From quesabirrias to spicy shrimp, San Rose Mexican Restaurant in Fort Collins delivers on flavor, value, and neighborhood charm. Learn 6 reasons to visit.
Quesabirrias, Fajitas & West-Side Flavor: Meet San Rose
Tucked just west of the CSU campus on West Elizabeth Street, San Rose Mexican Restaurant may not scream for attention—but its bold flavors, fast service, and neighborhood buzz do all the talking. Whether you’re craving gooey quesabirrias after a morning class or looking for a satisfying burrito to share, this casual taquería delivers high flavor at low hassle.
From the outside, it’s unassuming. But inside, San Rose offers a blend of family-run warmth and quick-turnaround energy, perfectly tailored for Fort Collins’ mix of students, working locals, and Westside foodies. And while it’s known for its birria-based menu stars, diners also rave about spicy shrimp, loaded burritos, and chimichangas that demand a fork and knife.
In this review, we’ll break down 6 tasty reasons San Rose earns its spot as a Fort Collins favorite, whether you’re dining in, ordering online, or swinging by for a fast bite on your way through town.
Table of Contents
Updated May 2025
Also Read
🌮 West-Side Flavor Guide: Why San Rose Is More Than Just Another Taco Joint
1. Birria and Quesabirrias Done Right
At San Rose, birria isn’t just a dish—it’s a centerpiece. And if you’ve spent any time exploring Fort Collins’ growing birria scene, you know execution matters. Fortunately, this place delivers.
What Makes Their Quesabirrias a Standout:
- Melty mozzarella-style cheese, griddled crisp inside golden tortillas
- Tender, deeply seasoned birria beef tucked inside—never dry, never bland
- Side of house-made consommé, perfect for dunking or sipping on the side
- Optional add-ons like onions, cilantro, and house salsas to dial in your flavor
Birria tacos and quesabirrias are now the most-ordered items on their menu for a reason. They check all the boxes: portable, flavorful, affordable, and filling.
“I could eat their quesabirrias every week. Actually, I kind of do.” – Google Review
“The consommé here is better than El Diablo’s—it’s richer and spicier.” – Reddit user in r/FortCollinsEats
Whether you’re dining in or taking them to-go, San Rose’s birria consistently comes out hot, cheesy, and satisfying—and at a price that keeps students and regulars coming back.
2. Taco Tuesdays (Every Day)
Sure, some places hype Taco Tuesday. But at San Rose, tacos are always a good idea, regardless of the day.
Go-To Taco Picks:
- Tacos al Pastor:
Thin-sliced pork marinated in chili and spices, seared and served with grilled pineapple and pickled onions. Sweet, savory, and tangy all at once. - Tacos al Carbón:
Grilled steak or chicken with onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Simple, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. - Build-Your-Own:
Choose from several proteins and top with house salsas, fresh cilantro, and onions. Salsas range from mild verde to spicy roja.
Diners often order three or more tacos to mix and match, especially during lunch rush or post-class cravings. Pricing remains fair—making this one of the more budget-friendly taco experiences in Fort Collins.
“You don’t need to wait for Tuesday. Their tacos are 🔥 all week.” – DoorDash review
“The pastor is juicy, not greasy. Great spice balance.” – Yelp Reviewer
3. More Than Just Tacos: Burritos & Chimichangas
While tacos might bring you in, it’s the oversized burritos and golden-fried chimichangas that might keep you around. These are the kind of meals that can easily be shared—or turned into leftovers you’ll look forward to later.
Must-Try Plates:
- Fajita Burrito
Stuffed with seared bell peppers, onions, your choice of protein, and cheese—then wrapped in a flour tortilla and optionally smothered in red or green sauce. - Chimichanga
Fried to a crisp golden brown and loaded with your filling of choice. Topped with guacamole, crema, and shredded lettuce for a balance of crunch and freshness. - Combo Plates
Add rice, beans, chips, or extra salsa to round out your meal. Portions are consistently praised for being big enough to share.
These dishes offer flavor and flexibility. Want your burrito spicy? Ask for extra roja. Need it vegetarian? Just ask—San Rose is happy to adjust on request.
“Their chimichangas are criminally underrated. I’ve had every one on the menu.” – Yelp
“Best value burrito near CSU, hands down.” – Facebook Comment
4. For the Heat Seekers: Camarones a la Diabla
If you like your food to bring some fire, the Camarones a la Diabla at San Rose is for you. This classic Mexican dish features shrimp sautéed in a house-made chili sauce that brings bold spice without losing flavor.
