Discovering the culinary offerings of The Dive Gunnison invites food enthusiasts into a vibrant world where fresh ingredients meet bold flavors. Nestled in the heart of Gunnison, this restaurant has carved a niche by blending local traditions with innovative dishes.
The Dive Gunnison menu reflects a commitment to quality and creativity, catering to diverse palates while emphasizing the rich bounty of the surrounding region.
Whether you’re a visitor seeking a taste of Colorado’s unique culinary scene or a local craving something new, the menu promises an exciting journey. From hearty appetizers to indulgent desserts, every dish is crafted with intention, using seasonal and sustainable ingredients.
This dedication shines through in every bite, showcasing how The Dive Gunnison elevates casual dining into an experience worth savoring.
Exploring the menu reveals a balance of classic favorites and daring creations, inviting diners to explore textures, flavors, and aromas that celebrate both comfort and surprise. The atmosphere complements the food perfectly—welcoming, relaxed, and vibrant, making each meal memorable.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Beginning
Starting your meal at The Dive Gunnison with appetizers is a chance to awaken your palate with fresh, inventive flavors. The menu offers a variety of small plates designed to share or enjoy solo, each bringing a unique twist to familiar favorites.
Highlighting locally sourced ingredients, many appetizers feature Colorado-grown produce and freshly caught seafood. These choices not only enhance the taste but also support local farmers and fishermen.
The Dive’s emphasis on quality is evident in every bite.
Popular options include the Smoked Trout Dip, a creamy blend that perfectly balances smoky and tangy notes. The Elk Sliders showcase game meat in a juicy, flavorful form, paired with house-made sauces.
For vegetarians, the Roasted Beet Salad offers earthy sweetness paired with crunchy nuts and tangy goat cheese.
Must-Try Appetizers
- Smoked Trout Dip – Served with freshly baked rye crisps.
- Elk Sliders – Accompanied by chipotle aioli and pickled onions.
- Roasted Beet Salad – Tossed with arugula, walnuts, and a balsamic glaze.
- Fried Green Tomatoes – Crispy slices topped with a spicy remoulade.
“The appetizers at The Dive are a perfect introduction to the bold and fresh flavors that define the entire menu.”
Entrees: Main Courses That Impress
The Dive Gunnison’s entrees embody the restaurant’s dedication to inventive cooking and quality sourcing. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, reflecting a balance of traditional and contemporary influences.
From succulent meats to creative vegetarian plates, the menu offers a diverse range of options to satisfy any appetite. The focus remains on fresh, seasonal ingredients, resulting in dishes that are both comforting and exciting.
Signature entrees include the Colorado Lamb Chops, grilled to perfection and served with a mint chimichurri. The Pan-Seared Rainbow Trout highlights the local fresh catch with a lemon butter sauce and seasonal vegetables.
For those seeking plant-based options, the Wild Mushroom Risotto delivers rich, earthy flavors in a creamy texture.
Comparing Popular Entrees
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Price |
| Colorado Lamb Chops | Lamb, mint chimichurri, roasted potatoes | Savory, herbaceous, grilled | $32 |
| Pan-Seared Rainbow Trout | Fresh trout, lemon butter, seasonal veggies | Light, citrusy, buttery | $28 |
| Wild Mushroom Risotto | Arborio rice, wild mushrooms, parmesan | Creamy, earthy, umami-rich | $24 |
Sandwiches and Burgers: Comfort with a Twist
The Dive Gunnison’s sandwich and burger selections offer hearty and satisfying options, perfect for a casual meal without compromising on flavor or quality. Each item is crafted to deliver bold tastes complemented by fresh ingredients.
Breads are baked in-house or sourced from local bakeries, ensuring a perfect foundation for every sandwich. Accompaniments like house-made pickles and hand-cut fries elevate the dining experience.
Noteworthy choices include the Bison Burger, packed with rich, gamey flavor balanced by melted cheddar and smoky bacon. The Grilled Chicken Club features tender poultry layered with avocado and crisp lettuce.
For a vegetarian delight, the Portobello Mushroom Sandwich offers marinated mushrooms with melted provolone and roasted peppers.
- Bison Burger – Served with chipotle aioli and caramelized onions.
- Grilled Chicken Club – Featuring avocado, bacon, and tomato.
- Portobello Mushroom Sandwich – Marinated mushrooms with provolone.
- House-Made Pickles – A tangy and crunchy side option.
“The sandwiches here redefine comfort food with fresh ingredients and creative pairings.”
Salads and Lighter Fare: Fresh and Wholesome
For those seeking lighter options, The Dive Gunnison’s salads and lighter fare provide fresh, vibrant dishes that don’t sacrifice flavor. These offerings highlight crisp vegetables, wholesome grains, and bold dressings.
