Introduction
Fort Collins, Colorado, is a name synonymous with exceptional craft beer. Its reputation as a brewing powerhouse is well-deserved, drawing beer enthusiasts from far and wide. While the quality of the beer itself is undoubtedly the main draw, there’s a growing trend that elevates the Fort Collins beer scene to a whole new level: breweries serving delicious food. These establishments offer more than just a place to sample local brews; they provide a complete and satisfying culinary experience.
This article serves as your guide to discovering the best Fort Collins breweries with food. We’ll explore the places where you can enjoy a perfectly crafted IPA alongside a gourmet burger, a crisp pilsner with artisanal pizza, or a rich stout with a hearty plate of comfort food. It’s about more than just convenience; it’s about the art of pairing, the pleasure of a shared meal, and the vibrant social atmosphere that these establishments foster. If you’re looking to satisfy both your thirst and your appetite in the heart of Colorado’s beer country, you’ve come to the right place. So, pull up a chair, grab a pint (virtually, for now), and let’s embark on this tasty tour of Fort Collins breweries with food.
Why Breweries with Food are a Great Choice
The marriage of craft beer and quality food is a match made in heaven, and here’s why opting for breweries with food in Fort Collins offers a superior experience compared to just grabbing a pint on its own.
First and foremost, there’s the sheer convenience. Instead of having to bounce between a brewery and a restaurant, you can enjoy both in one location. This saves you time and effort, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without the hassle of coordinating multiple stops. It is especially helpful if you are travelling with a large group and have different dietary requirements.
Beyond convenience, food enhances the entire beer-drinking experience. Certain food items can enhance the flavors of a brew. A good pairing is a symbiotic relationship and can amplify the taste in the best way possible. The crispness of a pilsner cuts through the richness of fried food, while the bitterness of an IPA complements spicy dishes. A malty brown ale can be perfectly paired with grilled meat and vegetables. Brewers and chefs often work together to create complementary pairings, elevating both the beer and the food to new heights. Learning about pairing recommendations can be a journey of its own.
Breweries with food often foster a more welcoming and social atmosphere. They are designed to be places where people gather, share meals, and enjoy each other’s company. The presence of food encourages longer stays and creates a more relaxed and convivial environment. It’s a perfect setting for catching up with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a casual evening out. You’ll often find families enjoying these establishments as well, making it a diverse and enjoyable experience.
Finally, choosing Fort Collins breweries with food is a great way to support local businesses. Often these breweries partner with local farms, bakeries, and other food producers, contributing to the local economy and showcasing the best of what the region has to offer. You’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re investing in the community.
Featured Breweries (with Food Options)
The following breweries have been carefully selected because they not only make incredible beer, but offer top-notch food options. The selection was based on the variety and quality of their food menus, the atmosphere they create, the breadth of their beer selection, and their commitment to using local ingredients whenever possible.
Odell Brewing Company
Odell Brewing Company is a Fort Collins institution, known for its consistently excellent beers and its commitment to sustainability. While the brewery itself has long been a beloved destination, the addition of The Odell Brewing Company Kitchen has made it a must-visit for food lovers. The kitchen serves up a creative menu of globally inspired dishes, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
You’ll find everything from wood-fired pizzas and gourmet burgers to flavorful salads and innovative small plates. The menu changes regularly to reflect the availability of local produce, ensuring that you’re always getting the freshest and most flavorful ingredients. Don’t skip the appetizers, which are designed for sharing.
For a perfect pairing, try the Odell IPA with the kitchen’s spicy Thai-inspired noodles. The bitterness of the IPA will cut through the richness of the sauce, creating a balanced and satisfying combination. The brewery’s patio is an ideal place to spend the evening.
New Belgium Brewing Company
Another giant in the Fort Collins beer scene, New Belgium Brewing Company, offers a unique and constantly evolving food truck experience. While they don’t have a permanent kitchen, they regularly host a rotating selection of some of the best food trucks in the region. This means you can always find something new and exciting to eat.
From gourmet tacos and wood-fired pizzas to artisanal sandwiches and creative street food, the options are endless. New Belgium often coordinates with the food trucks to offer beer pairings, ensuring that you’re getting the most out of your culinary experience.
