The sun is shining on another beautiful day in New Mexico. Join Tom Neiman and Jim Tritten as they report on a trip to southwestern Colorado and what you can expect at two great eating establishments within a short drive of Durango: the Absolute Bakery & Cafe in Mancos and the James Ranch Grill north of Durango. Just click on the following YouTube link and watch our report (hint: humor included at no extra charge): https://youtu.be/cMSvvbL5TFQ read more

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Great stop on the way to or from Mesa verde. Delicious breakfast sandwiches and fantastic dessert bars. You can even call and order ahead. Highly recommended! read more

Absolute Bakery & Cafe - Cookies and dessert bars - Bakeries Near Me - Mancos, Colorado

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Have you ever had one of those mornings when you just want a cinnamon roll? You know, a big, gooey cinnamon roll, smothered in that white stuff, sweet and warm, maybe a little drizzle of melted butter just to give it a little salt? Now imagine that you're 760 miles from home, you've been camping in a trailer with your family for the last 31 days and 9000 miles, you have no idea if there's a bakery or a grocery store nearby, but dammit, you still want that cinnamon roll... Well lucky for us, on the last stop of our trip in Mesa Verde national park, the nearby town of Mancos A cute little Absolute bakery. A little counter, a glass case full of sweet things, and they were more than happy to put together a bag of cinnamon rolls for me and my kids before they even were out of their bunkbeds in the trailer. I heated them up in the small oven in our camper, and that delightful smell of cinnamon roll woke everybody up before we enjoyed a long, sugar charged day in the national park. If you're in town or just passing through during business hours, this place is definitely worth getting off the highway making a stop, and dropping an anti-Jackson on delicious carbs. The menu showed some larger breakfast entrée type things, but I didn't spend a lot of time thinking about it. Because cinnamon rolls. Sometimes, that's all you really need. read more

We've had several breakfast and lunch items, all of them delicious. We make sure to have at least one meal here anytime we are in Mancos. for the food. I find the cookies to be too dry for my taste, although this seems to be fairly typical for high elevation bakeries. I would skip most of the pastries, aside from the bars. The Key Lime Raspberry bar is particularly good. read more

Cute place in a cute little town this is always a must stop when we're in Mancos. Very busy place so you'll need to wait for a table. I had the Mesa Verde Stack which was much bigger than my fat gut and delicious. The wife had the veggie burrito which she enjoyed and she is a wonderful cook herself so hard to please. This place is a gem! read more

Absolute Bakery & Cafe - Mesa Verde Stack - Bakeries Near Me - Mancos, Colorado

We stopped at absolute on our way to the national park and I'm so glad we did! We took some wraps and sandwiches to go and ate them at the top of a mountain! This place was super busy and it took awhile to get our food (which was totally fine and expected). The food was really tasty. I had the ginger wrap and enjoyed it. They also had some nice baked goods, which is always great. Definitely check them out! read more

Amazing, a real breakfast eatery opening on Sundays at 7am. We had our Durango to Cascade train ride at 9am so needed a fix to warm up. This place did not disappoint us! Two eggs, bacon, green chiles, breakfast burrito also with eggs, muffin, blueberry scone and of course their famous brew of which we bought two bags. Recommended by our B&B and also our hike companion of the day prior. Great stuff and a true gem in the area. read more

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This is a very good bakery and cafe. Soft cinnamon roll with lots of cinnamon and icing through out. Date and oat granola half order and enough left over for a snack. Presently masks are required due to delta variant of COVID august 2021. read more

What a gem of a place and an unexpected find on a drive to Mesa Verde. This place is adorable with a gigantic selection of amazing pastries and such cool art. My friend found an incredible black and white print of a big horn sheep which looked like it was a limited series, and me on the other hand was ogling over the dessert options, not being able to make any decisions because of how many options I had - typical me. The staff was so nice and was being incredibly COVID safe. They handed us our credit card back on a baking try so we weren't directly touching one another. There were food and coffee options as well which we unfortunately couldn't take advantage of because of our quick pit stop through town, but I suggest checking this place out if you're in town. You won't be disappointed. Even if just for the atmosphere and a big 'ol chocolate chip cookie. read more

Absolute Bakery & Cafe - a display of cookies and pastries - Bakeries Near Me - Mancos, Colorado

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It's amazing and a local hidden gem so it's not hidden to the locals. We tried the chefs special the absolute Montecristo and it is absolutely delicious! We got a few baked goods and my child got the chocolate chip kids pancakes and the maple syrup taste homemade. Staff is very friendly and helpful even with several customers behind you. We sat at a table on the patio next to a Riverbend and ate our breakfast. read more

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Wonderful food and store items!!! ROWAN was our fabulous server made us feel right at home...a must in Mancos read more

