Greetings, foodies! Nestled high in the stunning San Juan Mountains, the historic town of Telluride, Colorado, offers not just breath-taking natural beauty, but also an exceptional dining scene. Believe me when I say, the culinary treasures in this mountain town are as diverse and captivating as its picturesque surroundings. From hearty, traditional dishes that warm you up on a chilly evening, right down to the gourmet platters that satiate the most discerning palates, eating in Telluride is a culinary journey in itself.
Whether you’re hankering for a quick bite after a day filled with adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures or planning a romantic meal under the stars, there’s a dining option in Telluride for every occasion. The town’s restaurant scene has an eclectic range of eateries, from rustic comfort food joints that serve mouth-watering brewpub fare, to sophisticated establishments where you can indulge in world-class cuisine.
Imagine savoring a char-grilled steak in an elegant, candle-lit dining room with views of snow-capped peaks or enjoying a farm-fresh salad on a sunlit patio with the cool mountain breeze rustling around you. Or perhaps you fancy diving into a stack of fluffy, golden pancakes on a vibrant café terrace while the world passes by. Such is the charm of dining in Telluride – every meal here is more than just food; it’s an experience, a memory waiting to be created.
Over the years, I’ve had the chance to explore the culinary landscape of this idyllic alpine town and am eager to dish out my recommendations for where to eat in Telluride, Colorado. Are you ready to set out on an unforgettable gastronomic adventure? Then loosen your belts, pull up a chair and join me as I take you through my favorite eateries in the magnificent town of Telluride!
Most Popular Restaurants in Telluride
While spending your time amid the scenic beauty of Telluride, you wouldn’t want to miss out on the town’s vibrant culinary scene. Here are some of the most popular restaurants, offering unique dining experiences to satisfy any palate.
First up is Allred’s Restaurant, situated at the top of the gondola at San Sophia Station, Telluride, CO 81435. This exceptional dining destination is renowned for its contemporary American cuisine coupled with a breathtaking view of Telluride’s mountains. Here, you can enjoy delicious food while watching the sunset over the town from an elevation of 10,551 feet. Their menu is a delightful mix of seafood, steak, and vegetarian dishes, paired perfectly with selections from their award-winning wine list.
Next on the list is La Marmotte, located at 150 San Juan Ave, Telluride, CO 81435. Set in a 125-year old historic building that was once an icehouse, this restaurant provides a cozy yet upscale dining experience. The menu celebrates French cuisine with a modern twist and creatively utilizes locally sourced ingredients. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a casual lunch, La Marmotte never fails to amaze with its impeccable service and delicious fare.
For those seeking an Asian flavor, Siam’s Talay Grille at 119 Lost Creek Lane, Mountain Village, Telluride, CO 81435 is a must-visit. This oceanfront eatery is known for its exquisite Pan-Asian cuisine that features a variety of sushi rolls, curries, and seafood dishes. Each plate at Siam’s Talay Grille is a harmony of flavors, beautifully crafted by skilled chefs. Their stunning ambiance and exceptional service make dining here a truly memorable experience.
If you’re after a genuine Italian experience, check out Rustico Ristorante at 114 E Colorado Ave, Telluride, CO 81435. This family-friendly restaurant serves authentic Italian fare in a warm and rustic setting. Their menu highlights the best of Italy’s regional cuisines – pasta, risotto, pizza, and more – all crafted with passion and paired with an impressive array of Italian wines.
Lastly, for a unique fusion of Mexican and Southwestern cuisine, La Fondita at W San Juan Ave, Telluride, CO 81435 is a local favorite. This casual eatery offers a variety of tacos, burritos, tamales, and other regional favorites. Their fresh, flavorful dishes and friendly service are sure to make your visit a delightful one.
Regardless of your culinary preferences, these restaurants offer some of the finest dining experiences in Telluride, promising not just amazing food, but also stunning views and unforgettable memories.
Most Unique Restaurants in Telluride
Starting our culinary journey, we have the Altezza at The Peaks, nestled at 136 Country Club Drive. Its name derives from the Italian word for ‘height,’ mirroring its spectacular location at 9,500 feet in the San Juan Mountains. Altezza takes pride in its culinary expertise offering a diverse menu, including dishes such as a Colorado Lamb T-Bone or a Northwest Elk Ragout. The highlight is their panoramic views of the alpine peaks, which provide a memorable backdrop to a romantic dinner or a family get-together.
Next, we have Cosmopolitan Telluride, located at 301 West San Juan Avenue. Cosmopolitan Telluride or ‘Cosmo’ as locals affectionately call it, is a blend of Telluride’s historic past and cosmopolitan present. The restaurant serves as the perfect spot for sushi lovers with its daily handmade rolls, traditional Japanese bento boxes, and an impressive range of sake. The star of their menu is the T–Bones’ signature Lobster Corn Dogs, a quirky and delightful twist on classic seafood.
