We want to host a dinner for fifteen people in Colorado Springs to celebrate our daughter's college graduation. We thought that we had a place lined up but it has fallen through. Our daughter is vegetarian, but we have several meat lovers in the group too. Since we live in Florida, we're at a loss--any suggestions?

This is a tough one...I have lived in Colo Springs for two years so I can try to help. How much money do you want to spend and how extravagant do you want to go? Is there are particular type of food you all like? Do you care if it is a chain restraunt? There is a Italian restraunt(it is a chain but pretty good food and a GREAT atmosphere for large parties. It is called Bucca Di Beppo and it is in the North part of town near Academy and Woodmen. They serve the biggest family size portions you will ever see so you just order four entrees or so and you good. If I think of anything else I will let you know.

We spent one day in Colorado Springs last summer and ate dinner at the "Olive Branch". I recall that the restaurant had a vegetarian feel to it but also served meat. The food was very good.

Alicia,

Obviously this is just a suggestion but have you considered The Broadmoor Hotel? They just underwent a fairly major rennovation and have a couple of restaurants that might be a good match.

If you want a little more casual experience (but still in a nice room) I would suggest The Tavern there. Great tavern feel with dark woods and a diverse menu featuring eveything from steaks to seafood--and even a few vegetarian items. They also have live music (and a small dance area) Thurs. - Sun. nights.

One of the other (and more upscale) choices there would be Charles Court. Fancier with a contental flair and menu--jackets required for men. Also features vegetarian items.

Either of these should be able to accomodate parties of fifteen--plus you have the added bonus of a five-star hotel to explore. You can get more info at www.broadmoor.com

Hope this helps.

Davidcs

Alicia - having lived in Colorado Springs my entire life - let me suggest a couple places. The Craftwood Inn, located in Manitou Springs (5 minutes from CS) has wonderful food and a seperate room for larger parties. They serve "Colorado Cuisine" - wild game, etc. I am not sure what their veggie meals are, but you can call them at (719)685-9000. I would also recommend Marigold's - they have an delicious menu and I know that they have a veggie menu (719) 599-4776. Good luck and congrats to your daughter.

I've been to Bucca Di Bepppo in the springs on business. It was a great place. They can defintally accomidate large parties and have vegie dishes as well.