Even though it's a new place, it's awesome! The staff is absolutely amazing, drinks are wonderful, and the food is DELICIOUS! Hope you like deep fried :)
(5)
Amanda J.
Affectionately known as the Grouper, the Square Grouper is very popular with locals and people who work in town. I typically avoid here, as all of my colleagues come here after work, but it is quite good. The Grouper is kind of an upscale dive bar. They have some great outdoor seating, bar-style seating, and community tables. The owner is a really nice guy, and there is a very laid-back atmosphere here. Food and drink may not come out super quickly, but it's a hang-out bar. Don't come here if you are in a rush. I really love the mac and cheese ($6). The portion is pretty good, although it is not quite enough for a full meal. The mac and cheese is really dry, which I normally am not a fan of, but they really make it work here. You can get food to-go here as well, and I really appreciate that! The drinks are pretty standard. No fancy cocktails, but they make an acceptable whiskey sour. It's in a full-size glass, but they get the ratios right still! The Square Grouper is my dive-bar of choice in Aspen, much better than Zane's or Aspen Brewing Company. Credit cards accepted!
(4)
CJ R.
I really enjoyed the food. Wonderful location in downtown Aspen. The service was also very attentive. This is definitely a restaurant I would recommend!
(5)
Amir N.
When in the mountains of Colorado, one simply must visit Aspen. It just so happens on my trip I entered the Square Grouper. Very divey on the left and restaurant on the right. Personally I kind of liked that. My group and I came here for dinner and the food was okay. There was a launch party there the night we ate and we got free drinks so that definitely was much appreciated. Now for the food. If you look at the menu you see PoBoys, catfish, jambalaya, all the Cajun style foods you'd expect in NoLa. While it in no way can match the goodness of Louisiana it was still alright. You can't go wrong with any of the PoBoys or the Mac n Cheese which was pretty damn good. Wouldn't mind coming back here the next time I'm in the area.
(4)
David B.
Friendly service, but the food was mediocre. I had the jambalaya for dinner but was disappointed with it. I've had much better jambalaya plenty of times at lots of other places. The beer selection was disappointing too, though I was happy to see that they serve Blackened Voodoo.
(2)
Mike M.
I know good Cajun food and this was not bad at all. Friendly service, and the gumbo was surprisingly good. Fried cat poboy was also great. No complaints and I'm a picky food person, ok not picky but I don't like food that sucks. Also I'm from Texas so I know a thing or two about se Cajun food. Will be a regular spot for me from now on.
(4)
Shawn S.
A rainy night in Aspen. Decided to try the Square Grouper and was very impressed. Ordered food to go... Gumbo and fried okra upon the bartender's recommendation. The gumbo was nice and spicy and the okra was tasty. Good value in an expensive town. Great grab and go.
(4)
Sam V.
Came here for dinner during X-Games and surprisingly it wasn't too busy. Ordered the fried catfish po' boy with a side of Mac n' cheese. The sandwich I had was actually pretty fantastic, fried perfectly and the fish was succulent. Bread was good too! The Mac was a little lackluster. Boyfriend had the chicken sandwich and it was hardly edible. The chicken was over done and probably previously frozen because it was as hard as a rock. I couldn't cut it with a fork. The side of Cajun potato salad was just ok. Out of everything we had, my sandwich was the best. I recommend that, not sure about everything else.
(3)
Prairie S.
The food and the choice of beer are only mediocre. Wholly unexceptional as a divey bar, except I have to compliment the hard working waitress and the friendly staff. They certainly beats the motley crew of ragamuffins running the Aspen Brewing Company just above.
(3)
Christine V.
I thought the waitress was friendly and the food was great. Loved the drinks and especially the gumbo, best ever. Was able to bring my dog and sat outside on the patio. Loved it, very affordable.
(4)
Katie M.
I've only been here for a night out of drinking. They have your usual bar but what makes this place cool is that they have a nintendo. You can play this while drinking with your buddies. Just don't get soaked by the sore losers. ;) They have some cool games to peruse during your visit. Check it out.
(4)
Mindy H.
