Local Food Faves of Fort Collins 2025
We love our kitchen and have stocked it well beyond the essentials. But we get it, eating out is part of the joy of travel. Fort Collins has plenty of great spots, whether you’re craving a juicy steak, a farm-to-table experience, or a budget-friendly burrito before heading out on an adventure. Here are our eight favorite places to eat and why we love them!
Our #1 most frequented and most versatile spot for food—breakfast, lunch, or dinner—is Maggie’s Tacos. This locally owned, family-run taco truck is parked behind Jax on North College, and if you know, you know.
Our go-to? The carnitas burrito. Perfectly seasoned, packed with flavor, and the right amount of messy. If it’s breakfast time, the bacon breakfast burrito is another solid choice. Hot, fresh, and exactly what you need to start your day right.
The perfect road trip stop for grabbing food before heading to Poudre Canyon.
The Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant (aka The Rio) is a Fort Collins classic. And while the food is solid, let’s be real—we come for the margaritas and the cute bartender (one of us may or may not be dating one of them 👀). With 11 fresh margarita varieties, there’s one for every mood. Classic, spicy, fruity—you name it, they’re mixing it. And trust us, they don’t skimp on the tequila.
Since 1986, The Rio has been serving up Tex-Mex favorites and strong drinks, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. What started as a single restaurant in Fort Collins has now expanded to five locations across Colorado, but there’s something special about the OG. It’s the kind of place that feels like home, whether you’re there for happy hour, a casual weeknight hang, or a full-blown Friday night out.
When we do actually eat, we rotate between the fajitas (what they are known for!), the tortilla soup, or enchiladas.
This place is sexy. I encourage you to put on your best jeans and go find out for yourself- date night or dating yourself.
Located on College Avenue, the main drag through Old Town Fort Collins, this steakhouse doesn’t miss. The vibe? Log cabin meets elevated dining. Think warm wood tones, dim lighting, and a cozy yet refined energy.
If you’re looking for a Fort Collins steakhouse that delivers on atmosphere, quality, and a damn good meal, this is it. The steak wedge salad and a pour of one of their 100+ whiskies is worth the splurge!
If you think great seafood in Colorado is a stretch, Jax Fish House will prove you wrong. This Old Town staple has been serving up fresh, sustainably sourced seafood for years, making it our go-to when we’re craving oysters, calamari, or a killer happy hour.
If you’re here for happy hour, start with a dozen oysters and a classic Jax Mule (or a glass of crisp white wine).
If you’re feeling spunky, try an oyster shot!
I might have used "it feels like home" too soon. The Regional Restaurant serves hometown food with locally sourced ingredients, crafting a menu of classic comfort food. It’s my go-to spot for solo dining. I grab a seat at the bar, aim for happy hour specials (All-day Tuesday | Wednesday–Monday 4–5:30 PM), and keep it simple—a glass of wine, the Lamb Merguez Meatballs, and a side of fresh-baked focaccia.
Fort Collins sushi is surprisingly competitive. I don’t quite get it, being in a landlocked state and all, but modern refrigeration makes it possible. Jaws Sushi is one of the best sushi restaurants in Fort Collins, located on Elizabeth Street, right in the heart of Colorado State University’s food scene. It’s my go-to spot for lunch or dinner with a friend. I start with the Chum Bucket appetizer, then ask for the chef’s special sushi selection—you won’t be disappointed. Afterward, head next door to Road 34 for a local craft beer.
This is my year-round go-to spot, any season, any reason. The patio seating is a favorite, with fire pits in winter and sunshine in summer. They offer 74 beers on draft, a great burger deal on Wednesdays, and mac and cheese that always hits the spot. Plus, the friendly staff makes every visit better. I’m partial to the Tangerine Cream Ale from Station 26 Brewing, it’s sunshine in a glass.