Prime rib is one of those dishes that people will drive across town for, and Colorado has plenty of places doing it right. Some spots go big on Old West character, others lean fancy, and a few are small-town favorites that fill up fast on weekends.
This list rounds up eight steakhouses across the state where the prime rib is honestly the main reason to book a table. Whether you are in Denver, the mountains, or out on the Western Slope, there is a slice here worth planning a meal around.
1. Buckhorn Exchange, Denver, CO
Step into this Osage Street landmark and you are surrounded by mounted game and an 1890s look that has made it a Denver institution. The room leans into its history, with a casual but upscale feel that draws locals and out-of-towners alike.
The kitchen is known for game meats, and the buffalo prime rib is a standout that regulars come back for. You can also find buffalo tenderloin, elk, quail, salmon, and the famously named Rocky Mountain Oysters if you are feeling adventurous.
Dinner reservations are recommended, and there is usually a wait on Friday and Saturday evenings. Sunday afternoons run quieter if you want a calmer visit.
Parking is generally easy, with both free and paid options nearby.
2. Simms Steakhouse, Lakewood, CO
Sitting along the Front Range in Lakewood, this upscale spot pairs its steaks with panoramic city views that make dinner feel like an occasion. The atmosphere leans romantic and trendy, with a lounge and daily happy hour if you want a lower-key visit.
Prime rib is the reason to book here. The kitchen turns out cuts like the 16oz version cooked tender and full of flavor, and pairing it with a baked potato and creme brulee makes for a complete evening.
Classic starters such as lobster bisque, French onion soup, and shrimp cocktail round out the menu.
Sunday brunch runs from 10 AM to 2 PM, and reservations are recommended for both brunch and dinner. Valet parking is available, along with plenty of standard options.
3. Colorado’s Rib & Chop House – Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs, CO
Down in Colorado Springs, this chophouse keeps things relaxed while taking its aged steaks seriously. The setting is casual and family-friendly, with a fireplace inside and a patio where dogs are welcome outdoors.
The signature prime rib is a real highlight, cooked tender and flavorful, and you can even order it with a lobster tail if you want to go all in. Beyond the prime rib, there are slow-cooked Fulton Street Ribs, a baseball cut top sirloin, pork chops, and a big 36oz ribeye built to share.
Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM, it works for both lunch and dinner. Friday and Saturday evenings are the busiest, so reservations are a smart move for dinner.
Parking is free and usually plenty.
4. Strayhorn Grill, Fruita, CO
Out on the Western Slope in Fruita, this grill pulls double duty as a breakfast spot and a prime rib destination. You can grab steak and eggs in the morning or settle in for dinner later, which makes it a flexible stop no matter when hunger hits.
The prime rib here is fork tender, and the au jus gets plenty of praise for hitting the right flavor. The kitchen works with Angus-certified meat and rounds out the menu with chicken fried steak, salmon, and fresh salads.
Prices sit on the friendlier side, generally around 20 to 30 dollars per person. Hours run 7 AM to 9 PM Monday through Saturday, with a shorter Sunday morning window.
Reservations are accepted, and parking is free and easy to find.
5. Cattlemen’s Bar & Grill, Loma, CO
Tucked into rural Loma, this casual grill has built its reputation on prime rib and a salad bar that regulars genuinely look forward to. The vibe is cozy and low-key, the kind of neighborhood place where prices stay easy on the wallet.
Prime rib is the headliner, and it is served juicy and tender, sometimes even on a Sunday night when other places have run out. Pair it with creamy horseradish, loaded mashed potatoes, or a baked potato, and you have a full plate.
The ribeye is another strong pick if you want something off the steak menu.
With most cuts landing in the 10 to 20 dollar range, it is one of the better deals on this list. Saturday evenings are the busiest, and weekday mornings are quiet.
Reservations are accepted and parking is free.
6. Iron Chest Steakhouse, Poncha Springs, CO
Set in the mountain valley town of Poncha Springs, this American steakhouse works with Certified Angus Beef and game meats, and it comes with nice mountain views to boot. The setting is casual and cozy, with a patio that welcomes dogs outdoors.
The prime rib special is worth watching for, and it is often served with au jus and topped with caramelized mushrooms and onions. If you want to branch out, the filet mignon, NY strip, and boneless ribeye all get consistent attention, with fresh, well-prepared sides alongside.
Hours run from noon to 8 PM most days, stretching to 9 PM on Friday and Saturday. Those weekend evenings are the busiest, while Tuesday afternoons stay quiet.
Reservations are accepted and parking is free.
7. The Fort, Morrison, CO
Built as a frontier-themed replica fort in the Morrison foothills, this restaurant turns dinner into a full Old West experience. Live music, including Native American flute players, adds to the atmosphere, and the views only make it more memorable.
Wild game is the specialty, and the buffalo prime rib is a signature reason to visit. The menu also spans bison marrow bones, Colorado lamb T-bones, grilled quail, and the well-known Rocky Mountain Oysters, backed by an extensive wine list.
The setting leans upscale and historic, and it has long been a special-occasion favorite for Colorado families. Hours vary by day, with dinner starting in the late afternoon and Saturday evenings being the busiest.
Dinner reservations are recommended, and parking is generally plentiful.
8. Shanahan’s Steakhouse, Denver, CO
For a night that feels genuinely special, this leather-accented Denver steakhouse delivers a polished, intimate setting on South Syracuse Street. The room is upscale and romantic, with a lively bar and patio for mingling before dinner.
Aged prime rib is a centerpiece here, often served with truffle butter sauce, and it pairs well with sides like creamed spinach and au gratin potatoes. The broader menu leans into refined touches, from a chilled seafood tower to pan-roasted Chilean sea bass and a Colorado clover honey cheesecake to close things out.
Prices sit at the top end, generally 100 dollars or more per person, and reservations are required. Dinner runs from 5 PM most nights, and there is usually a wait during peak evenings.
Valet parking is available along with free options.
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