Diverting from the grind of business travel by seeking good food and local points of interest is my mission. Sharing what I discover, for you to read and enjoy, or to inspire your own wanderings, is my pleasure.
On a self-imposed writing retreat I journeyed to Avon, Colorado, just West of Vail and equally idyllic in the alpine sense. Upon arrival, I unpacked, neatly arranged all of my things (which I believe my wife calls “nesting” in a hotel room, a throwback from my prior heavy travel days for work) and promptly banged out 4 pages of new material. Then I realized I had a quandary: I was hungry but also wanted to go for a walk, after hours of sitting and driving followed by sitting and typing. So I munched on a quick snack from my road trip supplies, enough to take the edge off, and set out from the resort with a plan to stroll and then return to my room for a pizza dinner.
Pathway behind my resort flanked by sculptures.
Happily, this plan was thwarted. Avon is charming. The pathway I found through aspens and evergreens, wending past other resorts and restaurants, boasted blooming tulips and a series of bronze sculptures of children, families , and animals frolicking. My favorite was the cowboy roping the wild mustang until I came across the herd of wild horses in a roundabout.
I also learned that I was within two minutes’ walk of a winery (Vin 48), a pizza joint (Pazzo’s Pizza), an Italian place (Ticino) and a barbecue restaurant (Montana’s Smokehouse). But the best discovery was next to a coffee shop slash bistro, which had originally caught my attention (Loaded Joe’s). I was contemplating the bistro menu, considering a mocha latte and a sandwich, when I noticed Ein Prosit next door. Their wide patio with outdoor heaters, firepits, plenty of picnic tables and Adirondack chairs was enticing, as was their happy hour sign. I wandered in and checked out the meat case which was front and center by the bar. They had Bavarian salted pretzels, a variety of fine German beers on tap, and an overwhelming array of bratwurst choices (including wild game sausages; I counted 18 different types before I gave up). The smells were heavenly – aromas of robust meats and seasonings and a waft of quality beer each time the barkeep poured.
Firepit next to the patio.
So many choices!
Outdoor seating in abundance.
Doggo visitor who greeted me at the door!
This meat case drew me inside.
Thoroughly hooked, I ordered the special of the day: bacon and cheddar brat (though the mac n cheese meat tube gave me serious pause). It came with coarse stone ground mustard and sauerkraut, and the welcoming bartender offered the Stiegl (per their website: a Light refreshing Pilsner style Lager) though she let me also taste the Oktoberfest (Hofbrau Marzen: Marzen Oktoberfest bier – amber malty Lager). Both were balanced, refreshing, delightful. This was a truly difficult decision but I went with the Stiegl, which turned out to be a great foil for the juicy, cheesy brat. The sauerkraut topping did not appeal, but I loved the stone ground mustard and added a bit of Mady’s mustard to my tray as well. For my last bite of brat, I mixed both mustards and regretted immediately not discovering that combination at the beginning of the meal.
Bacon and cheddar brat with all the appropriate condiments.
All of this was for less than twelve bucks. I was so surprised at the small tab, this being a resort town and all, that I asked the bartender if she forgot to charge me for the beer. No, she said, happy hour prices! A lovely surprise. My walk back to the resort was leisurely; I Facetimed my family to tell them of my little find and enjoyed the birdsong all around and budding apple perfuming the air as the sun set. Will I return to Ein Prosit before my four day sojourn is over? Highly likely!
Longmont locals know of the Roost as a go to for excellent libations and an innovative menu. In recent years the owners added a roof-top patio, cementing its status as a top choice for gatherings of friends after a long work week, a date night outing, or family-friendly hangout on a sunny Colorado afternoon.
But before I start crowing about their Pork Belly and Bang Bang Cauliflower appetizers, however, I feel compelled to share that the owners’ backstory isn’t a typical “former software exec decides to quit corporate America to pursue his/her true passion and open a restaurant” situation. This venture was conceived around a message of hope, as you can read in greater detail on their About page. In short, the Roost is a realization of the dreams of two families, the Gafners and the Lances, who shared a calling to help families who wanted to adopt children but financially were unable to do so: “The Roost has committed from day one to giving 10% of their profits to helping families in the process of adoption. They have started a partnership with Colorado Kids Belong to help Colorado children and youth who are impacted by foster care.”
The story behind the restaurant and owners dedicated to helping families.
I didn’t know about this mission the day I wandered in to sample their offerings, but found out after a delicious meal of Candied Bacon Sliders, while on my way to the exit. There, behind the hostess station, I noticed the wall adorned with photos and the same story of their philanthropic mission that you can also read on their website. I already knew I’d come back again and again before I learned about their vision (so many tasty things on their menu to try!) but this inspired me and cemented my loyalty to this elegant but cozy local venue that offers food to feed both your body and your soul.
