Menu & Pricing
Starters ($6-21)
• Post Biscuits & Gravy: 4 for $10
• Deviled Eggs: $13
• Pueblo Green Chili Cup/Bowl: $6/$11
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: $13
• Wings: 6 for $13 | 12 for $25
Salads & Sandwiches ($16-18)
• Crispy Chicken & Goat Cheese Salad: $16
• Fried Chicken Caesar: $17
• Original Fried Chicken Sandwich: $17
• Buffalo Chicken Sandwich: $17
• Classic Cheeseburger: $18
What Makes The Post Special
The Post brings something rare to Estes Park: completely gluten-free fried chicken that tastes indistinguishable from traditional breading. With 1,020+ reviews averaging 4.3 stars, the thick, crunchy, well-seasoned coating rivals any traditional fried chicken in Colorado.
Portion sizes consistently surprise - the half chicken feeds two people comfortably. House-brewed beers complement the menu perfectly, particularly the El Corn amber with zero bitterness. The Stanley Hotel setting adds mountain views and historic ambiance.
💡 Pro Tip: I'd arrive before 11am on weekends to snag open seats without reservations. The management actively works the floor, creating a personal touch you don't get at most tourist spots.
What to Order (Signature Dishes)
Chicken & Waffles 2.0 ($23) - If you're only trying one thing, this is the move. Gluten-free fried chicken sits atop vanilla waffles with black pepper maple syrup and lemon rosemary gravy. The chicken arrives perfectly fried.
I'd split this between two people - the portion is generous. The combination of sweet maple syrup and savory lemon gravy is what makes it work.
Fried Half Chicken ($23) - Southern-style half chicken fried gluten-free, served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and a biscuit. Four massive pieces arrive - each thigh could be a meal on its own.
Trust me, I'd share this between two people unless you're starving after hiking. The dark brown color indicates proper frying, and the thick crunchy batter delivers on texture.
Deviled Eggs ($13) - Pickled North Fork Valley pepper relish, crispy chicken skin, and savory cured bacon top these elevated deviled eggs. One of the most-ordered appetizers that appears repeatedly in reviews.
The combination of traditional deviled eggs with crispy chicken skin creates an unexpected but successful pairing. Order these while waiting for main courses.
Pueblo Green Chile Mac & Cheese ($11 full) - Here's the thing: regular mac and cheese jumps to another level with Pueblo green chile adding spice and depth. The green chile makes this memorable.
I'd get the full portion - it's genuinely one of the best mac and cheese options around. The half portion ($6) works as a side if you're getting chicken.
Cheddar Biscuits & Sausage Gravy (4 for $10) - Warm cheddar biscuits covered in sausage gravy. Reviews split on these - some find them dry with insufficient cheese, others praise the combination. Worth trying as an appetizer to share.
💡 Pro Tip: I'd share the fried chicken dishes between two people every time. One order of chicken and waffles or half chicken plus sides feeds two comfortably. This saves money and prevents the "I can't finish this" problem.
The Dining Experience
Walking into The Post feels like discovering an upscale comfort food restaurant inside a historic hotel. The lighting creates warm ambiance, with fixtures designed to complement The Stanley's aesthetic while maintaining casual dining atmosphere.
Bar seating provides immediate access during busy times. The bartenders deliver friendly service even during rushes. The bar offers full cocktail service plus house-brewed beers on tap.
Service quality varies but trends positive. The owner or manager actively works the floor, greeting tables and ensuring satisfaction. Multiple staff members check on tables throughout meals. Wait times for food run 20-40 minutes during peak hours.
The noise level stays loud but conversational. You can talk normally but expect background noise from other tables and the bar area. The atmosphere leans casual despite The Stanley Hotel connection.
Outdoor patio seating extends dining space during warmer months. Mountain views improve the dining experience significantly when weather permits patio use.
🧇
Chicken & Waffles
🥚
Deviled Eggs
🌶️
Green Chile Mac
🍗
GF Fried Chicken
🔥
Nashville Hot
🏨
Stanley Hotel
Who It's For (And Who It's Not For)
Best for: Gluten-free diners craving real fried chicken, Stanley Hotel visitors, families (shareable portions, kids menu), comfort food lovers, and craft beer enthusiasts wanting house-brewed options.
Skip if: You're budget-conscious ($20-30/person + $10 parking), salt-sensitive (heavy seasoning), or need walk-in seating during peak hours.
Looking for other options? Check Bird & Jim for wild game or Ember Restaurant for lakeside fine dining.
Practical Information
- 📍Location: 333 E Wonderview Ave (inside The Stanley Hotel)
- ⏰Hours: Mon-Fri 12pm-8/9pm, Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-8pm
- 🚗Parking: $10 fee with $5 credit toward bill or Stanley Hotel shops
- 📅Reservations: Book via OpenTable or call (970) 287-5001; essential for weekend brunch
- ⏳Wait times: 30-60 min during summer peaks; bar seating offers faster access
- 🍗Gluten-free: All fried chicken is GF; GF buns available (+$2)
- 📆Specials: Mon Local's Night, Wed Prime Rib ($59), Fri Pot Roast ($24), Sat Ribs ($25)
💡 Money Hack: Order the Family Love meal ($60) for 3-4 people - 8 pieces chicken, 2 sides, 4 biscuits. Works out to $15-20/person.