News and Views from the Heart of Teller County.

Tag: Food

  • A Familiar Name in Mexican Food Opens in Woodland Park

    A Familiar Name in Mexican Food Opens in Woodland Park

    A new option has joined Woodland Park’s busy Mexican food scene. Tacos El Amigo #4 has officially opened in the shopping center anchored by Safeway, taking over the space previously occupied by Serrano’s, which has since relocated to Florissant.

    Tacos El Amigo is not new to the area. The restaurant already operates three other locations, two in Colorado Springs and one in Fountain, all of which have built strong followings and consistently high ratings. The Woodland Park location marks the brand’s first expansion into Teller County.

    The restaurant describes itself as a casual spot focused on comfort food and quick bites, with a menu centered around tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites. One of the standout offerings is their birria tacos, which have become a highlight at their other locations and are already drawing attention from local diners.

    With several established Mexican restaurants already serving the Woodland Park community, competition is strong, but Tacos El Amigo enters the scene with a proven track record and an existing customer base familiar with the brand. Its location near Safeway places it in a high-traffic area, making it an easy stop for both locals and visitors.

    As the restaurant settles in, it adds another option for residents looking for casual, fast Mexican fare and continues the trend of new dining spots filling long-standing restaurant spaces in Woodland Park.

  • Thunderbird Inn Begins to Rebuild After Fire in Florissant

    Thunderbird Inn Begins to Rebuild After Fire in Florissant

    The historic Thunderbird Inn, a beloved Florissant landmark off Highway 24 near Teller County Road 1, is beginning the long process of cleanup and rebuilding after a late-night fire broke out on Wednesday, October 1.

    Fire crews from multiple agencies, including Florissant Fire Rescue, responded to the call around 11:30 p.m. Volunteer firefighters arrived quickly and began working to contain the blaze, which was concentrated in the front bar area near the fireplace, with flames extending into the wood floor, walls, and attic. Thanks to their swift response, the fire was fully extinguished, and no injuries were reported.

    In a statement shared online, Florissant Fire Rescue detailed the challenging response due to the age and construction of the building, noting that crews had to force entry through multiple doors before initiating a full fire attack.

    While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, the Thunderbird Inn has confirmed that it plans to rebuild. In a message to the community, the owners wrote, “Yes, the Thunderbird had a fire. It was completely extinguished. Damage unsure. Please message here or stop by with help or questions. We will keep you updated with information as it becomes available. Thank you for your help and patience as we evaluate and rebuild.”

    As word spread, the community quickly came together to support the cleanup efforts. Volunteers joined in clearing debris, while local businesses stepped up to help. HolyMoly Doughnuts of Florissant provided pastries for the volunteers, and Joe Corrigan generously contributed food for those working at the site.

    The Thunderbird Inn has long been a gathering place for locals and travelers alike, known for its friendly atmosphere, live music, and rustic mountain charm. While the damage is a setback, the spirit of the Florissant community, and their commitment to restoring this historic local treasure remains strong.

    As the Thunderbird begins its road to recovery, one thing is clear: this isn’t goodbye. It’s a “see you soon.”

  • The Best Sandwich in the West? You Might Just Find It in Cripple Creek

    The Best Sandwich in the West? You Might Just Find It in Cripple Creek

    Cripple Creek is full of history, but when it comes to food, The District Kitchen & Saloon is making its own mark. This local favorite at 367 East Bennett Avenue is where comfort food meets bold flavor, and their “Best in the West Hot Chicken Sandwich” might just be the crown jewel. Spicy, crispy, and stacked with fresh toppings on a toasted brioche bun, it’s the kind of sandwich that makes you forget about the slot machines.

    Let’s talk about the standout: their “Best in the West Hot Chicken Sandwich.” It lives up to its name. We’re talking spicy, crispy chicken piled high with creamy coleslaw, tangy pickles, and mayo, all on a toasted brioche bun. It’s the perfect balance of heat, crunch, and flavor. Add in a side of crispy tater tots and you’ve got a plate that will have you coming back for seconds.

    Before you even get to the main course, do yourself a favor and start with the Cheese Curds or the “Boomer” fried mushrooms. Both appetizers hit the mark and are ideal for sharing.

    The atmosphere at The District Kitchen & Saloon is warm, friendly, and just the kind of place where you want to linger a little longer. Whether you’re visiting Cripple Creek, heading over to Victor, or stopping by to see Rita the Rock Planter, this restaurant deserves a spot on your itinerary.

    Bottom line: If you’re looking for great food in a great setting, this is the place.

  • Sofia’s Antojitos Opens in Woodland Park to Rave Reviews

    Sofia’s Antojitos Opens in Woodland Park to Rave Reviews

    ffordable, flavorful Mexican street food arrives in the heart of town

    Sofia’s Antojitos, a fast-casual Mexican spot known for big flavor and friendly service, has opened its doors at 727 Gold Hill Place South, right where the old Italian restaurant used to be.

    This is not your average taco joint. Locals are already loving the variety, the price, and the vibe.

    “WP finally got an order-at-the-counter, fast, affordable, hole-in-the-wall-feeling Mexican restaurant. The food is incredible.”

