Ian Golba — Food Editor
As is probably well known in the valley by now, the Mesa County Health Department is discussing the best options for beginning to re-open business in the county. And with loosening restrictions on in-restaurant dining, it might be time to start planning your first food stops in our new post-COVID world.
One of the hardest things to offer to-go is breakfast food. The hold time on eggs and gravy is very short and the quality of the products deteriorates easily on the ride home. That’s why a great stop for any weekend loving, Sunday morning whistling person should be Dream Café. Serving up high-quality bennies, huevos rancheros, and daily quiche, it’s the perfect stop for an early kick start or mid-day brunch. Though what really set Dream Café above your traditional breakfast diner is their drink menu. Six bloodies, five mimosas, and four spiked hot drinks are offered to begin taking the edge off being secluded for close to two months!
If there is one hidden gem of cuisine in Grand Junction, it is our taco trucks. One of the best in town is one of the only ones with a permanent spot. Loncheria Rubi, sitting in the parking lot of the Conoco Station across from Sprouts serves up homemade tortillas, gorditas and tortas stuffed with marinated meats that will have you craving them for months to come.
Another great spot for your Mexican fix is Golosas Mexican Sandwiches. Near the east end of North Ave. Golosas sits in a small shopping center but is easily the star of the show. Offering Mexican and South American grocery items in a small section of the restaurant gives this joint an especially authentic feeling. With a menu stretching over four panels in print you have to be second in line to see, your options quickly become overwhelming if you have no clue what you’re in the mood for. My recommendation would be to build your torta. For around $9 you can choose two types of meat to fill your sandwich that is also topped with red onion, lettuce, tomato, mayo, and by far the best, cheap cheese to ever be added to a sandwich.
Maybe a brew and some wings are more your lunchtime go-to. The Ale House offers incredible jerk, teriyaki, or naked wings that beg you to wash them down with one of the dozens of beers on tap. Also, if you’re new to the valley or are simply not an Ale House regular, top of the list on must-try items for summer is the Gladstoner. A local favorite that blends fresh fruit juices and a secret mix of spirits into the perfect glass of liquid A/C.
Don’t want a buzz with your relief? Well, Graff Dairy will have you covered. The local creamery sources all their milk product locally and has been a pillar of the community since their re-opening a few years ago. With the classic staples of vanilla and chocolate always available, Graff also offers a new flavor of the week every week, giving you the perfect excuse to go back again and again.
Long summer nights mean its time to kick back on a patio and watch the sunset. Just off Main St. the Blue Moon Café has seating right out front of their 7th St building which conveniently faces west. If the local favorite, the Monty Cristo doesn’t hit the spot, test the bartenders and their extensive liquor list for your perfect sunset sipping choice.
The time for celebration is almost here, ALMOST being the kicker. Everybody is starting to feel the pull of social interaction and the anticipation for seeing friends again. But until we can clink glasses and share a pizza again, check out my list of To-go Order Tips to keep your food fresh and your spirits up!
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