A Legacy of Excellence
Between them, the ownership team at Tavern West shares over 125 years of restaurant experience. Blending some of the longest-running restaurant careers in Summit County with inspired “new blood,” all reviews indicate this is a winning combination.
John Tuso
Starting in restaurants in 1974, John ran several of them before opening his own in 1975. Tuso’s was at the base of Copper Mountain Resort. Stories of the revelry that happened at his bar are legendary in the county. In 1984, John converted the old A-1 Gas & Diesel building into Charity’s Saloon. 1992 brought the opening of Golden Annie’s, followed by Woody’s Gourmet Burgers (1995), Chimayo (1997) and the Incline Bar and Grill (2005). He claims that Tavern West will be his crowning achievement and legacy, not including his two amazing kids.
Bobby Kato
Involved in the Summit County restaurant scene since 1976, Bobby ran various restaurants for other people (including John Tuso) before opening up his own—El Rio Cantina & Grill in 1996. Tuscato Ristorante Italiano (1998) soon followed, as well as the Island Grill at Frisco Bay Marina (2004) and the Incline Bar and Grill at Copper Mountain Resort (2005). About Tavern West, he says, “The restaurant’s smaller size allows us to pay more attention to finer food sourcing and preparation details, of which I’m very proud. It gives us great pleasure to serve you a great meal with a warm ambience and excellent customer service.”
Ryan Worthen
Graduating from the Illinois Institute of Art’s Culinary Program in 2001, then immediately getting to work, Ryan has been cooking his way through the midwest and into Colorado, where he joined the culinary team at Incline Bar and Grill in 2006. Serving as Chef and General Manager at that popular establishment, he brought his love of food and passion for culinary technique to bear on the Tavern West menu. While the old guard appreciates the culinary flair Ryan brings to their newest endeavor, Ryan states that their “street smarts and in-the-trenches life experience in the restaurant industry” have been invaluable to his success as a restaurateur.
Latest Google Reviews
Ariel Johnston
January 31, 2026
A spot that is authentic, great drinks, and has the real Colorado energy. This is where to locals go. We are so grateful for Tavern West, its owner and its staff. I shouldn’t be telling others, but it’s about lifting the best up.
saeed goodarzi
January 29, 2026
Best elk tenderloin!!!
Brooke Steinkopf
January 21, 2026
Loved the cozy atmosphere, quick and friendly service, and the great value for money. Everything is Summit County has gotten out of control over the past few years, and prices are still very reasonable here for quality food and decent portions. The hand cut fries were great, and the truffle tots were also tasty. The Jamaican Jerk sauce on the chicken sandwich is one of the best sauces I’ve ever tasted. Wish I could buy a bottle to take home with me – you can tell everything is made fresh in-house. In addition, the chicken was tender, juicy, and deliciously breaded.
We will definitely be back to hit up some Happy Hours and bring family when they’re in town!
Matt Gustafsen
January 5, 2026
Mark Hammes
January 2, 2026
Absolutely delicious meal New Year’s Day. The bison tenderloin, prime rib, and shrimp jambalaya were great.
A. Thomas Kern
December 29, 2025
1. Smoked salmon plate appetizer. 5/5. Absolutely exceeded expectations (coming from a Fin).
2. Lamb chop. 4.5/5. Really delicious. Would happily order again with excitement. The potato puree was a flavorful pairing. Loses 1/2 a point as medium-rare was recommended by the chef, but came out medium.
3. Tri-tip steak. 4.5/5. The steak was also excellent, particularly as complemented with the horseradish bearnaise. Loses 1/2 a point for the same reason as the lamb chop.
4. Flourless chocolate cake. 4/5. Decadent when served with vanilla ice cream (our choice, though coffee flavor was recommended). A bit rich, which may have been an underestimation on our part.
5. Service was stellar. Warm. Hospitable. Had a friendly “everyone knows your name” sort of feel.
6. Atmosphere was something out of a Terry Redlin painting. The snow dumping down outside our table side window anf the fireplace just adjacent certainly aided in this effect. Had the dressings of a “sports bar” (with sports playing on TVs above the bar), but felt more like rustic tavern with upscale charm, amplified by darkly painted walls, lit by soft, warm light, and auburn wood accents.
Nate Gagnon
December 28, 2025
My partner and I were served by Katie. She did an amazing job from drink to dessert suggestions. The atmosphere was perfect and food was outstanding. We highly recommend!
turtle rock
December 22, 2025
Outstanding!
Jeannine Chrzanowski
December 21, 2025
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