There’s truly no experience as delectably satisfying as indulging in a food journey in the midst of breathtaking scenery. That’s exactly what awaits you in Cripple Creek, Colorado – a charming destination praised for its rich cultural history, stunning natural wonders, and now, its flourishing food scene. I’m excited to take you through a culinary escapade to the heart of the Rockies. So, loosen your belts, folks, because you’re in for a treat!
Picture this: Nestled within spectacular mountains, nestled among aspen and pine trees, Cripple Creek’s evergreen food scene adds a fresh dimension to its gold mining legacy. This vibrant town has evolved into a food lover’s paradise, where rustic pubs, quaint cafes, fine dining restaurants, and charming bakeries fuse time-honored traditions with innovative flavors, taking your taste buds on a world-class gastronomy tour.
Whether you’re craving hearty American classics, eager for a taste of global delicacies, or looking to discover cutting-edge fusion cuisine, your food adventure in Cripple Creek is just a bite away. Here’s my insider guide to the ultimate Cripple Creek dining experience – both off the beaten track and in the heart of it all. Let’s get started!
Most Popular Restaurants in Cripple Creek
If you’re planning to visit Cripple Creek, Colorado and are on the hunt for some incredible dining experiences, you’re in for a treat. There are several uniquely flavorful and highly-rated restaurants in this city that you must check out. Here, I’m going to highlight some of the most popular dining spots in the city.
Dynamo’s, located at 233 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, is a food lover’s paradise. This eatery is renowned for its diverse menu featuring a range of American dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The place is most famous for its savory and juicy burgers, perfectly cooked steaks, and generously portioned salads. The ambiance gives off a rustic vibe, and on top of that, the service is professional and hospitable. It’s an excellent spot for both lunch and dinner.
Next on the list is the Bronco Billy’s Steakhouse located at 233 Bennett Dr, Cripple Creek, CO 80813. If you’re a steak lover, this is a must-visit. Their aged steaks are most popular, grilled to perfection, and paired with tasty sides. The restaurant also offers a selection of wines that complements their menu perfectly. The steakhouse’s charming and sophisticated decor, along with friendly staff, makes the dining experience even more pleasant.
Magg’s Restaurant, situated at 132 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, is another terrific option. This restaurant is well-known for its delicious and hearty breakfasts, as well as its lunch and dinner options. The restaurant’s brisket hash and homemade corned beef hash are the crowd favorites. The interior of Magg’s is homely and cozy, and the service is warm and personable, making customers feel at ease while they enjoy their meals.
Last but not least, Home Café at 353 Myers Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813 is a hidden gem in the city. Known for its delicious homestyle cooking, you’ll find dishes like meatloaf, chicken fried steak, and their ever-popular green chili. Their pies, made fresh daily, are the perfect way to finish off your meal. The café has a quaint and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a casual and hearty meal.
These four restaurants in Cripple Creek offer a variety of dining experiences and taste adventures that should be on any foodie’s bucket list when visiting this charming Colorado city.
Most Unique Restaurants in Cripple Creek
First on my list is the memorable Bronco Billy’s Casino and Hotel. Nestled at 233 East Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, Colorado, it offers an explosion of unique culinary delights. This isn’t your typical casino food, Bronco Billy’s serves up a wide array of dining options to choose from including handmade pizzas, juicy steaks, and the most tantalizing prime ribs. You’ll find yourself whiling away the hours amidst the lively ambiance, trying one delightful plate after another.
Visit the Home Café, 535 Bennett Dr, Cripple Creek, Colorado, for a taste of home away from home. Serving hearty, homemade meals in a quaint and cozy setting, Home Café takes pride in delivering platefuls of comfort food. Their generous breakfasts are a hit among locals and tourists alike, with their pancakes and Denver omelets gaining rave reviews. If you’re looking for something lighter, their sandwiches and salads are a perfect choice.
Just a few blocks away is the Gold Camp Bakery located at 222 East Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, Colorado. A hidden gem in the midst of Cripple Creek, this bakery offers mouth-watering, fresh-baked pastries and bread. Don’t miss out on their signature pretzels and strudels – they’re a crowd favorite. Their cozy, laid-back ambiance makes it ideal for an afternoon coffee break or a sweet breakfast indulgence.
If you’re searching for something more upscale, head to Winfield’s at 120 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, Colorado. It’s a refined yet relaxed restaurant that offers exquisite steaks and seafood. Known for its elegant dining space and attentive service, Winfield’s promises an unforgettable dining experience. Their menu features carefully curated dishes created with the finest local ingredients, ensuring each bite is a piece of culinary art.
