Every town has that one dish that locals can’t stop talking about. In Fort Collins, it’s not a secret brew or a dessert trend — it’s a burger.
And not just any burger.
It’s the 60/40 burger from Big Al’s Burgers & Dogs, a smoky-savory masterpiece that’s been holding the crown since 2010.
If you’ve ever taken that first bite, the sizzle of bacon, the juicy beef, the just-right crisp on the edge, you already know it’s something special. But how did this one-of-a-kind creation become a Fort Collins icon? Pull up a chair, grab a fry (or five), and let’s tell the story.
How the 60/40 Burger Was Born
When Big Al’s opened its doors in downtown Fort Collins, we had one goal: make burgers that were simple, honest, and ridiculously good.
During those early kitchen experiments, we kept coming back to a single question — what makes a burger unforgettable? The answer turned out to be bacon.
Let’s be honest, bacon is the secret behind so many amazing dishes. But instead of just laying a few strips on top, our team went big, literally blending 60 percent beef and 40 percent bacon into one perfect patty. The result was an instant hit: smoky, juicy, and loaded with flavor from the inside out.
That first batch barely hit the grill before Fort Collins locals started spreading the word. It wasn’t long before “the 60/40” became part of the town’s vocabulary, right up there with “Old Town,” “Horsetooth,” and “Go Rams.”
Ready to order, get Big Als’ delivered through DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, or Nosh.
What Makes It So Good?
From day one, Big Al’s has been proudly Fort Collins-born and raised. Our beef is fresh, never frozen and hormone-free, and we source ingredients from Colorado suppliers whenever possible.
The bacon brings a rich, smoky depth while the beef keeps things juicy and tender. When those two come together on the flat-top, the fat renders down to create a crispy caramelized edge and a melt-in-your-mouth center.
That commitment to local quality isn’t just a talking point, it’s part of why the 60/40 burger has become such a symbol of this town. It’s the taste of Fort Collins itself: inventive, bold, and just a little rebellious.
The 60/40 Today: Still a Local Legend
Fifteen+ years later, the 60/40 burger is still the star of the show. It’s been featured in local dining guides, highlighted on “best burgers in Fort Collins” lists, and tagged in more foodie photos than we can count.
But our favorite recognition comes from the people who keep coming back, CSU students introducing their parents to “the burger I told you about,” couples sharing one after a concert, and regulars who’ve made it their weekday lunch go-to.
Around here, the 60/40 is more than a menu item. It’s a little piece of Fort Collins tradition served up on a toasted bun.
Want to level up your burger? Add our signature 60/40 patty to any favorite — Bacon-Guac, Jalapeño Cream Cheese, Mushroom Swiss, or Big Hoss. View our menu for more!
Looking Ahead: The Future of Big Flavor
We’ll never mess with the original, but we love to experiment. Each month our kitchen whips up new limited-time specials, burgers that play with global flavors while keeping that same Big Al’s soul.
Still, no matter what new creations hit the grill, the 60/40 remains the one to beat. It’s the burger that started it all and continues to remind us why we do what we do: make great food, serve great people, and keep things fun.
Try the Burger That Put Big Al’s on the Map
If you’re hunting for the best burger in Downtown Fort Collins, skip the guesswork and head straight to the source.
Come see what makes the 60/40 burger a Fort Collins favorite, fresh ingredients, local pride, and a flavor that’s been making people smile since day one.
📍 Visit us: 140 W. Mountain Ave, Fort Collins, CO
🕒 Open daily: 11 AM – 9 PM
👉 Order Online for Pickup or Delivery
