Best meals in Breck for under $10

Sometimes it’s difficult to find cheap food options in a resort town. Being a college student and skier with limited funds, I’ve had to track down some of the best dining spots that don’t put a dent in your wallet. What I’ve found, however, is that with so many great dining options in Breckenridge, there are a myriad of places to get great food at a fraction of the price.

Mi Casa Happy Hour:
I think Mi Casa has to be one of my favorite places to eat in Breck, mainly because they have one of the best and cheapest happy hours around. Happy hour, lasting from 3-6pm daily offers tacos that are only $1, discounted drinks and beers, and best of all, it comes with bottomless chips and salsa (if you get there around 5, they even have bottomless nachos). Get a full meal for $5 and eat your weight in chips and salsa- it’s a must visit after a long day of skiing.

Empire Burger:
Empire Burger serves up some great burgers in a fun and modern atmosphere. Burgers here are standard price, around $7-8. Adding a side of fries will take you to that $10 mark, but it is worth it- they have a huge variety of original sauces, all the way from Parmesan peppercorn to sweet mango chutney. Empire has become a Breckenridge staple, and you should definitely check it out.

The Maggie:
The Maggie features a beautiful deck with mountain views and a fun, casual atmosphere (with live music). With ski-in access from Peak 9, The Maggie features a coffee bar, full service bar, a Bloody Mary bar, and Après specials everyday from 3-7 pm. You’re sure to find great deals during happy hour. The menu offers American style food, with fresh, healthy soup, salad and wrap options; as well as a BBQ Smoker, Mexican food, and a variety of breakfast options.

Quandary Grille Happy Hour:
I never really had heard of the Quandary Grille until my parents had started frequenting it for their happy hour, and now I understand why. Quandary’s Happy Hour goes from 3-6, and includes 2 for 1 appetizers, from thai chicken lettuce wraps to mini skirt steak sliders. They have an abundance of great food, outdoor seating, and even some cornhole games to play while you wait. It’s a little off the beaten path, located by the Maggie Pond in Mainstreet Station, but a local’s favorite.

Crepes a la Cart:
I’m pretty sure I’ve never seen Crepes a la Cart without a line, unless it was closed. This is a must-visit location in Breckenridge to grab a sweet crepe for dessert or even a savory crepe for a meal. Crepes are big enough to share, although I’m pretty sure you won’t want to. I recommend bringing a date- nothing better than sharing a crepe while sitting next to a nice outdoor fire pit on Main street.

Giampietros:
Giampietros is a small Italian restaurant and serves some of the best pizza in all of Summit County. You can get slices for around $2.50, or you can sit there and try any of their homemade pasta dishes. The stuffed shells and manicotti are some of my recommendations.

Great meals in Breckenridge are plentiful and the town has a surprising amount of restaurants that won’t hurt your wallet. Just make sure to ask locals if you have any questions, and be flexible with your dinner plans (if you’re willing to eat earlier, happy hour is most definitely the best way to access cheap food).

Hopefully these recommendations will help! Happy Eating.

-Cody Cirillo