Providing a stark contrast, Brown Dog Pizza, a Detroit-style pizzeria located at 110 E Colorado Ave, has made its mark in the heart of Telluride. Known for its twice-baked, rectangular crust pizza, Brown Dog Pizza has won multiple international awards for their unique pizza concept. Their menu also offers a variety of salads, sandwiches, and appetizers. Here, you can sample their “Brooklyn Bridge” pizza, adorned with cupping pepperoni, Italian sausage, wild mushrooms, and roasted garlic.
A visit to Telluride isn’t complete without dining at Allreds. Situated at Mountain Village Gondola Plaza, Station San Sophia, Allred’s combines fine dining with the ambiance of a cozy mountain lodge. As Telluride’s flagship restaurant, Allreds offers an exclusive wine list and a menu that changes seasonally, ensuring every visit offers a new culinary adventure. Savory dishes like the Colorado Rack of Lamb accompanied by the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains make Allreds a must-visit destination.
Lastly, the La Marmotte, located at 150 West San Juan Avenue, offers a French dining experience with a menu that changes daily, based on available local, seasonal produce. Located in a 125-year-old former icehouse, the rustic charm of La Marmotte is a perfect setting for its classic French cuisine. Each dish is a work of art, and the wine list is extensive, thereby ensuring that each guest has a uniquely delightful culinary experience.
These unique restaurants in Telluride, Colorado, each offer a different culinary experience that caters to a variety of tastes. From panoramic views at Altezza to the rustic charm of La Marmotte, Telluride’s dining scene offers something to suit everyone’s palette.
Best Casual Restaurants in Telluride
First on our list is the mouthwatering Brown Dog Pizza. Located at 110 E Colorado Ave in the heart of downtown Telluride, this gem is famous for its award-winning Detroit-style pizza. The pizza joint offers a myriad of topping combinations all served on a fluffy, thick, and perfectly caramelized crust. Its popularity is easily noted by its consistent bustling atmosphere and an endless stream of happy customers.
For a lighter, more refined palate, head to Allred’s Restaurant, located in Station St Sophia at 565 Mountain Village Blvd. The upscale American eatery is perched at 10,551 feet, making it the highest dining establishment in America. Known for its beautiful views of the San Juan Mountains, Allred’s also features a superb wine list and a menu showcasing local seasonal ingredients.
Craving a quick but flavorful Southwest bite? Look no further than La Cocina De Luz. Nestled at 123 E Colorado Ave, this eatery serves scrumptious Mexican and Southwest style cuisine. La Cocina De Luz boasts a range of gluten-free and vegan options, along with a juice bar and tempting homemade ice cream.
For a delectable breakfast or a laid-back lunch, try the Butcher & Baker Café. You’ll find it at 201 E Colorado Ave. The café believes in serving fresh, homemade food using the finest organic ingredients whenever possible. Their menu is comprehensive, with an array of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and breakfast items that have a little something for everyone.
Standing proudly at 200 West Colorado Ave is Floradora Saloon, a classic staple in Telluride. This historic spot is famous for its juicy burgers, fresh, hearty soups, and its rapidly rotating tap of local microbrews. The atmosphere is as inviting as the food, with a warm saloon-style décor that is both rustic and charming.
No food tour of Telluride would be complete without a visit to There…. This unique dining spot, located at 627 W. Pacific Ave, is known for its innovative menu of small plates and custom cocktails. With items like truffle popcorn and duck buns, this spot is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Sampling all that Telluride’s culinary scene has to offer is a delight for the senses, full of diverse flavors and memorable meals. Gastronomes, prepare to be delighted!
Best Family Restaurants in Telluride
If you’re planning a family vacation in Telluride, Colorado, one of the highlights of your trip is certain to be the local food scene. Telluride has an amazing array of family-friendly restaurants offering culinary delights that will satisfy every palate. Here are a few of the best family restaurants that you should definitely check out.
Brown Dog Pizza located at 110 E Colorado Ave, is a must-visit for all pizza lovers. This award-winning pizzeria serves an exciting mix of Detroit-style, Chicago-style, and traditional round pizzas. But their menu doesn’t stop at pizza; you’ll find a variety of appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and gluten-free and vegan options as well. With friendly staff and a lively atmosphere, this place is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Next up is Floradora Saloon, situated at 103 West Colorado Ave. This historic, charming restaurant has been a mainstay of Telluride’s dining scene since 1973. Floradora Saloon offers an eclectic menu consisting of fresh salads, homemade soups, creative entrees, and delicious desserts. Its casual, welcoming atmosphere and varied menu make Floradora Saloon an excellent choice for family dining.
