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Last weekend's Thanksgiving snow storm in Breckenridge couldn't have been more magical! Well, that was if you were skiing and not driving. I got to hit the slopes with my loved ones, and I had a blast. Breck is one of my all-time favorite places to travel for reasons other than awesome skiing. I love the vibe of the small ski town, the shopping, and the restaurant scene outstanding.
Since I've been asked occasionally about where I like to dine while I'm there, I decided it's past due that I write a food guide for this lovely little town. Just like the people that like to travel there, Breck has an eclectic dining scene. You can find just about any type of cuisine there... plus some unique dishes that are very Colorado-esque, such as the elk meatloaf served at Breckenridge Brewery. Other native dishes you won't want to miss out on trying include buffalo (bison), lamb, and trout.
It was really hard to narrow down my favorite places, and I tried to give a nice variety. Every restaurant I have chosen is tried and true, and will not dissapoint even the biggest foodie snob... I would know, because I am one :-) I also couldn't resist adding one of my new favorite places to stop into while I'm hitting the slopes. After picking out all my favorite food joints, I realized I should probably add a section for after dinner cocktails (obviously) which are extra nice when you're visiting a ski village... Enjoy!
1. Breakfast
Daylight Donuts is a Breckenridge icon. Stop in and grab a donut before you hit the slopes. You might end up staying a while as you stare among the copious amounts of knick knacks and license plates pinned to the walls.
Make sure you wake up bright and early to hit this place! Donut want to miss out on some freshly baked goods :) They also serve an awesome breakfast menu.
Blue Moose is another solid choice for a tasty, homestyle breakfast. Serving all the classics with a more extended menu than Daylight Donuts, I love coming here for a big breakfast before spending the afternoon skiing.
Crepes A La Cart, affectionately known as "The Crepe Stand," isn't just a breakfast spot, but it might be the best time to get in line for one of these prized delicacies.
Savory or sweet? The options here are almost endless...
I went with the chicken Florentine while my compadres ordered a Nutella and banana crepe.
2. Lunch
Robbie's Tavern is Peak 8's newest addition to the food scene. Perched on the ski hill, you can sit on their outdoor patio lined with fireplaces, and sip your hot spiked apple cider.
While you watch the ski bunnies coming down the slopes, order a plate of their chicken wings and you will not be disappointed in your afternoon delight at Robbie's!
Dining in town? Don't miss stopping into Rita's for a quick taco or two. Or splurge on one of their queso smothered burritos, but you might need to take a nap after that lunch. They are known for their specialty margaritas, which are also dangerously delicious!
And, for the "Asian cuisine enthusiast" we have Bangkok Happy Bowl. Sushi, salads, pad thai...it's all good at the happy bowl. For the best Thai food in Breck, this is the place to come. They also have a location open in Aspen.
Chicken pad Thai and a Sapporo to top it off! Yummy.
3. Dinner
This is a super hard category to narrow down, so don't be offended if one of your favorites didn't make my list. Feeling like a nice dinner in a more contemporary environment, then head on over to Blue River Bistro, voted Diners' Choice by Opentable in 2018. You must try one of their fish or pasta entrees. This place makes for a great date night.
A new place I've been making a priority to go to is Giampietro's Pizza and Italian restaurant. They have a super cool, contemporary addition to the restaurant that has a great bar in it.
Order some cheesy garlic bread and build your own pizza (don't forget to add the garlic, they throw on entire cloves of it...YUMMY!)
Finally, a restaurant I made it to last week and completely deserves a spot in the "Top 3" is Hearthstone. The owners have turned a historic home into this super cozy, mountain village restaurant. This is a true Breckenridge treat! You won't feel more at home in the mountains than Hearthstone.
I indulged in the buffalo ribeye topped with roasted apple foie gras butter, espresso lavender cheddar yukon gold mashers, and broccolini. How delicious! Their wine menu is spectacular.
4. Cocktails
A quick run through of post-dinner drinking venues I enjoy. Because, what's better than ending a day of skiing and eating than at a sweet mountain bar? Blue Stag is great for chilling. Their bar feels like a chalet; throw in some reggae tunes and you're feeling nice and relaxed.
Moving on, if you want to be somewhere a bit more upbeat while watching epic snowboarding played non-stop on a big screen... then head down to the Rocky Mountain Underground. It's actually a ski shop with a tavern attached to it. Drink a beer and shop for some new ski gear! They usually have a DJ playing some sweet remixes.
Lastly, I just had to throw in good 'ol Gold Pan Saloon. This place is iconic in Breckenridge, and although it's not the nicest bar in town, you can expect to have a grand time there on the weekends. The Gold Pan Saloon has stood for over 140 years playing host to gunfights, outlasting Prohibition, and boasting the longest continuous liquor license west of the Mississippi.
There's a wine bar next-door if you want to slip out of the dance floor for a minute.
I hope my food guide is helpful if you're planning on making the trek to Breck. Maybe it will inspire your next ski trip! I'm hoping to head out there several more times this season. I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season and safe travels to all.
XO, Golden Girl