Complete Guide to Estes Park's Lakeside Fine Dining
Planning a special dinner with Lake Estes views? Ember serves modern American fine dining in a lakeside setting where elk sometimes wander down to the water during sunset - a moment you won't forget.
• Bread & Butter (house focaccia, black salt): $9
• Mango Shrimp (tempura, honey glaze): $19
• Bison Flautas: $19
• Ahi Poke Wontons: $19
• Lobster Focaccia: $33
• Lobster Bisque (Cup/Bowl): $11/$21
• Potato Leek Soup (Cup/Bowl): $9/$15
• Caesar Salad: $9/$15
• Arugula Salad: $13/$19
• Elk Tenderloin (highly praised): $53
• Steak Frites (most popular): $45
• Bistro Filet: $42
• Duck Breast: $49
• Sea Bass (Barramundi): $32
• Chicken Fried Chicken: $27
Ember combines stunning Lake Estes views with modern American fine dining that earns 4.4 stars across 368+ reviews. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer lake and mountain views from every table, with an outdoor patio that's especially spectacular during sunset when elk occasionally wander down to the water.
Service quality stays consistently high with attentive servers, thoughtful recommendations, and genuine care. The modern interior creates upscale ambiance with leather seating and elegant design without feeling stuffy.
💡 Pro Tip: Request outdoor patio seating for sunset dining. I'd specifically ask for this when booking - elk occasionally come down to the lake during dinner, creating unforgettable mountain dining moments you can't get elsewhere.
Steak Frites ($45) - If you're splurging on one dish, this is the move. Sliced bistro filet served with brown butter, candied bacon, and garlic-parmesan fries.
The meat comes tender with perfect preparation. I'd order this medium-rare and let the brown butter do its thing.
Lobster Bisque ($11 cup / $21 bowl) - A standout starter made with Maine lobster, served with tarragon crostini and chives.
I'd get the bowl over the cup - the generous lobster portions make the extra $10 worth it. Rich, creamy, and doesn't skimp on the actual lobster.
Elk Tenderloin ($53) - Premium wild game option served with lingonberry demiglace, beech mushrooms, truffle mashed potatoes, and Brussels sprouts.
This is your anniversary splurge. The elk delivers tender meat with beautiful presentation - if you're celebrating something, I'd go with this over the steak.
Bourbon Cheesecake - Save room for this. The cherry base adds the perfect contrast, and I'd split it between two people unless you skipped appetizers.
💡 Pro Tip: Start with the bread & butter ($9). Trust me on this one - the house focaccia with whipped butter, garlic confit, and black salt rivals quality Italian bread. It's only $9 and sets the tone for everything that follows.
Best for: Special occasions and anniversaries, romantic dinners with Lake Estes views, families (kids menu available), and vacationers willing to splurge for quality fine dining.
Skip if: You're on a tight budget ($30-50+/person), want a quick meal (60-90 min experiences), or prefer casual grab-and-go dining.
Looking for other options? Check Bird & Jim for wild game or The Hive Brewery for casual craft beer.
💡 Pro Tip: After dinner, walk the sidewalk around Lake Estes to enjoy more views. The path is well-lit and offers beautiful evening scenery.
Common questions about Ember Restaurant
For special occasions and memorable experiences, yes. The combination of lake views, excellent service, and quality food justifies the $30-50+ per person pricing. For casual regular dining, it runs a bit expensive and works better for anniversaries.
Yes. Every table offers beautiful views of Lake Estes with no bad seats in the house. Request outdoor patio seating for the closest lake access and potential wildlife sightings.
Yes, there's no strict dress code. The restaurant welcomes casual mountain attire despite the upscale food and pricing. The atmosphere is intimate and cozy rather than stuffy fine dining.
Yes, breakfast service starts at 7am daily. Menu includes French toast, bacon, and other breakfast items. The half order of French toast with strawberries and fresh whipped cream delivers excellent flavor.
Yes, the restaurant welcomes families and offers a kids menu. Families with children dine comfortably here and enjoy the experience. The setting works for families despite the upscale pricing.
Vegetarian options are clearly labeled on the menu. The Squash Tacos ($23) offer a full vegan entree. Salads can be ordered without meat additions. Options exist but aren't the menu's main focus.
For dinner, especially Friday-Saturday or holidays, book as far ahead as possible. The restaurant fills up quickly and reservations prove essential. Use Toast Tab online booking or call (970) 586-6409.
Yes! Elk occasionally stroll down to the water at sunset during outdoor patio dinner service. This creates unique experiences you can't get at typical restaurants.
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