Fancy BBQ and live music? Then you’ll love Rudy’s Diner at 209 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, Colorado. This vibrant bar and grill offers a taste of tangy, smoky barbecue goodness paired with live music that will surely make your dining experience extra fun and entertaining. The bar boasts a variety of beers and cocktails as well, adding that perfect finish to your hearty American BBQ meal.
Best Casual Restaurants in Cripple Creek
Step in to Home Cafe, an all-time favorite of both the locals and tourists alike. Located at 233 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813 within the Bronco Billy’s Casino, this restaurant offers a cozy and comfortable ambiance that invites you to sit down and indulge in some hearty meals.
Home Cafe aims to provide a homely feeling with its retro-themed interiors, reminiscent of a classic American diner. Their menu covers a diverse range of American classics, featuring everything from fulfilling breakfast sets to delightful dinner specials. Notably, their Chicken Fried Chicken is a must-try, served with a generous portion of mashed potatoes and country gravy.
Moving towards a more upscale dining experience, The Steakhouse at Wildwood Casino comes highly recommended. You would find this contemporary eatery at 119 Carbonate St, Cripple Creek, CO 80813. The Steakhouse offers an exquisite dining setup with its dimly lit but tastefully designed interiors, making it perfect for couples looking for a romantic dinner.
The menu at The Steakhouse is a plethora of succulent and beautifully plated steaks, seafood, and chops, flawlessly prepared to your liking. Consider starting your meal with the Pan Seared Scallops and proceeding to the Prime Rib for the main course. The flavorful and tender meats, coupled with an impressive wine list, ensure an unforgettable dining experience.
If you’re in the mood for a more laid-back setting, head to Magg’s Restaurant positioned at 353 Myers Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813. This quaint, family-friendly restaurant is ideal for a casual meal. The walls adorned with local artwork and historic photos appeal to both your appetite and curiosity about Cripple Creek’s rich history.
Magg’s menu has a wide variety of options that cater to every taste. Their famous Bison Burger is a treat for the taste buds, featuring a juicy bison patty wonderfully complemented by a side of crispy fries. Their Reuben sandwich and Pulled Pork Tacos are also worth sampling for those who appreciate exquisite flavors wrapped in a casual dining experience.
Best Family Restaurants in Cripple Creek
When you stroll down the streets of Cripple Creek, the awe-inspiring beauty of the Rocky Mountains perfectly frames a city rich in history and flavor. This Colorado gem has a vibrant culinary scene that caters to a broad range of tastes. Here are some family-friendly restaurants that serve mouthwatering dishes that will undoubtedly make your visit memorable.
First on our list is the Magg’s Restaurant. Nestled at 233 E. Bennett Ave., this quaint eatery is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. They serve a variety of cuisine but are particularly lauded for their homemade pizzas and creamy Alfredo sauce. Kids will enjoy the classic cheese pizza, while more adventurous palates may opt for their signature pizza topped with pepperoni, sausage, green peppers, and mushrooms.
If you’re craving a perfectly grilled steak, look no further than Buck’s Mountain Grill. Located inside the Wildwood Casino at 119 Carbonate Street, this place offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscape, adding a unique touch to your dining experience. They offer a hearty kids’ menu, which includes the classic burger, delicious spaghetti, and even a petite sirloin for the little meat-lovers. The dry-aged ribeye and the uniquely flavored elk medallions come highly recommended for adults.
If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat, you can’t miss Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant. Sitting proudly at 300 Bennett Dr., this vibrant spot is known for its authentic Mexican fare. Their vast menu includes everything from burritos, tacos, enchiladas, to fajitas – assuring something for everyone in the family. The ambiance is laid-back, and kids are welcomed with coloring books and crayons keeping them entertained as you wait for your meals.
Continuing our food journey, we stumble upon Treasure Club, located at 400 E Bennett Ave. This charming establishment offers a taste of traditional American cuisine with a personal touch. Their chicken fried steak is a frequent favorite, with a crunchy batter complementing the tender meat beautifully. Kids will find their offerings of burgers, mac, and cheese, and chicken strips irresistible. Plus, they have a selection of board games that can be enjoyed as you wait for your meals.
Make sure to check out these places when you visit Cripple Creek, and see for yourself why these charming restaurants have become local institutions.
