Tucked within Aspen’s trendy restaurant scene rests a cozy getaway, where locals linger, visitors refuel, and hikers swap pre-hike notes over homemade pancakes and protein-rich eggs. Since 1971, Poppycock’s Cafe has served the kind of comfort food that satisfies early risers and brunch lovers alike. The main remedy?
Famous oatmeal buttermilk pancakes made from scratch, cappuccinos with charming swirls, and mom-andpop service that consistently caters to regulars on a first-name basis. It’s just the type of no-frills atmosphere that long-time locals and owners Paul Poh and Bee Wong strive to deliver with all day breakfast favorites from first bite to last crumb. Summer mornings see the café’s patio come to life. Dogs curl up under tables, smoothies arrive refreshing and bursting with fresh fruit flavor, and made-to-order cage-free eggs get the day started on the right foot. Originally started as a creperie by two English women, Poppycock’s Cafe is now a cozy and lively breakfast nook. On any given day, patrons are greeted by its small lunch counter complete with coffee machines, a casual atmosphere, and walls adorned in large prints depicting Aspen culture.
When you sit down comes Poppycocks’ sweet, sweet magic. Its pancakes are what dreams are made of: a golden stack of oatmeal buttermilk goodness, crowned with fresh berries, sliced bananas, and a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s the kind of dish guests fall in love with and take home in the form of the restaurant’s house pancake mix. Take home or ship your very own bag! Or try the waffles — perfectly griddled for a golden finish. Those looking for something savory won’t be disappointed either. Eggs benedict arrives perfectly poached atop toasted English muffins with Canadian bacon and smothered with their homemade hollandaise sauce. Embrace your inner epicurean to see if you can guess their secret hollandaise sauce ingredient.
Need something vegetarian? Look no further than their famous Avocado Eggs. It is a daily labor of love to make this signature spread of poached eggs, fresh avocado, cheddar cheese and a sweet and tangy salsa made from scratch all on top of a toasted English muffin. “We use poblano and bell peppers, tomato, and five different herbs to make our homemade salsa,” says Poh. “We sell about a gallon a day. Sometimes, we sell a lot more.
Ask us if you want to take a fresh batch home with you!” Make sure to wash it down with Poppycock’s Cafe’s famous smoothies and health drinks. Try the No. 6, a blend of strawberry, blueberry, mango nectar, and protein powder. It makes for a quintessential thirst quencher after feasting on delicious comfort fare. And if breakfast turns to lunch? Even better. Poppycock’s Cafe serves a delicious lineup of hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and satisfying wraps, all made with the same commitment to quality that has made them a local favorite.
From the Poppycock’s Club Sandwich, a triple-decker classic layered with turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo, to the popular Turkado, packed with fresh avocado, grilled turkey, tomato, lettuce, and swiss cheese, their lunch menu is designed to satisfy every craving.
Looking for something lighter? Enjoy the Spinach Salad with ripe tomatoes, balsamic dressing, and avocado, or try a protein-packed Chicken Veggie Wrap with spinach, lettuce, tomato, and cucumber.
Whether you’re in the mood for an all-american breakfast choice or a hearty lunch to refuel your day, visit this Aspen tradition to experience why locals and visitors alike continue to choose Poppycock’s Cafe for over 50 years. Oh, and if you’re interested in buying Poppycock’s Cafe’s famous pancake mixes or grabbing a bag of their Poppycock’s blend coffee beans, visit www.poppycocksaspen.com.