This was the first restuarant we visited while in town. I got the Mac and cheese with bbf shrimp and jalapeño. It was delish. My husband got the burger and loved it. My son loved his buttered noodle dish. The owner (I assume) was very nice. Gave my son some chalk to chalk up the table. They do not have any high chairs but we are okay with that because we travel with ours
(4)
Foodlover B.
We sat outside and enjoyed the perfect Aspen summer weather tonight. We had the BLT, which was great. The house smoked bacon was fabulous. And I liked the tomato jam, which added a sweetness. The side we chose was gumbo, so-so (but, hey, we just visited cajun country where they do it right). The fried chicken sandwich and side of Mac and cheese seemed decent. Service was nice. We had a nice day in Aspen visiting the Maroon Bells. John Denver sanctuary, riding the gondola, and fly fishing.
(4)
Miles H.
Went here for a simple dinner for comfort food. That's exactly what we got. A nice laid back environment and friendly staff. Food was good, decent prices. Wouldn't mind coming back.
(4)
Mattie W.
What can't I say about this amazing gem?! You will not find a more approachable, relaxed, awesome place to hang out, get a drink, and catch up with some great people. The owners are awesome (Jesse is so great). This is a very important place in Aspen - it has heart. Do yourself a favor, wander on down to the Grouper, order a cold beer and a plate of mac and cheese. You will not be disappointed.
(5)
Andy A.
Very cool place. Fun arcade games at decent prices: Super Chex Darts Tiger Woods Deffinitley check this place out if your around
(4)
Mike M.
The food was good, but there only seemed to be one waitress for the whole restaurant. Though she tried hard to take care of everyone, it was obvious they were understaffed. Unfortunately we had to send back the desert, since it was burned and they forgot to bring our appetizer, but the meals themselves were good. Hopefully they will fix their staffing issues.
(3)
Luis U.
Wow was I amazed with this bar, we picked this bar randomly just as we passed by, the food was amazing the service was amazing it was the best place we went to the whole time we were in Aspen! It is a must visit when you are in town!
(5)
Stephen H.
Food 2.5 Stars Bar 3.5 Stars Not quite the Cajun we expected. I'd assume the 4 stars come from mostly bar patrons & locals. Decent spot for a drink.
(3)
Mark M.
A bit hidden and a little divey. Had a cub of gumbo to start. It was good, not great. Had blackened grouper over dirty rice with red beans and rice on the side. The red beans and rice were just OK and the dirty rice was a little bland compared to what I've had before but the grouper itself was out of the park good. Just fantastic. There are a lot of options in Aspen but if I'm in the mood for cajun while in Aspen, I'll definitely come back.
(4)
Kathryn L.
A good old school local Aspen Bar and Restaurant. We know the owners - brought along 6 kids and everyone had a ball. The BLT is amazing - who would ever think one could be so good - they make their own bacon in house... the burgers, chicken sandwich... all delicious. Excellent Bloody Mary - and very reasonable. The fact they have darts and bubble hockey - what could be better? :-)
(5)
Taylor D.
Fun people, nice casual atmosphere in downtown Aspen... Make sure you ask for the off-menu item "Rachel's Gumbo Dog"... They may not have it the day you're there but you'll be very happy if they do!
(5)
Alison S.
These guys are amazing they made suggestions, told me about the area and were very friendly I had the in house made smoked bacon BLT with gumbo fricken amazing I'm stoked to come back here for the fried chicken sandwich awesome thanks guys
(4)
Jim C.
I dined here the other night with my wife and we really enjoyed ourselves. The food was tasty and reasonably priced, with a spice level that was perfect for me (albeit a bit too much for the wifey). There were some kinks to work out from the kitchen with lacking salt and some under-cooked fried items, but such things happen, especially with a whole new menu and kitchen staff. Our server Justin (I think...) made the night. Spot on with descriptions of everything, making us laugh, etc. He fit the joint perfectly. I can't wait to return and see how things are progressing as they get into their groove.
(4)
Megan F.
This is a chill locals' bar opened by longtime Aspen locals - a couple of nice, hardworking guys who have been in the industry for years and have paid their dues. I only came here for drinks, but am pleased there's a new hangout for people who aren't made of money.
