Six Fort Collins Restaurants Where I Always Get Great Food

There are certain restaurants in Fort Collins where I have never had a bad meal. No matter when my wife Jenny and I go and no matter how many times we go, we always get great food. I tried to make a top five list but had to make it six restaurants.

6. Jay's Bistro

Todd Harding, TSM

Jay's Bistro is at 135 West Oak in historic Old Town just west of Oak Street Plaza. It is by far the "best place for fine dining in Fort Collins". I especially love Jay's appetizers and desserts. The food is always superb. Jay would never allow less than stellar food to be served.

Todd's Favorites: Lobster Mac & Cheese, Fried Calamari, and Baked Brie

5. Paninos Italian Restaurant

Todd Harding, TSM

Paninos Italian Restaurant can be found at 310 West Prospect Rd. (1 block west of College Ave.) It doesn't look like much on the outside (or inside), but don't be fooled. This Unassuming hole-in-the-wall has amazing food. We have never been disappointed. Paninos is known for their Panino sandwich, which is delicious, but I also think they happen to have the best pizza in town.

Todd's Favorite: Downtowner Pizza with white sauce

4. Carrabba's Italian Grill

Todd Harding, TSM

Carrabba's Italian Grill is at 1212 Oakridge Drive, facing Harmony Road. I know what you are thinking, "They are a chain restaurant." Carrabba's is so much more than that. The restaurant features a scratch kitchen, a brick pizza oven, and their chicken, pork, and beef are cooked over an open flame. Ask me on the right day and Carrabba's is my favorite restaurant.

Todd Favorites: Chicken Marsala, House Salad, Bread with Olive Oil & Secret Spices

3. Rodizio Grill - The Brazilian Steakhouse

Jenny Harding, For TSM

Rodizio Grill is at 200 Jefferson St. in the heart of Old Town. Brian Gary and I have said it for years, "It is Meat Heaven!" They have a salad bar big enough to sleep in. The atmosphere is unmatched as the Gauchos cut the meat off a skewer at right at your table. I love this restaurant and it is one where I always want to take friends or family who come in from out of town.

Todd's Favorite - Picanha (Top Sirloin Beef)

2. Young's Cafe

Todd Harding, TSM

Young's Cafe is tucked away at 3307 South College Ave. (McClelland & Foothills Parkway) By far Young's has the best Asian food in Fort Collins, specializing in Vietnamese cuisine. It is a favorite date place for my wife and me. We ALWAYS get great food there.

Todd's Favorites: Spring Rolls and Pepper Garlic Crab

1. Austin's American Grill

Todd Harding, TSM

Austin's American Grill has two locations in Fort Collins: Harmony Road and in the heart of Old Town. If I get to pick where we are going for dinner or if I am meeting someone for lunch, Austins is always at the top of my list. I love everything I have ever tried. The rotisserie chicken is legendary and you can see it cooking over an open flame as you walk into either restaurant. My problem is I always order the same thing because it is so delicious. I even love their cole slaw and I am not a huge cole slaw fan.