Lucile's

If you're looking for a slice of New Orleans in the West, you should definitely stop by Lucile's—a legendary Creole and Cajun restaurant. This cozy establishment is housed in a charming yellow Victorian house, creating an atmosphere of homey warmth and Southern hospitality. Here, in the city of Fort Collins, visitors are offered a unique gastronomic experience that is hard to find anywhere else in the state.

The restaurant specializes in breakfast and lunch, turning an ordinary meal into a true festival of flavor. Lucile's is rightfully considered one of the best places in the USA to discover authentic dishes such as beignets—French doughnuts generously dusted with powdered sugar—and the famous chicory coffee. Eclectic decor with Mardi Gras masks, vibrant posters, and alligator figurines, set to the sounds of jazz, transports guests straight to the French Quarter.

The establishment's popularity is confirmed by consistently high ratings and thousands of glowing reviews. They use only fresh ingredients, and the portions are impressively large. Lucile's is not just a restaurant, but a place with a soul, where every element, from the furniture to the aroma of spices, tells a story of Louisiana traditions.

For more details or to book a table on weekdays, you can use the official communication channels. The restaurant actively stays in touch with guests through its website and by phone.

The main ritual at Lucile's is, undoubtedly, the food tasting. Start with the classics: order a portion of hot beignets and a cup of aromatic chicory coffee. If you're in the mood for a substantial meal, look out for the Cajun Breakfast with red beans and poached eggs, or the Eggs Pontchartrain, featuring delicate pan-fried trout with signature Béarnaise sauce. Large portions are perfect for sharing, allowing you to sample each other's gumbo or spicy crawfish étouffée.

Beyond the food, it's just a pleasant place to be. You can sit on the porch with a glass of mimosa or a signature Bloody Mary, listening to the sounds of zydeco and jazz drifting from inside. Taking in the interior is a pleasure in itself: the walls are decorated with Mardi Gras carnival memorabilia, creating a feeling of a perpetual celebration.

Don't forget to check out the small shop at the restaurant before leaving. Here you can buy signature spices, the chef's homemade jam, or a bag of that same coffee to recreate the Lucile's atmosphere at home. On weekends, while waiting for your turn, you can chat with other guests in the fresh air, which has long been part of the local brunch tradition.

Lucile's is exceptionally well-located in the historic center, known as Old Town. The exact address is 400 S Meldrum St, Fort Collins, CO 80521. If you are traveling by car, the drive from Denver International Airport takes about an hour via I-25 N. There are parking spaces near the restaurant, but on weekends, due to the popularity of the area, finding a free spot can be challenging, so it’s worth arriving early.

For those who prefer public transport, the city has a well-developed network of MAX and FLEX buses, with stops just a few minutes' walk from the restaurant. This makes the place accessible even for those staying in other parts of the city.

If you are staying in Old Town, a walk or bike ride to Lucile's will be a pleasant addition to your breakfast. The path from the main squares and downtown attractions takes no more than 5–10 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the architecture of this colorful American town along the way.

The story of this famous spot began in 1980 in Boulder, when Fletcher Richards and his mother, Lucile, decided to open a cozy family café. They set an ambitious goal: to introduce the residents of Colorado to the rich culinary traditions of Louisiana. The restaurant's first chef was trained at the legendary Commander’s Palace in New Orleans, which guaranteed the highest quality and authenticity of flavor.

The Fort Collins branch opened its doors in January 1996, becoming the second in the expanding chain. A special atmosphere of authenticity is maintained here by manager Tony Hanks—a Louisiana native who brought the spirit of his hometown, Abbeville, to the establishment. Thanks to this approach, Lucile's quickly became a local legend and a leader in the brunch scene.

Interestingly, the restaurant doesn't just cook food; it also produces its own unique products. Here you can try signature Creole spices and the famous jam by chef Mickey Samuels. Over decades of operation, the establishment has been honored with numerous awards, including prestigious five-star reviews from leading regional publications.

Typically, you should set aside 1 to 2 hours for a visit to Lucile's. This is plenty of time to slowly enjoy the main dishes, have a cup of coffee, and soak in the Louisiana atmosphere. On weekdays, service is quite fast, which is convenient for those who value their time.

However, if you plan to visit on Saturday or Sunday, be prepared for longer wait times for a table. The restaurant is immensely popular among locals, and queues are a common occurrence here. Nevertheless, most guests agree that the wait is fully compensated by the excellent taste of the food served.

The establishment caters to early birds and lovers of leisurely lunches. From Monday to Friday, the restaurant doors are open from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This is the perfect time for a business breakfast or a quiet weekday lunch.

On weekends, the schedule shifts slightly: on Saturday and Sunday, Lucile's welcomes guests from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Please note that the kitchen closes exactly at two in the afternoon, so plan your visit to ensure you have enough time to enjoy your meal.

After a hearty breakfast at Lucile's, it's a great idea to stroll around the neighborhood. The restaurant is located in an area with a high concentration of historic buildings and cultural centers, allowing you to combine your gastronomic experience with an educational walk.