ASPEN
Boogie’s Diner 534 E. Cooper, 925-6610
(www.boogiesdiner.com/diner)
With its classic diner décor and decadently sized desserts, Boogie’s Diner is a
locals’ favorite for family dining. The atmosphere is social and upbeat, so
family noises are welcome. The restaurant has a large dining area, plus an
expanded patio. There is not a particular kids’ menu, but much of the menu is
already appealing to kids, with its burgers, sandwiches and pasta dishes. The
offerings are varied and vast—from Asian chicken salad to homemade meatloaf to
an ahi tuna sandwich. There is one kids’ dinner special (mac n’ cheese, pizza
etc.) for each night of the week (call for details). Be sure to save room for
one of the famous desserts!
A few “difficulties” to note: There is a long
flight of stairs to the restaurant above the retail store. If you have babies in
car seats or strollers, be sure you have someone to help you navigate up to the
top level. Also, there are no changing tables in the small bathrooms. Note, too,
that this restaurant can get very busy—the service is friendly, but not always
consistent, so think of everything you need when your server is at the table and
ask for it then! ($$ out of 4)
The Grill Next Door 455 Rio Grande Place, 925-4977
You’ll find a quick, easy and freshly cooked meal across from Aspen’s skate park. This old-fashioned burger joint has counter service set up for ordering and self-serve soda fountains and drink coolers. The meals are made to order, and the staff is more than happy to deliver them to your table, each presented in their signature brown paper bags.
The hamburger in two different sizes (1/4 lb., or 1/2 lb.) is among the best in town. Other favorites are the onion rings and generous portion of crispy curly fries. Also on the menu are a 1/2 lb. buffalo burger, veggie burger, large Polish sausage and all-beef kosher hot dog. There are soups and a generously sized gourmet “Stillwater Salad” with optional chicken. There is a great selection of canned and bottled beers and a few wine options as well.
A few things to keep in mind: Parking on the street is limited and can be a bit difficult. However, the parking garage next door is a good option. As for all of the “No Parking” signs directly in front of the restaurant, we have been told you can ignore the signs if you are eating there. So far that has worked out okay for us but attempt that at your own risk. Also, the bathrooms are a few floors up and are accessible via an elevator. ($ out of 4)
Hickory House 730 W. Main, 925-2313
(www.hickoryhouseribs.com)
The whole family is welcome at Hickory House, a dining experience that appeals to all ages. Servers greet families with crayons and kids’ menus that double as coloring sheets; children’s drinks come in cups with lids and straws; they are well stocked with booster seats and highchairs. The Hickory House is a popular restaurant and typically busy, so it has a comfortable noise level. If you have an option, sit on the right side (as you enter) where there is memorabilia and large trains that make for good distraction. There are no changing tables in the small bathrooms.
The kids menu includes some of the restaurant’s classic barbecue items (in smaller portions) plus some standards like chicken tenders and grilled cheese. Healthy sides include baby carrots. Consider a basket of onion rings to share for an appetizer. Desserts include fruit pies, Kentucky Derby pie and a simple ice cream sundae for the kids. ($ out of 4)
Rustique, 216 S. Monarch, 920-2555 (www.rustiquebistro.com)
While not a restaurant of crayons and plastic cups, this restaurant serving “Country French” food is an excellent dinner choice for families with older children and/or restaurant-savvy younger kids. Although a specific kids’ menu is not available, the restaurant does offer some of its outstanding entrees in smaller portions, such as the steak, roasted chicken and pasta. The menu features some of the tastiest frites in town (served in a generously sized cone), excellent soups and a side offering of macaroni and cheese with mushrooms. For dessert try the ice-cream-filled profiteroles smothered in a lovely warm chocolate sauce. Again, this is not a restaurant that necessarily caters to kids, but staff typically warms up to—and welcomes—families with young children. ($$$ out of 4)
SNOWMASS VILLAGE
Zane’s Tavern upper level of Snowmass Village Mall, 923-3515
(www.zanestavern.com)
This is a casual and friendly locals’ spot with arcade games, foosball and TVs tuned to sports. It’s tavern style with a bar area, booths and tables, but welcoming to a family of all ages especially during regular lunch and dinner hours. It is also a perfect spot for a snack and a hot chocolate after a long day of skiing before heading home. The foosball table, arcade games and TVs featuring the “big game” keep everyone entertained.
