Nestled in the charming town of Estes Park, Colorado, “You Need Pie” has become a beloved local institution, renowned for its mouthwatering homemade meals and handcrafted pies. This family-owned restaurant has earned a stellar reputation for its commitment to using only the freshest, high-quality ingredients and serving up delectable dishes that tantalize the taste buds.
With a menu that caters to every appetite, “You Need Pie” offers a diverse array of options, from hearty all-day breakfast fare to satisfying lunch and dinner entrees. However, the true stars of the show are the restaurant’s legendary pies, handcrafted with love and attention to detail, ensuring each bite is a delightful experience.
Whether you’re a local seeking a comforting meal or a visitor exploring the Rocky Mountain region, “You Need Pie” promises a dining experience that will leave you feeling satisfied and craving for more. Step inside, and let the tantalizing aromas of freshly baked goods and simmering homestyle dishes transport you to a world of culinary bliss.
All-Day Breakfast Menu
One of the standout features of “You Need Pie” is their commitment to serving breakfast all day long. From the moment they open their doors at 6 AM until closing time, you can indulge in their delectable breakfast offerings. Their signature flapjacks are a must-try, with light and fluffy buttermilk pancakes that melt in your mouth. For those seeking a sweeter start to their day, the Cinnamon Roll French Toast and Banana Bread French Toast are heavenly choices.
Egg enthusiasts will delight in the variety of egg dishes available. “You Need Pie” offers fresh cracked 3-egg scrambles, allowing you to customize your creation with a wide range of ingredients, from sautéed vegetables to premium meats. Their breakfast burritos are a crowd favorite, packed with savory fillings and smothered in their homemade green chili or sausage gravy.
If you’re in the mood for something truly indulgent, don’t miss out on their breakfast specials. Shannon’s 5-Star Special and Amalia’s 5-Star Special are legendary dishes that will leave you feeling satisfied and craving more. Complement your breakfast with their irresistible sides, such as the buttery biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy or the savory corned beef hash.
Breakfast Sandwiches and Oatmeal
For those seeking a portable and satisfying breakfast option, “You Need Pie” offers a variety of egg sandwiches crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in a classic egg sandwich served on a house-made biscuit, a toasted bagel, or freshly baked bread, customized to your liking with a selection of savory meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, try the Rocky Mountain Oatmeal – a comforting and nutritious bowl of steel-cut oats, infused with the flavors of the Rocky Mountains. This signature dish is a local favorite, featuring a blend of dried fruits, nuts, and a touch of honey, providing a delightful balance of sweetness and nourishment to kickstart your day.
Soups, Salads, and Sandwiches
At “You Need Pie,” the lunch and dinner menu features a delectable selection of homemade soups, fresh salads, and mouthwatering sandwiches that are sure to satisfy any craving. The soups are prepared daily with the finest ingredients, ensuring a rich and flavorful experience in every spoonful. From the classic Chicken Noodle to the hearty Baked Potato Soup, each bowl is a comforting and delicious treat.
The salad offerings are a true celebration of fresh, locally sourced produce. The House Salad, with its crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and tangy dressing, is a refreshing option, while the Chef Salad, loaded with ham, turkey, eggs, and cheese, provides a satisfying and protein-packed meal.
For those seeking a more substantial fare, the sandwich selection is a must-try. The Reuben, a classic deli favorite, features tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and a zesty Thousand Island dressing, all nestled between two slices of grilled rye bread. The Club Sandwich, a triple-decker delight, combines turkey, ham, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo, making it a satisfying and filling choice.
For the ultimate in comfort food, the Mac & Cheesy is a crowd-pleaser. Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni is smothered in a velvety cheese sauce, creating a rich and indulgent dish that will leave you craving for more. Whether you opt for the classic version or add your choice of toppings, such as bacon or jalapeños, this dish is sure to hit the spot.
Hot Dishes and Entrees
For lunch or dinner, “You Need Pie” offers a mouthwatering selection of comfort food classics and hearty entrees. Their Meatloaf Dinner is a crowd-pleaser, featuring a thick slice of homemade meatloaf smothered in rich brown gravy, accompanied by mashed potatoes and a vegetable medley. The Chicken Pot Pie is another favorite, with a buttery, flaky crust encasing a creamy filling of tender chicken, vegetables, and savory herbs.
Indulge in the crispy, golden-brown Chicken Fried Steak, a Southern-style delicacy that’s perfectly seasoned and fried to perfection, served with a generous portion of peppered cream gravy. For a lighter option, try one of their entree salads, such as the Chef Salad or the Cobb Salad, both loaded with fresh greens, proteins, and an array of tasty toppings.
If you’re craving a baked potato, “You Need Pie” offers stuffed options that are sure to satisfy. Choose from fillings like broccoli and cheese, chili and cheese, or the classic loaded baked potato with all the fixings. These comforting dishes are sure to leave you feeling satisfied and nostalgic for home-cooked meals.
Handcrafted Pie Selection
At the heart of “You Need Pie” lies an impressive selection of handcrafted pies, a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and variety. With over 80 different varieties to choose from, pie enthusiasts are in for a treat. On any given day, you can expect to find between 20 and 30 flavors available, each one lovingly crafted from scratch using the finest ingredients.
