Carl's Tavern
A laid-back Steamboat Springs pub offering American comfort food with a Southern spin, known for its extensive whiskey selection and vibrant bar.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Carl's Tavern
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A laid-back Steamboat Springs pub offering American comfort food with a Southern spin, known for its extensive whiskey selection and vibrant bar.
"Every item ordered at this restaurant was absolutely delicious. You cannot go wrong here."
Make Reservations
On busy nights, securing a reservation is recommended to avoid waiting for a table.
Don't Miss Appetizers
The Crispy Brussel Sprout Leaves are highly recommended and a definite must-try for any diner.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American (Southern Flair)
Price
Mid-range
Address
700 Yampa St, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Extensive Whiskey & Bourbon Selection
Explore a vast array of whiskeys and bourbons at one of Steamboat's best bars. Perfect for connoisseurs and curious drinkers alike.
Crispy Brussel Sprout Leaves
A must-try appetizer that reviewers rave about. Perfectly seasoned and delightfully crispy, these leaves are a standout.
Southern-Influenced Comfort Food
Enjoy comforting American classics with a Southern flair, from hearty burgers to unique appetizers and substantial entrees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Make Reservations
On busy nights, securing a reservation is recommended to avoid waiting for a table.
Don't Miss Appetizers
The Crispy Brussel Sprout Leaves are highly recommended and a definite must-try for any diner.
Happy Hour Deals
Enjoy discounted drinks, including $3 select beers and $5 house margaritas during Happy Hour.
Bourbon & Whiskey Lovers
Explore the diverse and extensive selection of bourbon and whiskey available at the bar.
Tips
from all over the internet
Make Reservations
On busy nights, securing a reservation is recommended to avoid waiting for a table.
Don't Miss Appetizers
The Crispy Brussel Sprout Leaves are highly recommended and a definite must-try for any diner.
Happy Hour Deals
Enjoy discounted drinks, including $3 select beers and $5 house margaritas during Happy Hour.
Bourbon & Whiskey Lovers
Explore the diverse and extensive selection of bourbon and whiskey available at the bar.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Carl's Tavern is celebrated for its exceptional comfort food with a Southern twist and an impressive whiskey selection. Diners consistently praise the delicious, well-prepared dishes, friendly service, and lively atmosphere. While most experiences are positive, some patrons have noted occasional seating issues and higher price points for certain items.
"5 Stars on a BUSY Saturday night. Carl's did not miss a beat. We walked in during prime time without a reservation and they graciously created a table in the way back. Our server was very attentive and came to take our drink and appetizer orders fairly quickly. Who ever is running this restaurant, the chef and whoever is responsible for ops and the team should win an award. Everyone worked together, things ran smoothly and the all the food we ordered was excellent. We started with the Crispy Brussel Sprout Leaves - MUST HAVE! We then had a Wedge salad, Adult Grilled Cheese and Hamburgers with a great Char and flavor. See pictures of the bar it is quite extensive especially if you love bourbon and whisky - so many choices. I love an old-fashioned and they had so many very interesting options to choose from. Great for families."
Mark Engel
"Went here to kill some time and get s drink before dinner. Staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. Beer was cold and refreshing. Tried the crispy brussel sprouts which were very tasty. Atmosphere was nice and restaurant was clean and well maintained."
Jozef Watson
"Cool tavern setting. Great service at the bar. The food was delicious and it’s not your average bar food. Try the pimento and cheese and get the BLT. They’re delicious. Try a smoked old fashion for me will ya? Great bourbon selection. I’ll be back."
Candace
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Carl's Tavern serves American comfort food with a Southern flair, featuring dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and hearty entrees.
Yes, Carl's Tavern is renowned for its extensive whiskey and bourbon selection, as well as craft cocktails and beer.
It is recommended to make reservations, especially on busy nights, to avoid waiting for a table.
Reviewers highly recommend the Crispy Brussel Sprout Leaves. Burgers and sandwiches are also popular choices.
Yes, Carl's Tavern is noted as a gluten-free friendly place, particularly for burgers and upscale American food.
Yes, Carl's Tavern features a daily happy hour with discounted drinks, including select beers and house margaritas.
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Dining & Nightlife
Carl's Tavern is named after a very classy ski jumper who continues to inspire people to try new things, grab life by the horns, make new friends and to be themselves. The food is comforting and familiar, from Maryland Blue crab cakes and cesear salad to pot roast, chicken pot pie, burgers and even more delicious entrees that are sure to remind you of home. Don't forget to check out their drink menu, you are going to like that, too.
Nightlife - Ski Season 12/13
Downtown at Carl’s Tavern, you’ll find a down-to- earth place where ranchers rub elbows with city officials and visitors become locals. With made-from-scratch comfort food, there are Colorado beers on tap and Colorado Mules served in copper mugs. At Cugino’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant, unwind at the bar with a Birra Moretti draft or try one of the bartender’s delicious concoctions during a late night happy hour.
Dining scene blooms on Yampa Street with addition of new restaurant Primrose
After selling Carl’s Tavern, where he was owner from 2011 to 2017, Kelley moved to Denver and worked under famed Denver Chef Troy Guard, who founded the TAG Restaurant Group. But Kelley’s affection for Steamboat brought him back last summer when he was offered the chef job at the Periodic Table. He split his time between Steamboat and Denver, where he wanted to remain close to his sons.
The Best Spots for Eating & Drinking in Steamboat
This popular hangout is named after the father of Steamboat's skiing scene and namesake of Howelsen Hill across the river, Carl Howelsen. The menu is heavy on comfort food, and standalone sides, like the mac and cheese or crispy Brussels sprouts, can be meals unto themselves. This place can get packed, so call ahead if you can.
Dessert | Ice Cream | Steamboat Springs, CO
We love the warm out of the oven chocolate chip cookies paired with the ice cold pint of milk at Carl’s. Wear your milk moustache proud as you bite into chewy gooey goodness in each hot cookie bite. Or give the “drunkin'” doughnuts a try at Old Town Pub.
6 Unique Winter Things To Do With Kids
Several store owners directed us to Carl’s Tavern, a busy sports bar at night, but a kid-friendly restaurant at lunchtime. The homemade chicken-pot pie, grilled cheese and onion rings we ordered were tasty, hearty and definitely all made in-house.
The Best Happy Hours in Steamboat Springs – Updated 2023
Carl’s Tavern is a casual restaurant serving up tasty American dishes with a few Southern touches. Their burgers are massive here, as well as their triple layer cakes. This a great stop for a simple meal in downtown Steamboat Springs.
6 Pet Friendly Things To Do In Steamboat Springs
Carl’s Tavern, Salt and Lime, and Slopeside Grill are a few great options. Enjoy a Colorado bison burger or truffle fries at Back Door Grill, and maybe give your pal animal a few treats for being such a good dog today.
Planning a Healthy Ski Vacation: Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Great gluten-free friendly place to grab burgers or upscale American food, but it gets crowded fast, especially on game days!. The rotisserie chicken is bomb, and so are all the burgers on the menu!
Top Things to Do in Steamboat Springs
Many have outdoor seating, and we took advantage of it at a handful of places including E3 Chophouse, O’Neil’s Tavern & Grill, and Carl’s Tavern.
Steamboat Springs Nightlife
Carl’s Tavern, on TK, for instance offers great eats, a fun atmosphere, creative cocktails and a great happy hour from four to six p.m.
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