I love Sedalia, Colorado. It's a charming and picturesque town nestled in the rolling foothills of the Colorado Rockies, located approximately 20 miles south of Denver. Known for its serene natural beauty, Sedalia offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life while still providing easy access to urban amenities. There's a lot of history in this town and there are local hallmarks and eateries that everyone recommends...and for hamburgers everyone claims that one spots is the best - Buds.
Almost everyone would agree that a great hamburger is a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures, where the quality of each component shines. Obviously, it begins with a perfectly seasoned, juicy meat patty, grilled to a mouthwatering level of doneness, and ideally, featuring a delightful sear on the outside. The bun should be soft, yet sturdy enough to hold everything together, toasted to add a subtle crunch. Toppings should be fresh and vibrant, enhancing the burger with their distinct textures and complementary tastes. Whether it's the crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, crunchy pickles, or a slice of melty cheese, each element should contribute to the burger's overall balance. Great hamburgers also come with a well-thought-out sauce or condiment that ties everything together, providing that extra burst of flavor. Ultimately, a great hamburger transcends the sum of its parts, delivering a satisfying, memorable culinary experience that leaves you craving another bite. Well, I can tell you that I've been to Bud's seven times (yes, seven) in the past year and I can vouch for their hamburgers. The best in Sedalia, hands down.
Bud's provides amazing, tasty, basic, and inexpensive burgers and cheeseburger off the beaten path in downtown Sedalia. Not only are they know for reasonable prices, their menu is intentionally simplistic: Only four items available - hamburgers, double-hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and double-cheese burgers. All burgers are served with a bag of chips and the menu actually says "no fries dammit." As a side, you receive pickles and onions, plus on special request, jalapenos and/or mayo on the burger. That's it and that's all.
There's an insert within the finest hamburger publication in America, named 'Hamburger America' and it says: "As the burger nears doneness, both halves of the bun are placed on the burger and covered with a lid to steam the bun to softness." This makes the cheese mesh with the white bun so much better and Bud's is the best in Sedalia.
For those who bring their children with them, Bud's also has a full bar for the adults and pre-packaged candy for the kids. This is a classic small shop - two televisions, lots of random and adorable 'kitch' all over the walls, a old jukebox, a toy claw machine in the corner and locals who have been dining her for lunch or dinner for decades. According to one review in Denver - 'Bud's is the best place to eat in the area and definitely worth the 40-minute drive if you're in CO Springs or Denver.' When I see the older shows on TV in the 60s and 70s above small town burger joints, Bud's fits the image in my mind.
Buds is an experience. An awesome experience. It's like being in Mayberry...everyone is like family and everyone talks to everyone...whether they know you or not. The burgers are outstanding and that's probably never going to change.
Three Things to Know About Bud's:
Bud's does not provide French fries. If you want a side order, a bag of chips will have to do. So don't ask. You'll simply get a funny look.
If you love cheeseburgers and you're hungry, definitely order the Double Cheeseburger.
Bud's is cash only. Credit/Debit cards don't work here.
If you want just a great hamburger (or cheeseburger) this is the place for you when you're in Sedalia. This spot is all about burgers and chips. Nothing more. No frills...and no fries. Best burgers in the entire city; a must go to after a trip to the mountains. Great local business, keep it local and tell them we said 'hello!'
5453 Manhart Ave, Sedalia, CO 80135
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