Menu & Pricing
🍔 Signature Burgers (Served w/ Fries)
• 1/3 lb Burger: $14
• 1/3 lb Cheeseburger: $16
• Elk or Buffalo Burger: $18
• Double Cheeseburger: $20
• Swiss Mushroom Burger: $17 (single) / $25 (double)
• Veggie Burger: $14
• Patty Melt: $16
🔥 Special Burgers (All $21, Served w/ Fries)
• Baja Cheeseburger – pepperjack, chipotle, fresh guacamole
• Big Daddy Cheeseburger – pulled pork, onion ring, havarti
• Hawaiian Cheeseburger – grilled ham, pineapple, honey citrus
• Pizza Bacon Cheeseburger – mozzarella, pizza sauce, bacon
• Fire Cheeseburger – ghost pepperjack, habaneros, jalapeños 🔥
• Penelope's MONSTER Burger (double): $30
What Makes Penelope's Special
The hand-cut fries steal the show. Fresh potatoes sliced daily, fried to golden perfection, and available in multiple styles—the parmesan version has developed a cult following. These aren't frozen afterthoughts; they're the reason people return.
Wild game burgers set Penelope's apart from typical burger joints. The elk patty delivers a leaner, slightly sweeter flavor than beef, while the bison offers rich, almost beefy taste without the gamey notes. Both cook juicier than expected for lean meats. For those avoiding exotic proteins, the standard beef burger uses fresh hand-formed patties—not pre-frozen discs.
The retro atmosphere works without trying too hard. Coca-Cola memorabilia covers the walls, oldies and classic rock fill the air (sometimes loudly), and the walk-up counter ordering system keeps things moving fast. For downtown Estes Park wild game burgers, The Grubsteak offers yak as an alternative, while Penelope's keeps things simpler with consistently executed classics.
What to Order (Signature Dishes)
Elk Burger ($18) – The flagship wild game option. Lean but juicy when cooked properly, with a subtle sweetness that pairs well with standard burger toppings. Order it medium for best results.
Buffalo/Bison Burger ($18) – Slightly richer than elk with a texture closer to beef. This is the wild game entry point for skeptics—familiar enough to feel safe, interesting enough to feel adventurous.
Parmesan Fries ($3.50 upgrade) – The move here. Hand-cut, properly salted, dusted with real parmesan. These convert people who "don't care about fries" into believers. Shareable portions.
Fire Cheeseburger ($21) – Ghost pepper jack, fresh habaneros, fried jalapeños, and chipotle sauce. This one earns its name. Spice lovers only.
Fried Pickles ($3.50) – Spears, not chips. Crispy batter, tangy pickle, perfect starter while waiting for burgers. Highly addictive.
💡 Pro Tip: The 2/3 lb burgers are massive—easily split between two people with a side of fries. Order one burger and one order of parmesan fries to share, then grab a second burger if you're still hungry.
Who It's For (And Who It's Not For)
Best for: Post-RMNP hikers wanting quick, filling food, families with hungry kids, wild game curious visitors seeking an accessible entry point, and anyone craving hand-cut fries that actually taste fresh.
Skip if: You need quiet conversation (the music runs loud), want table service, or expect fine dining prices ($20-30+ happens quickly with specialty burgers and add-ons).
Looking for other burger options? The Grubsteak offers yak burgers downtown, or check The Hive Brewery for elk burgers with craft beer.
Practical Information
- 📍Location: 229 W Elkhorn Ave, downtown Estes Park (2-minute walk from main strip)
- ⏰Hours: Daily 11am-7pm (same hours every day)
- 📅Reservations: Not accepted—walk-ins only, expect lines during peak hours
- 🚗Parking: Free lot behind restaurant, street parking available but tight during summer
- 💳Payment: Credit cards accepted, self-serve condiments and sodas
- 🍞Dietary: Gluten-free buns available, Impossible Burger for vegetarians/vegans
- 🔊Atmosphere: Loud music, retro decor, counter-service—more diner than restaurant
💡 Money Hack: Skip the specialty burger add-ons ($3 for sauces adds up fast). The standard elk or buffalo burger with included toppings delivers the full experience at $18 vs $21+ for specials.