Editor’s note: This is part of The Know’s series, Staff Favorites. Each week, we offer our opinions on the best that Colorado has to offer for dining, shopping, entertainment, outdoor activities and more. (We’ll also let you in on some hidden gems).
As a Denverite, I find myself in Colorado Springs fairly often, whether I’m seeking out a trailhead, visiting a friend or just passing through. But there’s one place I always stop: Hafa Adai Fiesta Food.
Years ago, a friend of mine discovered this family-owned restaurant when searching for a taste of home. I’ve been going back ever since.
Hafa Adai is hidden down a little hallway in downtown Colorado Springs, serving up Chamorro cuisine that’s hard to find anywhere else. The dishes are influenced by Spanish, Mexican, American, Japanese and Filipino cultures, and are native to the indigenous people of Guam and other islands in the Marianas.
The lunch plates allow one ($13.50), two ($14.50) or three ($15.15) different kinds of proteins, along with red rice, a choice of salad and a lumpia (spring roll). Hafai Adai offers BBQ chicken, Chamorro-style smoked ribs, Tocino pork, hotlink sausages or smoked pork. The Tocino, or sweet pork, is my favorite, especially after a hike when my body craves that little bit of sweetness.
If you’re looking for a bigger dish, I’d recommend the made-to-order Fried Rice Ala ($14.50) with Spam. You get two eggs (a luxury lately) on top, too. The generous portion is easily enough for lunch and makes for fantastic leftovers.
Have a kiddo with you? Take advantage of the side portions of meat and rice to create a smaller meal. Save room for one of Hafa Adai’s island desserts, like the guava cake ($3.50).
Note: The restaurant will be closed Feb. 22-March 8 as the family travels home to Guam.
Hafa Adai Fiesta Food, 109 E. Pikes Peak Ave., Colorado Springs, 719-308-5449. Open Wednesday and Thursday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Closed Sunday through Tuesday.
