Chow Down in Colorado Springs: A Tourist's Guide to Not Eating Shame (Mostly)
Ah, Colorado Springs. Land of stunning mountain views, crisp air, and...well, a surprising amount of good eats! You might be picturing yourself guzzling protein shakes and gnawing on granola bars to keep up with all that adventuring. But fear not, fellow traveler, for Colorado Springs offers a delightful smorgasbord (that's a fancy way of saying "all you can eat") to tantalize your taste buds.
What To Eat In Colorado Springs |
Greasin' Up Your Gears: Hearty Eats for the Adventurer
- Rocky Mountain Oysters: Don't let the name fool you! These aren't actually oysters from the Rocky Mountains (thank goodness). They're a Colorado tradition, and - let's just say - they're a protein-packed way to start your day. Unless you're faint of heart, give them a try!
- Breakfast Burritos the size of your head: Conquer Pikes Peak? No problem. Conquer a breakfast burrito at a local diner? That's a whole different challenge. Fuel up for your adventures with these gut-busting behemoths.
- Craft Beer: After a day of exploring, cool off with a locally-brewed beer. Colorado Springs has a thriving craft beer scene, with something for every taste. Just be careful not to overdo it – those mountain hikes are tough enough without a hangover!
Beyond the Basics: Where to Find Culinary Gems
- Fine Dining with a View: Splurge on a fancy dinner at a restaurant with breathtaking mountain vistas. Think white tablecloths, attentive service, and dishes that look like works of art (and hopefully taste just as good).
- Food Truck Frenzy: Hit the streets for a more casual (and budget-friendly) option. Colorado Springs has a vibrant food truck scene, offering everything from gourmet tacos to melt-in-your-mouth barbecue.
- International Flavors: Take your taste buds on a trip around the world! From Ethiopian stews to authentic Italian pasta, Colorado Springs has a surprising diversity of international cuisine.
Sweet Treats to Keep You Going
- Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory: You can't leave Colorado Springs without indulging in some of their world-famous chocolate. The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is a must-visit, with samples galore and enough sugary treats to satisfy the biggest sweet tooth.
- Homemade Pies: Warm your soul with a slice of homemade pie from a local bakery. Colorado is known for its fresh fruit, and these pies are the perfect way to experience it.
- Craft Ice Cream: Cool down on a hot day with a scoop of locally-made ice cream. There are some truly unique flavors to be found, so be adventurous!
How to Not Miss Out on the Good Stuff: A Tourist's FAQ
How to find the best local restaurants?
QuickTip: Note key words you want to remember.
- Ask a local! People who live in Colorado Springs know the hidden gems. Strike up a conversation with a friendly face at a coffee shop or brewery, and they'll be happy to point you in the right direction.
How to avoid tourist traps?
Tip: Read in a quiet space for focus.
- Do your research! Read online reviews and check out menus before you head out to eat.
- Beware of places with flashy signs and generic menus.
How to save money on food?
Tip: Take your time with each sentence.
- Look for happy hour deals! Many restaurants offer discounted drinks and appetizers during happy hour.
- Take advantage of lunch specials. Lunch portions are often just as big as dinner portions, but at a lower price.
How to find vegetarian or vegan options?
QuickTip: Skim first, then reread for depth.
- The good news is, Colorado Springs has plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants! Look for restaurants with "vegan" or "vegetarian" in the name, or check out online resources like HappyCow.
How to navigate portion sizes?
- Colorado portions can be generous! Don't be afraid to share a dish with a friend, or ask for a to-go box. You can always save some for later!
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