(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Phantom Canyon Brewing Company is more than a place to grab a pint — it’s a historic staple that’s helped shape the city’s food and drink scene since 1993. FOX21’s Krista Witiak takes us inside the historic brewpub for this week’s Foodie Finds.
It all started with a simple goal. “To make really good food, really good beer, and just serve the population in Colorado Springs,” says General Manager Mario Moser.
As the city’s first brewpub, it’s built a lasting legacy by combining quality, innovation, and local charm — all from a building that’s more than 120 years old.
“We’ve been doing it for a really long time,” said Head Brewer Brian Koch. “Our brewhouse has changed, but the focus remains on quality and the best possible product.”
The brewpub’s building was originally built to host railroad travelers. It has a lot of history and charm, with big windows and vintage pool tables upstairs. The bar, which comes from Pueblo, was relocated to match the building’s era. “We keep the overall aesthetic classic,” said Moser, “but make sure our products stay trendy.”
Everything at Phantom Canyon is brewed in-house, using high-end ingredients and precise processes to perfect every pour — from hazy IPAs to crisp lagers.
“Our number one beer, and it’s been that way for a while, is Dos Lunas, our Mexican lager,” Koch said. “But we’ve also got seasonal hits like a German Pils, Garten Brown, and a West Coast Pilsner coming soon.”
And while the beer is the main draw for many, the kitchen stands out just as much. Executive Chef Manny Coss leads a menu that combines classic comfort foods with creative seasonal dishes. “We’re trying to focus in on quality,” Coss stated. “Quality and excellence in everything going out.”
Popular dishes include fish and chips, lemon Tab(asco) chicken, and the signature Phantom Burger, featuring a bison patty with Gouda, green chile mayo, pickled red onions, and arugula. Coss also leans into seasonal trends, with current favorites like the Nashville Hot Slider, a crispy chicken thigh with buttered pickles and dirty slaw, and the prosciutto melon salad, topped with pepitas, shishito peppers, and a miso vinaigrette.
Coss and Koch regularly collaborate to create dishes that pair perfectly with current or upcoming beers. “Brian and I will sit together and figure out pairings,” said Coss. “Sometimes we test dishes as specials first and then bring them to the full menu if they’re a hit.”
After three decades, Phantom Canyon is more than just a brewery; it’s the spot for good food, great beer, and that Colorado Springs feel.
Visit Foodie Finds under Features on FOX21News.com for a $50 gift certificate to Phantom Canyon for just $25. Scan the QR code or go to Fox21News.com/deals. Hurry, only 100 certificates are available!
