Follow the scent of hickory along West Main Street and you will find a Colorado classic that locals swear by.
Aspen Hickory House turns slow-smoked comfort into a year-round ritual, from powder days to patio season.
The brisket is tender, deeply smoky, and the kind of plate that makes you linger a little longer.
Come hungry, leave happy, and maybe with a jug of sauce for the road.
Hickory-smoked brisket, the star
The brisket at Aspen Hickory House arrives with a proud bark and a rosy smoke ring that tells you everything before the first bite. It is tender without falling apart, juicy with hickory depth, and balanced by just enough pepper.
You taste patience, fire, and the kind of know-how that keeps locals coming back. Order it solo or as part of a combo if you want to sample more of the menu.
The slices pair nicely with tangy pickles and that buttery garlic toast. Add a drizzle of their signature sauce, but let the meat shine first for the full experience.
Ribs, sausage, and the power of combos
When you cannot pick just one, the combo plates make the choice easy. Stack ribs next to brisket and a coil of jalapeno-cheese sausage for a full tour of the pit.
Each bite contrasts smoke, snap, and richness, letting you dial your own perfect order. Ribs lean meaty and satisfying, with a glaze that sticks to your fingers.
The sausage often steals the show with spice and cheddar pockets. Slide in fries or slaw, and you have a plate that earns its local-favorite status.
Breakfast that fuels mountain mornings
Morning hours make this spot a smart call before trails or town. Eggs Benedict, pancakes, and chicken and waffles turn the barbecue house into a reliable breakfast hub.
The vibe is easygoing, the coffee warm, and the plates generous. If sweet and savory is your thing, try a short stack alongside something hearty.
Service moves fast, so you can dine in and get on with your day. Locals know the early window is prime time for a relaxed start.
Signature sauces worth taking home
The sauce lineup leans tangy with just enough sweetness, designed to complement the smoke rather than bury it. A light brush brightens brisket, while a heavier pour on ribs adds that sticky finish you crave.
Ask for a side to sample before committing to your favorite. Plenty of guests grab a jug to go, which says a lot in a town full of souvenirs.
It is a smart gift for the barbecue lover back home. Stock a bottle and your leftovers will never be boring.
Casual atmosphere with mountain charm
Expect a down-home space where wood, sunlight, and the hum of conversation set the tone. Bar seating and TVs keep things laid back, while open doors on warm days let the mountain breeze drift in.
It feels like the kind of place where everyone is welcome. Staff keep the pace friendly and efficient even when the room fills up.
Generous portions and fair prices by Aspen standards make it an easy recommendation. Relax, dig in, and let the casual vibe do the rest.
What to order for first-timers
Start with the brisket, then add a half rack and sausage to learn the menu in one go. Coleslaw brings freshness, fries add crunch, and pickles cut through the richness.
Keep sauce on the side so you can steer the flavors. Sharing is wise, since portions run hearty. If you want a curveball, grab the ribeye steak sandwich for a different kind of indulgence.
You will leave with a favorite and a plan for the next visit.
Plan your visit: hours, price, and timing
Doors open early and close midafternoon most days, so plan for breakfast or lunch. Prices land around the 20 to 30 range, which is friendly for Aspen.
The room can fill up fast on weekends, so aim a little earlier if you want a leisurely meal. Parking along West Main is straightforward, and the spot is easy to find.
Call ahead if you are timing a group or hoping to squeeze in near last call. A little planning means less waiting and more eating.
Essential details and how to get there
You will find Aspen Hickory House at 730 W Main St, right along the corridor into town. Tap the map and you are minutes from that hickory aroma.
The location is central, with easy access whether you are walking, biking, or cruising in from the slopes. Need the quick hit: +1 970-925-2313 for questions, hickoryhouseribs.com for menus.
Ratings sit strong and reflect steady local love. Show up hungry and let the smoker do the talking.