Absolute Bakery & Cafe - Great books - Bakeries Near Me - Mancos, Colorado

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Great grab and go options for the amazing hikes in this area. We tried the breakfast burritos, blackberry scone, blueberry lemon bar, cookies...and everything was delicious. Staff is very nice as well. read more

Went to this sweet hidden gem in October. Bought some granola that was heavenly. They also sold some great hot sauce from Adobo mills. Laughed out loud at all of the subversive embroidery on the walls and other local art as well as some great used books. I ended up buying embroidery supplies which is great on a road trip if you love to sew. But I digress..... For breakfast, the Mesa Verde Stack was delicious, and the Huevos Rancheros were amazing. I bought some little key lime and lemon crumb bars for later and they were fantastic. There is some construction going on out front, we sat outside, but got there early enough to avoid the noise. They have sweet little outdoor tables. This place made our trip so special, we heard about it from some friends who had traveled there in the summer. It is a must. read more

While I understand it was a busy Saturday morning with crowds attracted to see the eclipse these people were completely unprepared for something that could have easily been handled better. At one point a woman came out of the kitchen and in a pretty rude voice asked everyone waiting for food to go stand outside (32 degree weather). Instead of being prepared for a great opportunity to sell a lot of food you alienated your customers. Won't be back. read more

Great breakfast..!! Love the Congo Bars..!! Quaint location ..!! Wonderful Service ...... read more

We were looking forward to breakfast here, especially since there are not many options in Mancos and the reviews are good. BUT, it's closed. It appears to be undergoing renovations and will be under a different name. Absolute Bakery, you absolutely must take down your website! read more

If it wasn't for one of the employees, Grey, I would probably give ABC 3 stars. He alone is worth 5 stars for his hard work in what looks like a challenging position. We visited ABC twice during our stay in Mancos: once for a quick pick up of baked goods and lavender lemonade, and then to sit down for breakfast since our hosts raved about it. The baked goods were all delicious, as was the lavender lemonade. I didn't know his name at the time, but Grey was working the counter when we came in (following the directions on the sign to go to the right, around the shelves, for carry out). He was very friendly and patient as we chose our treats. My daughters and I came back a couple days later to eat breakfast. We stayed to the left this time, per the directions, to indicate our desire to be seated. After a bit of a wait, Grey left his position at the counter (taking orders, filling them, and taking payment for carry out customers) when there was a lull and greeted us and took us to a table. He then took our drink orders and left for a bit while we looked over the menu. At that time, I observed a larger party (maybe 7 or 8, including kids) giving their order to another young man. Grey came back and took our orders. Then, while we were waiting, we watched him bring one coffee container to the self-serve station and told us he was in the middle of brewing the other kind. Meanwhile, he was also working the counter. A few more parties were seated during this time as well, some by the woman baking, some by another employee who was also working the counter. Grey took orders from other tables. Our food came out relatively quickly, brought by Grey and the baker. We dug in. The food was good overall. Not absolutely fantastic, but decent portions (not too big, not too small) and filling. The breakfast sandwich was a hit for one daughter. The pancakes were different since they were whole wheat sourdough. The green chili on my Mesa Verde Stack could have used a little more flavor, maybe even just more salt. As we started eating, it occurred to me that I overheard one of the women in the large party order the same thing I did before I ordered, but that party had not yet received their food. Sure enough, a few minutes later as more tables were eating and they weren't, one of the women from the large party went to check and came back angry, ready to walk out. Soon after, their server came out with a single scone and said something about how they're not used to serving large parties and how it was out of his control. He was not apologetic and really didn't help the situation. Luckily, Grey came out then with the beginning of their orders and seemed to save the day with his friendly attitude. We left while they were still eating so I don't know how it all ended up, but I was half expecting a scathing review left on Yelp by now. We finished eating and put in an order for two lavender lemonades to go. Grey took the order and told me, when we were ready, to go to the counter to pay. I went to the bathroom and came back to the lemonades already on the table, so I sent the girls out to the car while I went to pay. I ended up having to wait several minutes behind customers ordering for carry out. Finally, the counter cleared and was being worked by the other young man who had been serving the large, disgruntled party. He offered no greeting or indication that he was ready to help me, so I hesitated before going up to him. I let him know what table number and added a couple more things to the bill (a bag of granola and a Congo bar to try later). While I was working with him, Grey was at the other register at the counter entering in orders. I didn't know his name at the time, but I asked for it because I really wanted to leave a review for him. Overall, the store is lovely and the food is good. It's their customer service system that really needs improvement. As it was, no one really knew who was doing what at any given time and customers were getting neglected. Another issue with the system is requiring people who sat down to eat to get in line at the counter to pay. When there's a long line of people ordering food, it takes a long time to pay when you've already finished eating and want to clear out of the restaurant. Finally, there is a sign saying that tips are shared by all employees. I understand that there are many hard workers in the whole cafe. However, when comparing Grey-who was constantly running around, taking orders at both the counter and tables, seating people, brewing coffee, entering orders, and being upbeat and friendly the whole time- to the other young man-who took one table's order, didn't try get their food out in a timely manner, was surly about it, and wasn't very polite at the counter- there's no question who deserved the better tips. So, thank you, Grey, for doing your best in an inefficient system. read more

food was average service was not good. Stood waiting to get a seat for five minutes before anyone approached us and we were the only ones standing there. took forever to get food. The toast was not edible, it was so stale. just could not get anyone to refill drinks or take payment. I would not recommend. Although the restaurant was adorable read more

