Fraser’s newest eatery, 85-Fifty, is bringing new meaning to the old phrase that big things come in small packages thanks to the big, bold flavors being served up from the small, inconspicuous food truck parked behind the Fraser River Beer Co.
85-Fifty, located at 218 Eisenhower Drive, offers elevated bar bites to pair with Fraser River Beer Co. brews, including burger and sandwich options, but with fun and surprising flavor twists.
“It’s pretty wild,” said owner Androw Miller about opening up his first eatery. “We’re doing classic American bar fare and (…) I’d like to add a little to the menu at a time to keep the town interested.”
Miller has been a part of the Grand County dining scene for almost a decade, with experience at Winter Park Resort, Devil’s Thumb Ranch and Pepe Osaka’s, but when he got the opportunity to run his own business, he couldn’t pass it up.
Now, as owner and chef at 85-Fifty, Miller says he is focusing on freshness, unique flavors and making customers happy with the dishes he puts on the menu. So far the fan favorite is the Korean BBQ beef, which has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor, perfect to pair with any of the ales on tap inside.
“I’m just trying to put out some different flavors that people aren’t really utilizing,” Miller, who is half-Korean, said. “I think a good formula for success is to keep things simple. (…) Basically, I want to be consistent and stay true to the food.”
Since Miller enjoys creating new flavor combinations and dish ideas, he will also offer daily specials and expects the menu to change slowly as he finds new things to add, especially as he expands the Korean inspired dishes.
The menu also takes advantage of the brewery by featuring the local beer in the food, such as Miller’s beer brats, which he also hopes to expand by developing some specific beer and food pairings.
“We’re one big team,” he said of Fraser River Beer Co. “The whole goal is team work will make the dream work.”
While a lot of the food is made with the Fraser River Beer Co. patrons in mind, Miller also wanted to balance the menu with some lighter options and vegetarian fare, since the truck is located close to many outdoor activities.
When it’s not as enjoyable to sit outside or for those hanging out indoors, customers can order inside at the bar and get their food delivered to their tables. Overall, Miller said he wants his customers to feel taken care of.
“(Fraser) is kind of like a big family, like any good small town home feel,” he said.
Currently, 85-Fifty is permanently located at Fraser River Beer Co., but eventually Miller said he’d like to get a second truck that could be more mobile, so he could travel to the various festivals and summer events.
85-Fifty soft opened on May 9, but plans to celebrate its grand opening in conjunction with Fraser River Beer Co. on June 22, complete with live music and giveaways.