W Cafe

If you are looking for a place where the spirit of classic mid-century America comes alive, then The W Café is a mandatory stop on your itinerary. Located in the cozy town of Gunnison, this establishment is an authentic roadside diner, founded back in 1949. Here, time seems to slow down amidst vinyl tablecloths and nostalgic decor.

This USA establishment has long been a cult meeting spot for locals, Western State University students, and, of course, tourists. It is famous for its unique old-school atmosphere, friendly service, and dishes that locals call "stick-to-your-ribs"—the perfect description for hearty food in Colorado's cool climate.

The W Café is not just an eatery, but a historical landmark of Gunnison. People come here for honest American breakfasts, large portions at reasonable prices, and that sense of home-style comfort that travelers value so much. Authentic interior details collected by the owners over decades make every visit feel like a little trip back in time.

You can contact the establishment by phone or through the official website to check the menu or place a takeout order.

The main thing people come to The W Café for is the famous breakfast, which is served all day long. Be sure to try the signature biscuits and gravy: there are four types to choose from, including classic cream and hearty sausage. If you're very hungry, look out for the W Skillet—a hot skillet with home fries, mushrooms, ham, and melting cheddar cheese.

For those who prefer Mexican notes, the menu features an impressive smothered breakfast burrito with guacamole and sour cream. At lunchtime, open-faced sandwiches with mashed potatoes, patty melts, and classic club sandwiches are popular. The portions here are truly large, so pace yourself!

Beyond the food, the café's interior is well worth a look. The walls are decorated with family heirlooms and quirky vintage items: you can see old children's cowboy clothes, an elephant marionette, and even an antique manual ice breaker. These details create a unique coziness and make waiting for your order an engaging experience.

If you find yourself here on a weekend and encounter a queue, don't be discouraged. Locals suggest popping into the neighboring The Bean for a cup of coffee while your table becomes available. The atmosphere of waiting here is part of the local ritual, highlighting the café's status as the town's premier breakfast spot.

Finding The W Café in Gunnison is easy: it is located at 114 N Main St, right in the heart of downtown. Look for the bright vintage neon sign that has graced the building's facade for decades, inviting passersby in for a cup of coffee.

Thanks to its central location, the café is easily accessible on foot if you are already downtown. For those traveling by car, public parking is available along the street. The area is very cozy and pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to combine your visit to the café with a stroll through neighboring shops.

Public transportation in Gunnison consists of local routes, but most tourists prefer taxis or personal vehicles. If you are staying at one of the local hotels, a taxi ride to Main Street will only take a few minutes.

The history of The W Café began back in 1949. Over the decades of its existence, this place has transformed from a simple roadside eatery into a true symbol of the city of Gunnison. For over half a century, it has provided shelter and hearty meals to students, local long-timers, and travelers crossing the USA.

In 1958, the establishment underwent a major renovation. It was then that the kitchen was fully modernized, and the classic long lunch counter was replaced with the cozy booths and tables seen today. For a long time, the café was owned by Mrs. Agnes Krizmanich, whose archival photographs are still carefully preserved within the walls as part of its rich heritage.

Today, the café remains a family business. Current owner Kimberly Parker and her son, Charlton, maintain that "old school" atmosphere, keeping artifacts and relics of years past on the walls. It is not just a restaurant, but a living museum of local culture.

Public recognition speaks to the quality of the kitchen: between 2001 and 2017, the establishment was repeatedly voted the best breakfast spot in Gunnison. Consistent recipes and loyalty to tradition allow The W Café to remain a local favorite decade after decade.

To slowly soak in the atmosphere of a classic American breakfast, you will need approximately 30–60 minutes. This is plenty of time to admire the vintage decor on the walls and enjoy the impressive portions of local dishes.

However, the popularity of the establishment is worth considering. On weekends, queues of locals and students often form, so the wait time for a table may increase. If you plan to visit on a Saturday or Sunday, it is recommended to arrive early to avoid a long wait.

The establishment caters to early birds and lovers of hearty lunches. The W Café typically opens its doors daily from 07:00 to 14:00. Please note that the café is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

As the operating schedule may change depending on holidays or the season, it is recommended to check the official website or call before visiting. Remember that the full menu is available during all working hours.

After a hearty breakfast at The W Café, it’s a great idea to take a walk around the neighborhood. The central part of Gunnison is rich in interesting locations, from historic buildings to cozy steakhouses and unique souvenir shops.

Exploring downtown will allow you to better feel the Colorado atmosphere and find a few more hidden gems of the region.