This Buzzy Colorado Restaurant Does One Dish Really, Really Well

Ever heard of “Colorado-style” pizza? If you haven’t, you’ve been missing out. Luckily, however, it’s not too late. Next time you’re in the Centennial State, make sure to stop by Beau Jo’s, which is an institution in these parts, and features six locations across Colorado, including Idaho Springs, Steamboat Springs, Fort Collins, Lone Tree, Evergreen, Denver, and Arvada (five of which are full, dine-in restaurants, with one location focusing on pick-up or delivery only). This pizza shop has been around for nearly a half-century, and it's said to be synonymous with “Colorado’s best pizza.” 

One of my favorite things about Beau Jo’s is that even though they hold true to their “Colorado-style pizza tradition,” they aren’t afraid to make modifications or additions to their menu. You can even choose a gluten-free pizza crust, such as cauliflower crust pizza, among many other tasty choices. And, of course, everything is made with high-quality ingredients. 

Beau Jo’s also goes above and beyond in terms of adhering to sustainable restaurant practices. This means they try to use a range of sustainably-focused energy methods including wind energy and solar power, in addition to adhering to water conservation efforts, recycling, and using locally-sourced products whenever possible. They also offer biodegradable to-go containers when someone doesn’t finish their massive, tasty pizza.

It’s All in the Dough

There are two types of pizza styles at Beau Jo’s to choose from, and each one is named after a different type of terrain in Colorado. This includes the “mountain style” and the “prairie style." 

One key detail that makes Beau Jo’s “Mountain Style” special is the hand-rolled edge of the daily-made dough. This specifically crafted mound of dough is an edge that serves as a sort of barrier to hold in the “mountain-full” of toppings. It’s a thick, rich, and fluffy crust with an abundance of flavor. And it’s perfect for dipping in Beau Jo’s signature honey (either as dessert or as a special mix in for a sweet and savory flavor). First-time diners should know the mountain pies are available in a range from one pound to five pounds.

Those who want something a bit lighter can opt for the “prairie pie” style, which does not have a hand-rolled edge and features a lighter amount of toppings. Like traditional pizza joints, these prairie pies come in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes. Both types of pizza are delicious. 

Beau Jo’s Idaho Springs Feels Like Classic Colorado 

I visited the original Beau Jo's, which is located in Idaho Springs, about 45 minutes west of Denver, right off I-70. Its prime location makes it a popular spot for visitors and locals alike who are driving in or out of the mountains. It’s a great place to fuel up before or after a day of adventure. 

I got a pizza “to go” and ate it outside because when I visited on a sunny September Saturday during prime leaf-peeping season, the shop was bustling. I was told it’d be a 45-minute wait for a table or a 25-minute wait for a pizza to go. With my stomach growling, I decided I’d opt out of the chance to enjoy Beau Jo’s homey, cozy ambiance in favor of some faster food. But for those who do want to dine inside the Idaho Springs location, even though it’s a large space, I’d recommend visiting during non-peak dining time or exercising your patience while waiting for a table. 

Inside, kitschy and catchy decor on the wall pays homage to Beau Jo’s Idaho Springs location, which lives in the heart of the mountains between Denver and many ski resorts. It's right on the way to (or home from) Vail, Copper Mountain, and Loveland, among others. Maps of mountain resorts, old wooden skis, and defunct ski lift chairs are scattered throughout the log-cabin wooden interior.

There’s also an arcade inside. Play on the pinball machine or claw machine, among other fun games, while you wait for your food. It's like a nostalgic way to relive your childhood memories.

Outside, there’s a large patio space in a parklet-style area of the street. Both inside and outside are equally delicious places to enjoy a pizza slice (or five!). The parklet seating is large and offers the chance to enjoy your meal alfresco.

The hearty pizza crust, toppings, and thick pullable cheese were more than what I dreamed of during my first time diving into a Beau Jo’s pizza. I could tell the ingredients were fresh because it wasn’t too greasy. My only disappointment is that I waited this long while living in Colorado to give the spot a try—but it was well worth the wait. 

This legendary pizza joint lives in the ideal location for visiting after a day of play in the Rocky Mountains. Refuel here on the way back to Denver after spending a day exploring the quaint but mighty mountain town of Vail, which feels like a European village. Or, eat here while also exploring the historic and scenic town in which Beau Jo’s lives, Idaho Springs (which offers great shopping and several educational sites from the Gold Rush era). You can also explore beyond Colorado with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner, which offers even more robust inspiration on how to explore the best, most unexpected hidden gems across the U.S.