Monday, May 22, 2017 / by Kevin Schumacher
Let’s Talk Burgers|NoCo Local Flavor
You know those times where you can’t help but crave a big ol’ two handed greasy burger and some fries? Here is a list of some down-home Colorado started and locally operated NoCo joints that will calm the crave!
CooperSmith’s Pub and Brewing
Well known in the area, CooperSmith’s Pub and Brewing has been located in Old Town Square, Fort Collins since 1989. It is a very family friendly restaurant but also has a pool-side atmosphere that caters to all kinds of NoCo residents. They serve a wide array of burgers personalized to the area such as the Devil’s Backbone Buffalo Burger!
Located at: 5 Old Town Square, Fort Collins, CO 80524
Dairy Delite
Dairy Delite in West Loveland is known for its amazing ice-cream, but believe us they serve some boast worthy burgers as well! It doesn’t get more local Loveland than this place right here. There isn’t a time in the day you don’t come here and see it packed inside and out with local friendly faces and countless families. It’s a spot that has become a tradition for families to continually visit over the years. They are only open during the spring to late summer/early fall months, so get them while they are hot!

Located at: 3080 W Eisenhower Blvd, Loveland, CO 80537
Penelope’s World Famous Burgers and Fries
Located in the heart of Estes Park, this old-fashioned burger joint’s belief is that fresh and handmade will always outweigh instant gratification. Great food takes time and hand cut fries! It’s a great place to stop with the family after a long day in the mountains. The name says it all, “world famous”!
Located at: 229 West Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
Cactus Grille
Just off 4th street in downtown Loveland you can’t help but notice the large alleyway patio and red umbrellas of Cactus Grille. Well known in the area, Cactus Grille originally opened in downtown Loveland in 1988 and bounced around to a few different locations in their long run of service. They specialize in serving Wicked Margaritas but that’s not the only thing ‘wicked’ about this spot! They have really great specials and happy hours! They even dedicate two whole days to burger specials with Monday’s serving $5.88 burgers and Thursday’s Burger Bar where you can top your burger off just how you’d like!

Located at: 119 E 4th St, Loveland, CO 80537
Austin’s American Grill
Bison burger with white cheddar cheese? Sign me up! Austin’s American Grill opened in Fort Collins in 1997 and has since become one of locals and travelers favorites in downtown FoCo. They focus on serving home-cooked style food the way mom made it! It’s a great place to grab a burger for lunch with the convenience of their two locations in central areas of travel and work.
Located at: 2815 E Harmony Rd | 100 W Mountain Ave, Fort Collins
The Moot House
Operated and owned by the same guys behind Austin’s American Grill, The Moot House on the southern end of Fort Collins resembles the style of an “olde English pub.” Walk inside and be embraced by warm fires and a cozy atmosphere. They serve classic favorites mixed with innovative flavors. They cater to all kinds of customers and even serve a Falafel Burger made of a crispy chickpea patty.
Located at: 2626 S College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525
Larkburger
Larkburger was founded here in Colorado and now has 12 Colorado locations and one in Kansas. The company’s belief is simple, burgers that are made with all natural ingredients are the best. From their packaging to their advancements of operating on wind energy, the company takes natural to the next level. Just see for yourself below the results of their craft, and dare say you don’t want one!

Located at: 2539 S College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525
Big Al’s Burgers and Dogs
Big Al’s likes to “keep it in Colorado” from the food to the restaurant decor! Located off Mountain Avenue in Fort Collins this shop brings a small town feel and a big bite of deliciousness! Pair your burger with one their flavored fries. They hand-cut their fries and serve flavors from truffle fries to even dill pickle fries! Also owned by the innovative Moot House and Austin’s American Grill owners!
Located at: 140 W Mountain Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524
The Mainline Ale House
Started by owners of Breckenridge Brewery and Wynkoop Brewing Company in 2013, The Mainline Ale House in Fort Collins serves great beer to pair with great burgers! They suggest their Avalanche Amber beer with their 50/50 Burger featuring garlic aioli and their classic hot’chup!
Located at: 125 S College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524
C.B. & Potts
Originally opened as a “Deluxe Tavern,” C.B. & Potts has been open in Fort Collins for nearly 40 years. Since starting, they have opened up 7 additional locations in Colorado. They serve crave worthy burgers that are just a bit different than the classics, like their Jethro burger featuring crumbled Wisconsin blue cheese, onion crisps, candied bacon, roasted garlic steak aioli, arugula all on a brioche bun. Their weekly burger specials are on Wednesdays with buy one get one half off!
Located at: 1441 E Horsetooth Rd | 195 E Foothills Pkwy, Fort Collins
JB’s Drive-In
Located right off 8th Ave in Greeley, JB’s Drive-in is well known around the area for their outstanding service and all around great food! Founded in 1937 JB’s drive in has become a staple restaurant in Greeley. They serve double and even triple cheeseburgers at great prices. Head back in time and enjoy the drive-up experience and old-fashioned service!

Located at: 2501 8th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631