Colorado Springs is becoming increasingly known for its thriving and rapidly changing food scene. With an abundance of unique and locally owned restaurants, there's no shortage of options to choose from. Here we highlight five locally owned restaurants in the Colorado Springs area that are worth a visit as much for their history as for their delicious offerings.
Fargo's Pizza Company
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Fargo’s Pizza Co., founded by two Missouri brothers, is a living monument to pizza in Colorado. The restaurant, inspired by an obscure mountain lore about gambler Fargo and his love Sophia, features authentic Old West memorabilia and wax figures of the pair overlooking the main floor. Established in 1973, it seats 500, occupies 16,000 square feet, and boasts 120 original leaded and stained glass pieces and countless authentic artifacts from Denver and Central City.
Magic mirrors, a pre-computer invention of founder Leon, tell diners when their orders are ready from eight locations visible from any table. Fargo’s serves pizza, pasta, sandwiches, soups, salads, and desserts, and has a bar offering drinks and coffee. Its values include overall image, cleanliness, speed, friendliness of service, price, accessibility, ease of parking, and availability to customers. Its tradition of prioritizing customer service lives on through great management and employees who, as Leon says, “give service” rather than excuses to the public. Fargo’s is frequented by locals, tourists, military bases, and educational institutions and boasts a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
Fargo's has been a staple in the community for decades, and its delicious pizza and friendly service keep customers coming back for more.
The Margarita at Pine Creek
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The Margarita at PineCreek has been a beloved local restaurant since its establishment in 1974. The restaurant is known for its innovative yet recognizable eclectic cooking style, made with the freshest ingredients possible. The staff, with some members serving for 30 years, creates a professional and unpretentious atmosphere for all customers, whether they are locals or out-of-town visitors looking for an authentic dining experience.
The Margarita offers a variety of specialties such as Soup & Salad Lunches, Sit-down Brunch, and Prie Fixe Three & Five Course Dinners, with seasonal entrees that change weekly. Customers can also enjoy Live Music, Dinner & a Movie Series, and the Colorado Farm and Art Market during the summer months. In addition to hosting many local events and fundraisers, The Margarita at PineCreek also offers special wine dinners and culinary events to appeal to the diverse tastes of its customers.
As an independent, locally owned and community-driven restaurant, The Margarita has remained a beloved establishment throughout the years. Whether you're looking for a special brunch or dinner experience, live music, or a farmers market, The Margarita at PineCreek has something for everyone.
La Baguette - Old Colorado City
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La Baguette Café & Bakery, established in 1984, is a must-visit spot for those looking for authentic French-inspired cuisine in Colorado Springs. Each dish is made from scratch daily with locally grown, fresh ingredients when possible. Whether it's a European style breakfast, lunch, or early dinner, La Baguette offers delicious homemade soups, salads, and sandwiches that can be made gluten-free upon request. And don't forget to indulge in their baked-to-perfection croissants and breads, made fresh each morning.
But La Baguette is not just a café and bakery. It also has an upstairs wine bar that offers over 70 by-the-glass fine wines, a dozen imported beers, and a variety of high-quality spirits. Upstairs provides a comfortable and casual atmosphere perfect for relaxing by the fireplace or celebrating with friends and family.
La Baguette's artisan breads and pastries are made in the French tradition, using only the highest quality natural ingredients and prepared by hand. None of their breads have any preservatives or artificial enhancers. You can find their wide selection of artisan breads available for purchase at their store in Old Colorado City, other Colorado Springs locations, and even some King Sooper's supermarkets. They also participate in local Farmer's Markets and beer and wine festivals throughout the year.
La Baguette is more than just a restaurant and bakery; it's a destination for those seeking an authentic French experience in Colorado Springs.
Jack Quinn's Irish Pub
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Jack Quinn’s Irish Pub is a historic pub located in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs. Originally established in 1875, the building has gone through several transformations to become the Irish pub it is today. The pub boasts a unique atmosphere created by exposing the original wood and brick, and adding 100% imported Irish woodwork, stained glass, and decor crafted by artisans from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
The pub offers a full menu of authentic Irish fare and continental cuisine, with banquet facilities available for celebrations of any size. Jack Quinn’s is also a hub of social activity in the community, featuring live music, Irish cultural events, local and national sports, and hosting support for many community events.
In addition to their dedication to providing quality food and entertainment, Jack Quinn’s prides itself on their commitment to Irish culture and hospitality. They welcome children and offer a special menu until 10 PM, making it a great place for families to enjoy a meal together.
Overall, Jack Quinn’s Irish Pub is a must-visit destination for anyone in the Colorado Springs area looking for a unique, welcoming, and authentic Irish pub experience.
The Omelette Parlor
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The Omelette Parlor in Colorado Springs is a well-known breakfast spot with a long history. The restaurant is situated in a building that used to be the home of Ruth Etting, a famous singer from the 1920s, and was later converted into a restaurant called T-Bone Club. The Hackney House, as it was later known, was eventually purchased by the Quintalon Corporation in 1993 and was transformed into The Omelette Parlor.
The restaurant has a warm and inviting interior that gives off a homey vibe. It offers a range of classic breakfast items like omelettes, pancakes, and waffles. Additionally, they have a selection of sandwiches, salads, and other dishes for those looking for something different. The menu is quite extensive, and there's something for everyone, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
The Omelette Parlor has won multiple awards for its breakfast fare, including Best Breakfast and Best Pancakes, as recognized by local publications such as The Independent and The Gazette. It's a testament to the quality of their food and the dedication of their staff.
Overall, The Omelette Parlor is a must-visit for anyone in Colorado Springs looking for a hearty breakfast in a cozy setting. With a rich history and a commitment to serving great food, it's no wonder why this restaurant has become a local favorite.
