Menu & Pricing
🥨 Appetizers
• Giant Pretzel - $19 (with IPA mustard & queso)
• Brisket Queso - $15 (with corn chips, miso salsa roja)
• Hillbilly Nachos - $14 (potato chips, pulled pork, queso)
• Throttle Wings (6pc) - $8 / (12pc) - $16
• Crispy Brussels - $14
• Chips & Dips Trio - $12
🍔 Burgers & Sandwiches (with 1 side)
• The O.G. Burger (smash patties) - $12
• Smoke Shredder Burger - $15
• The Pit Boss (smash patties + chopped brisket) - $20
• Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich - $15
• Nashville Hot Chicken - $14
• Smoked Cuban - $15
• Brisket French Dip - $15
What Makes Full Throttle Special
Full Throttle operates as an actual distillery producing moonshine, whiskey, and sippin' creams on-site. Walk into the tasting room and sample as many spirits as you like - free of charge. The bartenders know the products and can recommend mixers or cocktails based on what you enjoy.
The outdoor beer garden is one of the largest patio spaces in Estes Park - spacious enough for large groups and private events. Live music plays on weekends, sports games run on multiple screens, and the atmosphere stays lively without feeling cramped. Dogs are welcome on the patio.
The service model is counter-order rather than table service. Order food at one counter, beer at the back bar, cocktails at the middle bar. It's efficient once you understand it, though first-timers may find it confusing. For traditional restaurant dining with table service and live music, The Rock Inn offers a different vibe.
What to Order (Signature Dishes)
Giant Pretzel ($19) - Massive, soft, and perfect for sharing. Comes with IPA mustard and queso. This is the most-ordered appetizer for a reason - substantial enough to split between 3-4 people.
Brisket Queso ($15) - Tender brisket over house queso with corn chips and miso salsa roja. The green chile sauce adds heat. A standout starter that works as a light meal.
Hillbilly Nachos ($14) - Fresh potato chips instead of tortilla chips, topped with pulled pork, hatch chile queso, and jalapeños. Unique twist that works surprisingly well.
The O.G. Burger ($12) - Smash-style patties, crispy edges, still juicy inside. Well-executed for the price. Add bacon for $2.
Mac & Cheese ($15) - House cheese sauce, cavatappi pasta, breadcrumb top. Add brisket for $5 to make it a full meal. Kid-friendly option with generous portions.
💡 Pro Tip: Start at the distillery tasting room before ordering cocktails. Sample the moonshine flavors (peach, blackberry, vanilla, watermelon) to find your favorite, then order a cocktail built around it.
The Honest Take
At 4.1 stars, Full Throttle is a solid choice for the experience - not fine dining. The smash burgers, appetizers, and fried items execute well. The BBQ smokehouse items have been inconsistent (the kitchen acknowledges this and has been reworking recipes). Stick to the burgers, wings, and appetizers for the most reliable experience.
The real draw is the distillery and atmosphere. Free moonshine tastings, craft cocktails made with house spirits, a huge outdoor space, and sports games on big screens. Service can be spotty during peak times when the bars get understaffed - expect some waiting. For quick, reliable service, arrive early or on weekdays.
Who It's For (And Who It's Not For)
Best for: Sports fans wanting to watch games outdoors, groups needing space, moonshine and craft cocktail enthusiasts, families with dogs, and anyone who enjoys brewery-style casual dining with entertainment.
Skip if: You want quiet fine dining, traditional table service, or consistent BBQ - try Smokin' Dave's for dedicated smokehouse quality instead.
Practical Information
- 📍Location: 231 Moraine Ave, walking distance from downtown
- ⏰Hours: Fri-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun-Thu 11am-9pm
- 🚗Parking: Paid lot next door (~$2/hr) or free 3-hour across street
- 🐕Dog-friendly: Yes, on the outdoor patio
- 🎵Live music: Weekends on the patio
- 📺Sports: Multiple TVs, games Thursday-Monday
- 👶Kid-friendly: High chairs available, mac & cheese works for kids
- 🎉Private events: Large patio available for weddings & groups
💡 Money Hack: 32oz draft beers are great value if you're settling in to watch a game. Free moonshine samples in the tasting room let you try before you buy. The Giant Pretzel feeds 3-4 people for $19.