In a city obsessed with beer, few names carry as much weight as CooperSmith’s. Since 1989, this Old Town brewpub has poured house-made pints and slung hearty pub fare for generations of locals, tourists, and CSU students.
Why Cooper Smiths Brewpub Fort Collins Still Rocks in 2025
Address: 5 Old Town Square, Fort Collins, CO 80524
Phone: (970) 498-0483
Yelp Rating: 3.7 stars (559 reviews)
Website: coopersmithspub.com
Menu: View Menu
CooperSmith’s Pub & Brewing Fort Collins Review: Still a Local Legend?
It’s one of Fort Collins’ earliest craft beer institutions—credited with helping launch the city’s now-famous brewery culture.
But after 30+ years and over 500 Yelp reviews, some folks are asking the question: does CooperSmith’s still hold up in 2025? With so many newer breweries and gastropubs popping up across town, can this old favorite still earn its place in the modern food-and-beer scene?
We dug deep into recent diner reviews, the current menu, and CooperSmith’s event calendar to find out whether this Fort Collins original is still worth your time and appetite.
Still Serving Some of the Best Pub Food in Fort Collins?
When it comes to pub food in Fort Collins, CooperSmith’s takes a classic, crowd-pleasing approach. Their menu leans into comfort dishes, elevated just enough to stand out without alienating regulars. And according to customer feedback, many of those staples continue to deliver.
🍽️ Customer Favorites from the Current Menu
Several dishes earn repeated praise across Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google reviews:
- Fish & Chips – A signature dish featuring beer-battered cod, crisp fries, and house-made tartar sauce. Patrons describe it as “flaky, not greasy,” and one of the best renditions in town.
- Bangers & Mash – A nod to traditional English pub fare, this hearty plate features plump banger sausages, mashed potatoes, red onion reduction, and a side of warm applesauce. Many reviewers recommend it during colder months.
- Cooper’s Special Burger – Topped with warm spinach artichoke dip, this burger is a quirky fan favorite that blends rich flavors with a nostalgic twist.
- Black & Bleu Burger – A go-to for guests who love bold flavors. The combination of blackened beef, blue cheese, fried onions, and pepper aioli makes this one of the top CooperSmith’s burgers in Fort Collins.
- K-Pop Burger – Newer to the lineup, this Kobe beef patty with kimchi slaw and gochujang BBQ sauce gets attention for creativity and spice.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip – Served with tri-color chips, carrots, celery, and shaved Parmesan. Frequently praised for generous portions and warm presentation.
- Hot Soft Pretzel – Large and pillowy, this appetizer is served with house-made beer cheese and often cited as “a must-share starter.”
🧒 Options for Families
The kid-friendly menu includes standbys like grilled cheese, mini corn dogs, mac & cheese, and dino nuggets—making it a strong pick for families. Reviews regularly mention how welcoming the space feels to guests with kids in tow.
💲 Pricing & Value
With entrées typically priced between $16 and $20, CooperSmith’s hits a moderate price point. Most diners find the portions fair for the cost, and while the menu sticks to classics, the execution generally earns high marks.
That said, a few guests note that some items—like burgers with add-ons—can creep toward the $20+ range, especially with drinks added. Still, for downtown Fort Collins, many consider it a dependable value.
How Do CooperSmith’s Beers Stack Up in 2025?
As Fort Collins’ first official brewpub, CooperSmith’s has always been known as much for its beer as for its food. And based on recent reviews, its house-brewed beer program still holds a respectable place in the city’s brewing scene.
🍺 In-House Brewing Legacy
All of CooperSmith’s beers are brewed on-site, with a rotating selection that changes weekly. The variety ranges from hoppy IPAs and crisp lagers to stouts, porters, and creative seasonal offerings.
Popular selections mentioned in customer feedback include:
- Sigda’s Green Chile Ale – A unique local favorite with a hint of roasted pepper.
- Albert Damm Bitter – A malty, British-style ale that shows up in several beer flight posts on social media.
- Poudre Pale Ale – Named after the nearby river, this flagship pale is described by reviewers as “easy-drinking with a clean finish.”
Guests can order beer flights to sample four or more styles, a move many first-timers recommend. And for non-drinkers or families, the house-made sodas (like root beer and cream soda) are a hit.
