Colorado Springs sits at the foot of Pikes Peak, and its cooking is Front Range: green chile — the Pueblo variety, grown south of the city and hotter than its New Mexican cousin — smothered over burritos, eggs and burgers.

Pueblo chile is a genuine regional product with a protected reputation, and the late-summer roasting season fills the air across the whole Front Range. It is the best time to visit for food.

Downtown and the Old Colorado City district hold most of the independent restaurants, and the city has a serious craft brewery scene. Military bases and the Air Force Academy bring a steady international population, which shows in the Korean and German restaurants around town.