Rocky Mountain oysters, anyone? A guide for where to find them in Colorado
When it comes to food uniquely associated with Colorado, Rocky Mountain oysters are the punchline of countless jokes. But are they really as bad as their reputation suggests?
Sure, the thought of a Rocky Mountain oyster, or bull testicles, might seem a bit off-putting, but take it from someone who tried one before knowing what it actually was—it tastes just like chicken.
Ignorance can be bliss, and sometimes, not knowing too much opens the door to new experiences.
Do Rocky Mountain oysters get more hate than they deserve from both out-of-staters and locals? I think so.
The dish’s origins can be traced back to ranchers and farmers in the old west, though eating animal testicles has been a long-standing historical tradition around the world.
I got my first taste of oysters at a little dive bar in Kremmling, Colorado, in a small town where my family used to own a ranch. I was never told what they really were before sampling. Now, they are one of my favorite delicacies when I am out in ‘ranch country’ or even at a ballgame (only available at one stand at Coors Field near left field at section 144).
Ready to try some? Here are five places around the state where you can order them from the menu.
The Buckhorn Exchange, Denver
Although you can try an assortment of odd meats from rattlesnake to elk to Colorado lamb – one appetizer you can’t miss out on is the oysters. At the Buckhorn, they prepare the oysters sliced, breaded in batter and fried and served with horseradish sauce.
The slices are delicate and tender, with no particular flavor to make you think deeper about what you’ve just ingested. You might compare the flavor with chicken with a texture more along the lines of calamari. If the oysters aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other unique dishes to try at the Buckhorn.
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The Stockyard Saloon
How about a night of dancing and drinking, all while enjoying a taste of the true west?
Another Denver favorite serving local southwestern-style food, this spot isn’t just for “novelty” menu items. Head to the Stockyard Saloon to enjoy some line dancing, and while you’re at it, try your first oyster, too.
With the National Western Complex nearby, it’s no wonder they’re so fresh.
The Fort in Morrison
Replicated after an old fort used for fur trading, this restaurant serves up an assortment of wild game and southwestern-style cuisine. Some unusual combos can be found here like their Peanut Butter Stuffed Jalapeños Escabeche, but by far, their most notable dishes are their appetizer platters.
My husband and I like to share one when we go, because you can try an assortment of wild game “tapas.”
We always opt for the Historian’s Platter, which comes with buffalo sausage, buffalo tongue, Rocky Mountain oysters, peanut butter jalapeños, guacamole and chips. The oysters here are freshly made and no too thinly sliced. The batter on these is light and crispy, akin to juicy and crispy chicken tenders, with a smoother texture.
Parshall Inn, Parshall
This is where I tried my first oyster, and although you won’t find it on any fancy dining listicle or mentioned most places, I return here often for a good, fresh, batch of Rocky Mountain oysters.
Located in the heart of a ranching community on the Western Slope, just a little off the beaten path on the way from Denver to Steamboat Springs, the Parshall Inn is a small motel and diner patronized mostly by locals and travelers. If you are out camping in the area or driving over Ute Pass, stop here for a cold one — and some food. The oysters served here are always fresh, tasty and tender, battered and fried but not sliced too thin.
With its epoxy resin-penny bar top and a jar of pickled eggs, this place truly embodies the spirit of ‘cowboy town.’
*Note the Parshall Inn is closed for the month of December for the holidays, it will reopen again on January 9.
Dark Horse, Boulder
Coined as one of the classic dive-bars of Boulder, Dark Horse is known for its wings, burgers and movie prop decorations — and yes, Rocky Mountain oysters are on the menu.
Dark Horse Rocky Mountain oysters are also flattened, battered, fried and served with horseradish sauce. They’re prepared from frozen, and are a little bit dry, but they’re a good option if you’re in the Boulder area. Since the oysters are an ‘appetizer’ you have the option to share them amongst your friends who are brave enough — and there will still be plenty of room for Dark Horse’s chicken wings after you’re done.
Want to make your own? Try this recipe for Rocky Mountain Oysters.
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