You’ll find all the usual “munchies” that you would hope for in a tavern-style menu, such as onion rings, chips and salsa and French fries, along with some interesting twists including Mac n’ Cheese Wedges and a Wimpy Burger. The owner is a New Jersey native who knows how to serve a delicious Philly cheese steak and does so with 11 different variations. House favorites are Super Nachos, Chicken Wings (a dozen served with Original Hot, Cajun, BBQ or Asian Chili Garlic) and Chico’s Flautas. Authentic Mexican standards include tacos, burrito, quesadillas, enchiladas and empanadas.
Although most kids would be more then happy to share in whatever items are brought to the table, Zane’s does have a kids’ menu offering cheeseburgers, chicken fingers, quesadillas, Mac n’ Cheese Wedges or corn dogs served with French fries or tator tots. All combinations are $6.95. ($$ out of 4)
CARBONDALE
Dos Gringos La Fontana Plaza, Hwy 133, 704-0788
Children are welcomed at this burrito and wrap restaurant—even encouraged. Owner Nelson Oldham stated it perfectly, “We are affordable and indestructible.” Order your meal at the counter, where it’s made fresh. For breakfast there are breakfast burritos and different flavored bagels and cream cheese. The lunch and dinner menu consists of generously portioned salads, tacos, gourmet wraps and specialty burritos, such as the Spud Love (with potatoes), Siam I am (Thai) and the Wrapopoulous (Greek). Also available: smaller portioned Kids Kuesadillas, Teeny Tiny Burritos and a PB&J wrap. Café Ole, within Dos Gringos, is a full-service coffee bar.
There is patio seating and a grassy area for the kids to play. The restaurant has highchairs, but no changing tables in the bathrooms. Also note there is only one large-size cup for fountain drinks. ($ out of 4)
Red Rock Diner Hwys 82 & 133, 963-4111
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Red Rock Diner is comfort-food heaven. The quintessential diner décor and lively atmosphere are perfect for families. The classic and simple menu offers generous portions and affordable prices. From the biscuits and sausage gravy, sourdough French toast and crispy bacon to the locally raised beef hamburgers, meatloaf, macaroni and cheese and open- faced sandwiches, there is likely a pleasing meal in store for everyone at this bustling eatery.
All of the kids’ necessities are here. The restaurant has highchairs and booster seats, large booths that can comfortably accommodate families, crayons and a kids’ menu with amazing prices. The wait staff is accommodating; children’s drinks are served in small easy-to-handle cups; and there are changing tables in the bathroom.
The kids’ menu includes mini burgers, grilled cheese, hot dogs, corn dogs and macaroni and cheese, and each meal comes with a soda or milk and fries or fruit cup--all of this for $3.75 to $4.25. A junior milkshake can be added for $1.25. The burgers, fries and shakes can also be enjoyed at the counter atop the swivel top stools. Decadent desserts include lemon meringue, banana cream and seasonal fruit pies, as well as tall chocolate cake and brownie sundaes. ($ out of 4)
Russets 225 Main St., 963-3036
(www.russets.net)
Whether it’s date night or you have kids in tow, you’ll likely be greeted warmly at Russets. Families are often seated in a comfortable, out-of-the-way booth, and the kids get to play with the “Mr. Potato Head” toys and accessories (a nice change of pace from the typical coloring sheets and crayons).
There is no children’s menu at Russets, but there are kid-friendly options off the main menu: burgers, macaroni and cheese, lasagna and delectable Belgium Fries. Fun desserts include root beer floats and the Lefty Sundae. The restaurant is often busy, so family noises usually blend right in. There are changing tables in the restrooms, however note that drinks are served in heavy adult-sized glasses. ($$ out of 4)
Village Smithy corner of Main and 3rd, 963-9990
(www.villagesmithyrestaurant.com)
This is a warm and comfortable family-run eatery with a storied history—the building was at one time home to the town’s blacksmith. At any given time, you’ll find lots of conversation, laughter and other families inside or on the deck.
Open for breakfast and lunch (7 a.m. to 2 p.m.), the menu is vast, with breakfast categories including “Hearty Omelettes,” “The Fluffy Stuff,” “Great Starts” and “Village Smithy Legends.” The lunch menu has excellent “Big Bowl Salads,” plus Mexican favorites, deli sandwiches, burgers and other offerings from the grill. There are plenty of vegetarian options, plus daily entrée and soup specials.