Best Takeout Food in Cripple Creek
First on the list is the intriguing Home Cafe . Located inside Bronco Billy’s Casino at 233 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, this eatery offers a varied breakfast menu served all day long, from classic egg dishes to pancakes and French toast. Their lunch and dinner menu take the prize with hearty sandwiches, delectable burgers, and a variety of Mexican dishes. If you’re into late-night munchies, the Home Cafe stays open until midnight to cater to your food cravings.
Moving on, we can’t miss Mike’s Famous Pizza. Situated at 412 W Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, Mike’s is famous indeed in the local area. The restaurant serves an array of delicious pizzas, calzones, and pasta. You can either create your own pizza or choose one of their special pizzas like the ‘Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza’ or the ‘Spicy Hawaiian’. A top pick for takeout, especially if you’re looking to satisfy a late-night pizza craving!
Next is the mesmerizing Pint and Platter. This pub-style restaurant located at 154 W Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, serves a broad range of food from authentic Irish dishes to American classics. Their corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and Guinness stew are a true delight. For those leaning towards traditional American food, they offer burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Their well-rounded menu and flexible takeout options make Pint and Platter a go-to choice.
If you’re looking for an exotic option, J.P. McGills Hotel and Casino’s Pint and Platter serves authentic Mexican food. Located at 232 Bennett Dr, Cripple Creek, this restaurant is popular for their ‘Taco Tuesday’, where you can savor a variety of tasty tacos. They also serve other delightful Mexican dishes like enchiladas, burritos, and more. A takeout from J.P. McGills will indeed add a fiesta to your day!
Finally, for a taste of Asian cuisine, consider Ri-Chen’s. Located at 107 Bennett Dr, Cripple Creek, this restaurant offers a wide array of Chinese dishes. From mouthwatering sweet and sour chicken to traditional egg roll and fried rice, your taste buds will undoubtedly get a treat. A takeout order from Ri-Chen’s will make your ordinary evening feel like a special occasion.
What Foods is Cripple Creek Known For?
One can’t talk about the culinary scene of Cripple Creek, Colorado, without paying homage to the town’s roots as an old mining settlement. As such, the food here is hearty, robust – the kind that fits the outback milieu. A standout that is synonymous with Cripple Creek is Rocky Mountain Oysters – also known as cowboy caviar, prairie oysters, or calf fries. These are not seafood but delicately prepared bull testicles, a delicacy honed in the ranching culture of the American West. It is a dish humbly served in venues around Cripple Creek, either deep-fried or sauteed.
For a true taste of this local favourite, one should stop by Ralf’s Break Room located at 411 E. Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek, Colorado. Here, the Rocky Mountain Oysters are prepared to perfection, their tender meat enclosed in crisp golden breading, served with a standard cocktail sauce for a tangy zing. This dish alone is worth the journey, but Ralf’s Break Room also boasts a menu of other appetizers and hearty main courses. Indulge in the local elk burger, topped with cheddar cheese, or the buffalo bratwurst, which packs a flavorful punch with every bite.
Another gastronomic feat at Ralf’s is Denver Omelet, a tribute to classic Colorado cuisine. It’s a delightful mélange of diced ham, bell peppers, onions, and cheddar cheese, all rolled into a fluffy egg omelet. Couple this with a strong cup of coffee, and you have the perfect Cripple Creek breakfast to start your day.
Another venue to satisfy your foodie cravings is Bronco Billy’s Casino’s Homey’s Cafe. Located at 233 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, Colorado, this cafe has a reputation for its succulent steaks. Whether you prefer yours grilled, broiled, or pan-seared, the chefs at Homey’s Cafe ensure your steak is cooked to perfection. Particularly remarkable is their Prime Rib, slow-cooked for hours to imbue maximum flavor and tenderness. Also, do try their Chicken Fried Steak, another Cripple Creek specialty, coated in a deliciously seasoned batter and then fried until crispy and golden.
Brace yourself for the most crucial decision of your visit to Homey’s Cafe – which of their homebaked pies to sample. The apple pie, served warm with a scoop of ice cream, is a perennial favorite. However, the Colorado Peach Pie, made in seasonal batches from locally sourced peaches, is a must-try when available.
In Cripple Creek, every meal feels like a home-cooked feast, delivered with a generous helping of Old West hospitality. The food scene here is as much a part of the town’s heritage as its gold rush past, and a visit is not complete without indulging in its savory culinary delights.
