6 Restaurants In Dolores (CO) That Locals Love For Food & Vibes!

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Last updated on January 8, 2023 by Wandering our World

Wherever your travels may take you, we always want to show you the best restaurants around, and that includes when visiting the pretty watersports hub of Dolores!

So that’s exactly why we’ve compiled a list of the best restaurants in town! From cozy cafes to trendy bistros to Mexican cuisine and more, there’s going to be something you love in Dolores, despite its small size.

Whether you’re a foodie looking for your next culinary adventure or a local just trying to find a new spot for a date night, we’ve got you covered.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into our favorite restaurants in Dolores, CO.

Welcome to Dolores Sign in San Juan National Forest, Colorado
iStock.com/Norm Lane

The Best Restaurants In Dolores, CO: Food Worth Waiting For!

1. Dolores River Brewery

Beer lover’s paradise with plenty of tasty beers and ales, with some of the best food in town!

If you’re in the area and love craft beer, this is a must-visit spot. Not only will you get to drink a lot of awesome beer – perfect after an active day on McPhee Reservoir – but it’s also a great place to make some local friends and ask them about the town.

This place is very popular and often full, so if you’re wanting to experience one of the most happening restaurants and brewpubs in town, Dolores River Brewery is the one! 

This brewery has a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for a casual outing with friends. The outdoor seating area is also dog friendly, so bring your four-legged friends!

Plus, the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and they are more than happy to answer any questions you may have about the different beers on tap.

Speaking of the beers, they have all the best ones in town. Their selection includes a wide range of styles, from classic pilsners and lagers to more adventurous brews like hazy IPAs and barrel-aged stouts. Each one is expertly crafted and has its own unique flavor profile.

In addition to the delicious beer, the brewery also has a great food menu. Their pizza is known across town and comes in many different and unique combinations. Beer ad pizza? Count us in!

Dolores River Brewery is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 4 pm onwards and despite being one of the most popular restaurants in Dolores they don’t usually require reservations, so just walk in and enjoy all that they have to offer!

Address: 100 S 4th St. Dolores, CO.

Friends with beer doing a cheers
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/DisobeyArt

2. Kelly’s Kitchen

Neighborhood breakfast and lunch spot in a stunning location? What more could we want!

If you’re in the mood for a delicious breakfast or lunch, look no further than Kelly’s Kitchen. Located in the heart of Dolores, this cozy coffee shop is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat and relax with a cup of coffee. The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect place to begin your day.

The restaurant has a rustic look with black chairs and tables and wooden walls and flooring, making for a casual dining experience.

The breakfast menu is full of tasty options, including classic dishes like Biscuits & Gravy and Breakfast Muffins as well as more filling offerings like a breakfast burrito filled with chorizo and black beans. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your early morning cravings here.

The lunch menu is just as impressive, with a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads to choose from. The grilled cheese sandwich, made with gooey cheese and served on artisanal bread, is a must-try.

The salad selection is also particularly impressive, with options like Grilled Cauliflower Sandwich and DRB’s Caesar Salad.

Kelly’s is open From Wednesday through Saturday from 7 am to 2 pm.

Address: 315 Central Avenue, Unit B, Dolores, CO 81323

3. Loop’s Coffee House & Bistro

Family-owned community coffee parlor with some amazing food and warm service! Outdoor seating is available.

If you’re looking for a truly unique dining experience, you have to check out Loop’s Coffee House and Bistro.

This chic eatery serves up some of the most creative and delicious dishes in town and is a really popular local hangout spot, making it the perfect place to go if you want to chat with the locals and get any tips about the best places to visit and hidden hikes around town.

The menu is constantly changing, but the focus is always on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their lasagna is known for being particularly good, and is lauded around town, so that’s one dish we’d highly recommend trying. Plus, the portion size is generous, meaning you’ll always leave full and happy.

Apart from that, enough good things can’t be said about their cinnamon rolls, which smell heavenly and a regulars’ favorite. Pair those up with their coffee and you can’t go wrong!

In fact the real highlight of Loop’s Coffee House and Bistro is that coffee. The beans are carefully sourced and roasted in-house, resulting in a rich, full-bodied flavor that will satisfy even the most discerning coffee connoisseur. Whether you prefer a simple cup of drip coffee or a specialty latte, you’ll be impressed by the quality of the brew.

Loop’s is open throughout the week from 7 am to noon on weekdays, while on weekends they open for another additional hour.

