Looking for the best restaurants in Durango, Colorado while visiting this charming mining town?
Durango is a hidden gem in the culinary world of Colorado’s western slopes.
It is a food lover’s paradise with an impressive variety of restaurants serving up unique and delicious dishes.
From hearty southwestern cuisine to fresh seafood and everything in between, Durango has plenty of great restaurants to satisfy visitor’s cravings.
Here is an ultimate guide to best Durango restaurants to visit this season.
Also Read: 36 Best Things to do in Durango, Colorado
Best Restaurants in Durango, Colorado
Durango offers a dining experience that goes beyond the typical small mountain town fare.
From cozy cafes and brewpubs to high-end fine dining, the city boasts some of the best restaurants in the Centennial state.
Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner for two, a family-friendly meal, or just a quick bite to eat, Durango’s top eateries are sure to impress you.
They are perfect for relaxing after a skiing trip or hiking in the San Juan mountain ranges.
Here are our favorite downtown Durango restaurants – you will absolutely love them!
Chimayo Stone Fired Kitchen
One of the best Durango restaurants in downtown if you are looking for local cuisine of the Southwest USA!
It is located in a historic building on Main Ave and serves excellent Southwest style food in a fun setting.
Their interior features the original tin ceiling from the 1890s and the brick walls.
Chimayo is named after the small town of Chimayo in New Mexico and they use the Chimayo chile pepper in many of their unique dishes.
Their menu is vast and includes tacos, sandwiches, and steak – all cooked in their signature stone ovens.
Their stone fired pizzas are off course the top favorites!
The restaurant is good for vegans too, with several plant based options on the menu.
James Ranch Grill
If you are looking for the best of local cuisine in Durango, head over to James Ranch Grill.
Located north of downtown near the Pinkerton Hot Springs, this restaurant blends excellent food with amazing ambience.
Set overlooking the Animas River, the seating features gorgeous mountain views and spectacular sunsets.
The food is tasty and fresh, made with local ingredients.
Apart from the vast menu and scenery, James Ranch Grill has two petting goats, chicken running the length of the property, and a large outdoor space where kids can run around.
They also have an on-site market where you can buy cheese, produce, meats, and more for a picnic lunch on the Million Dollar Highway!
11th Street Station
Durango’s 11th Street Station is one of our favorite spots to stop for a quick bite while exploring the charming downtown area.
Here you will find a variety of food trucks in the most charming setting – a vintage Conoco gas station!
While the gas station has been updated, it still has plenty of vintage memorabilia and rustic vibes – making it a popular photo spot in Durango.
The most popular trucks at 11th Street Station include Avalanche Bowl Company and Uncle’s Fixins but the trucks keep rotating and changing every once in a while.
You can also enjoy live music here – it is especially amazing at night!
Oscar’s Cafe
If you are looking for delicious food at budget-friendly prices, Oscar’s Cafe is the place to go!
We love their vast breakfast menu – it is the best breakfast spot in Durango, CO.
They have a great selection of classics such as eggs, omelets, breakfast burritos, pancakes and French toast.
The lunch menu is just as impressive with a large selection of sandwiches and burgers.
If you have to wait for your meal, there’s plenty to explore here – from vintage signs and photos to old Coca Cola memorabilia.
Additionally, the staff here is friendly and the coffee is hot.
Eolus Bar and Dining
Another must-try spot is Eolus Bar and Dining that offers a unique and Instagram-worthy dining experience.
It has an amazing heated rooftop bar that offers floor to ceiling views of downtown Durango and the Animas River Valley.
Looking for a cozy vibe?
Request a seat in their brick walled rustic dining space.
The menu features delicious American cuisine highlighting local ingredients – many of which are sourced from nearby farms.
Their craft cocktails, wines, and beers are also top notch!
Eolus is a top choice for couples for anniversaries, birthdays, and other occasions for a romantic ambience.
Frida’s Mexican Restaurant and Cantina
Frida’s is one of the best Durango restaurants if you are craving authentic Mexican food.
The interior is warm and inviting with colorful folk art, and cozy seating.
Their menu includes all the Mexican favorites such as fajitas, burritos, fish tacos, chicken enchiladas and quesadillas – each made with fresh ingredients.
Their margaritas are worth the trip alone!
Derailed Pour House
Derailed Pour House is another Durango hotspot that’s winning hearts with its eclectic menu and vibrant atmosphere.
Combining the charm of a traditional pub with a hint of modern flair, the restaurant is the perfect spot for a casual dinner with friends or to wind down after an eventful day.
The ambiance is warm and inviting, with rustic wooden tables, a lively bar, and often features live music.
The highlight is their giant lit up tree decor that jazzes up the place!
Their menu is a melting pot of delectable dishes — from juicy burgers and succulent steaks to mouth-watering seafood.
Further enhancing the dining experience, Derailed Pour House boasts an extensive drinks menu.
You can choose from craft beers sourced from local breweries to expertly mixed cocktails and a well-curated wine list.
