5 Eateries in Grand County, Colorado
My favorites from when I spent a couple of summers in the mountains outside of Rocky Mountain National Park…
Are you planning a trip to Grand County? Located about 1.5-2 hours away from Denver, Grand County is full of adventure! If you are looking to fuel up before or after a long day of activity, be sure to note these spots. Spending more than a month at a time in Grand County, I quickly learned that grocery shopping (even at Fireside) was not gonna work for me. It is kind of a food desert & it was worth driving an hour down to the Natural Grocers in Golden for my weekly haul.
That said, if I didn’t prepare my own food, these were some of my favorite spots to eat at! If you try them, let me know what you think in the comments – and be sure to tag me in your posts @elisehatsuko!
Moon Frog: Coffee
Carver’s: Pastries & Chicken Fried Steak
Their bakery is now located in Cooper Creek Square, and they have an amazing selection of alllll sorts of pastries. If you know me, I am from suuuuugarrrrr countrryyyyy so I was really made for this life lol.
Also their breakfast is still being served at their diner location & I LOOOVE their chicken fried steak. I also love the chicken fried steak all across Colorado to be honest :] Other great options for CFS in the Valley are Fontenot’s and Sharky’s.
Randi’s Grill: All-Day Mountain-Healthy Options
Randi’s Grill in Winter Park, CO is a must-visit for those in the Fraser Valley who looking for a satisfying meal. The restaurant offers the friendly and cozy ambiance of an Irish pub and a wide variety of delicious dishes ranging from burgers to seafood (lowkey their salmon is a pretty healthy & tasty option for dinny). One of the most popular items on the menu is the elk burger, which is known for its juicy and flavorful taste. They also serve an amazing Irish breakfast, with options like corned beef. In addition to the great food, the friendly and attentive staff make the dining experience even more enjoyable – and there is lovely outdoor patio seating perfect for enjoying summer in Colorado. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Randi’s Grill is definitely worth a stop.
Smokehouse WP: BBQ Lunch
Smokehouse is an iconic restaurant nestled in the charming town of Winter Park Located in the heart of town, Smokehouse boasts a cozy atmosphere, complete with rustic mountain decor.
The menu at Smokehouse features classic barbecue favorites such as pulled pork, brisket, and ribs. The meats are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. Guests can also enjoy a variety of sides, including mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans. They have smaller sandwich options that are perfect for lunch!!
In addition to the delicious food, Smokehouse offers a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always happy to recommend the perfect drink to pair with your meal. Overall, Smokehouse is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Winter Park and is a great place to fuel up!
The Historic Rapids Lodge: Creekside Cocktails
The Historic Rapids Lodge in Grand Lake is a charming and historic lodge that has been welcoming guests since 1915. Located in the heart of Grand Lake, this lodge offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle. I stopped in after church and absolutely loved the ambiance!
The lodge’s restaurant offers a menu of classic American cuisine and local Colorado favorites.
Overall, the Historic Rapids Lodge is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, while enjoying the warm hospitality and historic charm of a classic mountain lodge.
