Top 12 Nice Restaurants in Colorado Springs CO for a Memorable Dining Experience

Lola Lin

Lola Lin

July 11, 2025

5 min read

Finding nice restaurants in Colorado Springs CO can turn a simple meal into a special experience. The city offers a mix of fine dining, cozy bistros, and unique eateries with stunning views. No matter if you're looking for a romantic dinner, a family celebration, or just a great meal, Colorado Springs has plenty of options. In this article, we’ll dig in to the top 12 nice restaurants in Colorado Springs CO, including key details about their menus, ambiance, and what makes them stand out.

The Penrose Room at The Broadmoor

1. The Penrose Room at The Broadmoor

The Penrose Room is Colorado Springs' only Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond restaurant. Located in The Broadmoor resort, it offers an elegant dining experience with panoramic views of Cheyenne Mountain.

  • What to try:
    1. The tasting menu with wine pairings.
    2. Tableside preparations like Caesar salad or bananas Foster.
    3. Seasonal dishes featuring local ingredients.

Learn more about The Penrose Room.

The Peppertree Restaurant

2. The Peppertree Restaurant

For nearly 40 years, The Peppertree has been a Colorado Springs fine dining institution. Recognized among the "100 Most Scenic Restaurants in America," it offers stunning views and exceptional cuisine.

  • Signature dishes:
    1. Filet mignon with béarnaise sauce.
    2. Rack of Colorado lamb.
    3. Fresh seafood selections.

Visit The Peppertree's website for reservations and more information.

The Cliff House at Pikes Peak

3. The Cliff House at Pikes Peak

This historic hotel restaurant in Manitou Springs offers Victorian charm with modern culinary excellence. The Cliff House has been welcoming guests since 1874 and continues to impress with its creative menu.

  • Must-try items:
    1. Colorado bison tenderloin.
    2. Pan-seared scallops.
    3. Their famous Sunday brunch.

Check out The Cliff House for menu details.

The Rabbit Hole

4. The Rabbit Hole

This underground speakeasy-style restaurant offers an exciting twist on nice restaurants in Colorado Springs CO. With its Wonderland-inspired decor and creative New American cuisine, it's perfect for a unique night out.

  • Popular choices:
    1. Rabbit meatloaf with cherry glaze.
    2. Buffalo ribs with blue cheese foam.
    3. Flaming cocktails for a dramatic presentation.

Explore The Rabbit Hole for reservations and full menu.

MacKenzie's Chop House

5. MacKenzie's Chop House

For steak lovers, MacKenzie's is one of the best nice restaurants in Colorado Springs CO. Their dry-aged steaks and classic cocktails create a timeless dining experience.

  • Steak highlights:
    1. 28-day dry-aged prime rib.
    2. Bone-in filet mignon.
    3. Wagyu beef options.

See the full menu at MacKenzie's Chop House.

Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant

6. Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant

This charming Manitou Springs spot offers a romantic, European-style fondue experience. It's perfect for couples or groups looking for interactive dining.

  • Fondue options:
    1. Classic Swiss cheese fondue.
    2. Chocolate fondue with fresh fruit.
    3. Bourguignonne (oil) fondue with meats.

Learn more about Mona Lisa Fondue.

Summit at The Broadmoor

7. Summit at The Broadmoor

Another Broadmoor gem, Summit offers modern American cuisine with breathtaking views. Their seasonal menu highlights Colorado's best ingredients.

  • Seasonal favorites:
    1. Colorado trout with local vegetables.
    2. Bison short ribs.
    3. Artisan cheese selections.

Visit Summit's page for current offerings.

Joseph's Fine Dining

8. Joseph's Fine Dining

This family-owned restaurant offers classic fine dining with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Their extensive wine list complements dishes prepared with French techniques.

  • French-inspired dishes:
    1. Duck confit with cherry reduction.
    2. Beef Wellington.
    3. Grand Marnier soufflé.

Check out Joseph's Fine Dining for more details.

Lumen8 Rooftop Social

9. Lumen8 Rooftop Social

For a more casual but still nice restaurant in Colorado Springs CO, Lumen8 offers great city views from its downtown rooftop location. Their small plates and cocktails are perfect for sharing.

  • Rooftop favorites:
    1. Craft cocktails with local spirits.
    2. Charcuterie boards.
    3. Flatbread pizzas.

See Lumen8's offerings.

Royal Gorge Route Railroad

10. Royal Gorge Route Railroad

For a truly unique dining experience, this train restaurant offers meals while traveling through the stunning Royal Gorge. It's about an hour from Colorado Springs but worth the trip.

  • Train dining options:
    1. Lunch and dinner service.
    2. Wine and beer tastings.
    3. Special event trains.

Learn about Royal Gorge Route Railroad dining cars.

Steakhouse at Flying Horse

11. Steakhouse at Flying Horse

Located in a luxury golf club, this steakhouse offers premium cuts and an extensive wine cellar. The views of Pikes Peak add to the upscale atmosphere.

  • Prime cuts:
    1. Tomahawk ribeye for two.
    2. Japanese A5 Wagyu.
    3. Dry-aged prime steaks.

Visit Steakhouse at Flying Horse for reservations.

The Warehouse Restaurant and Gallery

12. The Warehouse Restaurant and Gallery

This downtown spot combines great food with local art. The menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients with creative presentations.

  • Creative dishes:
    1. Colorado lamb chops.
    2. Seared scallops with risotto.
    3. Artisan cheese plates.

Explore The Warehouse menu and gallery.

Final Thoughts

Colorado Springs offers an exciting variety of nice restaurants for every taste and occasion. From historic hotels to modern rooftops, there's something for everyone. No matter if you're celebrating a special event or just want a great meal, these nice restaurants in Colorado Springs CO won't disappoint. Try one (or several) on your next visit to experience the city's culinary scene at its best.

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