera bread.
Savor the Flavors in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region have emerged as culinary destinations, where local breweries and internationally inspired restaurants have carved a niche for themselves.
This region is a haven for food and beverage enthusiasts with a vibrant microbrewery scene, nationally recognized chefs, various food festivals, and abundant international flavors.
Whether you’re a beer lover, a fan of international cuisine, or a culinary explorer seeking new flavors, Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Photo Credit: [@Rawpixel/DepositPhotos]
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
By day, I'm a full-time Director of Operations, and by night (and every spare weekend), I’m a Travel Journalist. With over two decades of career experience, I’ve mastered the art of balancing business with bucket lists. As a freelance Digital Publisher at Yahoo, MSN, and NewsBreak, as well as a member of the Society of American Travel Writers, I’m here to share my experiences and insight with you. Visiting my home state?—Check out Virginia Trip Guide!