
Smokin' Dave's BBQ - ESTES PARK
Smokin' Dave's BBQ in Estes Park offers award-winning, slow-smoked meats with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning mountain views. A local favorite for 2...

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Smokin' Dave's BBQ - ESTES PARK

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Smokin' Dave's BBQ in Estes Park offers award-winning, slow-smoked meats with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning mountain views. A local favorite for 25 years.
"This restaurant is the place to go while in Estes Park. The food is high quality, good tasting, and very reasonably priced."
Visit in Fall for Scenery
Enjoy vibrant fall colors, though winter offers easier dining space with equally delicious flavors.
Spicy Wing Lovers Rejoice
Try the Thai sauce on their great-tasting wings for a flavorful kick at lunch or dinner.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Barbecue
Price
Mid-range
Phone
(970) 577-7427
Address
820 Moraine Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Award-Winning BBQ
Savor tender ribs, pulled pork, and brisket slow-smoked to perfection, a local institution for 25 years.

Scenic Mountain Views
Enjoy your meal with a breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, especially vibrant in the fall.

Flavorful Wings
Try the highly recommended chicken wings, especially with the spicy Thai sauce option.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit in Fall for Scenery
Enjoy vibrant fall colors, though winter offers easier dining space with equally delicious flavors.
Spicy Wing Lovers Rejoice
Try the Thai sauce on their great-tasting wings for a flavorful kick at lunch or dinner.
Generous Portions
Platters are ample and can easily feed multiple people, with family platters ideal for groups.
Consider Odd Hours
Arriving at off-peak times can help you avoid crowds, as the restaurant is very popular.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit in Fall for Scenery
Enjoy vibrant fall colors, though winter offers easier dining space with equally delicious flavors.
Spicy Wing Lovers Rejoice
Try the Thai sauce on their great-tasting wings for a flavorful kick at lunch or dinner.
Generous Portions
Platters are ample and can easily feed multiple people, with family platters ideal for groups.
Consider Odd Hours
Arriving at off-peak times can help you avoid crowds, as the restaurant is very popular.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Smokin' Dave's BBQ is a beloved spot in Estes Park, praised for its incredibly tender and flavorful smoked meats, generous portions, and a relaxed atmosphere with mountain views. Many diners rave about the ribs, pulled pork, and wings, alongside friendly and attentive service. However, a few reviews mention a decline in quality and smaller portions compared to previous visits, with one instance of difficulty understanding the order taker.
"This restaurant is the place to go while in Estes Park. The food is high quality, good tasting, and very reasonably priced. For the quality of food that you're getting, the prices are much lower than you'd expect. The BBQ sauces are also very good. I recommend the spicy and tangy ones. The ambiance is great with cool decor and good music playing. The staff is nice and is accommodating. This restaurant is overall really amazing and a great place to go for a good time and even better food!"
Aarush Dhand
"Even though it was busy, we were able to be seated by the bar immediately. We got two different sandwiches and they were LOADED! Definitely got both taste and value. The sides were amazing! We will definitely be back if we’re in the area and tell others about this place!"
Anh Do
"I had a five star experience! We took 20 people into this restaurant unannounced and they seated us very nearly immediately and served us some spectacular barbecued foods on monstrous family style platters! The atmosphere was similar to a bar, but it was very relaxed and they were definitely kid friendly there which is good because we had a rowdy bunch of kids. The service was quick and attentive. But let’s talk about the sauce. The sauce was extremely good! Overall, five star experience!"
Jason Christenson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Smokin' Dave's is famous for its tender ribs, pulled pork, and brisket, all slow-smoked to perfection. Their chicken wings with various sauces are also a popular choice.
Yes, Smokin' Dave's offers family platters that are generous and great for groups, making it easy to sample a variety of their delicious meats.
Yes, the restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere with a deck that offers breathtaking mountain views, especially scenic during the fall.
While primarily a BBQ restaurant, they offer sides like Caesar salad, French fries, baked beans, and green beans that may cater to some dietary needs.
Smokin' Dave's offers a Military/Veteran/First Responder Discount for eligible individuals.
The restaurant is very popular, especially during fall weekends. Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays for a less crowded experience.
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15 Estes Park Restaurants You Need to Try
A local chain in this part of Colorado, Smokin’ Dave’s is a fan favorite across all of its destinations, but the one in Estes Park really steals the show. With a mouthwatering selection of appetizers, ribs galore, and steaks and sandwiches to satisfy any appetite, you’ll be very happy to see the impressive selection of brews to wash all of this down. They’ve also got popular family platters that are perfect and reasonably priced for you and your little ones — all in all, the portions are generous and the price is right for you to walk away from this place suitably stuffed.
