Wood Ear

Texas smokehouse classics meet Japanese-inspired global cuisine at Wood Ear, a whiskey-centric cocktail bar housed in the basement of Telluride’s historic Roma Building. The name honors the essential Asian mushroom, reflecting the fusion of our Texas roots with the flavors of the Far East. General manager Matthew Arnold and chef Kevin Bush created this space to satisfy diverse palates, blending the bold flavors of native Texas fare with delicate ramen noodles and other Asian dishes. The centerpiece is a stunning hand-carved bar crafted from walnut and extinct white tiger pine, a piece of history that has resided in the space since the late 1880s. We serve an extensive selection of beers on draft and in bottles, classic cocktails, and over 150 spirits, including a vast collection of Japanese whiskeys. Guests often highlight our signature dishes, such as the Grilled Brisket Nigiri, Buttermilk Chicken Rice Bowl, and the Pork on Pork Ramen, alongside sides like cabbage salad and edamame. You can grab a drink and post up on the patio facing Colorado Avenue for sunshine and people watching, or cozy up on a couch to catch a live band. The atmosphere features two distinct bar settings and ample seating, making it a favorite for both quick bites and full meals.