Any suggestions for any special non-chain restaurants in or near Georgetown, Idaho Springs, Dillon, Mt. Princeton, and Manitou Springs? We like most everything, from a great Mexican dive to fine creative cuisine. Many thanks, a

Not much in Georgetown. A couple of good ice cream shops. I like the Tommy Knocker brewery and the Buffalo Bar in Idaho Springs. Dillon has the Dam Brewery. The Hearthstone in Breckenridge is one of the best the area.

Beau Jo's Pizza in Idaho Springs is great!

amica in Salida--20 minutes from Mt Princeton--has unbelievable pizza.

For Manitou Springs:

La Petite Maison

http://lapetitemaisoncs.com/

Downtown Colorado Springs (not too far from Manitou):

El Tesoro

http://www.el-tesoro.com/

Arabica Cafe:

http://www.cravearabica.com/

Flavors on Tejon:

http://flavorsontejon.com/

For great ice cream:

Josh & Johns:

http://www.joshandjohns.com/

On Garden of the God's Road (off of Garden of the Gods Road, not close to Manitou but worth the drive)

Marigold Bakery:

http://marigoldcafeandbakery.com/

Thanks so much for the suggestions! Any others are welcome. annie

If you enjoy bbq, Smokin' Yards in Idaho Springs is terrific for food and atmosphere, along Clear Creek with nice patio and the potential to see some wildlife.

Adams Mountain Cafe in Manitou Springs is a refreshing and delicious spot for natural and organic items. It gets busy, there -- always a good sign!!

If you are willing to venture beyond Dillon, there are plenty of options throughout the ski resort areas, but it is also just as nice to pick up some picnic items and enjoy them lakeside.

Have a great visit -- and also know that Denver has some truly nice restaurants as well on Larimer Street, in the Highlands area, and a few other locales. Check in if you want recommendations for Denver...

The Loop (Mexican) in Manitou

http://www.theloopatmanitou.com/