Tabernash Tavern – Delicious Dining On the Way to Everything in Grand County
Tabernash Tavern is on Our “Not to be Missed” list of Spectacular Mountain Town Gems in Colorado
Story by Caren Austin
Photos courtesy of Kevin Austin
One of the many things I love about Colorado is that our mountain towns have so many restaurants that are hidden gems. When I visit a city or town in the mountains, I try to make sure to pay a visit to these “off the beaten path” places, because they have always proven to be a secret little gift to my foodie self. I had heard so many great things about Tabernash Tavern, so I knew next time I was in Winter Park, I had to venture there. Located just 10 minutes outside of Winter Park, Tabernash Tavern isn’t that far off the beaten path. It is a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Winter Park Ski area, and from the reviews I have gotten, well worth every bit of that 10-minute drive.
The population of Tabernash has under 1000 people, and was named after a Ute Indian Tabernash. The town was established in 1905 by Quincy Adams Rollins, and was an important stop on the Idlewild Rail line. Tabernash Tavern was Hinds’ store in the 1940’s complete with a soda fountain on one end and groceries on the other. The store caught fire and was re-built in 1954 as Brady’s store. It then became a furniture store in the 90’s and sat empty for a bit before it was remodeled and opened in 2008 as Tabernash Tavern under the direction of Chef Alberto Sapien and Maura Mcnight.
Tabernash Tavern is known for their globally inspired and ever changing menu. I was so excited to “take the road less traveled” to try it out. I grabbed a few friends, and we were off on our foodie adventure.
Even though the building housing Tabernash Tavern was remodeled before they opened, bits of history remain. An example are the bricks on the fireplace. They are still standing today and are from the original building. There are 3 dining areas, a fabulous bar and a patio to enjoy your meal at. Upon entering you really have that at home feeling. It is quaint, cozy, and inviting. We sat in the bar area and were waited on by the nicest staff I have ever met.
We ordered 4 items from their seasonal menu and shared them all. Although they might not be on the menu when you visit, because the menu changes every few weeks, I can assure you anything you order will be outstanding. We started with the Crab Cake Corndogs with roasted corn salad with dijon spiked tartar sauce on the side. Full of lobster meat, this dish was such a great play on the original, but with Chef Sapien’s spin on it. Next up was The El Chignon, a Mexican inspired dish, the Peaches and Lamb from Argentina, and the Adobo Grilled Halibut. They were all plated perfectly and beyond delicious. The El Chignon was the star of the night served with a Poblano queso enchilada and a burnt corn salsa on the side. It’s a great way to order a steak and enchiladas in one dish. The flavors of all the dishes reflected the origin from which they came. I felt as if I took a trip around the world while dining at this 5-star restaurant in Tabernash. I encourage you to take the road less traveled and order something you have never tried before; you won’t be disappointed. The bar has an extensive list of cocktails and has been awarded several Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence. Tabernash Tavern has also been awarded “Best Restaurant” by a local paper for the past 10 years.
You can’t miss Tabernash Tavern when you are driving to Grand Lake or Rocky Mountain National Park, as it is right off US Hwy 40. They are open four nights a week from 4pm-9pm, and reservations are highly recommended. This restaurant is now on my “not to be missed” list of spectacular hidden gems in Colorado.
My friends and I left Tabernash Tavern already planning another trip back as soon as possible. So much love goes into their food, and it pours out tenfold onto your plate! After a day of adventuring in Grand County, you simply must head to the Tabernash Tavern and experience an out of this world meal you will never forget.
72287 HWY 40
Tabernash, Colorado
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