by Randy Taylor-Irwin

Created on: October 01, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

The city of Telluride has had a love affair with food and wine for as long as anyone can remember. Perhaps it's the intoxicating mountain views or the crisp fresh air, but whatever the reason there are many excellent establishments to please the most discrimminating palate.

FOOD

La Marmotte

Chef Mark Reggiannini strives for simplicity as he creates sumptious rustic French fare at La Marmotte. This upscale restaurant is one of Telluride's finest. Using only the freshest local ingredients he prepares mouthwatering dishes such as Bee Pollen Rubbed Pork Tenderloin, Pan Seared Buffalo Ribeye, Grilled Colorado Lamb Rack or the decadent Rocky Mountain Crumble. La Marmotte is located in one of the oldest building in town, the historic Ice House. As its name implies at one time it supplied ice for the townspeople.

221 South Oak

One could be forgiven for thinking they found grandma's house in the woods on first seeing 221 South Oak. This pretty Victorian style restaurant is nested amongst beautiful trees and flowers in a tranquil setting. But that's where the similarities end as Eliza Garvin is a thoroughly modern owner/chef who relies heavily on her New Orleans training to make her standout Fois Gras, Fried Calamari, Quail with Sausage Hush Puppies and Striped Bass with Summer Squash. Be warned however, this place is very pricey but the packed dining room most night is a testament to the old adage, you get what you pay for.

BEER

SMUGGLER'S BREW PUB

One of the finest brew pub in Telluride is Smuggler's Brew Pub. As any true beer lover knows, the two most important questions are -Is it smooth? Is it tasty? Smugglers has been able to provide those answers for a long time and it is always a resounding yes! It has perfected the art of beer making with many award winning ales and lagers created in the basement. Some of the most interesting choices are Rocky Mountain Rye, Knuckledragger Extra Pale Ale, Wildcat Wheat and Two Planker Porter which has a chocolate finish. There is also an extensive food menu.

BLUES AND BEER FESTIVAL

Want some beer with a side of blues? Then make plans to attend the next Blues and Beer Festival. This world class event is a three day event held every September in Telluride Town Park which is 8750 feet above sea level. It is the perfect venue in a vista so stunning that legendary bluesman B.B. King was once led to remark "I have been to over 90 countries and I have never seen anything more beautiful than what you have here." And what's not to like? The festival

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