Nestled among the rugged peaks of Colorado’s Elk Mountains lies the charming mountain town of Crested Butte. Known for its historic Victorian-era buildings, colorful wildflowers, ski slopes, and mountain bike trails, Crested Butte also boasts a vibrant dining scene. One of its crown jewels is Soupçon Bistro, an intimate French-inspired restaurant specializing in seasonal mountain cuisine. In this article we talk about Crested Butte Restaurant-Soupçon Bistro review.
Upon entering Soupçon Bistro, you are transported to a cozy French countryside inn. Exposed wood beams, framed local artwork, and fresh flowers adorn the dining room’s rustic yet elegant interior. White linen-topped tables are illuminated by the warm glow of candles and Edison bulbs, setting the stage for a romantic meal.
The Chef’s Daily Creations
Soupçon Bistro’s menu focuses on seasonal ingredients sourced from local Colorado purveyors. Offerings change daily based on what’s fresh and available. During my visit in late summer, highlights included heirloom tomato gazpacho garnished with crispy pancetta and basil oil to start. My companion opted for the butter lettuce salad with summer corn, fava beans, prosciutto, and a lemon thyme vinaigrette.
For my main course, I chose the pan-seared trout with a corn succotash and lemon beurre blanc. The fish was cooked to perfection with a beautifully crisp skin and moist, flaky flesh. The sweet corn played nicely with the earthy favas and zippy vinaigrette. My friend’s braised Colorado lamb shoulder with eggplant caponata, pine nuts, golden raisins, and gremolata was fall-off-the-bone tender and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
To end the meal on a sweet note, we shared the vanilla bean crème brûlée and a warm peach cobbler with housemade vanilla ice cream. The crème brûlée had a perfect crunchy burnt sugar topping giving way to rich, velvety custard underneath. Sweet juicy peaches contrasted nicely with the biscuit-style cobbler topping and smooth ice cream. It was the perfect way to end this French-inspired feast.
The Wine Cellar
In addition to Chef’s seasonal dishes, Soupçon Bistro also impresses with its extensive wine list. With over 150 selections focused primarily on French and American wines, you’re sure to find the perfect pairing. You can order by the glass or splurge on one of their reserve bottles from the temperature-controlled wine cellar. Their knowledgeable sommelier can provide spot-on recommendations based on your preferences and budget.
During my meal, I enjoyed a glass of bright, fruit-forward Pinot Noir from Oregon’s Willamette Valley that complemented both my starters and main beautifully. My friend opted for a glass of complex, oak-aged Chardonnay from Sonoma County.
The Attentive Service
What sets Soupçon Bistro apart from other Crested Butte restaurants is the sincere hospitality and attentive service. General manager and sommelier Carl instantly makes you feel at home as he greets diners tableside. Throughout the evening, he and the entire waitstaff demonstrated extensive menu and wine knowledge while catering to our every need without being intrusive. You get the sense that running Soupçon Bistro is truly a labor of love for Carl and his team.
The Intimate Atmosphere
Soupçon Bistro only has about 15 tables, so reservations are a must, especially during peak summer and winter seasons. If you can score a table, you’ll be rewarded with one of Crested Butte’s most intimate and romantic dining experiences. Soft jazz plays in the background as diners engage in lively conversation over exceptional food and wine.
The cozy setting encourages mingling with fellow patrons and chatting with Chef Mike and Carl as they make the rounds to every table. By the end of the evening, you’ll be planning your return visit to this Crested Butte gem.
If You Go
– Location: 218 Elk Ave, Crested Butte, CO 81224
– Hours: Daily 5 p.m. to close
– Contact: Call (970) 349-5448 for reservations
– Dress code: Casual elegant (no shorts or flip-flops)
– Price range: Starters $12-15, Mains $22-38
– Payment: All major credit cards accepted; no cash
– Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible; stairs at entrance
– Parking: Street parking or public lot behind restaurant
The Bottom Line
From its charming French-country ambiance to impressive wine selection to outstanding farm-to-table cuisine, Soupçon Bistro offers one of the most delightful and memorable fine dining experiences in Crested Butte. Run by a passionate team dedicated to top-notch hospitality, it’s a worthy splurge for a special occasion or any excuse to treat yourself during your mountain adventures. Just be sure to book your reservation early so you don’t miss out on this Crested Butte gem. I sincerely hope you find this “Crested Butte Restaurant-Soupçon Bistro review” article helpful.
pNCTMXvxPyGQ