Eating Your Way Around Cripple Creek: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Breakfast at Café DiemKick off your food journey at Café Diem, located at 507 E Mt Pisgah Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813. Start your day with the comforting taste of a classic American breakfast. From their famous omelettes to the hearty breakfast burritos, everything here is prepared with a touch of love. Don’t forget to taste their variety of teas and coffees to get that caffeine fix!
Day 1: Lunch at Creekside Cuisine & Craft Beer
Next, head to Creekside Cuisine & Craft Beer located at 102 S 3rd St, Cripple Creek, CO 80813 for lunch. With the backdrop of the picturesque creek, enjoy their signature sandwiches presented with a unique twist. Pair these with their bespoke craft beers and your afternoon couldn’t get any better.
Day 1: Dinner at Baja Billy’s Restaurant
At Baja Billy’s Restaurant, located inside Bronco Billy’s Casino at 233 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, dive into their beautiful assortment of Mexican cuisine that will surely make your tastebuds dance with joy. The various combinations of tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas make this a perfect end to your day.
Day 2: Breakfast at Gold Bar Room Grill
Wake up early and head to Gold Bar Room Grill, which resides in the historic Imperial hotel at 123 N 3rd St, Cripple Creek, CO 80813. The place is known for their fluffy pancakes and breakfast sandwiches. The old-world charm of this dining room adds an extra layer of coziness to your breakfast experience.
Day 2: Lunch at Ralf’s Break Room
For lunch, visit Ralf’s Break Room at 411 Bennett Dr, Cripple Creek, CO 80813. Ralf’s offers a quaint and friendly atmosphere, and their menu features classic American favorites. Their perfectly grilled burgers, robust sandwiches, and giant pretzels are some of the crowd’s favorites.
Day 2: Dinner at The Down Under
To end your culinary adventure, visit The Down Under located in the vibrant Midnight Rose Hotel and Casino at 256 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813. This fine-dining restaurant serves exquisite surf and turf dishes that are sure to make your eyes as happy as your taste buds. Their wine list is impressively extensive; pick a bottle (or two) to celebrate the end of your delicious journey!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What types of cuisines can I expect to find in Cripple Creek, Colorado?
A1: Cripple Creek offers a wide range of cuisines to satisfy varied taste buds. You can expect to find traditional American fare, as well as Mexican, Italian and Asian cuisines, among others. There are also several steak houses, bakeries, and pubs where you can enjoy a hearty meal or a craft beer.
Q2: Are there any restaurants in Cripple Creek that offer a good view?
A2: Yes, many restaurants in Cripple Creek offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. For example, the Cripple Creek Steakhouse offers panoramic views of the city and mountains, and Wildwood Casino’s Saddle Bar provides a stunning overlook of the area.
Q3: Can I find vegetarian or vegan dining options in Cripple Creek?
A3: Yes, there are several dining establishments in Cripple Creek that offer vegetarian and vegan options. Restaurants such as Ralf’s Break Room and Gold Camp Bakery have a selection of vegetarian-friendly dishes on their menu, and they are also willing to cater to specific dietary requirements upon request.
Q4: I’m a foodie who loves to try local and regional cuisines. What are some must-try local dishes in Cripple Creek?
A4: In Cripple Creek, you must try the old western-inspired dishes that reflect the town’s mining history. This includes hearty stews, steak, and trout dishes. Don’t forget to try the bison burger, which is a popular local dish. Also, Colorado is known for its craft beer, so make sure to sample some local brews as well.
Q5: Are there fine-dining options available in Cripple Creek?
A5: While Cripple Creek is more known for its casual eateries, there are also a handful of fine-dining establishments you can go to for a more upscale dining experience. The Steakhouse at Bronco Billy’s Casino is one such place where you can enjoy a high-end meal in a refined setting.
Q6: What are some must-visit restaurants in Cripple Creek?
A6: Some must-visit restaurants in Cripple Creek include Home Café, known for its homemade pies; Maggie’s Restaurant in the Colorado Grande Casino that offers a delightful dining experience; and Ralf’s Break Room for its fun atmosphere and great food. The Steakhouse at Bronco Billy’s is also highly recommended for its exquisite steaks and seafood.
Q7: Are there any special food events or festivals in Cripple Creek that food lovers should be aware of?
A7: Yes, Cripple Creek hosts a few food festivals throughout the year. The Cripple Creek Ice Festival in February offers unique ice sculptures along with various food vendors. In June, the Annual Donkey Derby Days Festival features a pancake breakfast. The Gold Camp Christmas, held in December, includes a special Christmas dinner.
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