740 Front - The Best Tavern in Louisville, Colorado
Steeped in more than a century of Colorado history, 740 Front stands as one of Louisville's most treasured dining destinations. Originally built in 1904 by E.J. Defrancia, the historic building is home to one of Colorado's oldest continuously licensed taverns and serves as the last remaining saloon from the thirteen establishments that once lined Front Street. Today, guests are treated to far more than an exceptional meal—they become part of a story that stretches back to the days of coal miners, railroad workers, Tivoli Beer, and the colorful legends that helped shape the community. The careful restoration of the landmark has preserved its historic charm while creating an inviting atmosphere that feels timeless.
One of the first things visitors notice is the remarkable ambiance. The massive handcrafted Brunswick back bar, transported from Leadville by horse and wagon more than a century ago, immediately commands attention with its cherrywood, birch, and flame mahogany craftsmanship. Throughout the restaurant, original architectural elements have been thoughtfully incorporated into the décor, creating a space filled with character and authenticity. Guests often enjoy reading about the building's fascinating past while admiring details such as the historic bullet hole in the bar, the restored saloon features, and the legendary stories of hidden tunnels beneath the building. Whether seated in the lively bar, the intimate Miners Room, or the beautifully restored dining rooms, every visit feels like stepping into a living piece of Colorado history.
While the history attracts first-time visitors, the outstanding menu keeps them coming back. 740 Front has built an outstanding reputation for expertly prepared steaks, chops, fresh seafood, oysters, pasta dishes, burgers, and fresh salads, truly living up to its slogan of "Steaks not well done but done well." Diners frequently praise the Prime New York Strip, Prime Ribeye, Flat Iron Steak, Filet Mignon, Bison Ribeye, and Bison Filet for their tenderness, rich flavor, and consistently accurate preparation. Even those celebrating special occasions often remark that every entrée arrives hot, perfectly cooked, and beautifully presented, making group dinners just as impressive as intimate date nights.
Seafood enthusiasts are equally well served. Reviews consistently highlight the Chilean Sea Bass for its delicate texture and flawless preparation, while the Shrimp Pasta receives rave reviews for its rich garlic butter and white wine sauce. Fresh oysters have become a favorite starter, alongside highly praised crab cakes, seafood casserole, seafood cannelloni, mussels, calamari prepared tempura-style, and flavorful surf and turf combinations. For guests seeking lighter fare, dishes like the Seafood Salad, Caesar Salad, Wedge Salad, and Chicken Chopped Salad have earned compliments for their freshness and generous portions. The restaurant's ability to accommodate gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and other dietary needs has also earned appreciation from many guests celebrating birthdays and family gatherings.
The beverage program is every bit as impressive as the kitchen. The fully stocked historic bar offers an excellent selection of Colorado craft beers, premium wines, handcrafted cocktails, and an extensive bourbon and whiskey collection. Guests frequently compliment expertly prepared Manhattans, refreshing basil-forward signature cocktails, and a rotating selection of quality IPAs, including Melvin IPA. Knowledgeable bartenders and servers are often praised for helping diners select wines that perfectly complement their meals or recommending cocktails that elevate the entire dining experience. Happy Hour has also become a favorite among locals, especially for enjoying drinks alongside appetizers while soaking in the tavern's historic surroundings.
The appetizers and side dishes demonstrate the same level of attention to detail found throughout the menu. The famous 740 Hot Cheese Dip with Spinach is repeatedly mentioned as a must-order starter, while Deviled Eggs, Buffalo Carpaccio, Calamari, Artichokes, and House Salads consistently receive glowing reviews. Side dishes such as grilled asparagus—finished with the chef's signature grilling technique—garlicky sautéed mushrooms, creamy mashed potatoes, onion strings, crispy French fries, creamed spinach, and goat cheese mashed potatoes all help round out an exceptional meal. Many guests specifically note that even the smallest details are executed with care, creating a dining experience that feels complete from beginning to end.
Dessert provides the perfect finale to an already memorable evening. The Crème Brûlée and silky Panna Cotta have developed loyal followings among returning guests, while the Chocolate Panna Cotta with raspberry coulis offers a rich finish for chocolate lovers. Others save room for the restaurant's generous slice of Blueberry Pie served à la mode, praised for its buttery, flaky crust and fresh fruit filling. Whether celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or simply enjoying a night out, many diners mention that dessert is every bit as memorable as the entrée, leaving guests eager to return and sample even more of the menu.
Perhaps what truly separates 740 Front from other Colorado restaurants is its remarkable combination of history, hospitality, and culinary excellence. Guests consistently praise attentive servers like Courtney, Bethany, Jack, Scott, Rob, Forrest, Trent, and Thea for their warmth, professionalism, menu knowledge, and genuine enthusiasm. Many reviewers also mention thoughtful touches from ownership, including personal visits to anniversary tables and exceptional follow-up when addressing customer concerns. Combined with its beautifully restored historic setting, outstanding cocktails, expertly prepared steaks and seafood, and welcoming atmosphere, it's easy to understand why so many Colorado diners consider 740 Front one of the very best taverns—and one of the most memorable dining experiences—in Louisville.
740 Front St, Louisville, CO 80027
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