8 Best Places to Eat in Salida, Colorado
In this blog, I’ll list the best places to eat in Salida, Colorado, for all those lucky enough to find themselves in this charming town!
Immediately upon taking our first drive through downtown Salida, my friend and I could tell there were plenty of culinary delights awaiting in this little mountain town. But perhaps some of the best foodie towns are those that don’t stick out at you on a map. While New York City boasts its multicultural maze of high rises with rooftop bars and hipster eateries on every corner, small towns like Salida have a surprising selection of cuisine awaiting those who have a taste for adventure and a penchant for discovering culinary treasures tucked away in the most unexpected corners. In Salida, where the mountains meet the plate, a plethora of restaurants await. Continue reading to discover my best recommendations!
Boathouse & Salida Brewing Co.
The Boathouse & Salida Brewing Co. restaurant stands as a vibrant testament to the town's love affair with both exceptional cuisine and locally crafted brews. What sets the Boathouse & Salida Brewing Co. apart is its dual identity as both a restaurant and a brewery. As you peruse the menu, you'll also have the opportunity to explore an impressive selection of house-brewed beers that complement the cuisine perfectly. As for me, I opted into the best combination of tacos and a margarita.
The ambiance of the restaurant is a blend of rustic elegance and casual charm. Whether you're seated indoors surrounded by the warm glow of the wood accents or next to the open-air brick overlooking the Arkansas River, the Boathouse & Salida Brewing Co. provides a backdrop that's as inviting as the flavors that grace your plate.
High Side! Bar and Grill
High Side! Bar and Grill embraces the energetic spirit of Salida, where outdoor enthusiasts gather to fuel up and wind down after a day of exploration. A few steps away from the Arkansas River, this eatery makes for a great place to enjoy a mid-afternoon beer or indulge in a tasty dinner. From mouthwatering burgers and handcrafted sandwiches to inventive salads and shareable appetizers, every plate is a celebration of flavor and creativity. My friend and I went for some drinks and stayed for the crab rangoon, not able to turn down this shareable after reading the menu description.
Mo Burrito
Mo Burrito in Salida is a haven for those seeking a burst of flavor and a touch of culinary creativity. This beloved establishment invites you to embark on a culinary journey that fuses Mexican-inspired cuisine with a contemporary twist, raising the bar for Chipotles everywhere.
The menu features an array of customizable options, allowing you to craft a meal that perfectly suits your preferences. From burritos bursting with savory fillings to bowls brimming with wholesome ingredients, each menu item is dressed to impress. Mo Burrito's dedication to supporting local flavors not only enhances the flavors of the dishes but also reflects the establishment's connection to the Salida community and its culinary landscape.
The ambiance at Mo Burrito is casual and inviting, mirroring the spirit of Salida's laid-back charm. Whether you choose to dine indoors or bask in the Colorado sunshine on the outdoor patio as my friend and I did, you'll find yourself quite impressed with this casual eatery.
50 Burger
50 Burger was one of the best places to eat in Salida, Colorado, so much so that we had to return a second time before leaving the town. As soon as you step into this eatery, you're immediately greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling burgers and the anticipation of a flavor-packed dining experience. This charming eatery takes the art of burger-making to new heights, offering a menu that celebrates the classic while embracing creativity, resulting in dishes that are a true delight for burger enthusiasts.
At 50 Burger, the focus is squarely on crafting the perfect burger. Each burger is a masterpiece, made from high-quality ingredients and cooked to juicy perfection. From the first bite, you'll taste the careful attention to detail that goes into each creation. Whether you're a fan of classic cheeseburgers or eager to explore inventive flavor combinations, the menu offers a variety of options that cater to all taste preferences. After just one bite, you’ll be able to see why this quickly became our favorite place in Salida.
Beyond their stellar burgers, 50 Burger also offers a selection of sides that perfectly complement the main attraction. Crispy fries, onion rings, and other delectable options are the ideal companions to your burger masterpiece, adding an extra layer of indulgence to your meal. However, if you order the onion rings, be prepared to be stunned by how much room they take up on your plate, as they are truly the largest onion rings I’ve ever seen!
Moonlight Pizza & Brewpub
The star of the show at Moonlight Pizza is, of course, the pizza. Crafted with care and creativity, the pizzas are a canvas of flavors that range from classic to inventive. Every pizza is adorned with a medley of fresh ingredients, topped with gooey cheese, and cooked to perfection in their wood-fired oven. Whether you're a fan of traditional pepperoni or keen to explore unique combinations, each bite will leave you craving even more.
If you happen to visit on a Thursday, you're in for an extra treat – half-priced margaritas. This special offering adds a touch of festivity to your dining experience, making Thursdays at Moonlight Pizza an enticing time to indulge in a flavorful margarita while savoring their mouthwatering dishes.
Pizzario
At Pizzario, the spotlight is on pizza. However, my friend and I weren't quite hungry enough for a pizza at the time we visited, so we opted for the garlic parmesan breadsticks that came served with pizza sauce and a homemade pesto that stole the show. This appetizer alone was impressive enough to make it on my list of the best places to eat in Salida, as they deserve the shoutout for their addicting taste.
Chill Salida
There's no better way to treat yourself than with a visit to Chill Salida. Chill Salida invites you into a world of frozen delights. From classic flavors that evoke nostalgia to innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, the parlor's selection caters to every palate and preference. Whether you're a fan of creamy classics or adventurous combinations, each scoop is a taste of happiness that brings smiles to faces of all ages. I recommend grabbing your favorite flavor and going for a walk along the Arkansas River.
Salida Pharmacy & Fountain
Stepping into the Salida Pharmacy & Fountain is like taking a charming step back in time, where the nostalgia of an old-fashioned soda fountain meets the delightful indulgence of ice cream. At the Salida Pharmacy & Fountain, ice cream isn't just a dessert – it's a tradition that's been cherished for generations. The parlor boasts a delectable array of classic flavors, each scoop harkening back to a simpler time when the joys of a sweet treat were savored without haste. From velvety vanilla to rich chocolate, the ice cream at this charming fountain captures the essence of timeless indulgence.
What makes the experience even more special is the atmosphere that surrounds you. The Salida Pharmacy & Fountain is a step into the past, with its vintage décor and cozy seating evoking memories of days gone by. The antique soda fountain and the timeless charm of the interior transport you to an era where life moved at a more leisurely pace, and simple pleasures like a scoop of ice cream were cherished. Not only that, but you’ll also be able to witness the locals making their way to the active pharmacy beside the counter while you eat your ice cream, a charade I’d never thought I’d witness in person.
Visiting the Salida Pharmacy & Fountain should definitely make it on your Salida bucket list, as the environment alone is worth the trip!
This list of restaurants and dessert shops is only the beginning of Salida’s extensive dining options. However, they all made a huge impression on me, making them top contenders for being named the best places to eat in Salida, Colorado. Let me know if you visit any of these while visiting the town and which turns out to be your favorite!