Romantic dining should be a memorable experience. Whether you’re celebrating the two of you or a special event, romantic dining should be nothing short of pleasurable.
The two sister towns of Ouray and Ridgway, Colorado have three great restaurants serving excellent food and wine that will make any romantic dining experience memorable.
Drake’s Restaurant in Ridgway
Well known to the locals for their excellent meals, service, and hospitality, Drake’s is a wonderful restaurant to enjoy a romantic dining experience for two. Their main dining room has dimly lit booths with a whimsical sculpture of forks, knives, and spoons separating each booth. A romantic dining experience is very nice here. The atmosphere is warm and friendly and dress is casual. In your dimly lit booth, you’ll be able to separate yourselves from the crowd and have a quiet, romantic conversation with your partner.
Why not share an appetizer together such as Steamed Mussels or the Portabello Au Jus with Crustini? Both appetizers are built for two and either would be a great way to begin your romantic dining.
Entrees range from $16 – $33 and there isn’t a bad entree on the menu. Shrimp Feta Pasta, Fresh Grilled Salmon, Beef Tenderloin, or Seafood Etouffée are just some of the wonderful meals you can enjoy here. All desserts are made on the premises.
Drake’s Restaurant is located at 220 South Lena just behind Mountain Market. Reservations are recommended and their number is 970 626-3113.
The Tundra Restaurant at the Beaumont Hotel in Ouray
The Tundra is a Triple A four diamond restaurant with an award winning wine list. A romantic dining experience in this historic restaurant will be very memorable. Built in 1886 and renovated several years ago, this beautiful dining room has a lot of history that the waiters and waitresses will be glad to tell you about. The setting here is perfect for romantic dining.
The Tundra restaurant is located on the second floor and be sure to walk up the beautiful grand staircase with mahogany rails to take in the beauty of this elegant historic hotel. Look all around you, including up at the ceiling. Mahogany woodwork and wainscotting is everywhere. Step into the hotel’s bar near the dining room which is home to a friendly female ghost from days gone by.
Upon entering the Tundra dining room, the mahogany woodwork and wainscotting continues. This itself is a feast for the eyes and sets the atmosphere for a nice romantic dining experience.
The Tundra is big favorite for special occasions and romantic dining by the locals. The chef changes the menu seasonally, but rest assured that all meals are delicious and prepared to your satisfaction. The service is excellent and friendly and the atmosphere is quiet, relaxing, and casual. The white linen tables and fine silverware will add to your romantic dining experience.
Entrees range from $17 – $30 and you’ll find everything from Colorado Wild Game Entrees including Elk, to fresh seafood and Prime Rib. Desserts are made daily by the Chef.
The Tundra Restaurant is located inside the Beaumont Hotel at 505 Main Street (Hwy. 550). Reservations are suggested at 1-888-447-3255.
The Bon Ton Restaurant in Ouray
Italian food with a flair is served at the Bon Ton Restaurant in Ouray. Serving local residents and tourists for over 20 years, the Bon Ton is another restaurant which serves up a memorable and romantic dining experience.
The hardwood floors and rock walls of this restaurant offer a relaxed cozy atmosphere for all to enjoy. A small lit candle on each table flickers as you quietly converse and enjoy a romantic dining experience. Dimly lit, this restaurant is quiet and all about focusing on friendly conversation and memorable dining. A great place for romantic dining.
Begin your romantic dining with the Chef’s Antipasto for Two to set the mood. Continue with Beef Wellington, Scampi Bon Ton, or one of their 6-8 pasta dishes. End your romantic dining by sharing a Galloping Goose Caboose dessert which is coffee and French vanilla ice cream with English Toffee, Kahlua, and Chocolate Sauce. Plan on spending between $15-$32 for each entree at this restaurant.
The Bon Ton Restaurant is located in the St. Elmo Hotel on Main Street (Highway 550) in Ouray. Reservations are suggested and you can call 970 325-4951 for more information.
Source: Personal Dining Experience