(5)
H C.
I ordered the shrimp po boy. It came on a huge roll that you can buy in any grocery store next to the hot dog buns - In my opinion way too big. The shrimp were tiny (half the size of my pinky finger.) The shredded lettuce and tomato were not fresh (reminded me of fast food toppings.) There was little flavor. My friends also ordered other sandwiches and were not happy.
(1)
Donna F.
I can't even put a star on this restaurant. First of all, the waitress couldn't even get a simple order of diet coke for 20 minutes. THEN, when we placed the order it wasn't until another 15 minutes before the dumb waitress came back and said they were out of ribs! Meanwhile, there was only one other table in the restaurant, and ribs are supposed to be one of their specialities. Jesse (?) came out apologized, said there was no mashed potatoes and gravy because they were slammed and busy but it wasn't their busy season. (huh) They replaced the ribs with brisket that was totally uneatable! The other food , poboy and pulled pork was not very good either. My daughter ordered pulled pork SANDWICH and it came with NO ROLL!!!! Another 5 times of asking and 10 minutes of waiting still no roll. My other daughters had to take apart their own food to give to their sister their bread! Unbelievable. Rather than trying to fix the food the people offered to give everyone SHOTS!!!!!!!!!!! This restaurant has no clue how to be in business, cook , or serve. It is supposed to be known for their southern comfort food and bar. Meanwhile even the bartender couldn't get the drinks right or on time. DO NOT WASTE your TIME ENTERING this facility. It will probably not be in business for much longer nor should it be!
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : No Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Divey Noise Level : Average Music : DJ, Background Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Fri, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Dogs Allowed : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Erin E.
Even though it's a new place, it's awesome! The staff is absolutely amazing, drinks are wonderful, and the food is DELICIOUS! Hope you like deep fried :)
(5)Amanda J.
Affectionately known as the Grouper, the Square Grouper is very popular with locals and people who work in town. I typically avoid here, as all of my colleagues come here after work, but it is quite good. The Grouper is kind of an upscale dive bar. They have some great outdoor seating, bar-style seating, and community tables. The owner is a really nice guy, and there is a very laid-back atmosphere here. Food and drink may not come out super quickly, but it's a hang-out bar. Don't come here if you are in a rush. I really love the mac and cheese ($6). The portion is pretty good, although it is not quite enough for a full meal. The mac and cheese is really dry, which I normally am not a fan of, but they really make it work here. You can get food to-go here as well, and I really appreciate that! The drinks are pretty standard. No fancy cocktails, but they make an acceptable whiskey sour. It's in a full-size glass, but they get the ratios right still! The Square Grouper is my dive-bar of choice in Aspen, much better than Zane's or Aspen Brewing Company. Credit cards accepted!
(4)CJ R.
I really enjoyed the food. Wonderful location in downtown Aspen. The service was also very attentive. This is definitely a restaurant I would recommend!
(5)Amir N.
When in the mountains of Colorado, one simply must visit Aspen. It just so happens on my trip I entered the Square Grouper. Very divey on the left and restaurant on the right. Personally I kind of liked that. My group and I came here for dinner and the food was okay. There was a launch party there the night we ate and we got free drinks so that definitely was much appreciated. Now for the food. If you look at the menu you see PoBoys, catfish, jambalaya, all the Cajun style foods you'd expect in NoLa. While it in no way can match the goodness of Louisiana it was still alright. You can't go wrong with any of the PoBoys or the Mac n Cheese which was pretty damn good. Wouldn't mind coming back here the next time I'm in the area.
(4)David B.
Friendly service, but the food was mediocre. I had the jambalaya for dinner but was disappointed with it. I've had much better jambalaya plenty of times at lots of other places. The beer selection was disappointing too, though I was happy to see that they serve Blackened Voodoo.
(2)Mike M.
I know good Cajun food and this was not bad at all. Friendly service, and the gumbo was surprisingly good. Fried cat poboy was also great. No complaints and I'm a picky food person, ok not picky but I don't like food that sucks. Also I'm from Texas so I know a thing or two about se Cajun food. Will be a regular spot for me from now on.
(4)Shawn S.