    The word antojitos means “little cravings” in Spanish, and Sofia’s menu is full of them. From birria tacos and sopes to quesabirria and the fan-favorite pizzabirria, every item is packed with flavor. There are also tortas, flautas, papas locas, and plenty of other crave-worthy dishes to explore. Pair it with a cold margarita and enjoy the patio seating for a perfect afternoon or evening bite.

    Customers are also praising the friendly staff and clean, inviting space.

    “We got to meet the manager, Eddie, and he was super friendly and helpful. Everything came out fast, the place is clean and looks great.”

    “Love the open space, patio seating, and yummy birria tacos!”

    Sofia’s has two highly rated locations in Colorado Springs, and the Woodland Park community seems excited to welcome their newest addition. It’s fast, it’s fresh, and it already feels like a local favorite.

    If you are hungry for something flavorful and filling, Sofia’s Antojitos is definitely worth checking out.

  • Zuccaro’s Kitchen: A Hidden Gem Worth the Drive to Hartsel

    Zuccaro’s Kitchen: A Hidden Gem Worth the Drive to Hartsel

    Family recipes, fresh ingredients, and some of the best pizza in Colorado

    If you find yourself anywhere near Hartsel, Colorado, make time for a stop at Zuccaro’s Kitchen. Tucked into this quiet mountain town, the restaurant is quickly building a reputation for delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a surprising menu that rivals anything you’ll find in the city.

    Zuccaro’s is family-owned and run, and the care shows in every detail. The menu is full of Italian-American favorites like hand-tossed pizza, pasta, hoagies, pies, and desserts. One reviewer described the pizza crust as the best they’ve had in Colorado. It’s thick but fluffy, perfect for dipping into their signature chili oil. Another guest raved about the garlic bread with cheese, Italian hoagie, and a pesto pizza recommended by their server that completely won them over.

    The experience goes beyond the food. On certain evenings, the restaurant hosts live music, giving visitors one more reason to stick around and soak up the good energy. It’s the kind of place where locals gather and road trippers end up pleasantly surprised.

    Zuccaro’s also stands out for its commitment to sustainability. All of their containers, dishes, and cutlery are compostable, aligning with their mission to serve great food while taking care of the environment.

    Located in a quiet corner of Park County, Zuccaro’s Kitchen might seem off the beaten path. But the atmosphere, flavor, and friendly service make it more than worth the trip. Whether you’re just passing through or planning a special outing, this small-town spot delivers in a big way.

  • HolyMoly Doughnuts Brings Fresh Breakfast and Community Spirit to Florissant

    HolyMoly Doughnuts Brings Fresh Breakfast and Community Spirit to Florissant

    Family-owned shop now open in Evergreen Station, Florissant

    There’s a new reason to get up early in Florissant. HolyMoly Doughnuts, a family-run breakfast spot, is now open at 8722 County Road 1 in Evergreen Station. They are serving up homemade doughnuts, breakfast bowls, and burritos with a warm welcome and a strong sense of community.

    This is not your average doughnut shop. HolyMoly is built on faith, family values, and the belief that good food can bring people together. The menu features yeast-risen doughnuts, buttermilk bars, apple fritters, sugar cookies, and hearty breakfast burritos and bowls to help you start your day right.

    “We’re here to start your day right, with a hearty breakfast and a healthy dose of community spirit,” says their website.

    Open from 4:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. every day except Wednesdays, HolyMoly is already becoming a local favorite. The food is homemade, the service is genuine, and the atmosphere is just what you want in a mountain-town breakfast stop.

    Whether you are swinging through Florissant or live nearby, HolyMoly Doughnuts is worth the visit. It is a place that serves more than food. It serves a little joy with every bite.

    https://bakeryholymoly.com/: HolyMoly Doughnuts Brings Fresh Breakfast and Community Spirit to Florissant

  • Sofia’s Antojitos Bringing Mexican Street Food to Woodland Park

    Sofia’s Antojitos Bringing Mexican Street Food to Woodland Park

    Pizzabirria, papas locas, and more are on the way to Teller County.

    Woodland Park is about to get a fresh dose of flavor. Sofia’s Antojitos, a popular Mexican street food spot with two highly rated locations in Colorado Springs, is expanding to Teller County with a brand-new restaurant set to open at 727 Gold Hill Place South, the former home of Mountainara Cucina.

    While the official opening date hasn’t been announced yet, but a liquor license has been issued, the remodel is progressing, and hiring is underway. Sofia’s is known for its bold, crave-worthy menu and its signature take on Mexican street fare. If you’ve never been, “Antojitos” translates roughly to little cravings, and the menu is full of exactly that.

    Expect a variety of tortas, flautas, elotes, papas locas (a loaded fries dish that lives up to the “crazy” name), and fan favorites like birria tacos and the now-legendary pizzabirria, a cross between a quesadilla, and pizza (with birria, of course).

    Both existing locations in Colorado Springs carry 4.6+ star ratings on Google, and locals swear by the food. This new Woodland Park location marks the restaurant’s first move above 8000 feet, and it’s already generating buzz from locals eager to try something new in town.

    Sofia’s is currently hiring, though no wage info has been shared publicly yet. Whether you’re looking for a job or just a plate of papas locas, it’s a spot worth keeping an eye on.

    We’ll share opening details as soon as they’re available.