Holy Vegan Burrito (add eggs)!!!! Giant and delicious with tons of veggies and beans. So much flavor! The red sauce is smoky and has some spice- I loved it. The French toast was just ok, I'm glad I just got one. Veg Head breakfast was delicious. Cinnamon buns are amazing but get there early if you want one. The service was quick and organized. You order at the counter and you receive a pager. The cafe is charming with a local vibe. Lots of local art and things to look at. Maybe play some music in the dining room? No music in a food establishment has always been mind blowing to me. Thanks for being awesome. read more

Such a great gem off of the beaten path! Hands down the best huevos rancheros in the game (ask for Christmas style - half green / half red chile)! The local art in the restaurant itself gives this place so much charm! Don't miss this stop on your trip down to Mesa Verde and the Four Corners! read more

It's amazing great bakery middle of historic mancos right in the heart of the city Main Street business district busy busy busy they have books many special items to go they serve breakfast lunch vegan entrées touchless payment lots of artwork for sale on their walls and throughoutCoffee was a Peruvian blend 275 for a small three dollars for a bottomless cup read more

Absolute Bakery & Cafe - Bakeries Near Me - Mancos, Colorado

Traveled to Absolute Bakery this morning for breakfast and it was closed! It appears it's being remodeled with a roll off dumpster in front and all windows covered. March 10,2024 read more

So delicious. Love this place. Due to covid dining is closed but got a delicious bagel sandwich read more

Absolute Bakery & Cafe - Inside the restaurant - Bakeries Near Me - Mancos, Colorado

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This bakery has been around a long time. I love it's charm and the bakery treats are yummy! Everything is fresh and local food provided. I've been going for 15 years and the food does not disappoint! read more

Books from the bakery that we love. My grandson never gets tired reading them. The food is great. Service is great. Great Ambiance. Great Art from local Artists and great book selection. read more

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Pretty good breakfast place, fresh local food and everything is made from scratch!! I tried the special, my meal was good but maybe a little strange. They called it eggs in purgatory. Which is funny because the local ski resort is named Purgatory. It was 2 perfectly poached eggs (not easy to do BTW, I know, I've tried) in a bowl that were smothered in a classic tomato sauce, topped with sliced avocado and crumbled cheese. It came with a flower tortilla and fresh fruit on the side. The meal was good....but like I said strange. I guess I wasn't prepared for a garlicky tomato soup for breakfast. And I would have enjoyed two slices of toast (they are a bakery and the bread is fresh) to dip rather then the tortilla. The fruit was good but not enough on the plate to be satisfying. Next time I want to try the eggs Benedict. My Boyfriend got the french toast and bacon. The toast slices were huge and flavorful, but the french toast isn't crispy. On the other hand the bacon was very crispy just as my Boyfriend requested. I enjoyed the 100 year old building, worn old wood floors with copper patches, and tin ceiling tiles, you can imagine old cowboys walking around with spurs on in the wild west days hanging out here. It is Mancos and it's still likely you will get see a cowboy here, I saw a guy riding a giant steer thru town once. Lol This bakery has a cozy atmosphere, and the smell of fresh baked bread and cookies wafts through air, so pleasant. The funniest of all, is the restrooms are hidden in the front room behind a book shelf, so everyone who doesn't know that, wanders into the back dining room looking for them, I saw this 3 times during our meal as were seated in the back. The service is great, but they make you pay at the counter, not a bad thing, I just dislike that. Personal preference, they can't please everyone, lol. So if you are traveling through Manco on your way to Telluride or Mesa Verde stop in and eat or grab a cookie from the case to go, you won't forget it. read more

Absolute Bakery & Cafe - Absolute breakfast BLT - Bakeries Near Me - Mancos, Colorado

