Top five bars to get a (great) drink in Telluride, Colorado

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To borrow a phrase, Telluride (and I mean this in the best possible way) is a little drinking town with a big ski problem. I've lived there off and on since 2005, and recently returned for a visit for the first time in two years.

Telluride--a former mining town--has never had a shortage of places to imbibe, but getting a well-made cocktail for under ten bucks is another story. Fortunately, there are a few old standbys as well as some new blood in town that hit just the right mix of ambiance, quality, and price.

Bonus: With just one exception, they're all frequented by locals, so you can escape the tourist scene and get a true taste of Telluride. Just don't wear a spanking new cowboy hat or boots, heels, or a starched button-down. This town is strictly casual, year round.

And a word of warning: You'll feel the effects of alcohol more at altitude (Telluride is at 8,725 feet). Go easy, drink tons of water, and remember that one drink has the cumulative effect of two at this height. Don't say you weren't warned.

1. La Marmotte
Located one block east of the gondola, unassumingly nestled against the base of the mountain, this adorable, cozy, convivial restaurant is a dying breed: the classic French Alpine restaurant. Actually, it's the historic Ice House, one of the oldest buildings in town, but inside, it's dark, romantic, and surprisingly lively.

For over 20 years, "The Marmot" has featured well-rendered French country classics such as Coq au Vin and French Onion Soup, along with more contemporary versions. The 3-course, $35 prix fixe is the best deal in town, but if it's just a drink you're looking for, you also can't go wrong. Take a seat on a stool at the tiny front bar, and have the friendly bartender (no ski town attitude here) pour you a glass off the thoughtful wine list, or whip you up a cocktail, such as the house-infused beet martini (trust me).

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Top five bars to get a (great) drink in Telluride, Colorado originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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