Beano's Cabin

It’s been nearly a century since Polish immigrant Frank Bienkowski left city life behind in Chicago to stake out a homestead in the mountains of Colorado.

Likely drawn to the same starry nights and “see-forever” days that still bring many here, Bienkowski settled into this very meadow—in the shadow of Grouse Mountain—and came to be known simply as “Beano.”

Bienkowski carved out a meager home for himself in the high country, raising lettuce and hay on his little ranch while also toiling in the Aurora mine at the head of the valley. 

In the summer, he drove his little wagon down the mountain into Avon to peddle his lettuce and mail letters back home to Chicago. In the winter, his trips were made on snowshoe. Stories were told of Bienkowski blistering into town on “Norwegian Snowshoes”—ten-foot wooden skis of those years.

Opened in 1986, Beano’s Cabin continues its tradition of culinary excellence. Inspired by Bienkowski, Executive Chef Mackenzie Nicholson cultivates a summer garden next to the replica of Bienkowski's original cabin to provide the freshest ingredients nature has to offer.

Beano’s Cabin is consistently recognized by the Distinguished Restaurants of North America and Wine Spectator "Best of" awards, maintaining a passionate commitment to supporting local and organic producers of Colorado meat, fish, produce and cheese.