Happy hours are a frequent occurrence in Steamboat Springs. In a place where people like to fill their free time with hiking, biking, skiing and everything in between, the one thing we all like to do is talk about it afterwards. Whether gathered around a kitchen table or huddled by the campfire, there’s nothing better than sharing stories over tasty appetizers and a beverage of choice.
A surge of local produce has become a welcome addition to the chips and dips of days gone by. Alpenbert, a Camembert-style cheese made by Moonhill Dairy, served on Elkstone Farm crackers and smeared in blackberry-infused honey by Outlaw Apiaries, is as local as it gets. A warm French baguette from Smell That Bread with Steamboat Meat and Seafood’s house-made sausage dipped in Rachel’s Smokin BBQ sauce will refuel the hungriest at a gathering.
Sourcing homegrown produce is easy. Most artisans sell directly to the client either online, by phone or through their stores. Stores like Homesteader on Lincoln Avenue and Wild Plum near the mountain carry a good selection of locally produced fare. During the summer time, the Steamboat Farmer’s Market is a smorgasbord of Yampa Valley-based artisans.
For those who would rather leave the sourcing to someone else, there is an answer to that prayer, in the form of Laura the Butcher. A newcomer to Steamboat, Laura Posiak is redefining the stereotype of a butcher. The Canadian has quickly garnered a loyal following for her signature grazing platters. A personalized wood board spilling with delicacies is artfully wrapped in brown paper, tied in with string and festooned in rosemary. Platters vary in size and produce but everything from her personally cured meats, to hand picked cheeses and delicious accompaniments is curated to compliment all flavors.
The only thing left to find is something to wash down the food and that too can be as local as you like. Steamboat Winery boasts a River Angler Cabernet and Slopeside White Chardonnay, among their offerings. Not to mention the Bunny Slope sparkling grape juice for a non-alcoholic option. Steamboat Whiskey packs a punch for hard liquor and craft beer lovers have an ever-growing choice of brews coming out of Steamboat’s eclectic mix of brewers. Cheers to another great day in the ‘Boat!
