Best wild game in Estes Park? Bird & Jim ($30-50) for elk steak in a rustic cabin setting. The Grubsteak ($20-30) for unique yak burgers downtown. Budget pick: Penelope's ($10-20) serves massive elk and buffalo burgers with legendary parmesan fries. Most restaurants source locally from Colorado ranches.
Bird & Jim
$30-50 | Alpine Trail Ridge Inn
The gold standard for wild game in Estes Park. Their elk steak is ridiculously tender, cooked perfectly medium-rare. The smoked pheasant chowder dominates orders for good reason—it's unlike anything you'll find elsewhere. Rustic mountain cabin atmosphere with an open kitchen, couch seating, and a post-RMNP hiking crowd that knows good food.
Order: Elk steak, smoked pheasant chowder, Mountain Jim burger. Best for: Post-hike dinner.
The Hive at Estes Park Brewery
$20-30 | Downtown
House-brewed craft beer meets exceptional wild game. The bison short ribs get 10/10 ratings consistently—fall-off-the-bone tender with rich flavor. Their elk burgers are juicy and well-seasoned. Two-level space with pool tables downstairs where you can grab free beer samples while you wait.
Order: Bison short ribs, elk burger, rack of lamb. Bonus: Free beer samples at downstairs bar.
Hunters Chop House
$30-50 | 1690 Big Thompson Ave
The wild game sampler here is the move—elk, boar, and buffalo all in one go. Upscale lodge atmosphere with an extensive wine list and over 100 whiskeys. The elk medallions are perfectly seared, and the patio overlooks Lake Estes. This is where you go when you want to try everything.
Order: Wild game sampler (elk, boar, buffalo), elk medallions. Drinks: 100+ whiskeys.
The Grubsteak Restaurant
$20-30 | Downtown Elkhorn Ave
Famous for yak burgers—yes, actual yak. This is your spot for exotic meats you won't find anywhere else: yak, elk, bison, buffalo, and wild boar all on the menu. Hidden outdoor patio most tourists miss. Pay cash and get a free dessert. Downtown location makes it easy to hit after exploring Elkhorn Avenue.
Order: Yak burger, wild game of the day. Tip: Pay cash for free dessert.
Penelope's Old Time Burgers
$10-20 | Downtown
Best budget wild game in town. Their elk and buffalo burgers are massive—the 2/3 lb patties easily split between two people. Hand-cut parmesan fries are legendary. Retro 1950s Coca-Cola decor with classic rock playing. Counter service, walk-ins only, no reservations. This is where locals go when they want elk without the fancy price tag.
Order: Elk burger, buffalo burger, hand-cut parmesan fries. Note: Walk-ins only.
Elevations Eatery and Bar
$20-30 | Downtown Elkhorn Ave
The elk stew here is mind-blowing—rich, hearty, and perfect after a cold day in the park. Bison burgers and the Santa Fe chicken burger with pepper hash cheese sauce are both winners. Downtown location stays open until 8pm when most places close earlier. Good craft cocktails too.
Order: Elk stew, bison burger, Santa Fe chicken burger. Hours: Open until 8pm.
Trailhead Restaurant
$20-30 | Fall River Road (RMNP Gateway)
Most convenient wild game spot if you're heading into Rocky Mountain National Park. Right at the Fall River entrance. Their elk stew warms you up before or after hiking. The Mountain Man burger stacks wild game with all the fixings. Integrated gift shop gives 15% meal discount, free parking, and an outdoor patio with mountain views.
Order: Elk stew, Mountain Man burger. Tip: Gift shop purchase = 15% meal discount.
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
$20-30 | 1675 CO-66
Locals' favorite with nightly live bluegrass music starting at 5pm. The elk sausage is house-made and excellent. Pan-seared trout is another standout. Log cabin atmosphere with Devils on Horseback (bacon-wrapped dates) as the must-try appetizer. Women-owned, LGBTQ+ friendly. Opens at 4pm for dinner only.
Order: Elk sausage, pan-seared trout, Devils on Horseback. Best time: 5pm when live music starts.
Cascades at The Stanley Hotel
$30-50 | The Stanley Hotel
Dine where Stephen King got inspired. The elk and boar meatloaf is surprisingly delicious—a creative twist on wild game. Bison dishes and filet round out the menu. The historic Shining hotel ambiance adds to the experience, and their whiskey selection is extensive. Perfect for combining wild game dinner with Stanley Hotel history.
Order: Elk/boar meatloaf, bison, filet. Bonus: The Shining hotel history.
Himalayan Curry & Kebob
$20-30 | Downtown
The wildcard on this list—and one of the best meals in town. Their elk kebob comes straight from the tandoor, giving it a smoky char you won't find anywhere else. It's a unique fusion of Nepalese cooking techniques with Colorado wild game. The jhol momos (dumplings in spiced soup) are addictive, and there's an extensive vegetarian menu if someone in your group doesn't eat meat. Dog-friendly patio too.
Order: Elk kebob, jhol momos. Bonus: Dog-friendly patio, vegetarian options.
Tips for Ordering Wild Game
New to wild game? Start with elk—it's the most approachable, similar to lean beef but with richer flavor. Bison is also mild. Yak and wild boar have stronger, gamier tastes for adventurous eaters.
Most wild game is leaner than beef, so it's often served medium-rare to medium. Don't order well-done or it'll be tough. Colorado ranches supply most restaurants, so you're getting local, sustainable meat.
Budget tip: Lunch menus often feature the same wild game at lower prices. Penelope's is the best value any time of day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does elk taste like?
Elk tastes similar to lean beef but with a richer, slightly sweeter flavor. It's not gamey like venison. Most first-timers are surprised how approachable it is.
Is wild game more expensive than regular meat?
Generally yes, but not dramatically. Expect to pay $5-15 more than a comparable beef dish. Budget options like Penelope's serve elk burgers for under $20.
Where can I try multiple wild game meats?
Hunters Chop House offers a wild game sampler with elk, boar, and buffalo. The Grubsteak has the widest variety including yak.
Is wild game sustainable?
Yes. Most Estes Park restaurants source from Colorado ranches that raise game animals sustainably. Wild game is generally more environmentally friendly than conventional beef.
Best wild game restaurant for families?
Penelope's is casual and kid-friendly with approachable elk burgers. The Grubsteak also works well for families with its downtown location and varied menu.
Do I need reservations for wild game restaurants?
Bird & Jim and Hunters Chop House fill up—reserve ahead for dinner, especially weekends. Penelope's and The Grubsteak are walk-in only.