A rainy night in Aspen. Decided to try the Square Grouper and was very impressed. Ordered food to go... Gumbo and fried okra upon the bartender's recommendation. The gumbo was nice and spicy and the okra was tasty. Good value in an expensive town. Great grab and go.
(4)Sam V.
Came here for dinner during X-Games and surprisingly it wasn't too busy. Ordered the fried catfish po' boy with a side of Mac n' cheese. The sandwich I had was actually pretty fantastic, fried perfectly and the fish was succulent. Bread was good too! The Mac was a little lackluster. Boyfriend had the chicken sandwich and it was hardly edible. The chicken was over done and probably previously frozen because it was as hard as a rock. I couldn't cut it with a fork. The side of Cajun potato salad was just ok. Out of everything we had, my sandwich was the best. I recommend that, not sure about everything else.
(3)Prairie S.
The food and the choice of beer are only mediocre. Wholly unexceptional as a divey bar, except I have to compliment the hard working waitress and the friendly staff. They certainly beats the motley crew of ragamuffins running the Aspen Brewing Company just above.
(3)Christine V.
I thought the waitress was friendly and the food was great. Loved the drinks and especially the gumbo, best ever. Was able to bring my dog and sat outside on the patio. Loved it, very affordable.
(4)Katie M.
I've only been here for a night out of drinking. They have your usual bar but what makes this place cool is that they have a nintendo. You can play this while drinking with your buddies. Just don't get soaked by the sore losers. ;) They have some cool games to peruse during your visit. Check it out.
(4)Mindy H.
This was the first restuarant we visited while in town. I got the Mac and cheese with bbf shrimp and jalapeño. It was delish. My husband got the burger and loved it. My son loved his buttered noodle dish. The owner (I assume) was very nice. Gave my son some chalk to chalk up the table. They do not have any high chairs but we are okay with that because we travel with ours
(4)Foodlover B.
We sat outside and enjoyed the perfect Aspen summer weather tonight. We had the BLT, which was great. The house smoked bacon was fabulous. And I liked the tomato jam, which added a sweetness. The side we chose was gumbo, so-so (but, hey, we just visited cajun country where they do it right). The fried chicken sandwich and side of Mac and cheese seemed decent. Service was nice. We had a nice day in Aspen visiting the Maroon Bells. John Denver sanctuary, riding the gondola, and fly fishing.
(4)Miles H.
Went here for a simple dinner for comfort food. That's exactly what we got. A nice laid back environment and friendly staff. Food was good, decent prices. Wouldn't mind coming back.
(4)Mattie W.
What can't I say about this amazing gem?! You will not find a more approachable, relaxed, awesome place to hang out, get a drink, and catch up with some great people. The owners are awesome (Jesse is so great). This is a very important place in Aspen - it has heart. Do yourself a favor, wander on down to the Grouper, order a cold beer and a plate of mac and cheese. You will not be disappointed.
(5)Andy A.
Very cool place. Fun arcade games at decent prices: Super Chex Darts Tiger Woods Deffinitley check this place out if your around
(4)Mike M.
The food was good, but there only seemed to be one waitress for the whole restaurant. Though she tried hard to take care of everyone, it was obvious they were understaffed. Unfortunately we had to send back the desert, since it was burned and they forgot to bring our appetizer, but the meals themselves were good. Hopefully they will fix their staffing issues.
(3)Luis U.
Wow was I amazed with this bar, we picked this bar randomly just as we passed by, the food was amazing the service was amazing it was the best place we went to the whole time we were in Aspen! It is a must visit when you are in town!
(5)Stephen H.
Food 2.5 Stars Bar 3.5 Stars Not quite the Cajun we expected. I'd assume the 4 stars come from mostly bar patrons & locals. Decent spot for a drink.
(3)Mark M.
A bit hidden and a little divey. Had a cub of gumbo to start. It was good, not great. Had blackened grouper over dirty rice with red beans and rice on the side. The red beans and rice were just OK and the dirty rice was a little bland compared to what I've had before but the grouper itself was out of the park good. Just fantastic. There are a lot of options in Aspen but if I'm in the mood for cajun while in Aspen, I'll definitely come back.
