What Restaurants Are in Bailey, Colorado?
Bailey, Colorado might look like a small mountain town along Highway 285, but its food scene is full of charm and flavor. Whether you’re on a weekend getaway from Denver, heading toward South Park, or just passing through after a hike, Bailey’s restaurants offer a great mix of cozy cafés, hearty comfort food, and even elegant dining by the river.
Here’s a local-approved guide to the best restaurants in Bailey, CO—each one offering something unique to this scenic mountain community.
1. Cutthroat Café
Location: 157 Main St, Bailey, CO 80421
Cuisine: American, Breakfast, Comfort Food
Price Range: $10–$20
Cutthroat Café is a Bailey landmark for breakfast and lunch. With its rustic log-cabin feel and friendly service, it’s a go-to for locals and road-trippers.
What to try:
Biscuits and gravy
Chicken-fried steak
Homemade cinnamon rolls
Why locals love it: You’ll leave full, happy, and ready for a mountain adventure. Go early on weekends—the breakfast crowd fills up fast.
2. Casa Sanchez
Location: 1 Road P68, Bailey, CO 80421
Cuisine: Mexican
Price Range: $10–$20
Casa Sanchez brings authentic Mexican flavors to the Rockies. It’s a family-friendly spot known for generous portions and classic recipes made from scratch.
View from 2 Dad’s Eatery & Taproom
Menu highlights:
Fajitas served sizzling hot
Street tacos with house-made tortillas
Fresh guacamole and margaritas
Pro tip: After a long hike or fishing trip, Casa Sanchez is the perfect stop for a hearty, flavorful dinner.
3. 2 Dad’s Eatery & Taproom
Location: 60006 US Hwy 285, Bailey, CO 80421
Cuisine: American Pub
Vibe: Casual, family-friendly
This modern taproom is where locals gather to watch a game, enjoy craft beer, and unwind. Expect comfort food with a creative twist and an inviting riverside setting.
Top picks:
Gourmet burgers and sandwiches
Loaded nachos
Local craft beers on tap
Why visit: It’s a relaxed hangout that combines good food, local brews, and great views—ideal for groups or casual nights out.
4. South Park Coney Island
Location: 10 Old Stagecoach Rd, Bailey, CO 80421
Cuisine: Hot Dogs, American Fast Food
Famous For: Its hot-dog-shaped building
A Bailey icon, South Park Coney Island is one of Colorado’s most unique roadside stops. You can’t miss the giant hot-dog-shaped stand right off Highway 285.
Why go:
Fun photo stop for road-trippers
Quick bites like chili dogs and root beer floats
Great for families with kids
Insider tip: Stop by mid-afternoon for lighter crowds and easier parking.
5. Aspen Peak Cellars
Location: 60750 US Hwy 285, Bailey, CO 80421
Cuisine: Winery & Bistro
Atmosphere: Romantic, upscale, riverside
Aspen Peak Cellars is a family-run winery offering handcrafted wines, live music, and a refined dining experience. The setting—nestled beside the North Fork of the South Platte River—is truly scenic.
Must-try dishes:
Wild mushroom ravioli
Pan-seared salmon
Colorado wine flights
Best for: Date nights, anniversaries, or any special occasion. Reserve a table early if you want a riverside seat.
Quick Picks by Occasion
Best breakfast: Cutthroat Café
Best family dinner: Casa Sanchez
Best casual hangout: 2 Dad’s Eatery & Taproom
Best quick stop: South Park Coney Island
Best date night: Aspen Peak Cellars
Why Bailey’s Food Scene Deserves a Stop
Bailey might be small, but it captures the best of Colorado mountain dining: warm hospitality, hearty meals, and unbeatable views. Whether you’re fueling up for a day in Pike National Forest or winding down after fishing in Wellington Lake, you’ll find that Bailey’s local restaurants deliver quality and character you won’t find at chain spots.
FAQ
Q1: Are Bailey restaurants open year-round?
Most are open year-round, but winter hours can be shorter. Check ahead, especially for dinner service in the colder months.
Q2: Can I find vegetarian or gluten-free options in Bailey?
Yes. Many spots, like Aspen Peak Cellars and Casa Sanchez, offer vegetarian selections and can adjust meals for dietary needs.
Q3: Do I need reservations anywhere?
Casual spots like Cutthroat Café or South Park Coney Island are first-come, first-served. For Aspen Peak Cellars or weekend nights at 2 Dad’s, reservations are a good idea.
Final Takeaway
If you’re driving Highway 285 or exploring the foothills west of Denver, make Bailey a food stop—not just a pass-through. From homestyle breakfasts to riverside dinners, this town offers a real taste of Colorado hospitality.