Derailed Pour House has really great happy hour food and drink specials too.
El Moro Spirits and Tavern
El Moro Spirits and Tavern is a favorite among locals in Durango!
Housed in a historic saloon that was once the site of Durango’s most famous shootout, El Moro exudes a vintage charm that is hard to resist.
Its old-world architecture, steampunk vibes, and rustic decor create a cozy, inviting ambiance that sets the stage for an enjoyable dining experience.
When it comes to food, El Moro’s menu is a delightful fusion of classic American fare and fusion twists.
Their signature dishes include the outstanding scotch eggs and the irresistible korean fried cauliflower.
But no visit to El Moro would be complete without trying their unique selection of great cocktails.
Crafted with precision and flair, the drinks at El Moro are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Their bar also boasts an impressive selection of spirits, beer, and wines to suit every taste.
It is the perfect spot to head out on Friday or Saturday night in Durango.
Primi Pasta and Wine Bar
Primi Pasta and Wine Bar is known as one of the best restaurants in Durango, Colorado for Italian cuisine lovers.
This cozy joint serves up delicious homemade pastas, sauces and pizzas.
The ingredients they use are fresh and locally sourced whenever possible.
Their menu also includes Italian-style appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and entrées.
Primi’s wine list offers over 30 different wines from Italy as well.
Their patio seating is also great for a casual meal.
East by Southwest
East by Southwest is a gem among Durango’s culinary scene, boasting a prime downtown location that’s easily accessible.
This chic and upbeat restaurant combines the rich flavors of Asian fusion cuisine with a funky and vibrant setting.
The menu features a diverse array of sushi, ramen, and seafood, all prepared with a Japanese fusion touch.
Their drink menu includes a variety of sake, wine, and craft cocktails, perfect for pairing with your meal.
Be sure to visit East by Southwest for good food and great vibes!
Balcony Bar & Grill
Balcony Bar & Grill is the place to go for views!
They have outdoor seating on their rooftop patio from where you can people watch as well as admire mountain views.
You also have swooping birds eye views over Main Avenue.
The atmosphere is casual and the staff is very welcoming, making it an ideal place for both locals and visitors alike.
This restaurant is known for its array of mouth-watering dishes that cater to a wide range of tastes.
From juicy burgers and savory sandwiches to fresh salads and delightful seafood entrees, their menu is as diverse as it is delicious.
The Balcony Bar & Grill also offers a great selection of local beers, wines, and unique cocktails.
It’s a great place to enjoy a meal, sip a drink, and soak in the stunning views.
Ore House
Ore House is a long-standing establishment in the heart of Durango, making a name for itself as one of the best steakhouses in the region.
Housed in a charming, historic brick building, the restaurant oozes an atmosphere of elegance.
Ore House has the finest hand-cut, aged steaks, cooked to perfection.
The menu also features a selection of fresh seafood, hearty sides, and inventive appetizers.
Ore House is a great choice for couples looking to celebrate special occasions.
Steamworks Brewing Company
Steamworks Brewing Company is a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts in Durango.
This buzzing local hotspot serves a range of house-brewed beers, from light lagers to rich stouts, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every beer lover’s taste.
The vibe at Steamworks is both lively and relaxed, making it a favorite hangout for locals and visitors alike.
Steamworks is also one of the best dog friendly restaurants Durango and they welcome four-legged friends in their outdoor patio area.
This space is perfect for enjoying a chilled pint on a sunny day, with plenty of seating and the bonus of being able to bring along your furry companion.
Their menu complements their beers perfectly, offering hearty pub fare such as burgers, pizzas, and wings.
Whether you’re a die-hard beer aficionado or just looking for a fun, laid-back great atmosphere, Steamworks Brewing Company is a Durango destination worth checking out.
The Yellow Carrot Restaurant
The Yellow Carrot Restaurant in Durango is a great dining spot.
This unique eatery is beloved for its emphasis on fusion cuisine, blending influences from different culinary traditions.
The atmosphere is both intimate and upscale, with a decor and ambiance that is both chic and warm.
The Yellow Carrot’s menu features a variety of dishes, but they are perhaps best known for their innovative takes on classic entrees.
In addition, they offer a selection of vegan and gluten-free options.
Their bakery has delicious desserts.
College Drive Cafe
College Drive Cafe, located on College Dr, is the local favorite in Durango, CO.
The cafe is known for its breakfast and lunch fare, featuring an array of classic dishes with a modern twist.
From bacon-avocado omelets to chorizo burritos, their menu offers something for everyone.
College Drive Cafe also serves up some amazing coffee and espresso drinks that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning coffee connoisseur.
Their cozy atmosphere makes this cafe the perfect spot for catching up with friends over some tasty food and drinks.
There are many amazing restaurants near Durango CO to grab a bite on your next ski trip or summer family vacation.
Did you like our list of best restaurants in Durango, CO? Which is your favorite Durango restaurant? Let us know below.