(4)Kathryn L.
A good old school local Aspen Bar and Restaurant. We know the owners - brought along 6 kids and everyone had a ball. The BLT is amazing - who would ever think one could be so good - they make their own bacon in house... the burgers, chicken sandwich... all delicious. Excellent Bloody Mary - and very reasonable. The fact they have darts and bubble hockey - what could be better? :-)
(5)Taylor D.
Fun people, nice casual atmosphere in downtown Aspen... Make sure you ask for the off-menu item "Rachel's Gumbo Dog"... They may not have it the day you're there but you'll be very happy if they do!
(5)Alison S.
These guys are amazing they made suggestions, told me about the area and were very friendly I had the in house made smoked bacon BLT with gumbo fricken amazing I'm stoked to come back here for the fried chicken sandwich awesome thanks guys
(4)Jim C.
I dined here the other night with my wife and we really enjoyed ourselves. The food was tasty and reasonably priced, with a spice level that was perfect for me (albeit a bit too much for the wifey). There were some kinks to work out from the kitchen with lacking salt and some under-cooked fried items, but such things happen, especially with a whole new menu and kitchen staff. Our server Justin (I think...) made the night. Spot on with descriptions of everything, making us laugh, etc. He fit the joint perfectly. I can't wait to return and see how things are progressing as they get into their groove.
(4)Megan F.
This is a chill locals' bar opened by longtime Aspen locals - a couple of nice, hardworking guys who have been in the industry for years and have paid their dues. I only came here for drinks, but am pleased there's a new hangout for people who aren't made of money.
(5)H C.
I ordered the shrimp po boy. It came on a huge roll that you can buy in any grocery store next to the hot dog buns - In my opinion way too big. The shrimp were tiny (half the size of my pinky finger.) The shredded lettuce and tomato were not fresh (reminded me of fast food toppings.) There was little flavor. My friends also ordered other sandwiches and were not happy.
(1)Donna F.
I can't even put a star on this restaurant. First of all, the waitress couldn't even get a simple order of diet coke for 20 minutes. THEN, when we placed the order it wasn't until another 15 minutes before the dumb waitress came back and said they were out of ribs! Meanwhile, there was only one other table in the restaurant, and ribs are supposed to be one of their specialities. Jesse (?) came out apologized, said there was no mashed potatoes and gravy because they were slammed and busy but it wasn't their busy season. (huh) They replaced the ribs with brisket that was totally uneatable! The other food , poboy and pulled pork was not very good either. My daughter ordered pulled pork SANDWICH and it came with NO ROLL!!!! Another 5 times of asking and 10 minutes of waiting still no roll. My other daughters had to take apart their own food to give to their sister their bread! Unbelievable. Rather than trying to fix the food the people offered to give everyone SHOTS!!!!!!!!!!! This restaurant has no clue how to be in business, cook , or serve. It is supposed to be known for their southern comfort food and bar. Meanwhile even the bartender couldn't get the drinks right or on time. DO NOT WASTE your TIME ENTERING this facility. It will probably not be in business for much longer nor should it be!
(1)Ryan L.
Went to the grouper for the first time the other night. I had just returned to town for the season and was excited to hear about a new locals spot. I started my evening on the patio upstairs, I loved the ambiance with the tiki torches and bar. The laughter from downstairs drew my attention and I went to check out the lower bar. I immediately ran into some long time friends and throughout the night more kept stopping in! Truth be told it really is a locals bar! I loved the ring toss game and the outdoor tables. I had a great night and brought my girlfriend in the next night to try out the food. Hallie was our waitress and answered all our questions in regards to the menu. She recommended the conch fritters for our starter and then led us into dinner with the étouffée and the redfish, we loved it all! Definitely try the key lime pie! We can't wait to come back and try the rest, if your in aspen this is a new unique spot to come checkout.
(4)Brian C.
As a long time local, it's always exciting when a new restaurant opens. The food was good. The décor a little Dungeoness. My only complaint is that our waitress was wearing a sleeveless shirt, as she would take our order the menus went under her armpits..... (Gross)! And unsanitary. I'm sure that will change.. (Hopefully)..
(3)