Steakhouse Sensations and Western Fare
Beyond the cowboy boots and rodeo fame, downtown Cheyenne is quietly becoming a foodie destination. While the city’s Western heritage remains a strong draw, a new wave of restaurants, cafes, and eateries is transforming the area into a surprisingly diverse and delicious place to explore. Forget the predictable tourist traps; downtown Cheyenne offers a culinary landscape brimming with local flavor, innovative chefs, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. This guide will highlight some of the must-try restaurants and experiences that make downtown Cheyenne a worthwhile culinary adventure. Prepare to indulge in a taste of Wyoming you won’t soon forget!
No trip to Cheyenne is complete without indulging in a hearty steak, and downtown offers several excellent options to satisfy your craving. This is Wyoming, after all, and beef is king! Look for restaurants that pride themselves on sourcing local, high-quality cuts.
First on the list is The Albany, a Cheyenne institution known for its classic Western atmosphere and perfectly cooked steaks. Stepping inside is like stepping back in time, with its historic charm and attentive service. Their signature ribeye is a must-try, cooked to your exact specifications and served with traditional sides. The price range is generally moderate to high ($$$), but the quality and experience are well worth it. You can find The Albany located on Capitol Avenue.
Another great choice for steak lovers is Mort’s Bagels. While their name suggests otherwise, Mort’s offers a surprising and delicious steak option that is worth the visit. They focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and their steaks are no exception. Located on Central Avenue, Mort’s is a great option for a more casual and affordable steak meal ($$).
Finally, for a more modern take on Western cuisine, try Railspur, showcasing elevated dishes with a focus on local ingredients. While not exclusively a steakhouse, their menu always features beautifully prepared cuts of beef alongside other regional specialties. Railspur also has a great selection of local beers and spirits, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed evening. Located on Carey Avenue, Railspur offers a fine dining experience ($$$) perfect for a special occasion.
Casual Bites and American Comfort Food
Sometimes, you just want a good old-fashioned burger or sandwich, and downtown Cheyenne has plenty of options for that too. These restaurants offer a relaxed atmosphere and satisfying meals that won’t break the bank.
Paramount Cafe is a local favorite, known for its friendly service, delicious sandwiches, and classic diner fare. Their burgers are juicy and flavorful, and their milkshakes are the perfect sweet treat. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. Paramount Cafe is located on Carey Avenue, and the price range is very affordable ($).
Another excellent choice is The Crooked Cup, a popular spot for coffee, sandwiches, and pastries. While they are known for their coffee, their menu also features a variety of delicious sandwiches and salads, perfect for a light lunch or a quick bite. They have a charming atmosphere and friendly staff. Find them on Capitol Avenue, where their prices are quite reasonable ($$).
International Flavors in the Heart of Wyoming
While Cheyenne’s Western roots are undeniable, its culinary scene also boasts a diverse array of international flavors. From Italian to Asian, you can find something to satisfy your craving for global cuisine.
If you’re in the mood for Italian, Napoli’s offers a classic and authentic experience. Their menu features all the traditional Italian dishes you know and love, from pasta to pizza, all made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. Find Napoli’s on Central Avenue, the prices are moderate ($$).
For a taste of Asia, try Anong’s Thai Cuisine. Known for using fresh and vibrant flavors, Anong’s serves up classic Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, green curry, and drunken noodles. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere. Anong’s Thai Cuisine can be found on Capitol Ave, the prices are very fair ($$).
Pizza Perfection: Slices of Heaven in Downtown Cheyenne
Who doesn’t love a good slice of pizza? Downtown Cheyenne has several excellent pizzerias that serve up delicious pies, from classic pepperoni to creative specialty creations.
Papa Joe’s is a Cheyenne institution, known for its thin-crust pizza and friendly service. Their pizzas are made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection. This place is located on Carey Ave, the price range is very affordable ($).
Breakfast and Brunch Bliss
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast or brunch in downtown Cheyenne. From cozy cafes to traditional diners, you can find the perfect spot to fuel up for a day of exploring.
For a classic breakfast experience, head to Luxury Diner. This iconic diner has been serving up hearty breakfast dishes for generations. Their menu features all the traditional breakfast favorites, from pancakes to omelets, all made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection. This place is a Cheyenne staple, located on Lincolnway, its a very affordable ($).
Coffee Culture and Bakery Delights
For a quick caffeine fix or a sweet treat, downtown Cheyenne has plenty of coffee shops and bakeries to choose from. These spots offer a cozy atmosphere and delicious pastries, perfect for a break from exploring.
Black Tooth Coffee Company is a popular spot for coffee lovers, serving up a variety of expertly crafted coffee drinks. They also have a selection of pastries and snacks, perfect for a quick bite. With a great atmosphere, Black Tooth Coffee is located on Carey Avenue and the prices are very reasonable ($).
Hidden Gems: Where the Locals Eat
Beyond the well-known restaurants, downtown Cheyenne is also home to a few hidden gems that are beloved by locals. These spots offer a unique and authentic dining experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Ask a Cheyenne local for their favorite hidden gem, and you might hear about Bella Fuoco Wood Fired Pizza, a cozy spot on West 17th Street that serves up authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. Their pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven, giving them a unique and delicious flavor. They also have a great selection of local beers and wines. Bella Fuoco Wood Fired Pizza has a great atmosphere and offers affordable prices ($$).
Experiences Beyond the Restaurant Table
Downtown Cheyenne offers more than just sit-down restaurants. You can also find a variety of other food-related experiences, from farmers markets to local events.
While not always available, the Cheyenne Farmers Market is a must-visit during the summer months. Here, you can find fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products. It’s a great way to support local farmers and artisans. The Cheyenne Farmers Market is located downtown on a seasonal basis.
Practical Information for Visitors
Navigating the downtown Cheyenne food scene is easy, but here are a few tips to help you make the most of your culinary adventure.
Parking: Parking in downtown Cheyenne is generally easy to find, with a mix of street parking and public parking lots available. However, it can get busy during peak hours, so be prepared to walk a few blocks.
Walkability: Downtown Cheyenne is very walkable, with most of the restaurants and attractions located within a few blocks of each other. This makes it easy to explore the area on foot.
Hours of Operation: Be sure to check the hours of operation for each restaurant before you go, as they can vary depending on the day of the week and the season. Many restaurants also close early on Sundays.
Reservations: Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner and on weekends. You can usually make reservations online or by phone.
Dietary Restrictions: Many restaurants in downtown Cheyenne cater to dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan. However, it’s always best to call ahead and confirm that they can accommodate your needs.
Conclusion: A Taste of Cheyenne Awaits
From hearty steaks to international flavors, downtown Cheyenne has something for every palate. The city’s revitalized downtown area is now a culinary destination in its own right, offering a diverse range of dining options that showcase the best of Wyoming’s local flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a delicious meal, downtown Cheyenne is sure to satisfy your cravings. So, the next time you’re in Cheyenne, ditch the chain restaurants and dive into the vibrant culinary scene of downtown. Start planning your food adventure today, and discover a taste of Cheyenne that you won’t soon forget! This city offers far more than just cowboy charm; it’s a place where culinary creativity meets Western hospitality, creating a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience. Come hungry, and leave delighted!
