After a long day of hiking, horseback riding, or maybe even just relaxing around the ranch, you’re sure to work up an appetite. While Cougar Ridge has no shortage of on-site dining options, like grill-your-own BBQ (more on that in a moment), Torrey, Utah is also home to some tasty, fun dining options that you can swing by on your way back to The Grand Lodge or your Casita, or before you head to the park for the day. Keep reading to learn a few of the best to try on your next visit.
Gifford Homestead
While you won’t find a full sit-down meal option here, the Gifford Homestead is a must-stop for sweet treats during your visit to Capitol Reef National Park. Located just past the welcome center for the park, the location is part-museum, part-bakery. You can learn about the Giffords and other Mormon pioneer families that once lived in the area and worked the Fruita orchards, and snack on homemade desserts like fruit pies, tarts, bread, ice cream, and more. While the pies aren’t made from fruit in the park’s orchards, because the crop is inconsistent from one year to the next, they are made from fruit grown in other parts of Utah.
Besides the desserts, the homestead also features a barn with farm animals. You can even take your sweets outside to enjoy them at one of the picnic tables with views of the national park surrounding you.
Pies are only made with fresh fruits, so the Homestead starts serving on March 14th each year, which also happens to be National Pi Day! If you want to enjoy your pie as a reward after a long hike, you might want to stop by early in the day to pick it up, as they sell out fast during the busy summer months.
Castlerock Coffee
If you find yourself in need of a caffeine pick-me-up or a quick bite before you head into Capitol Reef for a day of hiking and fun, swing by Castlerock Coffee. Their tasty menu is packed with all of your favorite coffee and espresso drinks, as well as smoothies and frappes. If you feel like mixing it up, try one of their signature drinks, like the Mexican Mocha or a Chai Charger.
While you’re there, grab a breakfast wrap, sandwich, or an omelet. Lunch offerings include classic sandwiches like reubens and yummy wraps like a veggie burrito with black beans and cilantro rice.
Austin’s Chuckwagon Deli
Realize that you forgot some hiking supplies? Looking to pick up a few souvenirs from your trip? Do both–and grab a bite to eat–at Austin’s Chuckwagon General Store, Deli and Bakery.
The general store is packed with plenty of last-minute supplies and fun gifts, while the deli serves up hot and cold sandwiches. Fresh baked goods like pastries and bread are available at the bakery. You’ll also find packaged foods and snacks in the grocery section, making this the perfect one-stop-shop for anything you might need during your trip.
The Saddlery Cowboy Bar Steakhouse
If you’re looking for a quirky night out during your vacation, The Saddlery Cowboy Bar Steakhouse is just the ticket. An authentic Western sports bar and a steakhouse rolled into one, you can get your fill on oversized, hearty classics and celebrate a great hike or the end to the perfect trip by knocking glasses with your friends.
If steaks aren’t your thing, don’t worry. You can also order burgers, wings, pasta, salads, and a variety of bar snacks like nachos and fries.
Grill-It-Yourself BBQ
Sure, Torrey has plenty to offer when it comes to restaurants, delis, and coffee shops. But nothing tastes quite as good as the food you make yourself. Don’t waste one second of your valuable vacation time grocery shopping, though. Instead, get your choice of a variety of meats, salads, sides, and desserts delivered right to The Grand Lodge or your Casita. All you have to do is grab an ice cold drink, light up the grill, and cook your dish to perfection on your deck while taking in the stunning views that surround you.
Don’t feel like getting your hands dirty after a long day of–well, getting your hands dirty? Let us do the work for you. Or rather, let an Iron Chef do the work. We can host your choice of styles of dinners, from relaxed BBQs to lavish multi-course meals, all served up right on-site so that you don’t have to give up one moment of fun or relaxation time.
To get your top choice of meal options, be sure to schedule your catered meal or BBQ ahead of your stay. Contact us today to learn more about your custom meal options, and other additions to enhance your vacation!