Now on to the delights which comprise the menu. If I was forced to pick a top three (which I am now finding exceedingly difficult), the Smoked Quinoa Bowl is at the top from an entrée perspective: well-balanced flavors, with a delicate blend of warm spices, creamy squash and quinoa crunch, and topped with a generous amount of goat cheese for tart contrast. I prefer it with the grilled chicken, though trying this dish with salmon or shrimp are part of my future plans.
For those seeking heartier fare, the Short Rib Sandwich delivers. I’m a sucker for a good demi-glaze, but throw in roasted mushrooms and beef ribs so tender one can tell they’ve been lovingly braised for eons, and I am transported to the next level of culinary bliss. And, the Roost’s signature tots are a must on the side. If you wind up taking half of it home – it is quite filling – the flavors are even more intense and delightful the next day.
Short Rib Entree – the dinner alternative to the delectable lunch sandwich.
To round out my menu top three: the Polenta Bites. The chefly genius behind these should be commended. Crisp on the outside, gooey soft on the inside, drizzled with balsamic and smoked tomato puree, with an abundant helping of goat cheese crumbles, this appetizer is a do-not-miss. The perfect forkful includes a crisp corner of the polenta cake, a bit of goat cheese, and as much of the sauces one can mop up from the plate. All I can say is, it’s good I’m not a local in this neighborhood. If I had easy access to such a treat on a daily basis I’d have to invest in a new (bigger-waisted) wardrobe.
Looking for a new food obsession? Try the Polenta Bites with goat cheese, balsamic drizzle, and a house smoked tomato puree.
Ponzu Pork Belly Bliss.
Honorable mention must be made for the following: the Fried Brussels sprouts – crispy leafed, beautifully seasoned, with finger-licking good vinaigrette; Bangin’ Cauliflower – made famous on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, the spice and crunch are addicting and an excellent vegan alternative to Buffalo wings (order two portions to make a meal); the Ponzu Pork Belly – rich, smoky, decadent; Grilled Avocado – creamy, slightly charred, with house made tortilla chips; and the Thai Pork Tacos – summery fare with a harmonious blend of cilantro, spice, and minty ginger-lime crema to cool it off.
As I mentioned previously, the Candied Bacon Sliders are so good you’ll try to stop at one or two for decorum’s sake and quickly scrap the idea. I’m not ashamed to admit I ordered this appetizer for lunch when I met a friend recently, and polished off the whole thing myself. Three juicy mini beef patties on slider buns buttered and toasted just-right, topped with tangy blue cheese, a scrumtious onion jam, and fragrant garlic aioli. Very satisfying and on my repeat cravings list.
A wide array of libations are available for happy hour or anytime.
If you’re ever in the mood for carry-out on a Friday night, and your ultimate destination is a couch at home, a thick blanket, and Netflix binging, pick up their Shrimp and Bacon Mac to fortify you. The portion is more than enough for two, so invite a cuddle-buddy or look forward to leftovers (with another round of Netflix?) the following day.
The Roost’s main room has garage door style windows that are open on mild days for an al fresco dining feel.
Suggestions for libations on the dining room wall.
Honestly, their rock-solid menu has yet to disappoint and I’ve dined at the Roost dozens of times over the last three years. Several entrees are in the realm of excellent, and many fall into the category of tasty comfort food I must have again and again. Combined with their behind-the-scenes passion for giving back and supporting families in need of help navigating such an emotional, challenging process as adoption, well – I think there aren’t enough stars in the rating system to truly express how highly I think of this lovely Longmont establishment.
*****
Update March 6, 2021: Dined at The Roost today for lunch with my mother and daughter, and discovered a several new menu items. Haitian Chicken – something to write home about, order this immediately, you won’t regret it. This dish includes a quarter chicken (leg, thigh) marinated in delicious citrus flavors, on a bed of white rice and black bean puree, topped with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad. It’s not an exaggeration to say this is the best thing I’ve eaten in Longmont in ages. Honorable mention: the Steak Frites my kid ordered (she has a very mature palate). Topped with candied bacon and garlic sauce, the frites are tender and satisfying, and her steak was cooked to a perfect medium with a carmelized crust that was more than just eye candy. I pilfered as much as I could from her plate before I felt guilty; note to self, order this on the next visit. Mom’s The Roost Burger with crispy onion strings and garlic aioli topping, and a side of parmesan garlic tots, was also quite tasty, per her commentary. Afterwards, we barely managed the Apple Tart Tartine and Carrot Cake with vanilla ice cream and candied walnuts for dessert, but somehow we did manage. I may not eat again for days, but this was foodie bliss. Well done, The Roost. You continue to impress!
The Working Wayfarer 