I don't really have a problem with dumb people. In fact, I'm not always the sharpest knife in the drawer. However, combine dumb with arrogant........Houston we have a problem. The staff here, as many have commented, are so incredibly obnoxious and condescending. Examples: - Directing my family to go through the Disney queue of an empty lobby area instead of simply walking up to the counter. Stating, as if I were a three year old child, the reason was so we could review the menu before ordering. I explain we have already reviewed and know what we want. She states go through the queue anyway. Her requirement had absolutely no impact on safety in that given situation. - Accusing me of endangering her grandfather when I never removed my mask at any point and I remainied a safe distance from the staff at all times - And for the icing on the stupid/arrogant cake, when my friend, who had visited their restaurant previously, mentioned he was hard of hearing and having trouble understanding her, came up with the brilliant suggestion he should get a see through mask. Really? Going to need you to walk me through how that will help the situation Einstein. I live in Colorado and have traveled to several states that range from you're a wacko if you're wearing a mask to you're the devil for not being in a full hazmat suit. I've never had a single issue. I've accommodated the full spectrum. However, these folks I couldn't handle. I do sort of feel sorry for them when this is all over and they will lose some of the control they have apparently so desperately needed in their lives. However, pretty sure they will find other ways to be dumb and arrogant! read more

I stopped by here on a recent trip to nearby Mesa Verde National Park. I love the building this place is situated in. It has a nice historical feel to it. The clerk at the counter was very friendly. I ordered a pastry and a cookie to go. If I had more time to spend I would've visited again. I was impressed with the pastry and cookie. The clerk was right when she told me that every bakery item is really good. If you like snickerdoodle, get some snickerdoodle cookies. Wish this place was close to Denver! read more

This place is an absolute gem. It is a local favorite and there may be a wait. I was a "single" in the area for a short vacation at Mesa Verde and I was asked if I would be willing to share a table so they could utilize their limited seating better. As a result, I had a delightful meal with another tourist plus a staff member at Mesa Verde. I ordered the Absolute Eggs Benedict that came with O'Brien potatoes. The dish was wonderfully presented with large slices of ham. The potatoes were outstanding too. I definitely plan to stop here again any time I am in the area. read more

Absolute Bakery & Cafe - Absolute Eggs Benedict with O'Brien potatoes - Bakeries Near Me - Mancos, Colorado

The bakery has some really awesome food and coffee. I come to mancos from Durango often and try to make it a point to stop here every time. Most of the staff is incredibly friendly, with the exception of a gal I believe is Halie. Each interaction I've had with her has been less than adequate. She's incredibly rude and has a poor attitude overall. I wouldn't say anything if I hadn't experienced it more than four times now, but if she's working expect to be treated as a bother and maybe go elsewhere. Not sure why she's working in a position where she has to deal with the public so much, she obviously doesn't enjoy it. If you do stop in, get the mancos grille! So delicious. read more

Great food and the bakery items are superb!! It's a family environment with a staff that goes out of their way to make your experience wonderful. The food is phenomenal and the bakery they do a damn good pizza! My favorite is the homemade bread. read more

Best breakfast burrito (wrap) I've ever had IN.MY.LIFE. No joke. Amazing. read more

Absolute Bakery & Cafe - Bakeries Near Me - Mancos, Colorado

The Thai Chicken Soup today was fantastic! So much flavor & the texture was enhanced by colorful vegetables, large chunks of chicken & rice noodles. Yum. read more

During our recent visit to the area we have eaten here about once a day. Their food is delicious and fresh. My husband loves their burgers. The best he's ever had. Come to find out they use a local farm and the beef is grass fed. I love their Greek salad! The veggies are fresh and the chicken is perfectly seasoned. We also love their breakfast. Again my husband loves their French toast. The Veg Head breakfast is really good and filling. The staff is great and they are following COVID-19 precautions to the tee which we appreciate. Keep up the great work! We appreciate all you do to keep everyone safe and fed so well. read more

I have 16 food allergies and the chef was very helpful and happy to accommodate me so I could eat with my family. They have opened their dining room for "soft" dining where you're required to wear your mask while not actively eating and clean up after yourself. They are so warm and friendly. Their homemade pastries were loved by the rest of my family! They have a great green Chile sauce read more

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I used to brag about this place but no more. Dining area is relegated to back room which has no character or ambiance like the front area which is now just a gift store. Food was presented in a cardboard box with plastic silverware. And to top it off, no free refills anymore on coffee. Plus you now pay up front . They lost this once faithful customer for good. read more

Love the food! Can get busy so it's best to jump on getting there early and placing orders!

I really wanted to leave a higher review. Nice ambiance, good food, but looooonngg wait. Arrived at 9:15 and told 25-30 minute wait. 45-60minutes later we were seated and able to order food. Food delivered by 1130am. We chose this place for the Sunday special eggs Benedict, which was available when we arrived, but sold out during our wait for a table. My chocolate chip flap jacks were good and my companion's frittata was tasty. A good place to try if you have time to spare. read more

Amazing cafe in small town Mancos. The setting is quaint with tin ceilings, weathered hard wood floors and old style counter. Loved the coffee bar and great selection of cookies and pastry bars. All the food was tasty. It's a must go if you are in the area for lunch and breakfast read more

Cool place, but waited almost an hour for the food after we ordered. Very frustrating. Probably won't go again.