Menu & Pricing
🍕 Signature Pizzas (Large 16")
• Straziante - $23.99 (Italian sausage, roasted peppers, onions, garlic)
• Green Chile Pizza - $22.99 (green chile, chicken, jalapeños)
• Meat Lovers - $24.99 (pepperoni, sausage, bacon, ham)
• Veggie Supreme - $22.99 (mushrooms, peppers, onions, olives)
• Hawaiian - $21.99 (ham, pineapple)
• Build Your Own Large - $18.99 + toppings ($2.50 each)
🥟 Calzones & Stromboli
• Classic Calzone - $14.99 (ricotta, mozzarella, choice of 3 toppings)
• Stromboli - $15.99 (rolled pizza with meat & cheese)
• Veggie Calzone - $13.99
🍝 Pasta & Italian
• Spaghetti with Meatballs - $15.99
• Chicken Parmesan - $17.99
• Lasagna - $16.99
• Fettuccine Alfredo - $14.99 (add chicken $4)
What Makes Poppy's Special
Poppy's Pizza & Grill occupies one of the best locations in Estes Park - right on the Riverwalk with outdoor seating overlooking the Big Thompson River. With 2,773+ reviews averaging 4.1 stars, it's a consistent performer for families and groups looking for casual riverside dining.
The setting does the heavy lifting. On a warm afternoon, the patio fills up with families watching the river flow by, kids finishing pizza slices while parents enjoy a cold beer. The mountain backdrop completes the quintessential Estes Park experience.
The kitchen handles high volume well during peak season. Service stays friendly even when the patio is packed. Large groups are welcome - the space accommodates parties without feeling cramped.
What to Order (Signature Dishes)
Straziante Pizza ($23.99 large) - The house specialty. Italian sausage with roasted peppers, onions, and garlic creates a savory combination with good flavor depth. The toppings are generous without overwhelming the crust.
Green Chile Pizza ($22.99 large) - Colorado meets Italy. Roasted green chile with chicken and jalapeños brings that Southwestern kick. A local favorite that you won't find at every pizzeria.
Calzone ($14.99) - Stuffed with ricotta and mozzarella, choice of three toppings. The portion is substantial - easily shareable or a hearty solo meal. Comes with marinara for dipping.
Chicken Parmesan ($17.99) - For those not in the pizza mood. Breaded chicken with marinara and melted mozzarella over pasta. Comfort food done right.
💡 Pro Tip: Order large pizzas for the best crust experience. Large pies are hand-tossed and made fresh, while individual-sized pizzas may use pre-made crusts. The large easily feeds 3-4 people and represents better value.
The Honest Take
At 4.1 stars, Poppy's delivers solid pizza in an exceptional location. The food is good but not remarkable - it's the Riverwalk setting that elevates the experience. Come for the patio and mountain views, and you'll leave satisfied.
The crust varies based on what you order. Large pizzas get the fresh hand-tossed treatment, while personal pies can feel more generic. Stick to the large sizes when ordering pizza. The calzones are consistently good across the board.
Peak season brings crowds, which means occasional service slowdowns. The kitchen handles volume well, but expect longer waits when the patio is full. This is typical for any popular Riverwalk restaurant during summer months.
Gluten-free crust is available for those with dietary restrictions. Vegetarian options are plentiful with the veggie pizza and pasta selections.
Who It's For (And Who It's Not For)
Best for: Families with kids who want pizza by the river, groups looking for patio seating with mountain views, post-Riverwalk strolling, casual dinner after a day of hiking, and anyone wanting a relaxed dining experience.
Skip if: You're seeking authentic Italian thin-crust, want a quiet intimate dinner (the patio gets lively), need quick service during peak season, or prefer ordering individual personal pizzas (go large here).
Looking for other downtown dining? Check Himalayan Curry & Kebob for something different or Big Horn Restaurant for breakfast.
Practical Information
- 📍Location: 342 E Elkhorn Ave, on the Riverwalk
- ⏰Hours: Daily 11am-9pm (seasonal variations)
- 🚗Parking: Street parking and downtown lots nearby
- 👶Families: Very kid-friendly, kids menu available
- 🍺Drinks: Beer, wine, and full bar available
- 🌿Dietary: Vegetarian options, gluten-free crust available
- 👥Large Groups: Patio accommodates groups - call for parties of 8+
- 🏞️Patio: Riverside seating with mountain views (weather permitting)
💡 Value Tip: A large pizza feeds 3-4 people and costs less per person than individual pies. Split a Straziante and a Green Chile between a group for variety and better value. Add breadsticks to share for a complete family meal under $15/person.