Bison
Lean, grass-fed bison raised on Colorado ranches, served as steaks, burgers, sausage, and jerky — a healthier alternative to beef with deep Western heritage.
Region
Statewide; notable in Denver, Colorado Springs, and ranch country along the Front Range
Spice Level
🌶️ (1/5)
Diet
Non-vegetarian
Where to Try
The Buckhorn Exchange (Denver), The Mint (Colorado Springs), The Fort (Morrison), and local farm-to-table restaurants in Boulder and Durango.
Bison (American buffalo) has been part of Colorado's food culture since the time of the Plains tribes and is now a staple of Colorado ranch-to-table dining. Colorado is one of the top bison-producing states, and bison meat appears across the state — from high-end Denver steakhouses to casual burger joints and Rocky Mountain resort menus. Bison is leaner and richer in flavor than beef, with a lower fat content. The Great Sand Dunes Bison Ranch, the Rocky Mountain Bison Association, and the National Bison Association (based in Denver) anchor the industry. Bison burgers are a common alternative to beef across the state.