For those with a hankering for Mexican cuisine, La Taqueria at 123 S Oak St, is a place not to be missed. This family-owned and operated restaurant sets the bar high with its authentic Mexican dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a wide array of tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and a kids’ menu that will delight the little ones.
Families with a love for seafood should definitely hit 221 South Oak Bistro, nestled at 221 South Oak Street. This upscale yet relaxed bistro offers a wide variety of creatively prepared seafood dishes. And don’t worry if you’re not a fan of seafood; the menu also includes mouth-watering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Overall, the family dining options in Telluride are as diverse and colorful as the town itself. With a little bit of everything—from award-winning pizza to sumptuous seafood—there’s truly something for everyone in this mountain paradise.
Best Takeout Food in Telluride
If you’re in Telluride, Colorado, and looking for takeout food that matches the area’s extraordinary charm, you’re in the right place. This mountain town is not only renowned for its stunning beauty but also its culinary scene, offering a variety of unique dishes that are too good to miss. Today, we will be highlighting some favorites that you must try.
Brown Dog Pizza located at 110 E Colorado Ave, Telluride, CO 81435, is a Telluride icon. This award-winning pizzeria is famed for its deep-dish and Detroit-style pizzas, a must-try for any pizza lover. They also offer excellent wings, salads, and even gluten-free and vegan options, catering to a wide audience. You can witness the harmony of taste and texture in every slice, with the perfect balance of sauce, cheese, and toppings. If pizza is your comfort food, Brown Dog Pizza is the place to be.
For sushi lovers, Siam, located at 200 S Davis St, Telluride, CO 81435, is the spot. This locally owned and operated restaurant serves some of the best sushi in town, as well as a variety of Asian dishes. Their menu boasts a wide range of flavors and options, from the sushi rolls, teriyaki dishes, to Thai curries. The freshness and quality of their ingredients are evident in every bite, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying takeout meal.
Craving some spice and everything nice? Head over to La Marmotte, located at 150 W San Juan Ave, Telluride, CO 81435. This French bistro offers a blend of classic and modern takes on French cuisine. Their menu, which changes daily, features dishes like moules frites (mussels with fries), duck confit, and creme brulee. La Marmotte’s food is not only hearty and delicious, but it’s also elegantly presented, making your takeout feel like a fine dining experience.
If you’re looking for Mexican food, look no further than Taco Del Gnar at 123 S Oak St, Telluride, CO 81435. This vibrant eatery serves up creative and mouthwatering tacos along with other Mexican-inspired dishes. Their menu is impressive with offerings like Korean short rib tacos, gnar-bombs (stuffed jalapenos), and street corn. Taco Del Gnar is a true testament to fusion food at its best and a flavorful addition to Telluride’s food scene.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through Telluride, these restaurants offer some of the best takeout food in town. Each spot brings its own unique flavors and dishes to the table, making the culinary scene in Telluride as diverse and beautiful as the mountainous landscape that surrounds it.
What Foods is Telluride Known For?
In the heart of the San Juan Mountains, the town of Telluride, Colorado is not just famous for its world-class skiing and breathtaking mountain ranges. It is also recognized for its vibrant and diverse food scene, from casual bites to gourmet cuisine, the town has it all. Heading the list is the hearty western staple known as Elk, an absolute must-try delicacy in Telluride.
Elk, a game meat known for its lean, slightly sweet flavor, is often prepared in a variety of ways in Telluride. Whether it’s in form of a juicy steak, a richly-flavored sausage, or a hearty stew, elk is a true Telluride specialty, offering a significant taste of the region’s culinary culture.
A standout restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious Elk entree is Cosmopolitan Restaurant. Located at 301 W San Juan Ave, Telluride, CO 81435, USA, Cosmopolitan Restaurant is renowned for its exceptional take on this local favorite. They offer a mouthwatering Pan Roasted Elk Loin, served with locally sourced vegetables and a savory huckleberry sauce. The dish is known for its perfect balance of natural flavors, impressing locals and visitors alike.
Aside from Elk, another famous food in Telluride is the Mountain Cheese. Telluride’s high altitude and fresh mountain air contribute to the quality of this unique product.
An iconic place to sample this culinary delight is Telluride Truffle, a beloved local patisserie located at 124 E Colorado Ave, Telluride, CO 81435, USA. They use local, organic, and sustainably produced Mountain cheese to create a variety of artisanal chocolate truffles. These truffles, with a hint of Mountain cheese, offer a beautiful complexity of flavors that’s both unexpected and immensely satisfying.
Moreover, the town’s culinary scene also showcases an international influence, particularly when it comes to Asian fusion. A prominent culinary trend is the use of local ingredients to create traditional Asian dishes.
