If you find yourself wandering through Estes Park, you probably expect two things: incredible mountain views and a lot of fresh air. What you might not expect is the smell of authentic, slow-smoked Southern BBQ wafting through the pine trees. At Full Throttle Distillery & Grill, we believe that American craftsmanship doesn’t just happen in a copper still, it happens on the grill, too.
Born from the rugged, outlaw Americana culture of Michael Ballard and the Full Throttle Saloon, our kitchen brings a grit and soul to Colorado that you won’t find anywhere else. We combine the comfort of the South with the adventurous spirit of the Rockies. If you are a local looking for a reliable hangout or a tourist needing to refuel after a hike, this is where tradition gets a mountain makeover.
A true smokehouse experience is built on patience. Our meats are smoked “low and slow” to make sure every bite is tender and packed with flavor.
While most places might use store-bought rubs, we rely on house-made sauces and specific spice blends that honor our roots. When you tuck into a plate of our ribs or a pulled pork sandwich, you are tasting hours of dedication. I’ve always felt that you can tell the difference between food made for a crowd and food made with a story. Our menu tells a story of intense flavors and high-energy vibes.
You can’t have a distillery grill without talking about the drinks. Southern food is rich and savory, which makes it the perfect partner for our handcrafted spirits.
If you’re eating a heavy, marbled brisket, try pairing it with one of our house-made whiskeys. The smoky charred oak of the spirit cuts through the richness of the meat perfectly. If you’re leaning toward something a bit sweeter, like our desserts or fried sides, a splash of moonshine adds a kick that balances the plateWe’re here to celebrate strong American flavors every single day. Come see us in Estes Park and find out what happens when Southern tradition hits the high country. See our menu or plan your event.