The kids’ menu makes it fun with offerings like Mouse Cakes (in Mickey Mouse shape) and Silver Dollar Pancakes. The lunch menu has grilled cheeses, chicken tenders (crispy chunks of moist white meat), kosher hot dogs, and hamburgers all served with French fries. Coloring sheets, crayons and plastic covered cups with straws are available.
Because it can be a busy place, there is often a wait. Get there early and try to hit the “in between” hours or visit on a weekday if you want to avoid lines. In the summer, if you’re willing to sit inside, and not on the deck, you’ll likely get a table faster. Consider sending one adult in to get your name on a waitlist, while the other parks the car! Also, be aware that the private bathrooms are small and there are no changing tables. ($$ out of 4)
GLENWOOD SPRINGS
Moe’s Southwest Grill Market Street Shops in Glenwood Meadows
(www.moes.com)
Welcome to Moe’s!” is how you’re greeted at this “fast-food” restaurant serving lunch and dinner at the Glenwood Meadows shopping center. The take-out or eat-in burritos, tacos, quesadillas, salads, nachos and fajitas are made fresh to order. For fillings, choose black or pinto beans; grilled chicken, steak or tofu. Fish tacos have just been added to the menu. Some meals come with (yummy!) tortilla chips. “Moe-Ritas” come in lime and strawberry. Domestic and imported beer is also available.
Children under 12 can have a taco, burrito or cheese quesadilla served with a cookie and fountain beverage. Prices are $2.99 to $3.49. Drinks come with covers and straws. There are plenty of highchairs and boosters; and changing tables in both the men’s and women’s rooms. A pile of coloring books and cups of crayons are on top of the trash can by the main door.
Moe’s is a great place to go when blood sugar plummets during a busy shopping day in Glenwood. Even if you’re cranky and tired, you can’t help but giggle when you hear a hearty, “Welcome to Moe’s!” ($ out of 4)
Qdoba Mexican Grill 510 Laurel, 928-9700
(www.qdoba.com)
This burrito and wrap restaurant is a step up from fast-food restaurants with its atmosphere and options. It is a counter service restaurant featuring casual Mexican fare, where the food is prepared in front of you and topped with ingredients you select. Its menu centers around large signature burritos and also includes grilled quesadillas, tacos, taco salads, nachos, “naked burritos” and soup. The kids’ meal is a taco, cheese quesadilla or chicken quesadilla that comes with a small soft drink and a small side of chips. For dessert, choose from large brownies or cookies.
The atmosphere is casual, but nice enough that the kids aren’t wondering why there isn’t a toy with the meal. It has spacious and comfortable seating with many cushioned wide booths and quite a bit of outside seating on the deck. There are plenty of clean working highchairs and booster seats for the younger family members, plus changing tables in the bathrooms in the larger stalls. ($ out of 4)
DENVER
White Fence Farm 6263 West Jewell Avenue, Lakewood, Colorado, 303-935-5945
(www.whitefencefarm.com)
This lovely restaurant and farm is as picture-perfect as its name. With an old-time farm theme that is carried out beautifully, the grounds and buildings feel as if you walked into the Americana section of Disney World. The staff is extremely courteous and accommodating, and the food alone is worth the trip.
With the many activities the farm has to offer, you’ll want to make sure to schedule time to enjoy them before and/or after your meal. For example, there are animals in the “OK Corral,” a farm-themed playground and a carriage ride, which costs about $15 for a family of four.
Then there’s the barn, where you’ll find the “Pig Chute” (a two-story enclosed slide) that dumps its riders out on the farmhouse stage inside the café. This is also the same porch where the country band performs. The “Silo” is well laid out with multiple sitting areas, a great play area for the little ones (who do not meet the height requirement for the Pig Chute), a TV built into an old-fashioned gas pump, chess/checker tables, and an “arcade”; kids of all ages can find an activity and be easily watched from any area.
The wait staff here is aware of everything, from taking an order and serving food as quickly as possible to supplying the right type of cups, utensils and seating for the kids. The meals are served family style and all come with the same starters. Soon after your order is placed, a server arrives with fabulous corn fritters and all the other sides.
The kids’ meals are smaller portions of the regular dinners with prices to match. The dinner-size Family Style Farm Chicken is delicious and comes as a generous serving of four pieces. From the kids’ menu, the Roasted Turkey Breast served with gravy, stuffing and cranberry sauce is a highlight. ($$ out of 4) |
