The Historic Rapids Lodge and Restaurant

We chose this restaurant for our anniversary dinner after friends recommended it, and the gorgeous setting raised our expectations. The food was a huge letdown. Each of us ordered elk medallions, but the two pieces on each plate seemed more like skirt steak and were so tough we couldn't cut or eat them. The salad was like coleslaw with Caesar dressing, and the French bread tasted like it came from a grocery store bag. For $53 per entree, we expected much better. We won't be back.

We brought our baby and had a lovely dinner. It felt welcoming for everyone, whether in a group or as a couple. The staff were lovely, the food delicious, and the atmosphere warm and cozy. A real treat, and I can't think of a better place for dinner in Grand Lake.

I've loved this restaurant since I was a kid and have had plenty of good food and service here before. I was excited to bring my boyfriend for a date night, but this visit was awful. We had a reservation and were seated right away at a nice table overlooking the river, though it was pitch dark outside. Someone brought water, and our server came by briefly in the first few minutes to say she'd be right back. Then nobody returned for 45 minutes, not even to take a drink order. I've worked in restaurants for over five years and understand delays when a place is busy, but the staff didn't seem overwhelmed or short-handed. We were simply forgotten. By the time we left, other restaurants in town were about to close. We bought groceries and made grilled cheese at our hotel instead, which wasn't the date night I'd planned. I know this place can do great food and service, and I hope management takes note. It's sad to see somewhere with so many good memories drop the ball like this.

We were camping and visiting Grand Lake, and stopped at the on-site Rapids Restaurant for lunch. We didn't stay at the lodge. The restaurant sits just up the hill from Grand Lake in an older, historic-looking wooden building. From the front, you'd never guess how special the place is. Our patio table was right beside the roaring rapids, and the tables were adorable. One had a gazebo, too. Sitting by the water was so refreshing. The burgers were delicious, especially with their pomegranate-flavored onions soaked in wine sauce. We also loved the honey smoked salmon appetizer. Caroline took great care of us, made us feel welcome, and had a great sense of humor. She even took photos of my husband and me in front of the rapids. Highly recommend it, and next time we'll go for dinner.