From Whiskey to Wings: Where to Eat & Drink After an Adventure in Estes Park
When the fall colors are flourishing, Saturday crowds flock to Smokin’ Dave’s, and the place stays crowded through the evening. While dining space is easier to come by in the winter, the sumptuous flavors of the slow-cooked meats remain the same. A local institution known for its great wings with three sauce options (if you like spice, go for the Thai), Smokin’ Dave’s is an excellent lunch or dinner option for adventurers craving protein.
9 Restaurants in Estes Park Locals Can’t Get Enough Of
Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Brew is so popular that they actually have a couple of locations in the area. They are also so popular that they are the only restaurant that appeared on multiple lists of great places to eat in Estes Park. And I imagine you can probably guess what they serve from the name, but yes, for those who are wondering they are going to serve out of this world barbeque with plenty of cold beer to help wash it down.
Best Places To Eat In Estes Park: Complete List – Amasvos
In this place, BBQ sandwiches, platters, and ribs are served in a country setting with a full bar and a laid-back environment. In the West, bask in Southern Pit-Model Barbecue. Go to your favourite barbecue restaurant or make use of catering companies in Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Denver, or Centennial, CO. In the event you’re trying to find award-winning barbecue, Smokin’ Daves BBQ & Brew is the place to go.
Estes Park Family Vacation Guide
For such a family-friendly destination, it should not surprise you that Estes Park has plenty of dining options for those on a family vacation!. There is not a wide variety of international foods, but there are tons of old fashioned, family eateries that everyone in the family will love!. Located in downtown Estes Park, Grubsteak Restaurant has both beef burgers and buffalo and elk burgers for the adventurous!
Where to eat in Estes Park
Considered one of the best restaurants in the area by hotel guests and Estes Park residents alike, Tavern 1929 is a modern American dining restaurant located in the historic Marys Lake Lodge.Their executive Chef has created a menu with a regional creative flair, complemented by an outstanding staff dedicated to providing warmth, courtesy and attention to detail for your dining experience.
Best Restaurants in Estes Park
Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ is just a short walk down the road from our Estes Park cabins. A “slow smoked ‘til it falls apart” pulled pork sandwich, combination platters of chicken & ribs, salad, fish, and hearty desserts are all on the menu—and that’s leaving out their “favorites” section!. A kids menu and 6-item Family Meals make this restaurant a great choice for larger groups.
The Best Restaurants Near Estes Park
This restaurant, located at 820 Moraine Ave, Estes Park, is a must-visit and number 3 of the Top 5 Restaurants near Estes Park. You’ll enjoy the casual setting here as it perfectly complements the mouth-watering, slow-cooked barbecue. You’ll be treated to succulent ribs, tender pulled pork, and an array of craft beers that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Dining Archives
Smokin’ Dave is a Los Angeles native with the soul of a southern pit master. For 25 years and counting, Dave has been the proud owner and chef of various restaurants, and he currently owns and operates three of the best BBQ restaurants in Northern Colorado. Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ and Taphouse has two locations, one in Estes Park, CO, and Read more...
Epicurean Journey to Estes Park | Best Food in Estes Park
For something considerably more low-key but equally as delightful to the palate, try Smokin’ Daves BBQ & Brew. This eatery has several locations in Colorado and is known for their excellent entrees smothered in their special BBQ sauce. From platters of beef brisket to ribs, come hungry when you plan a meal at Smokin’ Daves!.
Top 6 Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Estes Park [+Affordable]
Smokin’ Dave’s is a personal top pick for dog-friendly restaurants in Estes Park!. Your pup can chill with you on the patio or even inside next to your booth (depending on the day). Plus, their Southern-style barbecue is simply incredible with juicy pulled pork, brisket, and ribs slathered in a signature homemade sauce.
17 Best Restaurants in Estes Park, Colorado
Smokin’ Dave hails from Los Angeles, but you wouldn’t know it from his Southern-like barbecue. He opened Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Brew in 2007 and continues to expand his barbecue empire around Colorado. There are so many delicious offerings, and Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ is considered one of the best restaurants in Estes Park.
15 Best Estes Park Restaurants Near Rocky Mountain National Park
820 Moraine Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517Phone: 970-577-7427 Visit Website. A post shared by Food Travel Guru (@worldismymenu). Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ and Brew in Estes Park really surprised me because I wasn’t really expecting to find such delicious food somewhere so far from the South, but here it was!
Dream Lake - Rocky Mountain National Park
Since we couldn’t enter the park till 1 pm we arrived early did the steep hike to Gem Lake then picked up from BBQ from Smokin Dave’s. After heading into the park we pulled off to a picnic site and enjoyed lunch there before going to the parking lot to take the shuttle to the trailhead.
