Debbie’s Drive-In, Granby
On the drive to Hot Sulphur Springs, one of our favorite winter soaks thanks to its organic mix of indoor and outdoor pools at varying temperatures and a refreshingly uncrowded vibe, there’s a stop that feels just as natural—and necessary. Debbie’s Drive-In is a Granby staple and pure roadside nostalgia, serving up burgers, fries, shakes, and donuts in a setting that feels frozen in time. You can slide into a booth inside or, for a more old-school experience, stay cozy in your car and take advantage of the carhop service where your order at the window is delivered straight to your door. On classic car days, the parking lot doubles as a moving museum, adding to the diner’s timeless charm.
But Debbie’s isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about intention. “Our goal was to create a place where customers could get high-quality food, served fast and at a great price,” says owner Deborah Fitch. That commitment runs deep: the team raises its own cattle, processes its own beef, and presses its patties in-house. “It takes us two years to make a hamburger,” Deborah says—and it shows.
Sorelle Delicatessen, Buena Vista
Whether you’re rolling back from Monarch Mountain or settling into a quiet weekend in Buena Vista, Sorelle Delicatessen is the kind of stop that instantly upgrades wherever you’re headed.
Family-owned and sitting just outside town, this Italian deli specializes in comfort done right: stacked sandwiches built with house-smoked meats, fresh wraps, an infamous pasta salad that alone justifies the stop, and a take-n-bake section that means dinner’s handled before you’re even home. Add in a soda fountain pouring Rocky Mountain Soda Company flavors and an outdoor patio for lingering on sunny days, and Sorelle becomes more than a deli; it’s a road-trip essential you’ll plan around next time.
The Bluebird Market, Silverthorne
After surviving the traffic through the Eisenhower Tunnel, the Bluebird Market in Silverthorne is the perfect reward. This I-70 hub is anchored by a central bar from Upslope Brewing Company, which brings a lively, spirited vibe, while food counters serve something for every craving. Sit down for Chef Daddy’s burgers or the Lucky Bird’s fried chicken sandwiches, or grab a bag of Lazo’s Empanadas to fuel the next leg of your road trip. If your appetite extends beyond food, the walls feature local art for sale, perfect for a little soul-feeding along with your snack.
The Boardroom Market & Deli, Edwards
If you’re headed to Aspen or the Western Slope (or just looking for an affordable bite in Vail or Beaver Creek and don’t mind a quick 10-minute detour), The Boardroom Market & Deli in Edwards is worth the stop. Their Caesar salad wrap with house-made dressing is a standout worth the overshoot, but breakfast burritos and hearty sandwiches make it a go-to for morning or midday fuel.
South Park Coney Island, Bailey
Tucked off the main ski-traffic roads, Bailey is a quiet mountain town in winter—perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or spotting wildlife. Along Highway 285, one landmark is impossible to miss: the iconic hot dog stand known as South Park Coney Island. The menu is all about fun, hearty comfort food, from classic hot dogs to bratwursts made with pork or elk, and even a vegetarian carrot dog. Hand-cut fries, house-made chili, and locally sourced condiments and sodas round out the offerings, making it a true Colorado road-trip stop.
The diner also has a playful side. Owners Jay and Annie Aigner lean into Colorado’s South Park connection with themed décor and nods to the show, delighting fans who recognize the references. For those in the know, the diner even offers a tongue-in-cheek “DinkinBaus” hot dog on special request.
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