Our insights and brief review of some places we ate at during our last two visits in Colorado categorized by location.
EDWARDS, CO
The Gashouse – While checking into our hotel, we asked the front desk staff for a recommendation of a local family-friendly restaurant. We were directed to the gashouse across the road and were told they had good food and a variety of meats/ game. My husband, the adventurous eater, wanted to try buffalo so off we went. We were also warned of its unusual decor but decided to go ahead and try it.
From the outside, The Gashouse looked like a rustic cabin. We were surely in for a surprise when we walked in despite the warning. The hallway was lined with stuffed animal heads mounted on the walls. If you’re a vegetarian or one with a weak stomach, this is not your kind of place. There were animal heads all over the restaurant and chances are you will be dining in close proximity to them.
We were a little worried whether our kids would be fine with all the animal head mounts but surprisingly they were fascinated with them and it quickly became an animal guessing game. They also enjoyed posing next to the stuffed animals as morbid as that may sound. The restaurant was filled with families and couples dining and we learned was a locals’ favorite.
The menu was varied with seafood and game meat (buffalo, deer, elk, bison). Prices were pretty reasonable for dinner. A kids menu was available with reasonable prices and big portions. We were seated right away and it wasn’t as crowded but this was probably because we came at the end of ski season. Our food came on time and accurately. It had a unique atmosphere and ambience that kept our kids entertained.
BRECKENRIDGE
There were so many dining choices in Breckenridge that could satisfy your budget and taste. Most of the restaurants and shops were on Main Street though parking was a bit challenging at times especially when it’s snowing.
Bubba Gumps (NOW CLOSED)– We’ve always wanted to eat at this chain restaurant and finally had the chance during a cold snowy night in March in Breckenridge. This was located a little off Main St. on a two story converted house. It was a very busy place with a lot of groups and families.
Seafood and shrimp are the favorites of course with a lot of fried items on the menu. The dinner prices were a little pricey but they served big portions. Our kids enjoyed it even though they had no idea who Forresst Gump was. The kids meals were served in a paper boat with a jello. It definitely was family and kid friendly and probably expect this place to be pretty popular during peak season.
Fatty’s Pizzeria – This claims to be the oldest pizzeria in Breckenridge and seemed to be frequented by a lot of locals during lunchtime from what I witnessed waiting for my food. We had ordered take-out to avoid taking the kids in and out of the car. They had reasonable prices with a variety of food. Contact: (970) 453-9802 Address: 106 S. Ridge St., Breckenridge, CO
DILLON, CO
Noodles & Company – This chain restaurant was a good place to go for a quick lunch if you’re at Loveland Ski resort. Yes, you’ll lose your parking spot but the 15 minute drive west on I-70 is probably worth the drive to avoid the long lines, limited menu and expensive food at Loveland’s lodge. It was located in a shopping center next to other fast food chains and restaurants.
Noodles had a varied choice of Asian (curry, Japanese pan noodles, Pad Thai), Mediterranean (different types of pasta), American (Spaghetti & meatballs, mac & cheese) and dishes cooked to order with fresh vegetables. Salads were also available. There was additional charge for meat, chicken and shrimp added to the dishes. We were familiar with Noodles because there is one near our house in California and we’ve never had a bad dish here. My favorite is the pasta fresca with olive oil, parsley and white wine sauce and spinach with chicken.
Qdoba Mexican Grill – Various Colorado locations
If you’re familiar with the Chipotle chain restaurant, then Qdoba is very similar. We saw a few Qdoba around the Denver area and the particular location in Dillon and near the Denver airport. You get the Mexican staples like chips & salsa, quesadilla, tacos and burritos, made to order with your choice of meat, sides and toppings. The kids’ meal is a choice of chicken or cheese quesadilla or a taco, comes with a side of chips and beverage limited to carbonated drinks.
Money Saver Tip:
City Market was the main grocery store for locals and tourists to stock up on food and staples when we stayed in Keystone. Ask for their card to receive discounts and special pricing. You don’t need to fill out the forms until later. They have a Deli area with hot food items (mac & cheese, roasted chicken, ribs, fried chicken, mashed potatoes). Grab some groceries and make it a fun night of cooking. Buy some pizza and heat them up for lunch. This was a money saver especially if there is a large group and you have a kitchen available.