Dine in Estes Park: BBQ, Buffets & Pizza, Pizza, Pizza
On the first night, we went to Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Brew, which is about five minutes from the YMCA of the Rockies. GoogleMaps took us to the restaurant’s golf course location and we had to backtrack. If you’re staying at the YMCA be sure to go to the Smokin’ Dave’s on Morraine Avenue.
Discover the Best Places to Eat in Estes Park – Expedition Lodge Hotels
Known for its smoky, savory meats and a cozy, laid-back atmosphere, this spot will have you coming back for more. Whether it’s their succulent ribs, brisket, or pulled pork, each bite is packed with flavor. Pair it with one of their craft beers for a perfect meal!
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Nothing goes together better than hot, tasty barbecue and a nice cold brew. At Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Brew in Estes Park, you get the best of both!. Smokin’ Dave’s was named one of the Best of the Best Barbecue Restaurants in America by the National Barbecue News.
Cafe de Pho Thai - Estes Park, Colorado
Smokin' Dave's BBQ features mouthwatering barbecue, crafted with the care and attention of an artist. Pair your meal with one of their 15 beers on tap, and enjoy a casual atmosphere where flavor and passion come together. Gluten-free options are available, too.
17 Fun Things to Do in Estes Park, Colorado
The award-winning Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Brew has some of the best barbeque food in the country. The restaurant has over 25 years of experience producing succulent dishes. The owner and chef discovered the joy of cooking in his grandparents’ kitchen.
Planning your trip to Rocky Mountain National Park
If you need a hearty, post-hike meal, check out Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ. Sometimes you just need some smoked meat and French fries. That’s what Smokin’ Dave does best. It’s real southern style BBQ, and their rotating beer list is always fantastic too.
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One night, we picked up a Family Meal from Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ and Brew. With brisket, St. Louis pork ribs, chicken, pulled pork, and cornbread, it was quite a feast for 5 of us (with tons of leftovers)!. We also tried breakfast at You Need Pie.
Trailhead Restaurant
On his way home he grabbed to-go lunch from Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ where they offer two types of chili on their menu. Smokin’ Dave’s Red Chili has beef and several types of beans and spices. They add stout beer which I could definitely taste.
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Recognized for its award-winning barbecue, Smokin’ Daves has been named one of the “Best of the Best Barbecue Restaurants in America” by the National Barbecue News. I just happen to agree. The menu is diverse with a wide range of options.
Restaurants in Estes Park, Colorado
The large portion sizes at Smokin' Dave's will keep you coming again and again. You can get the family meal that will feed you and your family for days. Try the smokin' rings, southern catfish fillet and BBQ chicken sandwich.
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As someone who was born and raised in Texas, I know good BBQ, and let me tell you that Smokin’ Dave’s has some of the best barbeque that Colorado has to offer!. Don’t miss this place if you love yourself some smoked meats!
19 Fun Things To Do in Estes Park, Colorado: The Ultimate Mountain Town Guide
Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Brew: For a more casual and budget-friendly option, Smokin’ Dave’s offers delicious, slow-smoked BBQ. Their hearty portions and flavorful sauces have made it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Restaurants and Bars in Estes Park
Honoring the art of American barbeque, try a Smokin’ Platter or Smokin Dave’s BBQ legendary ribs. With two locations in Estes Park, you can’t leave without taking home a 16 oz. jar of Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ sauce for $5.50!
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This charming mountain town is actually one of the best places in the world to spot the famous Rocky Mountain Elk, while enjoying delicious barbecue at Dave’s BBQ and getting those Old Western Vibes.
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A Colorado chain restaurant that started in Estes Park, Smoking Dave’s BBQ offers everything from savory appetizers and healthy salads to classic meat platters, plus burgers and sandwiches.
First-Timer's Guide: Estes Park
Lastly, no visit to Estes Park is complete without visiting Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Taphouse. Try the ribs or a double-meat smokin’ platter. (We love the pulled pork and Texas beef brisket.)
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For dinner, if you like barbeque, Smokin Dave’s is a favorite with a fun, casual atmosphere. Looking for mountain lodge elegance, try the Twin Owls Steakhouse at Taharra.
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We called it a day, picked up the pup, and grabbed dinner at Dave’s Smoking BBQ. The jalapeno hush puppies were the star of the meal, along with the pulled pork.
Best Things to Do in Denver & Estes Park with Kids
Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ and Brew is the perfect dinner option after a long day of hiking in RMNP. It’s no frills and the food is plentiful and delicious.
Your Path to Adventure in Estes Park this Fall
Then, tuck into a meal in one of Estes Park’s many local restaurants; Rock Inn Mountain Tavern or Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ are both great options.
Three Day Hiking Itinerary in Rocky Mountain National Park
For a quick bite we recommend Boss Burgers & Gyros or Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Brew, less than 10 minutes outside the Park.
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