Plate Details:
- Spicy sautéed shrimp in a rich diabla sauce
- Served with white rice, guacamole, salad, and fresh pico
- Balanced heat: enough to wake your palate, but not enough to overwhelm
This dish shows that San Rose’s menu isn’t just about tacos and burritos—they also offer regional favorites with depth and just enough kick to keep things exciting.
“It’s spicy, but you’ll still be scooping up the sauce with chips when the shrimp are gone.” – Google Review
“I get this every time. Pair it with a Jarritos tamarindo, trust me.” – DoorDash Reviewer
5. Takeout, Delivery, and Walk-In Friendly
One of San Rose’s strongest assets is how well it adapts to any dining situation. Whether you’re calling in a to-go order, ordering online, or walking in for a quick bite, the experience is smooth, friendly, and fast.
Service Perks:
- Takeout-ready packaging that keeps tacos crisp and burritos hot
- Delivery via DoorDash for those staying in
- Quick turnaround even during lunch or dinner rush
- Casual dine-in option with indoor booths and seasonal outdoor patio
It’s a winning combo of efficiency + portion + flavor that makes San Rose a go-to for everyone from CSU students to local workers needing a quick, satisfying lunch.
“Their takeout is always solid. Never soggy tacos, which is a miracle.” – Yelp
“I’ve ordered at least a dozen times through DoorDash. Every order’s been correct and hot.” – Google Reviewer
6. College Vibes and Family Roots
San Rose hits a sweet spot that few restaurants manage well: it’s affordable and fast enough for students, but warm, friendly, and authentic enough to feel like a family-run gem. The staff are known for remembering repeat customers, offering tips on salsa pairings, and ensuring your order is exactly how you like it.
Atmosphere Breakdown:
- Located in a small plaza on W Elizabeth St, close to CSU
- Indoor seating with cozy booths and a few patio tables outside
- Family-owned energy with service that’s casual but attentive
- Ideal for everything from solo study breaks to casual group meals
“Feels like a real taquería—not just a place near campus, but part of the neighborhood.” – Facebook Review
“Friendly service every time. My go-to for a late lunch after class.” – CSU Student on Reddit
🏪 About San Rose Mexican Restaurant
San Rose Mexican Restaurant is a family-owned taquería located just west of CSU in Fort Collins, Colorado. Known for its approachable menu, fast service, and birria-forward tacos, it’s a dependable west-side option for takeout or dine-in meals.
- 📍 Address: 1501 W Elizabeth St, Unit 2, Fort Collins, CO 80521
- 📞 Phone: (970) 251-0503
- 🌐 Website
- 📖 Menu
- 📲 Order on DoorDash
❓ FAQ: Before You Go
Q: What’s the best dish for first-timers?
A: The quesabirrias with consommé are a must-try. Rich, gooey, and deeply flavorful.
Q: Can I order delivery?
A: Yes. Delivery is available through DoorDash, and pickup orders can be placed online.
Q: Do they offer dine-in?
A: Yes—indoor seating and a seasonal patio are available.
Q: Are portions big?
A: Yes. Burritos and combo plates are generously sized, often large enough to share.
Q: Do they serve alcohol?
A: Their beverage menu is limited; Jarritos, horchata, and soft drinks are available. Check in-store for updates.
Q: Do they take reservations?
A: No—San Rose is walk-in only. Waits are typically short, even at peak hours.
San Rose Nails the Neighborhood Taco Shop Vibe
With cheesy quesabirrias, fiery shrimp plates, and burritos that could double as dumbbells, San Rose isn’t trying to be trendy—it’s focused on delivering flavor, value, and friendly service to a community that knows and loves good food.
Whether you’re a student looking for a go-to taco fix, a local exploring Fort Collins’ Westside eats, or a newcomer wondering where the real flavor is—San Rose hits the mark.
For a fast, satisfying meal with no pretense and lots of personality, this is the kind of restaurant that earns regulars—and keeps them.
About the Author
David Lanketh is the editor of Colorado Food Reviews, covering everything from student-friendly taco joints to generational family kitchens across the state. He specializes in writing that brings local flavor and community context to every bite.
This review was based on public data from the restaurant’s website, menu, delivery platforms, and verified user reviews. No in-person visit was conducted. All commentary reflects publicly available customer sentiment.
About the Blog
ColoradoFoodReviews.com is your trusted source for local restaurant coverage across the state. We deliver fact-based, reader-focused food writing for curious diners and loyal locals alike.
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