Menu & Pricing
π₯© Steaks & Chops ($26-47)
β’ Filet Mignon (8 oz.): $47
β’ Beef Ribeye (12 oz.): $44
β’ Elk Chops & Shrimp: $43
β’ Bison Oscar (NY Strip + Crab): $43
β’ Bison Petite Tender: $36
β’ Pork Chop: $34
β’ Braised Lamb Shank: $34
β’ Seared Chicken Thighs: $26
β’ Kobe Tomahawk (30 oz.): $165
π€ Starters ($12-19)
β’ Wild Game Brats Sampler: $19
β’ Crab Cake: $18
β’ Steamed Mussels: $17
β’ BBQ Pork Rib Tips: $17
β’ Smoked Elk Carpaccio: $14
β’ Fried Truffle Brussels Sprouts: $14
What Makes Hunters Chop House Special
Hunters Chop House delivers what Estes Park's other restaurants don't - a dedicated steakhouse experience with 1,741+ reviews averaging 4.4 stars. The hunting lodge atmosphere features taxidermy on the walls, creating an authentically rustic mountain vibe without feeling kitschy.
The kitchen executes steaks consistently well. The filet mignon cuts like butter and elk chops arrive with zero gaminess. A sommelier on staff helps pair wines with your meal - a level of service rare in mountain towns.
The outdoor patio lined with flower barrels offers prime seating during summer, including views of July 4th fireworks. Same ownership as Park Tavern, which explains the consistent service quality.
What to Order (Signature Dishes)
Elk Chops & Shrimp ($43) - The signature dish. Two bone-in elk chops with blackberry port wine sauce, creamy barley risotto, and shrimp scampi. Zero gaminess when cooked medium-rare as recommended. This is the move.
Filet Mignon ($47) - USDA choice with red wine demi-glace, mashed potatoes, and seasonal vegetables. Consistently praised as "melt in your mouth" and "cuts like butter." I'd trust the kitchen's recommendation on temperature.
Bison Oscar ($43) - NY strip topped with lump jumbo crab and dill hollandaise over barley risotto. Worth returning for. The surf-and-turf combo works exceptionally well.
Wild Game Brats Sampler ($19) - Smoked buffalo, jalapeΓ±o elk, apricot boar, and pheasant with cheese and flatbread crackers. Perfect starter for groups or first-timers unsure about wild game.
Chocolate Mousse & Donut Holes ($11) - Light, airy, and the perfect sweet finish. Complimentary anniversary cheesecake if you mention the occasion.
π‘ Pro Tip: Accept your server's recommendation on elk chop temperature. Medium-rare eliminates any gaminess and keeps the meat tender. The servers here know their wild game.
Who It's For (And Who It's Not For)
Best for: Anniversary and birthday celebrations, couples seeking upscale dining, wild game enthusiasts, steak lovers wanting perfectly cooked cuts, and wine drinkers who appreciate sommelier service.
Skip if: You're on a tight budget ($30-50+ per person), prefer lunch options (dinner only), or want quick casual dining.
Looking for other options? Check Park Tavern for craft cocktails (same owners) or Bird & Jim for more casual wild game.
Practical Information
- πLocation: 1690 Big Thompson Ave, off main strip near the marina
- β°Hours: Daily 4pm-9pm (dinner only, 7 days a week)
- πParking: Free lot on-site; turn right at the sign before the marina road
- π
Reservations: Recommended for weekends; call (970) 586-6962
- β³Wait times: Walk-ins possible early (4-5pm); 30+ min wait during peak hours
- π·Wine: Sommelier on staff for wine pairings; full bar with craft cocktails
- πSpecial occasions: Mention anniversaries/birthdays for complimentary dessert
π‘ Money Hack: The Wild Game Brats Sampler ($19) feeds 2-3 people as an appetizer. Split it and a main to keep costs around $35-40/person including tip.