From the classic apple and cherry pies to more unique offerings like coconut cream and mixed berry, the options are seemingly endless. The skilled bakers at “You Need Pie” take pride in their craft, meticulously preparing each pie with care and attention to detail. The flaky, buttery crusts are made from scratch, ensuring a perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Whether you’re a fan of fruit-filled delights or prefer the richness of cream and custard pies, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The blueberry pie bursts with juicy, plump berries, while the pecan pie boasts a gooey, nutty filling that’s sure to delight. For those who can’t decide, the restaurant offers slices of multiple flavors, allowing you to sample a variety of their mouthwatering creations.
Specialty Pies and Unique Offerings
At “You Need Pie,” the bakers take pride in crafting unique and creative pie offerings that set them apart from the rest. One of their signature creations is the Caramel Apple Pecan Pie, a decadent combination of sweet caramel, tart apples, and crunchy pecans, all nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. This pie is a true crowd-pleaser, with its harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
For those seeking a whimsical and seasonally-inspired treat, the Frankenstein Pie is a must-try. This spooky delight features a vibrant green filling made from kiwi and lime, topped with a chocolate ganache “hair” and candy “bolts” on the sides. It’s a fun and delicious way to celebrate Halloween or simply indulge in a playful dessert.
In addition to these standout pies, “You Need Pie” also offers a rotating selection of unique flavors that change with the seasons. From a tangy Rhubarb Strawberry Pie in the spring to a rich and velvety Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie in the fall, there’s always something new and exciting to try.
The bakers at “You Need Pie” take great pride in experimenting with unique flavor combinations and creative presentations, ensuring that every visit to the bakery is a delightful and memorable experience for pie lovers of all ages.
Baked Goods and Bakery Items
Beyond their renowned selection of handcrafted pies, “You Need Pie” also boasts an impressive array of freshly baked goods and bakery items that are sure to delight any sweet tooth. From the moment you step through the doors, the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked treats will tantalize your senses.
One of the standout offerings is their irresistible cinnamon rolls. Baked to perfection, these rolls are generously coated in a decadent cream cheese frosting, creating a harmonious balance of sweetness and richness. Each bite is a delightful fusion of warm, gooey cinnamon and buttery dough that melts in your mouth.
For those who prefer a more indulgent treat, the brownies at “You Need Pie” are a must-try. Made with high-quality chocolate and a perfect fudgy texture, these brownies are sure to satisfy even the most discerning chocolate lover. Whether you prefer them plain or loaded with nuts or other mix-ins, these brownies are a true chocolate lover’s dream.
If you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, their muffins are a delightful option. Baked fresh daily, these muffins come in a variety of flavors, from classic blueberry to more unique options like lemon poppy seed or raspberry white chocolate. Each muffin is moist, flavorful, and the perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
For those special occasions or celebrations, “You Need Pie” also offers cakes to order. Whether you’re looking for a classic birthday cake, a decadent chocolate masterpiece, or a whimsical creation for a themed party, their skilled bakers can craft a cake that is not only delicious but also visually stunning.
Rounding out their bakery offerings are a selection of cookies and scones. From classic chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies to buttery, flaky scones in flavors like cranberry orange or lemon poppyseed, these treats are sure to delight any palate.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
At “You Need Pie,” we understand the importance of catering to various dietary preferences and restrictions. That’s why our menu features a diverse selection of vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring that everyone can indulge in our delectable offerings.
For our vegan guests, we take pride in our fruit pies, which are entirely plant-based and bursting with natural flavors. From classic apple and cherry to more unique combinations like mixed berry and peach-raspberry, our vegan pies are sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Additionally, our salad selection offers a variety of fresh, crisp, and flavorful vegan options, including our signature You Need Greens salad, featuring a medley of greens, roasted vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette.
For those following a gluten-free diet, we have a dedicated section of our menu that caters to your needs. Our gluten-free pies are carefully crafted using alternative flours and ingredients, ensuring that you can indulge in the same delicious flavors without compromising your dietary requirements.
From decadent chocolate cream to tangy key lime, our gluten-free pie selection is sure to delight. We also offer gluten-free bread options for our sandwiches and a range of gluten-free salads, ensuring that you can enjoy a satisfying meal without any worries.
Conclusion
“You Need Pie” is a true gem in Estes Park, offering a diverse and delectable menu that caters to every taste bud. From the all-day breakfast favorites to the hearty lunch and dinner options, and the star of the show – the extensive selection of handcrafted pies, this restaurant promises a unique and satisfying dining experience.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, “You Need Pie” is a must-visit destination. Explore their menu online and plan your visit to savor the homemade goodness. Don’t forget to indulge in their famous pies, with flavors ranging from classic apple to the unique Frankenstein Pie.
For those seeking convenience, “You Need Pie” offers online ordering and delivery services, ensuring you can enjoy their delicious offerings from the comfort of your own home or accommodation.
If you’re planning a special event, such as a wedding, corporate gathering, or family celebration, consider “You Need Pie” for your catering needs. Their team will work with you to create a customized menu that will delight your guests and make your event truly memorable.
So, what are you waiting for? Visit “You Need Pie” today, explore their menu, place an order, and experience the ultimate in homestyle cooking and baked delights. Your taste buds will thank you!