As a senior who is graduating in, at the time this is published, just over a week, the time has come where I’ve begun reflecting on the places and things I’ll miss most about Colorado College and Colorado Springs. While many who read Coffee Chat will know how much I’ll miss the coffee shops around town, there are certainly a few restaurants that I’ll miss, too. From the lovely owner who runs Uchenna Ethiopian Restaurant to the CC classic that is Skirted Heifer, there’s one restaurant that stands above the rest and that I believe is worth unwavering support for almost every reason: Azada Mexican Grill.
If you’ve already heard of Azada or been to this incredible establishment before, I tip my cap and have gained respect for your palate. For those who have yet to visit Azada, allow me to give you an elevator pitch for the spot.
Located in the heart of downtown, this family-owned Mexican restaurant has been a cornerstone of my and my friends’ college experience, and one that I will truly miss. Upon walking in, you’ll instantly feel a sense of happiness and comfort, enveloped by the delicious smell of fresh, homemade burritos. The Chipotle style ordering — and don’t let that comparison make you think that the chain in any way compares to Azada — allows you to make a burrito, bowl, taco or salad with whatever combination your heart desires. The fresh tortillas that are hand-pressed in front of your eyes will make your only wish that you could have your delicious burrito a second sooner.
The quality and care of each burrito isn’t the only reason you should come here: it’s also an incredible value. The “Colorado College Student Deal,” which includes a chicken burrito and horchata for $9.99, means that your wallet won’t be dented and the money you do spend is being put towards supporting a family-owned local business.
But while I have been coming to Azada Mexican Grill since my freshman year and consider myself well-versed in the language of Azada, I believe that my friends, who have collectively eaten at Azada well over 500 times, will be able to explain why you should support this place better than I ever could.
“Where do I begin?” said Leo Priesman ‘26. “Azada has been a staple for me across my four years at CC. Everyone is so kind and the tortillas are the freshest in Colorado. Free horchata for CC students with a chicken burrito — I am forever grateful for this gem of an establishment.”
Jake Zaas ‘26, who is currently No. 4 in the Colorado College Beli rankings, said that it is “the best burrito in Colorado Springs.” Zaas also emphasized the CC deal, highlighting its support of students.
The value that Azada offers is also seen in their weekly deals, which are capped by free sopaipilla samples on Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. They have rotating deals throughout the week, from discounts on certain items to different offers.
My roommate and, according to the owners, one of Azada Mexican Grill’s top five customers, Ozan Muratoglu ‘26, summed up what the restaurant means to him better than I ever could: “Azada is my favorite place in Colorado Springs,” he said. “I eat there almost every day and every time I leave with a smile on my face. The people who work together are amazing. It is a family-owned business where I am happy to spend my money.”
Samuel Carr ‘26 put it simply: “It is definitely the place I will miss the most.”
The bottom line is simple. While Colorado Springs has an abundance of incredible Mexican food to choose from, there is something special about Azada Mexican Grill that other restaurants fail to supply. From the fresh tortillas to the incredible family who runs the show, I sincerely hope that students continue to support this establishment in the future.