The Brunch Bunch
Posted by Kim FillerBrunch, it’s that meal that was once for people who got up too late. They missed breakfast and couldn’t wait until lunch. Now, it can be anything from a cheap family meal of the day out, to a mimosa-fueled affair that keeps diners seated all morning.
In Steamboat Springs, we have embraced brunch. It suits our style. We don’t sleep in, especially in winter, as that would be seen as a crime against powder. In summer there’s an early morning bike ride to get in, or a hike with the dog before the temp heats up. Most of our visitors feel the same way, so let’s skip breakfast and go to brunch. Here are our top five choices.
Creekside Café on 11th Street. First of all, expect a line – you won’t mind once you start eating, it’s worth it. Sit outside among the pots of flowers and listen to Soda Creek rush past. Everything is home cooked on the spot and most of the ingredients are sourced in Colorado.
Must try: homemade chorizo washed down with a Mimosa.
Freshies is located midway between the mountain area and downtown. Conveniently situated just off the Yampa Core Trail, Freshies is a popular stop for bikers, walkers and river rats. Sit on the patio or stay indoors and admire the artwork adorning the walls by local painter Lance Whitner.
Must try: Southwestern benny.
Winona’s in the heart of downtown on Lincoln Avenue is a long-time locals favorite. Sit by the window and watch the world go by. Known for its homemade granola and incredible baked goods selection, it won’t pay off to feel guilty about calories when ordering.
Must try: the most enormous cinnamon roll you’ll ever see.
Paramount Café is a relatively new on mountain hot spot. Small in size with an outdoor dining option, the Paramount is a great spot to refuel before a hike or ski on Mount Werner.
Must try: bacon, egg and cheese sandwich – it’s fancier than it sounds.
Champagne Powder Room wins the prize as the most scenic option with its’ mountain top setting. Every Sunday through Labor Day, they offer brunch on the mountain. Views abound with a gondola ride, before you take your seat in the restaurant that boasts panoramic views of the valley below.
Must try: Hazie’s Caesar salad with cornbread croutons and a Bloody Mary.
After all that eating its time to work it off with a hike, bike or paddleboard. On second thoughts, maybe its naptime – it’s not as if we slept through breakfast.