Their flagship beer, Fat Tire Amber Ale, pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. The brew is known for being medium-bodied, so the food pairing must be hearty and flavorful but not too overpowering. The vibrant atmosphere and the constant rotation of food trucks make New Belgium a consistently exciting place to grab a bite and a brew.
Equinox Brewing
Equinox Brewing is a smaller, more intimate brewery that focuses on organic and sustainable practices. Their taproom offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and their food menu is equally impressive.
Equinox Brewing offers a diverse selection of seasonal and rotating dishes. They source ingredients from local farms and producers, emphasizing the region’s freshest bounty. The menu includes a good selection of sandwiches, salads, and creative small plates.
Try their organic brown ale with their grilled cheese sandwich made with local cheeses. The malty sweetness of the beer complements the richness of the cheese, creating a comforting and satisfying combination.
Gilded Goat Brewing Company
Gilded Goat Brewing Company is another establishment to add to your list of breweries with food in Fort Collins. They have established themselves as a brewery that takes its craft seriously. Their beer menu includes a vast list from pale ales, ambers, reds, IPAs, lagers, pilsners, stouts, wheat beers and sours. There truly is something for every beer lover.
Their food menu includes appetizers like beer cheese and fries, tacos, street corn and a selection of empanadas. The atmosphere at Gilded Goat is relaxed and fun, and they make it a great place to spend a few hours.
Funkwerks
Funkwerks specializes in Belgian-style beers, offering a unique and flavorful alternative to the more common American styles. Their taproom is warm and inviting, and their food menu features dishes that perfectly complement their beers.
The menu includes hearty appetizers, gourmet sandwiches, and flavorful entrees. Many of their dishes incorporate Belgian-inspired flavors and ingredients, creating a cohesive and authentic experience.
For a truly special pairing, try their Saison with the moules frites (mussels and fries). The fruity and spicy notes of the Saison will enhance the savory flavors of the mussels, while the fries provide a satisfying contrast in texture. Funkwerks is the perfect place to discover the magic of Belgian beer and food pairings.
Other Notable Mentions
While the breweries listed above offer excellent and comprehensive food options, there are many other breweries with food in Fort Collins that are worth exploring.
Jessup Farm Barrel House is well-known for its beautiful setting and rotating food trucks. Purpose Brewing and Cellars is another great option that features a variety of food vendors. If you are looking for breweries with food Fort Collins style, you will not be disappointed.
Fort Collins Food and Beer Culture
Fort Collins has a vibrant food scene and a thriving craft beer culture, and the two are inextricably linked. The city is home to a wide range of restaurants, from farm-to-table eateries to international cuisine, and the breweries play a significant role in shaping the culinary landscape.
Many breweries partner with local chefs and restaurants to create special events and beer pairings. The city also hosts a number of food and beer festivals throughout the year, showcasing the best of what the region has to offer.
This collaboration and synergy contribute to the city’s unique identity. It’s a place where you can find innovative cuisine, world-class beer, and a strong sense of community.
Tips for Visiting Fort Collins Breweries with Food
Before heading out to explore the Fort Collins breweries with food scene, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:
Planning is key. Check the menus online in advance to see what’s available and to get an idea of prices. Many breweries also post their beer lists online, so you can plan your pairings ahead of time.
Consider your transportation options. Fort Collins is a bike-friendly city, and many breweries are located along bike paths. Ride-sharing services and public transportation are also readily available.
If you have any dietary restrictions, be sure to check with the brewery in advance to see what options are available. Many breweries offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices.
For popular breweries, making reservations may be required. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm.
Remember to pace yourself and drink responsibly. It’s easy to get carried away when enjoying delicious beer and food, but it’s important to stay hydrated and be mindful of your limits.
Conclusion
Fort Collins breweries with food offer an unparalleled experience for beer and food lovers. They provide a convenient, social, and flavorful way to enjoy the best of what the city has to offer. From the well-established breweries to the more intimate establishments, there’s something for everyone to discover.
We encourage you to explore the breweries mentioned in this article and to find your own favorites. The Fort Collins beer scene is constantly evolving, so be sure to keep an eye out for new breweries and exciting food pairings.
Plan your brewery tour today and experience the magic of Fort Collins breweries with food. Cheers!
