Happy Hour, Happy Wallet
Fort Collins, Colorado. A haven for craft beer enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone seeking a vibrant community spirit. But let’s be honest, exploring everything this city offers can be pricey, especially when it comes to dining out. Are you craving a tasty meal without emptying your wallet? Looking for delicious yet cheap food in Fort Collins? You’ve landed in the right place!
The Fort Collins food scene is diverse and exciting, but finding affordable options can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to uncover the best spots for cheap food in Fort Collins, highlighting a variety of cuisines and dining experiences that are both satisfying and easy on your bank account. Get ready to discover your new favorite go-to spots for delicious, affordable eats!
Happy hour: those two magical words that can transform an ordinary evening into an affordable culinary adventure. Many bars and restaurants in Fort Collins offer enticing happy hour deals, making it the perfect time to sample their menus at a fraction of the regular price. It’s a smart strategy for enjoying cheap food in Fort Collins.
The Blind Pig Pub
First up, let’s talk about The Blind Pig Pub. This popular Old Town spot boasts a lively atmosphere and a truly tempting happy hour. From opening until six PM, you can enjoy discounted appetizers like their famous pretzel bites with beer cheese, as well as deals on select beers and cocktails. It’s a buzzing place, perfect for catching up with friends, and your wallet will thank you. The Blind Pig Pub offers great value and a fun vibe.
Beau Jo’s Colorado Style Pizza
Next on our happy hour hit list is Beau Jo’s Colorado Style Pizza. While pizza might not always be considered “cheap,” Beau Jo’s happy hour deals make it surprisingly affordable. Their selection of discounted appetizers, including cheesy breadsticks and mini pizzas, pairs perfectly with their craft beer specials. It is a relaxed environment, great for families or groups. Be sure to check out their daily specials for even better deals. It is the perfect place to get cheap food in Fort Collins if you are craving pizza.
Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
Finally, for a slightly more upscale happy hour experience without the upscale prices, try Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant. From three to six PM, their happy hour features discounted margaritas, beers, and appetizers like nachos and quesadillas. It’s a great way to unwind after a long day and enjoy some delicious Mexican food without breaking the bank. This place is a perennial favorite, especially known for its potent margaritas, and is a great option for cheap food in Fort Collins.
A Word of Advice: Always double-check the specific happy hour times and days of the week, as they can vary.
Lunchtime Legends: Affordable Midday Meals
Let’s face it: lunchtime can be a daily budget buster. However, many Fort Collins restaurants offer tempting lunch specials designed to provide a delicious and affordable midday meal. These deals are perfect for students, professionals, or anyone looking to save a few dollars while satisfying their hunger. Seeking cheap food in Fort Collins during lunchtime is easier than you think!
Sprouts Cafe
Sprouts Cafe is a local favorite known for its fresh, healthy, and affordable lunch options. Their soup and sandwich combos are a particularly good value, offering a filling and flavorful meal for under ten dollars. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a great place to grab a quick bite or linger over lunch with a friend. They emphasize local and organic ingredients, making this a great choice for a healthy, and cheap, lunch in Fort Collins.
Snooze an A.M. Eatery
For a taste of authentic Italian cuisine without the high price tag, head to Snooze an A.M. Eatery. While they’re known for their breakfasts, they also offer some fantastic lunch deals. The service is always friendly, and the portions are generous. Its a great place to get cheap food in Fort Collins if you are craving Italian.
Cafe Mexicali
Another excellent option for a budget-friendly lunch is Cafe Mexicali. This local chain is known for its quick service and delicious Mexican food at reasonable prices. Their lunch specials, which often include burritos, tacos, and enchiladas, are a steal. It is a great place to get cheap food in Fort Collins when you are in a hurry.
Globally Good, Wallet-Friendly Foods: Exploring Ethnic Cuisine
One of the best ways to find cheap food in Fort Collins is to explore the city’s diverse ethnic food scene. Ethnic restaurants often offer incredible value, serving up authentic flavors and generous portions at prices that won’t break the bank. It’s a great way to expand your palate and save money simultaneously.
Pho Duy
For delicious and affordable Vietnamese cuisine, look no further than Pho Duy. Their pho, a flavorful noodle soup, is a popular choice, and their spring rolls are a must-try. The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and the flavors are authentic. It’s a place where you can get a truly satisfying meal without spending a fortune. Pho Duy is definitely a great place to score some cheap food in Fort Collins.
Tortilleria La Esperanza
If you’re craving some authentic Mexican food, Tortilleria La Esperanza is a hidden gem. This small, family-owned restaurant is known for its delicious tacos, burritos, and tortas, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The prices are incredibly affordable, and the flavors are out of this world. It’s a great place to experience authentic Mexican cuisine without the tourist traps. This is a well-kept secret in the search for cheap food in Fort Collins.
Young’s Cafe
Finally, for something a little different, check out Young’s Cafe. This is a great place to get cheap food in Fort Collins if you are craving some Chinese takeout. They have a variety of traditional chinese dishes for a cheap price.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites: Off the Beaten Path
Sometimes, the best deals are found in the places that are less well-known. Fort Collins is full of hidden gem restaurants that are beloved by locals for their unique menus, quirky atmospheres, and, of course, affordable prices. Seeking out these local favorites is a great way to discover some of the best cheap food in Fort Collins.
Krazy Karl’s Pizza
Krazy Karl’s Pizza is a local favorite known for its creative pizza toppings and affordable prices. It’s a great place to grab a slice (or a whole pie) with friends. There are also great deals on appetizers as well. It’s popular among college students as a great place to grab cheap food in Fort Collins.
The Waffle Lab
For a unique and affordable dining experience, check out The Waffle Lab. The Waffle Lab serves a variety of waffles for a low price. It is a perfect place to grab a quick snack. It is a popular spot for those seeking cheap food in Fort Collins.
Choice City Butcher & Deli
Lastly, try Choice City Butcher & Deli. Although technically a butcher shop, they also make some of the best sandwiches in Fort Collins. All made with their in-house meats, it’s hard to beat the quality. They’re not the cheapest sandwich, but considering the quality of ingredients, the price is a steal. It is perfect for a quick and easy lunch, and a great option when looking for cheap food in Fort Collins.
Tips for Saving Money on Food in Fort Collins: Maximizing Your Budget
Beyond specific restaurants, there are several strategies you can use to save money on food in Fort Collins:
- Utilize Restaurant Apps and Loyalty Programs: Many restaurants offer rewards programs or discounts through their apps. Download apps like Yelp or Groupon to find deals in your area.
- Look for Student Discounts: If you’re a student at CSU, take advantage of student discounts offered at many local restaurants.
- Cook at Home More Often: This may seem obvious, but cooking at home is almost always the cheapest option. Plan your meals in advance and shop for groceries strategically.
- Pack Your Lunch: Bringing your lunch to work or school can save you a significant amount of money over time.
- Consider Sharing Dishes: If you’re dining out with friends, consider sharing a dish to split the cost.
- Take advantage of coupons: look for coupons in local papers or online.
- Go during off-peak hours: Some restaurants offer discounts during slower times.
Conclusion: Your Affordable Culinary Adventure Awaits
Eating out in Fort Collins doesn’t have to break the bank! With a little research and this comprehensive guide, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying meals without emptying your wallet. From happy hour deals to ethnic food gems and hidden local favorites, there are plenty of affordable options to explore. We encourage you to try out these recommendations and discover your new favorite spots for cheap food in Fort Collins. Don’t forget to share your own favorite budget-friendly finds in the comments below! The vibrant and diverse food scene in Fort Collins has something for everyone, regardless of your budget. Happy eating!
