Estes Park, Colorado is truly a picturesque location. 

In fact, becoming acquainted with Estes Park since 2021 has been quite an exciting adventure for me! 

This city is brimming with scenic views, hiking trails, and romantic opportunities for couples from all over the world. 

Since planning a trip to a new place can be overwhelming, allow me to show you how to get the most out of your next romantic escape to Estes Park!

Fortunately, there are a number of romantic restaurants in Estes Park that you can consider adding to your itinerary. 

In this article, I’ll provide my top five romantic restaurant picks and explain why each one has made the cut!

We’ll take a look at:

• Pricing
• Cuisine type
• Reservation needs

And more. By the end, you’ll hopefully be extremely well-informed for your next romantic visit to Estes Park. Let’s begin!

Top Romantic Restaurants in Estes Park

These five restaurants will leave you and your significant other feeling more connected than ever. 

If you have extra time, consider accompanying your restaurant date on a walk around Estes Park as the views are tremendous. Now, let’s take a look at these restaurants!

Ember at The Estes Park Resort

• Address: 1700 Colorado Peaks Dr, Estes Park, CO 80517
• Phone Number: (970) 586-6409
• Price Range: Moderately priced
• Cuisine: Modern American fare and seafood
• Reservations preferred
• Hours of Operation: Every day, 7 AM – 9 PM
• Special Features: Iconic dollar bill wallpaper, endearing art displays, and amazing views to accompany a fun and cozy restaurant experience. 

Ember at The Estes Park Resort has a cozy, inviting atmosphere perfect for a romantic evening out.

The lake and mountain views at this restaurant are sure to spark conversation between you and your significant other while offering a beautiful backdrop to accompany some great food.

I love Ember for its atmosphere and awesome American dishes. On Google Reviews, Ember is a highly-rated establishment, with some patrons praising the combination of great food and service. 

Some dishes that were loved by reviewers include the Ahi Poke Wontons, Elk Tenderloin, and avocado salad. Personally, I recommend the sea bass (I see you Bourdain, thx for the recommendation)! If you and your significant other are pasta lovers, this one is sure to be a hit. 

The View Restaurant at the Historic Crags Lodge

• Address: 300 Riverside Dr, Estes Park, CO 80517
• Phone Number: (970) 586-1087
• Price Range: Moderately priced
• Cuisine: American, traditional food
• Reservation not required
• Hours of Operation: Thursday – Monday, 3-10 PM (Closed on Tuesday & Wednesday) 
• Special Features: Old fashioned and warm-feeling, with traditional dishes that will leave you satisfied.

The view provides the perfect woodsy backdrop for a romantic (late) lunch or dinner with your sweetie. 

Get yourselves a bottle of champagne and enjoy the sounds of nature over some small plates! 

You will feel like you’re eating at your private log cabin in the woods, especially if you choose to eat outside. 

The View hosts large events, such as weddings and celebrations, which can be booked in advance. However, dining in this restaurant is known as the “best-kept romantic dining secret” in Estes Park! 

As far as dishes go, some reviewers of this restaurant recommend the Mediterranean chicken and the Ribeye steak. 

Additionally, the dessert selection at this restaurant is lovely – especially if you order the peach cobbler! Overall, if you’re partial to historic venues, this restaurant should definitely make it onto your list. 

Bird & Jim

• Address: 915 Moraine Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
• Phone Number: (970) 586-9832
• Price Range: More expensive
• Cuisine: Locally-sourced meats and produce, all cuisines
• Reservation is not required, but you can make one here.
• Hours of Operation: Lunch, 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM; Midday Menu: 1:30 – 4 PM; Dinner: 4 PM – 8 PM 
• Special Features: Mountain dining with a modern twist in a casual setting.

A modern take on dining can be found at Bird & Jim, where ingredients are frequently curated and turned into fantastic dishes. 

Bird & Jim is known for their wines and cheese, as well as their happy hour selection. If you’re looking to share locally sourced finger foods with your partner, Bird & Jim is a great option. Walk-ins welcome!

Bird & Jim is a quaint, endearing restaurant that is raved about by many patrons. The main highlights include the wine selection, fun atmosphere, and diverse menu. 

I loved the miso beef short rib sliders and the smoked pheasant chowder. Another great aspect of this restaurant is the number of sides they offer! 

From cornbread and mac & cheese to garlic broccoli, you and your sweetie are sure to find some sides that you can split at this delicious restaurant. 

SEASONED – An American Bistro

• Address: 205 Park Ln, Estes Park, CO 80517
• Phone Number: (970) 586-9000
• Price Range: Moderately priced
• Cuisine: Classy venue, American cuisine. 
• Reservation is not required, but you can make one here. 
• Hours of Operation: Wednesday – Saturday, 5 – 9 PM; Sunday, 10 AM-2 PM (Closed on Monday & Tuesday)
• Special Features: Chef-owned experience that is ideal for a romantic evening, with a wonderful wine selection. 

Seasoned is a personal favorite, with a small menu that truly captures American mountain life in Estes Park. 

Walking into Seasoned, you’ll feel right at home!

You and your significant other can expect to relax under the mood lighting, where you’ll have the opportunity to savor the dishes offered by this establishment.

Seasoned is well-loved by locals and tourists alike in Estes Park. According to Google Reviews, this place is a real gem and is frequented by those who eat there. 

The menu is attuned to a wide variety of tastes and interests, so you’re likely to find something tasty for dinner or brunch!

If you’re looking for ideas, the crab corn chowder is fabulous. In my experience, the staff are very inviting and add to the cozy atmosphere of this restaurant. I’d say that eating at this place is a must-do activity with your significant other!

Twin Owls Steakhouse

• Address: 3110 S St Vrain Ave Suite B, Estes Park, CO 80517
• Phone Number: (970) 586-9344
• Price Range: More expensive
• Cuisine: Steakhouse, Traditional 
• Reservation encouraged – click here. 
• Hours of Operation: Wednesday – Sunday, 5 – 8 PM (Closed on Monday & Tuesday)
• Special Features: Live music, mood lighting, and multiple courses overlooking the mountains. 

Lastly, Twin Owls Steakhouse is situated in the Taharaa Mountain Lodge. 

This restaurant offers a comprehensive steakhouse-style menu with many wonderful main dishes and tasty sides. Twin Owls often has live music performances, which you and your partner can enjoy while having an intimate steak dinner. 

In my opinion, the most important decision when eating at a steakhouse comes from choosing the sides!

Luckily, there are many to pick from at Twin Owls Steakhouse. Two staples that I always order are the parmesan broccoli and the house-mashed potatoes. 

Many patrons of the restaurant report loving the bacon-wrapped scallops and the baked brie. 

If you’re in the mood for decadent food in a charming location, Twin Owls Steakhouse is the place for you.

Conclusion

“Estes Park is for Lovers”; at least, I think so! Between the endless experiences with nature and the breathtaking views, this is the place where fairytales are born. 

If you have a trip planned to Estes Park with your significant other, make sure to check out the five restaurants listed above. I hope you have a truly wonderful, romantic trip!