About us

Chief Al Sapien serving meat at special event
Chef Alberto Sapien
Chef Alberto Sapien was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico and raised in Denver, Colorado. At age thirteen he began working in restaurants to help support his family. He quickly discovered his love and passion for cooking.

After graduating high school, Chef Alberto apprenticed at the Denver County Club under a Certified Master Chef and competed in food shows throughout the U.S. and Europe.

He became Executive Chef at the Denver Country Club, and later took the same position at the Denver Petroleum Club.

Chef Al and his wife Lisa decided to relocate to Winter Park and the Fraser Valley in 1994. In Grand County, Chef Alberto has worked as Executive Chef at the Ranch House at Devil’s Thumb Ranch, the Shed, and Untamed Steakhouse.

In June 2008, Chef Alberto Sapien partnered with David McKnight to open Tabernash Tavern, which immediately became a favorite of locals and tourists alike.

Since opening, he has been featured in Denver’s 5280 Magazine.

Spotlight on our Executive Sous Chef, Jason Orive

Raised in a farming village in northern Illinois, Jason Orive attended culinary school at Le Cordon Bleu’s Cooking and Hospitality Institute of Chicago, where he graduated in 2005. Chef Orive has shared his talents with Grand County since 2007, working kitchens in fine establishments such as the Ranch House at Devil’s Thumb Ranch, the Historic Rapids Lodge in Grand Lake, and C Lazy U Ranch in Granby. Tabernash Tavern is proud to call him our own since 2014.

Ceaser Asada entree and a craft beer
Cuisine

Tabernash Tavern & Wine Bar offers a delicious selection of international favorites, including USDA Prime dry-aged steaks, seafood, vegetarian, and comfort food options with a twist. We also offer organic, cage-free, free-range, and all-natural ingredient dishes. Vegan, heart-healthy, and gluten-free options are also available.

Bar Selections

** Wine Spectator Award of Excellence since 2014**

Our commitment to excellence in wine has been recognized by Wine Spectator since 2014. This prestigious award is given to restaurants and bars that demonstrate a strong commitment to wine service and selection. We take pride in our extensive wine list and our knowledgeable staff, who are always happy to help you find the perfect pairing for your meal. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, we have something for everyone. Come visit us and see why we have been recognized as one of the best places in town to enjoy a glass of wine or any of our six beers on tap.

Customers enjoying handcrafted cocktails and wine at the bar