12 Casual Spots to Eat At in Colorado Springs

If you’re looking where to eat in Colorado Springs, at places that aren’t massive chains and have a unique vibe, you’ve come to the right blog.
Colorado Springs is a vibrant city known for its stunning natural landscapes, outdoor activities, and a thriving culinary scene. If you’re a food lover seeking cool, unique, and casual dining experiences, you’re in for a treat. In this blog, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Colorado Springs, highlighting 12 handpicked spots that offer delicious cuisine in a laid-back and inviting atmosphere.
From trendy cafes to hidden gems, these dining establishments will tantalize your taste buds and provide a memorable dining experience in the heart of Colorado Springs.
1. Dos Santos
PRICE RANGE: $-$$
Set within a rustic interior design, Dos Santos exudes an inviting and cozy ambiance, allowing diners to immerse themselves in the vibrant flavors of Mexico. With its successful track record in Denver, Dos Santos Uptown in Colorado Springs promises an unforgettable dining experience.
Whether you’re craving authentic Mexican cuisine or seeking the perfect margarita, Dos Santos is the place to be. Indulge your taste buds and discover the true essence of Mexico right here in the heart of Colorado Springs.


Credit: Markus Borneman
2. Sushi Ato
PRICE: $$-$$$
Sushi Ato in Colorado Springs offers a great sushi dining experience characterized by fresh ingredients, skilled chefs, diverse menu options, a welcoming atmosphere, attentive service, and affordable pricing.
Though it isn’t quite the same level as sushi in Denver and definitely not close to fresh off the coast. As New Englander, I have found the flavor is great Thursday-Sunday and okay other days. Additionally, it’s the only place I haven’t gotten sick.
3. Sahara Cafe
PRICE: $
Though technically off the beaten path in Manitou Springs, it’s a spot certainly worth mentioning! This place is perfect for a nice first date, the food is delicious and affordable.
We highly recommend their chicken shawarmas, it comes with a delectable tzatziki sauce, banana peppers, onions and tomatoes. It’s different, way better than bringing your next tinder date to the 99’s (ew), and opens you up to new cultural foods!


4. 1231 Kitchen
PRICE: $-$$
1231 Kitchen is actually a food truck attached to a local brewery. It’s a different experience, and we love that! The food is so great, always changing, and if you’re not much of a drinker – they also have interesting flavored kombucha.!
Sit down at a picnic table, enjoy your tacos and beer, and even bring your dog. Make sure you order a plain side of chicken for the pup, because they’ll love it too!
1231 Kitchen was one of the first places my husband and I went to before moving here, and my god does it hold a dear place in our hearts. Definitely check it out!
5. The Rabbit Hole
PRICE: $$
Descend into The Rabbit Hole, an underground wonderland of eclectic cuisine, exotic cocktails, and haunting decor. Experience upscale New American dishes, captivating artwork, and a gothic ambiance.
Discover late-night bites, end-of-shift cocktails, and that elusive “something different.” Book a reservation at this Downtown gem for a unique underground nightlife experience.


6. Streetcar 520
PRICE: $-$$
At Streetcar520, dining becomes a global culinary journey to be shared with friends. Their menu focuses on small plates and shared dishes, fostering unity among diners. With fresh and vibrant New American cuisine, we captivate the senses and leave guests craving more.
Experience the delectable food and exceptional vibes at Streetcar520. It’s a place where hugs prevail over handshakes, meals are crafted to bring people together, and the service delights.
7. Turmeric Indian Cuisine
PRICE: $$-$$$
If you love Indian food, Turmeric Indian Cuisine is where you need to go. They offer both casual cuisine and delightful dishes that tantalize the senses. Try a nice warm naan bread, or a delicious Lamb Biryani.
Though it may sound crazy, you NEED to try the Kulfi. It’s a pistachio and mango based frozen dessert that is lightly sweet, refreshing, and has that savory and earthy touch with the pistachios.


8. Yellow Mountain Tea House
PRICE: $-$$
From Immuni-TEA, to Blood Orange and even “Clear Skin” Tea, the Yellow Mountain Tea house has a variety of delicious and calming teas. This is a great spot for a cutesy little data with someone special or even just a cool pal.
They also serve dumplings, steamed buns, shumai and more! Their ultimate goal is to provide a relaxing atmosphere with traditional Chinese teas that soothe the soul.
9. The Wobbly Olive
PRICE: $$
The Wobbly Olive is where great food and fantastic cocktails converge. Their creative, scratch-made dishes are delicious and cater to all ages.
From fresh seafood to handcrafted fruit juices, their experience is honest, real, and fresh. They prioritize quality in food, beverages, service, and ambiance. With a commitment to value, they offer an exceptional experience at a reasonable price. They also have a secret bar with frequently changing themes!


10. Bingo Burger
PRICE: $-$$
Sometimes you just need a little bit of comfort food with some pizazz. Bingo Burger brings you exactly that. Get the Bessemer with “Bingo” beef, thick cut bacon, Pueblo chile jack, sweet potato tots, cranberry BBQ sauce – or the Tejon with Colorado-sourced lamb, goat cheese, sautéed mushrooms, lemon rosemary aïoli.
Easily substitute with chicken, or choose their vegan friendly option “The Happy Hippie” made with a veggie patty, curry spices, Pueblo chile aïoli and more.
11. Frozen Gold
PRICE: $
Excuse me, a COTTON CANDY covered ICE CREAM? Yes, you read that right. If you want a sweet treat, mozy on down to Frozen Gold, where you’ll get a variety of different frozen flavors to choose from. Slam down a Samoa Samoa, get nutty for a PB Puffy, or show that Silly Rabbit that Trix aren’t just for kids!
Perfect for the foodie that wants to show a little something off in their instagram story tonight!


12. 503 West
PRICE: $$
Located in Colorado Springs, 503W is an award-winning restaurant + bar specializing in contemporary American with Asian influenced food and drinks using fresh, natural and locally minded ingredients.
They offer Bushido, which is a premium, ginjo genshu sake from Kyoto, Japan. It’s smooth, crisp, and packs a punch with notes of tart raspberry and watermelon rind. Perfect for on the go, or really just any time.
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As you explore the vibrant food scene in Colorado Springs, you’ll discover that the city is brimming with hidden culinary gems waiting to be discovered. From the trendy downtown district to charming neighborhoods, there’s something for every palate and preference.
Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the area, these 12 cool, unique, and casual spots to eat in Colorado Springs are sure to satisfy your cravings and create lasting memories. So grab your appetite and embark on a gastronomic adventure as you indulge in the flavors of this captivating city. Bon appétit!
Contact Kirsten Hall to book business photography in the Colorado Springs area! View my business photography packages.
Most images here were grabbed on the business’s Google My Business profile.