A few years back, finding a memorable meal in Lafayette meant settling for decent—the kind of place that looked promising online but left you wanting more. Now the dining scene has exploded, and the standard for a standout dinner is sky-high. But with new spots popping up constantly, which ones truly earn your reservation? Whether you crave farm-to-table authenticity or inventive plates that dazzle, here are our Lafayette essentials.
Odd13 Brewing
$$ | (303) 997-4164 | WEBSITE
With the feel of a cozy neighborhood living room and a fire pit glowing like a centerpiece, Odd13 Brewing is a brewery built on community. The same welcoming spirit shows up in the beers, which are varied and approachable, poured by friendly and helpful staff who remember regulars’ names. The rotating food trucks hit the right level of casual eats without veering into fussy territory.
BREW Tea and Coffee Bar
$ | (720) 696-7941 | WEBSITE
We love BREW as a morning spot for coffee and light bites like acai bowls and chicken salad croissant sandwiches, but turns out they also make a very smooth, very balanced salted caramel brûlée latte. Unlike many other coffee shops, there’s no overwhelming sweetness, artificial flavors, or cloying syrups. It’s just a creamy, pleasantly rich drink made with care by baristas like Zoe that delivers a perfect caramel note and a beautiful layered look.
The chic decor and comfortable seating make it ideal for studying or unwinding, and the friendly staff always go the extra mile—like when they kindly remade an iced latte after a mix-up. Seasonal specials like the chocolate covered strawberries latte and pistachio white mocha iced latte add delightful variety, while warmed-up burritos and a frosted orange scone round out the tasty options. Overall, it’s a favorite local spot for great coffee, cozy vibes, and that charming boutique nearby.
Santiago’s Mexican Restaurant
$ | (303) 604-0715 | WEBSITE
This Mexican spot in Lafayette is usually packed with regulars who want to be seen clutching foil-wrapped burritos. But beyond the bustle, Santiago’s fantastic green chili justifies the wait. The base is rich, bold, and tastes like authentic Colorado flavors, not watered-down sauce. There’s no upcharge for extra portions, so use those saved dollars to add a little extra meat, or get something slightly indulgent like the Carnitas burrito smothered in that famous chili.
Ziggi’s Coffee
$ | (720) 736-7883 | WEBSITE
The most eye-catching items at Ziggi’s might be the famous Zucchini bread that looks like it came from a home baker’s dream, but their drinks are customer favorites, too. They’ve been popular for years for their coffee with various milk alternatives, but we like their newer tea variations even better. Blending the tea into the creamy milk creates a mixture that’s deliciously smooth but still has that slight tea-y aroma.
Ras Kassa’s Ethiopian Restaurant
$$ | (303) 447-2919 | WEBSITE
If you’ve experienced other authentic Ethiopian spots in Colorado, you’ve seen Ras Kassa’s: there’s warm lighting, earth-toned textiles, and communal tables perfectly arranged for sharing. Most people are here to take advantage of the family-style dining and savor dishes that taste like home-cooked meals, but make no mistake—they don’t play around with spice authenticity.
We especially like the Feast for Two that lives up to its name, with honey wine poured into both the starter and dessert courses.
Valles Mexican Restaurant and Bar
$ | (720) 612-7273 | WEBSITE
Valles is a bright, modern Mexican spot that treats tequila like an art, with a bunch of bottles on display at their bar. While they offer a full menu with traditional favorites like carnitas and rellenos, most people are here for the pupusas, which are considered the best in town. The shrimp tequilla version is fantastic, but the hearty chicken one with a splash of lime is no slouch, either. There’s even casamiente with extra cheese if you’re the cheese-over-meat type.
The margaritas are highly praised, with many enjoying the variety of tequilas at reasonable prices. The staff, including Gio and his brother, are friendly and attentive, always willing to go the extra mile to make guests happy. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the restaurant is very clean, with a refreshed interior that feels both cozy and contemporary.
They accommodate dietary restrictions with good gluten-free and vegetarian options, all at reasonable prices, making it a spot where everyone can find something to love.
Cow-A-Bunga Ice Cream
$ | (303) 926-4223 | WEBSITE
Cow-A-Bunga comes from Lafayette, but the vibe is more ‘ice cream parlor teleported from a 1950s summer day,’ complete with cheerful red-and-white checkered floors, a cozy corner with retro stools, and $5.95 double-scoop cones that feel like a steal.
The menu has creatively churned ice cream flavors like Funky Donkey, all scooped fresh in front of you, and there’s a friendly counter where you can sample different options before deciding (it’s the perfect place to indulge your sweet tooth, in other words). The ice cream is creamy and never icy—and even with the quality, no one will judge you for adding sprinkles or hot fudge at the topping station.
Firehouse Subs Lafayette
$ | (720) 420-7566 | WEBSITE
Firehouse Subs Lafayette doubles as a community hub for local firefighters, and while we can’t confirm if the gear is worth the donation, the sandwiches certainly are. The spicy Cajun chicken looks like a masterpiece with its vibrant sauce, beautiful assembly. And because the bread isn’t too dense, you can bite right in without having to press or tear the whole thing apart like a hungry bear.
The Crossings Nutrition
$ | (303) 974-8801 | WEBSITE
Despite its name, The Crossings Nutrition is very much a protein shake spot. Just peek at the counter, where every drink handed out is thick and creamy (like a milkshake shop on cheat day). The friendly space is filled with bright lighting, clean surfaces, and lots of fitness gear—most people are here to refuel and recover. The menu has an entire section dedicated to shakes, with options like chocolate with peanut butter, soy-based varieties, and plant-based protein blends.
The shakes themselves aren’t overly sweet, but they’re rich enough to satisfy all the healthy cravings.
Teocalli Cocina
$$ | (303) 284-6597 | WEBSITE
Teocalli Cocina is the OG of Lafayette’s gluten-free Mexican scene—it drew crowds long before gluten-free menus became standard. The vibrant, hacienda-style restaurant has a wide-ranging menu with endless options. Most people go for the carne asada plate, the preferred feast of the post-hiking crowd, but the drinks are where their craft really shines.
Everything is made fresh, which means you’ll grab a table and wait (sometimes a while), but it’s worth it for the house margarita, which is smooth, balanced, and perfectly salted.
Reelfish Fish & Chips
$$ | (720) 630-8053 | WEBSITE
Reelfish Fish & Chips is a cozy seafood spot in Lafayette with excellent clam chowder and generous sharing baskets. Their Alaskan Cod comes with sweet potato fries, and you can swap them for salad or coleslaw if you prefer. The highlight of the menu is their weekend Walleye basket—the fish is remarkably fresh even here in the mountains, with a light, crispy batter that makes each bite satisfying. The staff is attentive and friendly, offering helpful recommendations that enhance the experience.
Despite the small menu, the food quality is consistently top-notch, which explains why so many customers make regular trips here. The inviting decor and gluten-free options add to the appeal, making it a favorite for seafood lovers who appreciate a reliable, delicious meal in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Post Chicken & Beer
$$ | (303) 593-2066 | WEBSITE
You could spend a week in Lafayette restaurant-hopping and not try all the fried chicken spots, but The Post should be at the top of the list for crispy chicken. Its outdoor area can get quite loud, so plan to sit inside for conversation, especially for the crispy chicken & goat cheese salad, a fresh dish finished with tender chicken. It looks indulgent, but isn’t overly heavy, so we can justify ordering it alongside a Par For The Course cocktail first thing with dinner.