One of the top places to experience this fusion is There, an innovative eatery located at 627 W Pacific Ave, Telluride, CO 81435, USA. The restaurant offers an array of Asian fusion dishes that highlight local produce. Standout dishes include the ramen with locally sourced vegetables and the steamed buns filled with Colorado pork.
From local delicacies like Elk and Mountain Cheese to Asian fusion dishes, the diverse food scene in Telluride, Colorado is not to be missed. Each local favorite and innovative creation reflects the town’s rich culinary heritage and commitment to high-quality, local ingredients.
Eating Your Way Around Telluride: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
Kickstart your beautiful day with a hearty breakfast at the Steaming Bean Coffee Co. Nestled away at 221 W. Colorado Ave, it’s quite a treat for coffee lovers and offers an array of breakfast options. Their signature Sunrise Burrito is a must-try.
Once you’ve fueled up for the day, venture up the gondola for lunch at Allred’s Restaurant located at 565 Mountain Village Blvd. This unique dining spot offers a majestic view of the town and the surrounding mountains. Don’t miss their Colorado Lamb and Mac n Cheese.
In the afternoon, head down to 123 E Colorado Ave for an ice-cream treat at Dolce. They offer a variety of flavors including tasty vegan options. The Pistachio and Mint Chip flavors are worth the trip.
For dinner, visit Telluride Truffle at 408 W Colorado Ave. They serve outstanding pasta and decadent truffles with unique local flavors. Try the Durango Dinners Pasta and don’t forget to bring home some of their famous truffles as souvenirs.
Wrap up your day with a nightcap at Last Dollar Saloon, more affectionately known to the locals as “The Buck”. Located at 100 E Colorado Ave, it’s the perfect place to sip a craft cocktail or enjoy a local brew while reflecting on your day in beautiful Telluride.
Bonus Stop! If you’re still feeling peckish, or if you’re in the mood for late-night comfort food, Baked In Telluride located at 127 S Fir St, is a must-visit. They offer a wide variety of baked goods and pizzas, and are open late into the night to satisfy your cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the must-try food in Telluride?
A1: Telluride, Colorado offers a variety of unique and savory culinary experiences. In regional specialties, you must try Colorado bison burgers or the famous Colorado lamb shank. New American cuisine is quite popular here, as well as superb mountain-top dining experiences with exquisite views.
Q2: Where can I find the best breakfast in Telluride?
A2: The Butcher & Baker Café in downtown Telluride is well-known for its hearty and delicious breakfast options. They offer organic, locally sourced meals with a variety of gluten-free and vegan options. Another great spot is Maggie’s Bakery & Café, known for their freshly baked bread and delightful breakfast sandwiches.
Q3: I’m a vegetarian. What vegetarian-friendly dining options are there?
A3: Many restaurants accommodate dietary needs including vegetarians. La Cocina de Luz offers varied vegetarian and vegan Mexican dishes. The Village Table also offers a variety of vegetarian options, and Middle Eastern dishes which are typically vegetarian-friendly. The Phoenix Bean, which is a coffee shop, also serves delicious vegan and vegetarian meals.
Q4: Where should I go for a fine dining experience in Telluride?
A4: For a fine dining experience, you can’t miss Allred’s Restaurant – it’s renowned not only for its food, but for its location atop the gondola with stunning mountain views. The National in downtown Telluride also offers a chic, upscale dining environment with gourmet New American cuisine.
Q5: Are there any food festivals or culinary events in Telluride?
A5: Yes, the Telluride Wine Festival usually happens in June. It features a grand tasting, seminars, cooking demonstrations, outdoor activities, and more. The Telluride Mushroom Festival in August is also a unique event focusing on all aspects of mushrooms, from foraging to cooking.
Q6: Can I find any breweries or distilleries in Telluride?
A6: Absolutely, the Telluride Brewing Company is a popular spot with a range of brewed-on-site beers and a welcoming atmosphere. For spirits, you might want to check out the Telluride Distilling Company which offers artisan spirits including vodka, whiskey, and their unique “Chairlift Warmer” peppermint schnapps.
Q7: I am on a budget. What are some affordable places to eat in Telluride?
A7: Affordable dining options can be found in Telluride. Brown Dog Pizza, for instance, is known for its Detroit-style pizza and is reasonably priced. Tacos Del Gnar is another option offering innovative, budget-friendly tacos. If you’re looking for a sandwich or coffee, consider Baked in Telluride which is a bakery and café offering affordable meals.
Q8: Where can I get the best desserts in Telluride?
A8: If you have a sweet tooth, you must try the Telluride Truffle – a local chocolate shop known for its handcrafted, mountain-shaped truffles. For donuts and other tasty baked treats, visit Baked In Telluride. If you prefer ice cream, visit La Creperie which offers a range of home-made ice-creams and crepes.