Salads are crafted with seasonal produce and can be customized with proteins such as grilled chicken, trout, or tempeh. The emphasis is on balance—textures and tastes that refresh and satisfy.
Favorites include the Kale and Quinoa Salad, bursting with nutrients and tossed in a zesty citrus dressing. The Cobb Salad is a classic reimagined with local bacon and creamy blue cheese.
For a vegan option, the Roasted Vegetable Wrap is packed with flavor and texture in every bite.
Health Conscious Choices
| Dish | Calories | Protein | Gluten-Free |
| Kale and Quinoa Salad | 450 | 15g | Yes |
| Cobb Salad | 600 | 30g | Yes |
| Roasted Vegetable Wrap | 400 | 10g | No |
These options demonstrate how The Dive balances indulgence with healthier alternatives, ensuring everyone finds something delightful.
Seafood Specials: Fresh From the Water
The Dive Gunnison places special emphasis on seafood dishes that celebrate the freshness of local waters. These specials change seasonally, reflecting what’s available and at peak quality.
Careful preparation techniques highlight the natural flavors of fish and shellfish, often paired with complementary herbs, spices, and sauces. The seafood menu offers both familiar and adventurous choices for seafood lovers.
Among the standout dishes is the Seared Scallops with Citrus Glaze, which combines tender scallops with a bright, tangy sauce. The Crab Cakes are hearty and packed with sweet, fresh crab meat.
The Halibut Tacos provide a zesty, casual option with vibrant slaw and creamy avocado.
- Seared Scallops – Accompanied by a citrus glaze and seasonal greens.
- Crab Cakes – Served with remoulade and fresh lemon.
- Halibut Tacos – Topped with cabbage slaw and avocado crema.
- Chowder of the Day – A rich, warming soup made fresh daily.
“The seafood dishes are a testament to the kitchen’s respect for the ingredients and local ecosystem.”
Desserts: Sweet Endings to Remember
Ending your meal at The Dive Gunnison with dessert is a delightful experience, with options that range from indulgently rich to light and refreshing. The dessert menu combines classic techniques with creative twists to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Many desserts incorporate seasonal fruits and house-made components such as custards, sauces, and doughs. The attention to detail ensures that these treats complement the meal perfectly without overwhelming the palate.
Popular desserts include the Chocolate Lava Cake, a warm and gooey favorite served with vanilla bean ice cream. The Seasonal Fruit Tart showcases fresh local fruits atop a crisp pastry shell.
For a lighter option, the Lemon Panna Cotta offers a creamy, tangy finish.
Sweet Selections
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Texture | Price |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Dark chocolate, eggs, sugar, butter | Warm, molten center, soft cake | $10 |
| Seasonal Fruit Tart | Fresh fruit, pastry crust, custard | Crisp, creamy, fresh | $9 |
| Lemon Panna Cotta | Cream, lemon, gelatin, sugar | Silky, smooth, tangy | $8 |
Each dessert is crafted to provide a memorable conclusion to your dining experience, balancing sweetness and texture flawlessly.
Beverages: Complementing Every Dish
The Dive Gunnison offers a carefully curated beverage menu designed to enhance the flavors of their diverse dishes. From craft cocktails to local brews and fine wines, the beverage selection caters to all tastes and occasions.
The bartenders emphasize fresh ingredients and balanced flavors in their cocktail creations, often incorporating local spirits and seasonal herbs. The wine list features options from renowned vineyards, focusing on varietals that pair well with the menu’s flavors.
Non-alcoholic options include house-made sodas, freshly brewed coffees, and herbal teas, ensuring every guest finds something refreshing.
- Signature Cocktails – Featuring seasonal fruits and local spirits.
- Craft Beers – Rotating selection from Colorado breweries.
- Wine List – Reds, whites, and rosés thoughtfully selected.
- Non-Alcoholic – Fresh sodas, coffee, and tea options.
“The beverage program at The Dive Gunnison is a perfect complement, thoughtfully crafted to elevate every bite.”
Conclusion
The Dive Gunnison menu represents a celebration of local flavors, creative culinary artistry, and commitment to quality. Each section of the menu—from appetizers to desserts—demonstrates a thoughtful approach to ingredients and preparation, making every visit a unique and satisfying experience.
Whether savoring the bold flavors of the appetizers or indulging in a rich dessert, the menu offers something for every diner. The harmonious pairing of dishes with the carefully curated beverage selection further enhances the enjoyment, highlighting The Dive’s dedication to a well-rounded dining experience.
In a region known for its natural beauty and rich culinary heritage, The Dive Gunnison stands out by embracing both tradition and innovation. The menu’s diversity ensures that guests can tailor their meals to their preferences, making it a destination for locals and visitors alike seeking exceptional food in a welcoming atmosphere.
