Cousin Pat's Pub & Grill Review: Menu, Prices & Worth It?

Menu & Pricing

What Makes Cousin Pat's Special

Cousin Pat's fills a critical gap in Estes Park dining: it's open late. Most restaurants close by 8 or 9pm, leaving hikers returning from sunset adventures with few options. Pat's stays open until midnight on weekends (11pm weekdays), making it the go-to spot for late-night food and drinks.

The atmosphere delivers classic sports bar vibes - multiple TVs showing games, pool tables, a fireplace in the dining area, and patriotic decor that includes a touching veterans tribute table. Cousin Pat himself is often behind the bar, making margaritas and chatting with guests. When he noticed a couple watching UFC, the waiter turned up the volume. When another guest mentioned being cold after hiking, Pat moved them to a warmer table and fired up a heater.

The menu covers a lot of ground - BBQ, Italian, pub food, pizza. Some dishes shine (fish & chips, truffle mac, cheese curds), while others can miss (inconsistent pizza, sometimes overcooked burgers). It's not destination dining, but it's solid late-night comfort food when you need it.

What to Order (Signature Dishes)

Fish & Chips ($16.95) - The most-mentioned dish in reviews. Beer-battered Atlantic cod, thick and flaky with thin crispy batter. Comes with fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce. Among the best fish & chips in Estes Park.

Truffle Mac & Cheese ($16.95) - Creamy, indulgent, with truffle oil that adds depth without overpowering. Pair with a beer for the ultimate comfort meal.

Poutine ($14.95) - Wisconsin cheese curds, fries, and gravy. A Canadian pub classic done right. Great for sharing.

Fried Cheese Curds ($8.95) - Another Wisconsin import. Battered, fried, served with ranch. Order these early as they go fast.

Pat's Margaritas - When Cousin Pat makes them himself, they're excellent. Strong, well-balanced, and worth ordering.

The Honest Take

At 4.2 stars, Cousin Pat's is solidly good but not exceptional. Food quality varies - the fish & chips and truffle mac deliver consistently, while burgers and pizza can miss (burnt or undercooked). The Italian dishes (alfredo, chicken parm) are hit-or-miss. Service is generally strong and attentive.

The real value here is the atmosphere and hours. Where else can you watch the game, play pool, and eat hot food at 11pm in Estes Park? The patriotic decor and veterans table create a unique, meaningful environment. And if Pat's there, you'll get genuine hospitality from an owner who clearly cares about his guests.

Come for the late hours and pub atmosphere. Stick to the pub classics (fish & chips, poutine, burgers) rather than the Italian dishes. Don't expect fine dining, and you'll have a good time.

Who It's For (And Who It's Not For)

Best for: Late-night diners (open til midnight), sports fans, post-hike comfort food seekers, groups wanting pool and drinks, anyone looking for food after other restaurants close.

Skip if: You want fine dining, consistency is your priority, you're sensitive to noise (it's a sports bar), or you need quick service during games.

Looking for other options? Check Smokin' Dave's BBQ for better BBQ (but earlier hours) or Ed's Cantina for riverside Mexican.

Practical Information

• 📍Location: 451 S St Vrain Ave
• ⏰Hours: Fri-Sat 11am-12am, Sun 11am-11pm, Mon-Thu 4pm-11pm
• 🚗Parking: Free lot with plenty of spaces
• 📺Sports: Multiple TVs, all sports packages, UFC
• 🎱Entertainment: Pool tables, fireplace
• 👶Families: Kids menu $7.95, family dining area separate from bar
• 🇺🇸Atmosphere: Patriotic decor, veterans tribute table