Tempranillo Restaurant

- 165 Midland Ave, Basalt, CO 81621

Nestled in the heart of the Roaring Fork Valley, Tempranillo Restaurant stands out as a culinary gem for Colorado residents and visitors seeking an authentic taste of the Iberian Peninsula combined with innovative Italian flair. Named after Spain's noble grape, this establishment in historic Downtown Basalt is far more than a simple local eatery; it is a destination where internationally acclaimed Madrid native Chef Javier Gonzalez-Bringas and co-owner Laura Maine have spent over fourteen years creating a warm, historic, and upscale dining experience.

Tempranillo perfectly blends the old-world style of Spanish tapas culture with a new-world approach to Italian classics. The extensive menu encourages a social, shared-plate dining style, offering everything from classic Gambas al Ajillo and expertly crafted Spanish meat and cheeseboards to a full selection of paellas, fresh seafood, and robust Italian pasta dishes. The commitment to quality is evident in their selection, which includes a renowned wine list boasting over one hundred hand-chosen Spanish wines.

The atmosphere is a distinct highlight for those dining in the beautiful Colorado setting. Guests can choose between a cozy, historic interior—complete with dark beams, a welcoming community table, and a fireplace—or opt for the gorgeous, year-round heated outdoor patio. This combination of an authentic European menu, a thoughtfully curated wine list, and a beautiful ambiance makes Tempranillo a perennial favorite for lunch, dinner, solo dining, and group gatherings in the Basalt area.

While the atmosphere and the food—especially the black squid ink paella (Arroz Negro) and the perfect cheese plates—consistently receive high praise, the ownership stresses their goal is to provide a comprehensive, welcoming, and authentic experience. They openly encourage feedback to ensure the service matches the high reputation of their cuisine.

Tempranillo Restaurant is conveniently situated in the charming and historic Downtown Basalt, Colorado. This central location makes it a highly accessible spot within the Roaring Fork Valley, serving both local Coloradans and tourists exploring the area between Aspen and Glenwood Springs.

The exact address is 165 Midland Ave, Basalt, CO 81621, USA.

Accessibility and convenience for guests are prioritized. The restaurant offers multiple parking options, including a free parking lot and free street parking nearby. For guests with mobility considerations, Tempranillo is fully equipped to provide a comfortable visit, offering a wheelchair accessible entrance, a dedicated wheelchair accessible parking lot, a wheelchair accessible restroom, and accessible seating within the dining areas. Its location across the street from the Basalt Mountain Inn also makes it a convenient choice for visitors staying in the area.

Tempranillo offers a comprehensive range of dining and hospitality services designed for an upscale, yet casual, experience in the Colorado mountains.

• Full Dining Service: Available for both Lunch and Dinner with comfortable table service and multiple seating options, including the main dining room, the bar, and the patio.
• Authentic Spanish Tapas: A wide selection of small plates, perfect for sharing and encouraging a social dining experience. Options range from Patatas a la Brava and Alcachofas Fritas to various seafood selections.
• Specialty Paella and Entrees: Paella offerings such as Paella Valenciana and Arroz Negro, alongside larger entrees like Black Angus Ribeye, Salmon Sevillana, and traditional Italian veal and chicken dishes.
• Extensive Wine Program: Features a selection of over one hundred hand-chosen Spanish wines, honoring the restaurant’s name and heritage, with knowledgeable staff to assist with pairings.
• Cocktails and Bar Service: A full bar onsite offering beer, hard liquor, and a selection of great cocktails, often featuring weekday bar specials.
• Happy Hour: Dedicated Happy Hour times for both drinks and food, making premium dining more accessible for the local community.
• Takeout and Catering: Services available for those who wish to enjoy the cuisine at home or for special events in the Roaring Fork Valley.
• Dietary Accommodations: The menu includes healthy options, vegetarian options, and most pasta dishes can be prepared with gluten-free pasta, demonstrating a commitment to diverse dietary needs.

Tempranillo’s success in the competitive Colorado dining scene is rooted in several unique features that elevate the customer experience:

• Blend of Spanish and Italian Cuisine: The unique combination of authentic Spanish tapas and paella alongside inventive Italian pasta and entrees provides a diverse and exciting Mediterranean-focused menu.
• Historic and Cozy Atmosphere: Located in a sprawling 1892 building that was once a train station and hotel, the venue exudes a historic, rustic, yet upscale and romantic ambiance, enhanced by the presence of a welcoming fireplace.
• Year-Round Heated Outdoor Seating: Offers one of the most beautiful and spacious heated patios in the Roaring Fork Valley, perfect for comfortable al fresco dining regardless of the season.
• Award-Winning Wine List: The restaurant features an exceptional list of over 100 Spanish wines, a significant draw for wine enthusiasts in Colorado.
• Signature Dishes and Customer Favorites: Patrons consistently highlight the quality of the tapas, especially the Spanish Meat & Cheeseboard, the Arroz Negro (black squid ink paella), and the various preparations of Spanish fries.
• Fast Service and Table Amenities: Known for fast service, the restaurant is equipped with amenities such as Wi-Fi, a bar onsite, and is family-friendly with high chairs available, creating a welcoming and convenient environment.
• Chef-Owner Expertise: Co-owner Chef Javier Gonzalez-Bringas, a Madrid native, brings his international culinary experience to every dish, ensuring authenticity and quality.

To make a dinner reservation or inquire about catering options for your next event in the Basalt area, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 165 Midland Ave, Basalt, CO 81621, USA
• Phone: (970) 927-3342
• Mobile Phone: +1 970-927-3342

Tempranillo Restaurant is worth choosing for the Colorado local or visitor who desires a genuinely transportive dining experience, offering a slice of Spain right in the heart of Basalt. This is the place to visit when you want an evening that focuses on shared enjoyment, fine wine, and exceptional food quality, which is consistently rated among the top dining experiences in the Roaring Fork Valley.

The unique fusion menu ensures there is something for every palate, from the purist seeking traditional Spanish favorites to the diner who prefers a classic Italian pasta. The atmosphere, described as both cozy and upscale, is ideal for everything from a romantic dinner to a gathering of groups and family. In particular, the outdoor seating area is lauded as one of the best in Basalt, providing a lovely ambiance that maximizes the beautiful Colorado setting.

While the restaurant maintains a high standard of cuisine and setting, patrons are encouraged to provide constructive feedback, as the ownership is clearly committed to ensuring every guest feels welcomed and well-served. Given the high-quality ingredients, the experience of dining on the renowned Paella de Mariscos or enjoying the celebrated black squid ink paella alongside a glass from the 100+ bottle Spanish wine list is a compelling reason to choose Tempranillo. It is a true cornerstone of the Basalt dining scene, providing a memorable and rich cultural experience that perfectly complements a day spent enjoying the scenic beauty of Colorado.

Tempranillo Restaurant

165 Midland Ave, Basalt, CO 81621, USA