Herb Plated: 10 Iconic Restaurants In Colorado

There are a few reasons why we love Colorado.

One obvious reason is that it was the first state to legalize recreational cannabis. Not only that, but it’s home to the first successful recreational cannabis bill in the world.

Another reason is that Colorado has some of the oldest and finest restaurants in the country. If you really want to experience what was the wild west or feast on some contemporary dishes, Colorado has everything and more.

Below are 10 iconic restaurants in Colorado. Don’t forget to make the most out of the state’s recreational weed laws, and take a hit before you go!

For a true Coloradan experience, head to the Buckhorn Exchange in Denver.

Known as the city’s “original steakhouse,” the Buckhorn Exchange has been up and running since 1883. It’s officially Denver’s oldest restaurant. It specializes in meat, meat, and meat, like elk, buffalo steaks, and baby back ribs.

Another Denver classic is Linger.

If you’re a fan of the dark and morbid, you’ll love Linger’s theme. Because the restaurant was once a mortuary, it uses the theme of death in its design, like coffin-shaped menus, church pews as host stands, and beverages delivered to tables in formaldehyde bottles.

The theme may be death, but the energy is very much alive.

The Mint‘s restaurant is set in the oldest building in Summit County.

Inside the restaurant is an iconic bar that was originally a saloon for miners. What was initially Jack Ryan’s Saloon turned into The Mint in 1882 after it moved over to Dillon.

Today, it’s a delicious steakhouse that lets guests cook their own meat on a grill smack-dab in the middle of the restaurant.

Head over to Rifle and get your guns blazing at Shooter’s Grill.

Guns are the theme here, and it’s even more appropriate that the town is named after one. Don’t be surprised if you see waiters and waitresses carrying guns in their holsters, and feel free to bring your own too.

Its theme reflects in its menu, which serves dishes like the Guac Nine burger.

The Fort was built in 1961, inspired by the design of Bent’s Old Fort, built in 1833, which still exists today.

The Fort is another historic restaurant in Colorado that even hosted U.S. presidents. Its western food and old-school vibe keep guests returning for more specialty western eats like elk, bison, and quail.

In Durango, Colorado, lies Diamond Belle Saloon, a true homage to the wild west.

The entire restaurant is on-theme, and guests are invited to feast on American classics like hunted meat, burgers, and bar food.

The beverages are made from recipes handed down over generations. The wait staff here dresses up in wild west attire, and guests can watch the different ragtime performances while they eat.

If you’re looking for something a little more modern but still very much iconic, check out Denver Biscuit Co.

This restaurant specializes in homemade biscuits made with the finest ingredients to make your mouth water. Biscuits are served as bread for sandwiches, french toast, or served with dishes like chicken.

They also have some tasty sweets like the large and in-charge cinnamon rolls.

If you feel like channeling your inner Alice in Wonderland, head down The Rabbit Hole at this restaurant in Colorado Springs.

The restaurant’s theme is everything Alice in Wonderland, with many references specifically geared toward the Rabbit.

Its menu features sections like “Eat Me” and “Drink Me” while serving classic American eats we can all enjoy.

There are 11 excellent restaurants within the iconic and legendary Broadmoor.

It’s a stunning historic hotel in Colorado Springs and never fails to wow guests with nostalgic, elegant designs and exceptional food. The hotel also has a golf course, which once hosted the U.S. Open.

Besides its evident history, a mouthwatering and luxurious meal isn’t hard to find at The Broadmoor.