Reviewing The Golden Mill: A historic landmark turned food hall in Golden, Colorado.

The Golden Mill is a historic landmark turned food hall in Golden, Colorado, overlooking Clear Creek. This venue has been a hub for the community since the 1860s when it used to be the town’s mill and feed store. 

After its recent transformation, it’s now home to numerous local vendors, serving a variety of foods ranging from classic American fare to exotic international dishes. Two bars with a wide selection of beers, wines, ciders, and saké, a large outdoor patio area, and rooftop dining with stunning views of the surrounding mountains make this a place where people love to eat, drink, and hang out. 

History of the Golden Mill 

The historic building started as a flour mill in 1864 and was a hub for farmers. They brought their wheat and other grains to the mill to grind into flour for bread and pastries. Millers would carry and sell flour to nearby mining towns like Georgetown, Black Hawk, and Central City. 

In 1954, the Golden Mill became a store for animal feed. In 2020, the mill was sold and transformed into a food hall, which opened in April 2021. The mill’s history is honored in the decor, with vintage photographs and artifacts on display. 

Five Delicious Local Food Stalls 

The Golden Mill supports local farmers by using locally sourced ingredients and vendors. When I was there in October, the following food sellers were doing a brisk business. 

Mexican: Tacos Al Chile 

Comfort Fusion: Republik of Chiken 

Bar-B-Que: Rolling Smoke BBQ 

Sushi: Sushi Sora 

Ice Cream: Happy Cones 

While I explored all the vendors, I chose some delicious sushi items and poured saké into a glass from the tap. I sat on the rooftop overlooking Clear Creek and the Coors Brewing plant, a short distance away.  

There was an eclectic mix of customers that day. Grandparents with grandkids (one grandmother teaching the youngster how to dance), a couple holding hands over glasses of wine, singles meeting up with friends, and family groups sitting on stools by the railing. 

How the Golden Mill Works 

Only self-pour tap walls require customers to pour their favorite beverage. Bartenders, aka Beer Ambassadors, are on duty to help the uninitiated. They also teach you how to pour the perfect drink. Taking small pours is a great way to taste a wide range of brews and wines. 

First, register and check in at the host stand downstairs. The host will help you open a tab and give you an RFID card that links to your credit or debit card. Then, you are ready to experience the tap walls. 

Second, you’ll want to self-tour the beer walls and dining options. Try any tap: 

• Take a glass near or above the fixture. 
• Place your card in the slot above. 
• Pull the tap down to capture the drink in your glass. 

You are charged by the ounce; the first ounce doesn’t count. 

Third, take a seat anywhere in the dining areas. Order food as you wish, pick it up when it’s ready, and enjoy. Dining this way is a fun and social way to eat and drink. You can’t help but have a good time. 

Be Your Own Bartender at the Golden Mill 

Two state-of-the-art self-pour tap walls have over 50 taps of top-notch beers, wines, ciders, and homemade cocktails. Rotating beers on tap feature many local Colorado brands. 

The main taproom has 46 taps for unique beers, wines, house-made cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks, including kombucha and non-alcoholic beer. Pinot noir, margaritas, and crisp lagers are a few of the offerings. 

The rooftop beer wall features 16 taps with a smaller selection of beers, wines, cocktails, and saké.  

Friendly Staff at the Golden Mill 

Known for their warm hospitality, Patrick proved them right. He was the bartender on duty when I was there. He demonstrated how to work the taps, fill the glass, and let me know the first ounce is always free. 

Things to Know About the Golden Mill  

• Family-friendly
• Pet-friendly – Dogs are allowed in the yard on a leash, but not inside nor on the rooftop patio.
• Outdoor firepits
• Handicapped accessible parking and elevator at the entrance with a ramp to the entrance
• Free parking at the CoorsTek parking lot one block north of the restaurant
• An 18% service fee is added to all guest checks to support the entire service team
• Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free items are on the menus
• No reservations, first come-first served
• Live music weekly

The Golden Mill Final Review 

The Golden Mill is a unique place to try local food and new beers. There’s something to be said for outdoor dining on a rooftop on a warm sunny day in Golden, Colorado. I’ll go back!