Address: 795 Railroad Ave Dolores, CO.

coffee on a table
Photo for illustrative purposes only: Unsplash+

4. Montezuma Mexican Restaurant

Traditional and authentic Mexican wares served in a great atmosphere with professional service! Outdoor seating is available.

Montezuma Mexican Restaurant is your one-stop solution if you enjoy Mexican cuisine. This cozy spot serves up authentic dishes that are sure to satisfy any cravings. After all, their combination of delicious dishes and excellent margaritas make it a standout in Dolores’ dining and restaurant scene.

From the moment you walk in, you’ll be transported to a lively cantina in Mexico. The decor is vibrant and festive, with colorful decorations, Mexican artwork, and cozy booths. They also have a covered outdoor area that is a great place to soak up some sun.

The atmosphere is energetic and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a date night or a fun dinner out with friends. Plus as they have pool tables you can enjoy a game while waiting for your food!

The food simply takes the cake too! The menu is full of classic Mexican dishes, all made with the freshest ingredients and tons of flavor.

The Nachos are particularly noteworthy, with a variety of fillings to choose from. The Quesadillas are tender and juicy, and the burritos are also known to burst with flavor.

The margaritas are also not to be missed. Made with top-quality tequila and fresh lime juice, they are the perfect accompaniment to any meal. The happy hour specials are especially popular – like the regular Taco Tuesdays – with discounted drinks and appetizers.

Montezuma is open seven days a week! From 8 am to 10 pm during the weekend and from 10 am to 10 pm during the week.

Address: 1319 Railroad Ave, Dolores, CO

Selection of tacos
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/DavidPrahl

5. Depot

Arguably the best and most popular hamburger spot in town, an icon of Dolores since 1982!

If you’re like us and crave hamburgers at least once a week, then we have the perfect spot for you to check out in Dolores – The Depot.

This local, family-owned hamburger joint has been a part of town since 1982, so not only will you get to have the best food in town, but you’ll also be visiting one of the most iconic restaurants in Dolores.

The menu is simple but satisfying, with a range of tasty burgers to choose from. The classic cheeseburger, made with a juicy beef patty and topped with melty cheddar cheese, is a tried-and-true favorite. But if you’re feeling more adventurous, they also have options like Buffalo or Elk Burgers! So, no matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your burger cravings.

The burgers aren’t the only thing worth writing home about at The Depot though. They also serve hand-cut fries, cooked to perfection and served with a side of tangy fry sauce. Those are a must-try, as are their shakes which are made with creamy vanilla ice cream and a variety of mix-ins.

Depot’s atmosphere and ambiance is also worth mentioning. The decor is casual and laid-back, with a mix of vintage and modern accents. It’s the perfect spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends.

They’re open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 7:30 pm.

Address: 520 Railroad Ave, Dolores, CO

Top view of home made tasty burgers on wooden table.
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Kesu01

6. Three Chicks Bakery and Deli

Community-focused cafe and popular breakfast spot serving tasty baked goods and great coffee.

Three Chicks Bakery and Deli is arguably the hidden gem of the Dolores community. From the moment you walk in, expect the aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries to fill the air and tempts you to indulge in a little something sweet.

The staff are always friendly and helpful, and they take pride in their craft, always eager to chat about the ingredients and techniques that go into each of their delicious creations.

The deli counter is stocked with a wide variety of bagels, sandwiches, and goods to go and there’s always something new and exciting to try.

Apart from this, they also have a whole menu full of specialty drinks, full of coffees, teas, smoothies, and more that are a treat to try. Those also pair well with the food, so why not grab a drink and something to eat and settle down for a while.

One thing that really sets this bakery and deli apart is the sense of community that it fosters. There are always a few tables where people can sit and enjoy their treats, and it’s not uncommon to strike up a conversation with a stranger while you’re there. Whether you’re a regular or just passing through, you’ll feel welcome and at home in this cozy little spot.

Three Chicks Bakery & Deli is closed on Monday and Tuesday. On weekdays they open from 7:30 am to 1 pm and on the weekends, they are open from 8 am to 12 pm, so make sure you check it out.

Address: 105 N 5th St, Dolores, CO

cafe coffee and food selection
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Alisa Korolevskaya

That’s all from our side, guys! All the restaurants we think you should try when in Dolores, CO.

We hope you have a great time chowing down on all the food they offer and make memories to last a lifetime when visiting this pretty little town.

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  • Wandering our World

    Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.