Our History

Scenic El Rancho Restaurant, built in 1948, is a tradition in Colorado Mountain dining. Located just 18 miles west of Denver it is a favorite place to enjoy great food and service while taking in the spectacular Continental Divide views.

El Rancho has become one of the West’s most honored restaurants, and more than a score of visitor’s guides describe us as having “…. one of the most photographed views in Colorado….” Some even go further and say “…in America!”  Restaurant and Hospitality Magazine had honored us by selecting El Rancho as one of the 500 leading restaurants in the United States.

There are several unique features about El Rancho. We are 7,686 feet above sea level. Trader Jack’s in Denver originally designed our antique dining room tables and chairs. The chairs were meant to be sat on backwards to view cock-fighting events. We are just one of three restaurants in our country to have been a postal station - that’s why this area is called “El Rancho”. We also have five locally built moss stone fireplaces.

Dwight Eisenhower had visited El Rancho during his presidential term and had originally designated the 2 exits near us as the “El Rancho” exits off the newly built I-70.

In 1954, we could serve 72 guests. Over the years, we have increased the seating to 300 on the main level. Our Colorado deck, which was built in 1997, provides a delightful outside dining experience. A restaurant columnist applauded that the expansion was done “without destroying the mountain elegance, and the feeling of rambling high country homeyness”.

Our cozy tavern provides a pleasant atmosphere where you can enjoy refreshing libations while watching your favorite sporting event on our big screen TV. Our “Garden Room” is available for small private gatherings and meeting groups. You can also browse thru the Colorado Connection gift shop. Last, but not least, our Banquet facilities with seating for up to 200 are a perfect place for weddings, business meetings, trade shows or other social event. Since 1948 we have served over 5 million people.

The owners, Bill Troyanos and Donna Piro, and all of the staff hope that you will not just eat and run.  Wander around and see what else El Rancho has to offer; maybe you’ll bump into ‘Grandpa’ one of our resident ghosts!

Our aim is to offer great food, great service, and warm western hospitality to all of our guests.