The Grand Junction area is a land of artisans and crafters. Everywhere you look it’s easy to see evidence of this. Downtown Grand Junction is a Certified Creative Arts District and the streets are lined with one of the biggest outdoor art collections in the country. Just as impressive as the 100+ sculptures on the streets are the number of art galleries, all unique and creative in their own way. The area is home to 27 wineries, seven breweries, and two distilleries, all dedicated to crafting libations using local fruits and produce. Whether they are painting with acrylics, sculpting metal, or creating liquid masterpieces, the creativity within the Grand Junction area is noticeably distinct.
Cuisine in Grand Junction is just as elevated. From a James Beard-nominated chef to famous pizza, the valley boasts menus which highlight local ingredients from nearby farms. Here’s a short list of restaurant crafters who have perfected their art and are local favorites.
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More than just a restaurant, 626 on Rood strives to make dining a truly memorable experience. By taking an innovative approach to classic American recipes, chef Theo Otte creates masterfully progressive dishes that will leave the taste buds singing. 626 also features an extensive wine collection that would make any big city sommelier envious and Wine Spectator event wrote about it. The friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you choose just the right pairing to complement your meal. Local favorites are the Colorado Rack of Lamb Chops or the Braised Wagyu Beef Roast. Both are melt in your mouth tender and will leave you feeling completely satisfied, but be sure to leave room for the artfully made desserts. Prefer to keep things vegetarian? Half of 626 on Rood's menu was created just for you!
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What was once an old flooring warehouse has been meticulously transformed into a stunningly beautiful and modern dining experience. The extensive menu uses locally sourced ingredients and is often complemented by live music. The main stage, in a separate room, draws national country acts that you often see in big arenas so keep an eye on the schedule.
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It’s not every day you get to dine amid a James Beard Award-nominated chef. Owner and Chef Josh Niernberg has carefully put together an extensive menu of trendy and innovative dishes that pay homage to American classics. Bin focuses on locally sourced ingredients from Grand Junction, including the beer and wine selection. The menu changes seasonally to accommodate what’s freshly available, so there is always something new to try. The one long-standing entrée, and local favorite, is the Bin Burger. Quality Colorado beef, white cheddar, and a truffle aioli make this beefy, almost steak-like burger, shine. Be sure to order a local brew to tantalize your palate even more. This same restaurateur also owns Taco Party, a hip and fresh taco joint just around the corner.
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This little restaurant inspired by Pablo Picasso turns out big pizza using homemade dough, fresh ingredients, and bold ingenuity to create unexpected and flavorful combinations like their famous seasonal peach pizzas. Or, try one of their new specialty pies like the Basilisk, piled high with Canadian bacon, fresh basil, pineapples, and sweet mandarin oranges. It gets a kick from fresh jalapeno and is all smothered under fresh mozzarella. When you can smell pizza from down the street and feel your mouth start watering, you know you’re in for a treat. One bite is all it takes and you’ll be a fan for life.
Looking for more Culinary Craft? Check out page 19 of the Grand Junction Visitor Guide!
