By Inspector 37
as told to Suzanne Lemon
Those visiting Rocky Mountain National Park will discover plenty of dining options in the eastern gateway town of Estes Park.
Named after Lord Dunraven, a wealthy Irish nobleman prominent in Estes Park's history, Dunraven Inn Restaurant is beloved for its soul-satisfying Italian food and extensive wine list. Although traditional pastas dominate the menu, a large selection of steaks and seafood also is available. The Bavarian style exterior and main dining room décor hint at an incarnation from a previous restaurant. Dollar bills signed by guests decorate the lounge's ceiling and walls—contributing your own dollar provides a momentary distraction while you wait for a table. The popularity of this restaurant, especially during the summer season, makes reservations a must.
Molly B Restaurant fills up quickly during the summer. The décor is country cozy at this breakfast and lunch hotspot with a laid-back feel. Breakfast includes omelets, huevos rancheros, pancakes, waffles and Molly B's popular homemade “outrageous granola.” The eclectic lunch menu aims to please, offering sandwiches, quesadillas, burritos, fish and chips, salads and assorted vegetarian dishes. Desserts are homemade.
After a day exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, the Rock Inn Mountain Tavern is a great place to stop for a microbrew and a hearty meal. The innovative menu appeals to those looking for a perfectly prepared steak and to “foodies” searching for something more adventurous. The Devils on Horseback appetizer, dates stuffed with roasted garlic and wrapped in crispy bacon, may sound strange, but actually receives rave reviews from staff and diners. The stuffed chicken comes with a rich, creamy gorgonzola sauce. Other choices include Rocky Mountain trout, burgers, salmon and pasta dishes. The Western-inspired décor, complete with a mounted moose head, creates a relaxed, fun environment. Live bands perform on weekends.
Chef and owner Dave Oehlman prides himself on serving high quality, traditional American barbecue at Smokin' Dave's BBQ & Tap House. Generous, mouth-watering portions of tender ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket and sausage make this restaurant a local favorite. It's rare to find a barbecue joint that serves dishes made with fresh ingredients—no frozen green beans here! Steaks, seafood, burgers and salads complement the barbecue selections. Try the chocolate peanut butter pie or one of the other delicious homemade desserts. The Tap House features a full bar with 15 beers on tap and occasional nightly entertainment. Classy, yet unpretentious décor and a casual atmosphere only enhance the meal.
At Sweet Basilico, the hospitable chef/owner greets guests from the kitchen, which overlooks the dining area. Reservations are highly recommended during the busy summer season. If weather permits, you may opt to dine al fresco on the patio next to the Big Thompson River. Attentive, amiable staff members cater to your needs with a smile. The menu consists of such traditional Italian creations as manicotti, lasagna, spaghetti, pizza and chicken Marsala.
Only minutes from downtown, the Twin Owls Steakhouse presents a quiet, peaceful setting next to the Black Canyon Inn. Oil paintings and historic photos adorn the wooden walls of this unique cabin, built in 1929 as a family home. Locals insist this is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. The wine list features vintages from around the world, many sold by the glass. Begin your meal with one of the delectable appetizers, like the elk kabob or bacon-wrapped scallops. A wide range of entrées includes juicy steaks, lobster, salmon, ruby-red trout, duck, pork and chicken, enhanced by flavorful sauces and side dishes. The caramel pecan pie provides a suitable ending to a fine meal.
Grand Lake, the bordering gateway town on the park's western side, also presents several restaurant choices.
Begin your meal at quaint Grand Pizza in the historic downtown area with one of the unique salads, available in either an individual portion or family style (a larger portion for the table to share). Those in the mood for pizza choose such specialty pies as Caribbean, Cajun or Bacon Cheeseburger, or create their own from a long list of fresh ingredients. The friendly staff also serves calzones, subs and a few simple pasta dishes.
Next to the Tonahutu River, The Historic Rapids Restaurant has an interesting history. John Lapsley Ish, an adventurous miner during the late 1800s, built the structure in 1915 and called it Rapids Lodge. Over the years, the property changed hands several times and was notorious for gambling and other illegal activities in the ‘50s. The current owners, Lynne and Tom Ludwig, offer a more refined experience in their popular restaurant. Ask for a table near the window, where you can relax and enjoy a breathtaking river view. Menu highlights include the pan-seared elk medallions, shiitake-seared Alaskan halibut and the “Rapids' Tournedo” filet mignon. Dinner includes a shrimp appetizer tray, soup or salad, and sorbet. The decadent desserts change nightly. Guests may take unfinished wine home with them once the restaurant staff expertly re-corks and packages the bottle.
Are you feeling rebellious? Ready for a little public disobedience? The tables at Sagebrush BBQ & Grill come with a bucket of unshelled peanuts—you're encouraged to make a mess and throw your shells on the floor while waiting for your food in this former jailhouse. Bars from the jailhouse and other articles from the late 1800s adorn the walls. Platters consist of pork ribs, smoked pork, beef brisket, buffalo or sausage and come with two sides. The extensive menu also includes steaks, game and seafood in addition to traditional and Southwest-influenced breakfasts. A full service bar is located adjacent to the dining area.
See all the restaurants for this destination.