🍻 How It Compares
In a city full of breweries, CooperSmith’s doesn’t always compete in buzz with newer spots like Odell or New Belgium—but many patrons see it as a reliable stop for fresh beer in Old Town. If you’re looking for innovation, there are edgier taprooms. But if you’re after balanced, house-crafted styles in a relaxed setting, CooperSmith’s still satisfies.
“This isn’t the most experimental beer lineup in town—but it’s fresh, consistent, and pairs well with their food.”
— Yelp reviewer, 2024
The Vibe at CooperSmith’s: Patios, Pints, and a Local Crowd
If you ask Fort Collins locals why they keep returning to CooperSmith’s Pub & Brewing, the atmosphere is often near the top of the list. The setting strikes a rare balance between casual dining and community comfort, making it a versatile choice for everything from weekday lunches to weekend meetups.
🌞 Patios with a Purpose
Located at 5 Old Town Square, CooperSmith’s benefits from both its central location and two outdoor patios—a major draw for anyone seeking sunshine, people-watching, or a relaxed meal outdoors. These patios are often mentioned in Yelp reviews as a standout feature, especially during Fort Collins’ long patio season.
The setup makes it an ideal option for CSU students, downtown workers, or tourists looking for a bite between breweries. It also accommodates families and large groups, with multiple reviewers citing the ample indoor seating and outdoor flexibility as reasons they return.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Perks
Though pets aren’t allowed directly on the patio, dogs are welcome just outside the patio gate, where you can sit adjacent to your pup. It’s a setup that works well for pet owners, and it’s often called out by diners with four-legged companions.
🪵 Inside the Brewpub
Inside, the rustic charm of exposed beams, brick walls, and brewery tanks helps maintain the brewpub’s down-to-earth personality. Reviewers describe the interior as “warm,” “bustling without being too loud,” and “casual but not chaotic.”
It’s this laid-back but lively vibe that has earned CooperSmith’s its reputation as both a family-friendly restaurant in Fort Collins and a hangout spot for locals of all ages.
CooperSmith’s Reviews: Friendly Service or Slower Pace?
With over 500 Yelp reviews, plus active listings on TripAdvisor and Google, CooperSmith’s has more than enough feedback to draw meaningful conclusions about service quality, wait times, and the overall experience.
👍 What Guests Appreciate
- Friendly Staff: Many diners comment on the warm, relaxed service style. Servers are described as “low-pressure, helpful with beer selections,” and “down-to-earth.”
- Consistency: For a restaurant operating since 1989, CooperSmith’s gets credit for delivering predictable food quality and a steady beer lineup.
- Kid Accommodations: Reviews often note how servers go out of their way to make families feel comfortable.
⚠️ Common Critiques
- Wait Times During Peak Hours: Several guests mention longer waits on Friday and Saturday nights, especially for walk-ins. It’s a recurring theme in both Yelp and Google reviews.
- Service Pace: While generally friendly, a few patrons note that food delivery and check drop-off can lag when the restaurant is full.
- Food vs. Beer Quality: Some diners express that while the beer stands out, the food—though good—isn’t as dynamic as offerings at newer gastropubs.
“Still one of my go-to Old Town staples. Great for groups and casual meals, but service can slow down when it’s packed.”
— TripAdvisor Reviewer, 2023
“Their beer flights are fun, and staff is great, but don’t go expecting gourmet fare. It’s classic pub food—and that’s exactly what it’s supposed to be.”
— Yelp Reviewer, 2024
So, does CooperSmith’s still hold up in 2025? For most diners, yes. While it may not lead on innovation, it continues to score well on familiarity, comfort, and that irreplaceable Old Town character.
More Than a Brewpub: Trivia Nights, Music & Happy Hour Deals
CooperSmith’s isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a community hangout that leans into local culture. That includes weekly events, happy hour specials, and even a rewards program for frequent visitors.
🧠 Weekly Trivia & 🎶 Live Music
Two recurring events keep things lively during the week:
- Trivia Tuesdays at 6:30 PM – A popular draw for both locals and CSU students, trivia night fills up quickly, with prizes and rotating themes.
- Live Music Wednesdays from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM – Performances from local artists turn the brewpub into a mellow venue for beer and acoustic sets.
