Northern Colorado’s culinary landscape is constantly evolving, and it’s not just limited to Fort Collins and Loveland. Stretching all the way over to the ski resort town of Steamboat Springs, this region is now home to several exciting new restaurant concepts, each offering a distinct culinary experience.
Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely brunch in Fort Collins, some burgers and fries in Loveland, or a prime rib dinner in Greeley, these establishments promise a diverse range of flavors and atmospheres. Join us on a gastronomic journey through Northern Colorado as we uncover the latest additions to the dining scene.
Agave Underground | Fort Collins
Photo Courtesy of Agave Underground
You can never have too many options when it comes to Mexican food. Agave Underground is the latest installment of authentic Mexican cuisine in Fort Collins, taking over the old Bar Louie spot at Foothills in late November 2023. The space is colorful, eclectic and inviting, with lime green and hot pink accents throughout, plus plenty of seating both inside and out on their spacious patio. The menu has a variety of flavorful traditional Mexican dishes created by chef/co-owner Fausto Felix, from ceviches to rellenos, and tacos to fajitas. And of course, their drink menu is expansive, featuring tequilas, margaritas, mexcaritas, martinis, and even mocktails!
The Grainhouse | Windsor
Did you know we have our very own ski area right here in Windsor? That’s right — you don’t have to travel far to go tubing, skiing or snowboarding, as the man-made Hoedown Hill is within easy driving distance — and it’s officially open to the public this winter after years of planning. And once you’re there, you don’t have to travel far to replenish with a drink or a bite to eat, as Hoedown Hill is accompanied by The Grainhouse, an amazing restaurant and bar with massive TVs and a comfortable atmosphere. Warm up your insides with one of their boozy Warmers for the adults or something off their “Bunny Hill” list, like hot cocoa or hot apple cider, for the kids. They have a curated selection of options on their food menu, including melts, poutine, bowls and salads.
Brass Kitchen & Bar | Steamboat Springs
Photo Courtesy of The Brass Kitchen & Bar
The Brass Kitchen & Bar is a brand new old world brasserie nestled in downtown Steamboat Springs, taking over the spot that once held Otto Pint Gastroteca, which closed during the fall of 2023. The new concept from Chef Ryan Fowler and Co-Owner/Sommelier Paul Underwood features flavors from around the globe made with age-old techniques originating from France, Italy and Spain. The idea is to provide exceptional dishes without the high price tag; Brass aims to be more affordable and approachable, making it the perfect place to fuel up after your adventures on the slopes. They are doing something extra unique, by offering counter service if you want to nibble or sip on something while you wait for a table. And you may have to wait a few minutes, as Brass does not take reservations and instead operates on a first come, first served basis. The restaurant is open every day from 3:30–9 p.m. with happy hour happening from 3:30–5 p.m., when you can get 25% off your total bill!
Avery Eatery | Fort Collins
From the owners of little on West Mountain Avenue, Avery Eatery is a brand new restaurant situated in the historic Avery Block on the corner of Mountain and College avenues in Fort Collins. The restaurant quietly opened in the beginning of January and has since been slowly adding more offerings, starting with breakfast and lunch, with plans to eventually offer supper service. The brunch menu everyone loves at little is officially moving to Avery, where they have more capacity in this new space, which was formerly home to ND streetbar. Avery’s menu features a variety of breakfast options like an egg sandwich, pancakes, and a breakfast burrito, plus lunch options such as a cheeseburger, a turkey club, a chicken salad, and more. The eatery also has a display case of baked goods and a massive bar, which means you can pair your meal with a cocktail, beer or wine — or a non-alcoholic beverage.
Da Big Kahuna Tiki Bar & Grill | Loveland
Photo Courtesy of Da Big Kahuna Tiki Bar & Grill
After the closure of Okele Maluna in Windsor a few years ago, NoCo is lacking in Hawaiian restaurants — until now! Da Big Kahuna Tiki Bar & Grill is a shaved ice and food truck turned brick-and-mortar, moving into the space that was once home to Mex O’Malley’s in the heart of downtown Loveland. An area that was once filled with pinball machines and video games has now been transformed into additional seating — and an updated “tiki bar.” The owners of Da Big Kahuna are originally from Hilo, Hawaii, so everything on their small menu is completely authentic, from the Kalua nachos to the poke bowl and the Loco Moco. Pair your meal with one of their incredible cocktails, which have already won an award for “Best Cocktail” at Loveland’s 2023 4th Street Flannel Fest!
In-N-Out Burger | Loveland
If you live in Loveland, you’re likely well aware of the arrival of In-N-Out Burger in November (or maybe you saw all the cars lined up on opening day!). This is the first installment of this beloved California burger chain in Northern Colorado, and it was welcomed with open arms after a much-anticipated opening date. Conversations with Fort Collins officials began way back in October 2019 for a spot on College Avenue, before In-N-Out ultimately decided on the former Mimi’s Cafe spot on Fall River Drive in Loveland. Grab your burger, fries and one of their delectable shakes from the drive-thru or go inside for the full experience, complete with their iconic red booths, tiny palm tree wallpaper, and workers decked in their classic uniforms. If you can’t get enough In-N-Out, don’t worry — the burger chain filed a conceptual plan with Timnath’s planning department last May, which includes the development of a 3,869-square-foot building with a drive-thru and a massive outdoor patio in the Ladera subdivision!
White Rabbit Tavern | Steamboat Springs
White Rabbit Tavern, the latest addition to Gravity Haus Food & Beverage’s lineup, brings a distinctive ski-in/ski-out dining experience to Steamboat Springs. Located slope-side near Thunderhead Gondola within Gravity Haus Steamboat, it goes beyond the typical American tavern, embodying the communal spirit of this ski resort town. Offering a blend of mountain-town vibes and a traditional pub atmosphere, White Rabbit Tavern provides a casual space for skiers to connect over a shared love for adventure. The name pays homage to early settlers traveling through Rabbit Ears Pass, creating a sense of being far from the ordinary, yet the tavern feels like a welcoming home for all. They prioritize local sourcing and collaborate closely with Steamboat’s farmers, ranchers, and entrepreneurs to ensure their offerings reflect the authenticity of the community. Gravity Haus Steamboat also operates a sustainable coffee shop inside the tavern, Unravel Coffee, which serves sustainably sourced coffee and light refreshments.
Pinnochios Prime | Greeley
From the same folks behind Pinocchios Incredible Italian, which has locations in both Greeley and Longmont, comes an exceptional new prime rib house in Greeley: Pinocchios Prime! The new concept is taking over the old Greeley Chophouse building, which closed in 2022. This cozy prime rib restaurant will offer an approachable casual dining experience, where you can either wear shorts and a t-shirt or get all decked out for a special date night. Pinnochios Prime is set to open at the end of January! Visit Pinocchios’ Facebook page for the latest updates.
Where Will You Go First?
Which new restaurant are you most excited to try?
Comments