Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse
A historic gem in Golden, CO, serving hearty American fare in Colorado's first capitol building. Experience the Old West with every bite.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic gem in Golden, CO, serving hearty American fare in Colorado's first capitol building. Experience the Old West with every bite.
"Step back in time and savor delicious American classics in a building rich with Colorado history!"
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid crowds and ensure better service by visiting during less busy times.
Explore the history
Take time to appreciate the building's historical significance to Golden and Colorado.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
Mid-range
Phone
(303) 279-6390
Address
1122 Washington Ave, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dine in Colorado History
Experience American fare in Colorado Territory's first government building, steeped in Old West charm.
Generous Portions of American Classics
Savor hearty American dishes like the stuffed Buffalo burger and savory pulled pork, with portions that satisfy.
Smoked Meats & BBQ
Enjoy high-quality smoked meats, classic BBQ dishes, and unique sides for an authentic taste.
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Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid crowds and ensure better service by visiting during less busy times.
Explore the history
Take time to appreciate the building's historical significance to Golden and Colorado.
Consider portion sizes
Portions are generous; consider skipping appetizers to save room for main courses or for budget-conscious diners.
Try house specialties
Don't miss unique offerings like Barmen beer, homemade baked beans, and blue cornbread.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid crowds and ensure better service by visiting during less busy times.
Explore the history
Take time to appreciate the building's historical significance to Golden and Colorado.
Consider portion sizes
Portions are generous; consider skipping appetizers to save room for main courses or for budget-conscious diners.
Try house specialties
Don't miss unique offerings like Barmen beer, homemade baked beans, and blue cornbread.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners praise the restaurant for its delicious American fare, generous portions, and unique historical atmosphere. Many highlight the smoked meats, especially the pulled pork and brisket, as well as the homemade sides like baked beans and blue cornbread. While the food is generally well-received, a few reviewers have noted inconsistencies with certain dishes like brisket toughness and a desire for more elevated options. Service is often described as attentive and friendly, though some have experienced less enthusiastic interactions.
"Stopped in for a quick bit and this place has some history. Great service and outstanding staff. Cold beer and great food. Took a tour and the pictures on the wall tell an amazing story. We had a burger with quite a few different appetizers and some more beer. Enjoyed the time. Thank you all and see you soon."
KC Mitch
"They have Barmen beer. The meat was nicely done, although we did have one (out of 4) dry brisket. The baked beans were homemade, we think with navy beans, changing the flavor but still delicious. The Cole Slaw was awesome. The corn beard was made with blue corn making look like a brownie - also delicious. And lastly, the service was absolutely amazing. I highly recommend this place."
Christine Howland
"Tonight, the wife and I had dinner at The Capitol Grill in Golden. It’s been years since I last ate here, and I remembered it being a solid spot—but this time around, it felt a little underwhelming.
We started with the fried cheese balls and Brussels sprouts. Both were fine, but nothing special—just pretty basic. For my main, I ordered the half rack of ribs, and my wife went with the chicken-fried chicken. Honestly, the highlight of my plate was the cornbread, which pretty much says it all.
The food wasn’t terrible, just not what I was hoping for. I was craving something a little more elevated. Unless they bring steak back to the menu, I don’t think we’ll be rushing back anytime soon.
That said, the service was great, and the ambiance was chill, so props there. As always, I encourage you to check it out for yourself—maybe your experience will hit differently.
Follow me on IG @hungrydudeusa"
Nick Godbey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
It's located in Colorado Territory's first government building, offering a unique historical dining experience with American fare and BBQ.
Popular choices include the stuffed Buffalo burger, pulled pork, smoked brisket, and unique sides like blue cornbread and homemade baked beans.
Yes, the atmosphere is family-friendly with kid favorites like chicken strips and burgers on the menu.
To ensure better service and avoid crowds, it's recommended to visit during off-peak hours.
Yes, reviewers consistently mention generous portions, so consider this when ordering appetizers.
Yes, patio seating is available, offering a pleasant dining experience on nice evenings.
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City of Golden, Colorado | Where the West Lives!
Golden City became the capital of the federally recognized Colorado Territory in 1862, and the territorial legislature met from 1862 to 1867 in the building that is now home to the Old Capitol Grill restaurant. By the end of the 1860s, Golden City had been elected the seat of Jefferson County and the capital of the provisional Jefferson Territory. Locals were outraged when neighboring Denver snagged the honor of becoming capital of the newly formed state in 1876, but the loss of name distinction did nothing to dampen Golden’s vital growth – business was booming.
RESTAURANTS & FINE DINING - Visit Golden
Travel back in time as you eat at the Old Capital Grill, Colorado territory’s first government building, or sip wine at Golden’s newest wine bar, Indulge. Discover the succulent sweetness of fresh peaches at Golden’s Farmer’s Market in the summer or try the mouth-watering stuffed Buffalo burger at Bridgewater Grill in the winter and after dinner make sure to stop by one of Golden’s several taverns and breweries for fine crafted micro brews.
Best Restaurants in Golden, CO: A Foodie's Guide
In 1862, Golden became the capital of the Colorado Territory, and the building that now houses the Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse was its first capital. William A. H. Loveland constructed the building in 1863 and was a key player in the formation and growth of Golden. In the last 160+ years, this building has been a general store, saloon, hotel, and restaurant.
Favorite Spots to Eat and Drink in Downtown Golden Colorado
The Old Capitol Grill is not only a great place with amazing food but it is also part of Colorado’s great history. This restaurant is located in the original building that was the first capitol of the Colorado territory. The Old Capital Grill is a very popular place that offers a great variety of upscale bar food for pretty cheap.
3 Places To Eat And Drink In Golden, Colorado
Old Capital Grill is a fine dining restaurant serving American fare in Colorado territory’s first government building. Golden became the capital of the Colorado Territory in 1862 and this building was its first capitol. It was constructed by William A.H. Loveland, a man who was quintessential to Golden’s history.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants to Check Out in Golden
Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse is located in the heart of downtown Golden and was the original capitol building in Colorado. It has all of the kid favorites from chicken strips to burgers or quesadillas and the environment is very family-friendly.
Where to Eat in Golden
Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse is where to go to have history with your pulled pork. The brick building that houses this BBQ emporium was the first capitol building of Colorado territory!. Back then it was a frontier saloon.
Activities in Golden, CO
Golden has one of the greatest and most concentrated collections of outdoor recreation stores around. There are shops devoted to hiking, biking, skiing, snowboarding, climbing, fishing, camping, backpacking and hunting.
20 Best Restaurants in Golden, CO for 2025 (Top Eats!)
Built in 1863, the Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse features an impressive menu of delicious Southern dishes, from burgers to high-quality smoked meat.
Discover the Top 20 Restaurants 2025 in Downtown Golden, Colorado: Superganix’s Favorites
Description: A historic eatery offering smoked meats, classic BBQ dishes, and a cozy Western vibe. Address:1122 Washington Ave, Golden, CO 80401
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