Both events are promoted on CooperSmith’s active social media channels, and regulars mention them often in their reviews.
🍻 Happy Hour Highlights
Running Monday through Friday from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, CooperSmith’s happy hour includes:
- $2 off select pints
- $1 off well drinks
- $5 select appetizers (like spinach artichoke dip or pretzels)
For those seeking beer specials in Fort Collins, it’s a solid option with plenty of seating and a patio-friendly vibe.
💳 Rewards Program
The brewpub also offers a local rewards program, though details vary. It’s typically geared toward return guests who want to earn discounts or free items over time. It’s one more reason why longtime residents still consider CooperSmith’s “their spot.”
FAQ: What You Should Know Before Dining
Where is CooperSmith’s Pub & Brewing located?
5 Old Town Square, Fort Collins, CO 80524—right in the heart of downtown and surrounded by local shops, breweries, and public gathering spots.
What are their hours?
- Sunday–Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely. CooperSmith’s offers a full kids menu, a casual layout, and a welcoming environment for all ages—making it one of the top family-friendly restaurants in Fort Collins.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, but with a caveat: dogs are allowed just outside the patio gate, near your table—not directly on the patio. Still, it’s a common choice for dog owners enjoying a beer outdoors.
Do they accept reservations?
Yes. CooperSmith’s offers online reservations and waitlist management, which is especially helpful during peak hours. Walk-ins are welcome, but expect longer waits on weekends or during events.
What kind of food do they serve?
The menu features classic American pub fare with a few modern twists—burgers, fish & chips, hearty apps, and comfort-forward entrees. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, along with a dedicated kids menu.
What beers are available?
All beers are brewed in-house, with weekly rotations and staple styles like pale ales, bitters, and seasonal IPAs. Try a beer flight if you’re visiting for the first time.
Is there happy hour?
Yes. Happy hour runs Monday–Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM with drink and appetizer specials. Guests often recommend this window for better value and shorter waits.
Are there any weekly events?
CooperSmith’s hosts Trivia Tuesdays at 6:30 PM and Live Music Wednesdays from 7–9 PM—popular draws for locals and visitors alike.
How’s the service?
Reviews describe staff as friendly and attentive, though some guests note that service can slow during busy hours, particularly on weekends or during trivia events.
Is CooperSmith’s Still Worth a Visit in 2025? Here’s What Locals Say
After more than 30 years in business, CooperSmith’s Pub & Brewing Fort Collins review reveals a legacy spot that still knows its audience. While it may not be the flashiest or most experimental player in the local food scene, it remains deeply tied to the city’s brewery roots—and continues to evolve in ways that reflect its community.
✅ Strengths
- Reliable pub food with crowd-pleasing favorites
- In-house brewed beer that’s fresh and local
- Two spacious patios in a prime downtown location
- Events and happy hour deals that build loyalty
- Family and group-friendly layout
⚠️ Considerations
- Service pace can lag during peak hours
- Food is more classic than creative
- Wait times may require patience without a reservation
Best For:
- Families looking for casual dining
- Tourists seeking a local beer + lunch combo
- CSU students and alumni with nostalgic ties
- Anyone craving solid Fort Collins brewpub vibes without the hype
Maybe Not Ideal For:
- Diners seeking cutting-edge cuisine
- Those needing fast service on busy nights
- Guests expecting trend-forward cocktails or experimental beers
In short: CooperSmith’s still delivers—especially when you know what to expect. For locals, it’s a dependable favorite. For newcomers, it’s a warm welcome into Fort Collins’ legendary craft beer culture. And for anyone who enjoys a burger, a pint, and a sunny patio? It’s still exactly the place to be.
Been to CooperSmith’s recently? Share your own review below and help fellow readers decide if this Fort Collins classic is still their next go-to.
About the Author
Written by David Lanketh, a Fort Collins-based food writer for coloradofoodreviews.com. Specializing in review aggregation and culinary trend analysis, David helps readers navigate Colorado’s evolving food and drink scene using verified customer insights and menu transparency.
About Colorado Food Reviews
coloradofoodreviews.com is your trusted guide to the Centennial State’s most iconic and underrated dining experiences. Our reviews are built on real public data—not personal opinion—giving readers unbiased, grounded insights on where to eat next in Colorado.
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