Aspen Restaurants: A Guide To The Best Places To Eat
Aspen Restaurants: A Guide to the Best Places to Eat When visiting Aspen, Colorado, the options for dining out can be overwhelming. From high-end restaurants to casual cafes, there is no shortage of choices to satisfy
Aspen Restaurants: A Guide to the Best Places to Eat
When visiting Aspen, Colorado, the options for dining out can be overwhelming. From high-end restaurants to casual cafes, there is no shortage of choices to satisfy any craving. But with so many options, how do you know where to go? In this guide, we will explore the best places to eat in Aspen and what makes each one unique.
The White House Tavern is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. This casual eatery serves up modern American fare, with a focus on fresh seafood and burgers. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great place to grab a quick bite or relax with friends over a cold beer. One regular customer raves, \”The salmon burger is to die for!\”
If you\’re looking for something with a bit more sophistication, Matsuhisa Aspen may be just what you\’re looking for. This Japanese restaurant, founded by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, features dishes that are both traditional and innovative. Sushi lovers will enjoy the extensive menu, which includes options like toro tartare and lobster ceviche. The elegant decor and attentive service make Matsuhisa a great choice for a special occasion.
For a taste of Italy, visit L\’Hostaria Ristorante. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up Italian classics for over 20 years. The menu features homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and a selection of antipasti to start. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a night out with friends or a romantic evening for two.
If you\’re in the mood for a steakhouse, the Aspen Branch of Steakhouse No. 316 is a must-visit. This upscale restaurant specializes in premium cuts of beef, as well as fresh seafood and classic cocktails. The chic decor and knowledgeable staff make it a great choice for a fancy night out.
For an experience that is truly unique, head to Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro. Located at the top of Aspen Highlands, this restaurant can only be reached by skiing or snowboarding. Once you arrive, you\’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and a menu that features fondue and raclette, as well as an extensive wine list. It\’s the perfect way to cap off a day on the slopes.
Aspen is also home to several more casual spots that are perfect for a quick meal or a grab-and-go snack. Jour de Fete is a charming French cafe that serves up croissants, quiches, and other sweet and savory treats. Poppycock\’s Cafe is a local favorite that offers breakfast all day, as well as salads, sandwiches, and homemade baked goods.
No matter what your taste buds are craving, Aspen has a restaurant that will satisfy. With so many great options, there\’s no reason to settle for anything less than the best.
The History of Dining in Aspen
Aspen has a long history of fine dining, dating back to the early 1900s. The Hotel Jerome, which first opened its doors in 1889, was one of the first places in town to offer a formal dining experience. Over the years, other restaurants opened up, catering to the wealthy visitors who flocked to Aspen for its skiing and outdoor activities. In the 1970s, the town became a hub for the free-spirited, and restaurants began to embrace more casual and eclectic themes.
Today, Aspen is known for its diverse dining scene, offering everything from sushi to Italian to French cuisine. The town\’s reputation as a foodie destination has only continued to grow in recent years, with chefs and restaurateurs opening up new establishments all the time.
The Best Places for Après-Ski
After a day on the slopes, there\’s nothing better than kicking back with a drink and some good food. Thankfully, Aspen has plenty of spots for après-ski. One popular choice is the Ajax Tavern, located at the base of the mountain. The menu features comfort food favorites like burgers and mac and cheese, as well as a raw bar with fresh seafood.
Another great spot is the J-Bar at the Hotel Jerome. This classic Aspen bar offers a cozy atmosphere, with leather chairs and a fireplace. The bar menu includes small plates like truffle fries and deviled eggs, as well as a selection of cocktails and craft beers.
For a bit more of a party atmosphere, head to the Limelight Lounge. This lively spot offers live music, a large outdoor patio, and a menu that includes pizzas and sandwiches. It\’s a great place to let loose and have some fun with friends.
The Rise of Sustainable Dining
Aspen has long been a leader in sustainability, and that commitment extends to its dining scene. Many restaurants in town offer organic, locally sourced ingredients, and some have even gone completely zero-waste. Meatless Mondays have become a popular trend, with many restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan options on their menus.
One restaurant that has gone above and beyond in its sustainability efforts is Meat & Cheese Restaurant and Farm Shop. The restaurant works closely with local farmers and ranchers to source ingredients, and all food waste is composted or fed to animals. The restaurant even has its own farm, located just 15 minutes from town. Diners can visit the farm and see the animals that will eventually become their meals.
The Best Secret Spots
While Aspen has plenty of well-known eateries, there are also some hidden gems that are worth discovering. One such spot is Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar, a speakeasy-style bar located in the basement of a building on Aspen\’s Main Street. The menu features inventive cocktails made with fresh ingredients and high-quality spirits. The atmosphere is intimate and cozy, perfect for a date night.
Another hidden gem is Meatball Shack, a tiny restaurant located in a food truck in Aspen\’s downtown area. The menu consists of, you guessed it – meatballs – served up in sandwiches, on top of pasta, or in a bowl. The ingredients are locally sourced and the recipes are inspired by recipes from around the world. It\’s a great spot for a quick, hearty meal.
Conclusion
Aspen has no shortage of dining options, from high-end restaurants to casual cafes. Whether you\’re in the mood for sushi, Italian, or just a good burger, there\’s a restaurant that will satisfy. With its commitment to sustainability and innovative chefs, Aspen\’s dining scene is only getting better. So the next time you\’re in town, be sure to check out some of these amazing spots.
When visiting Aspen, Colorado, the options for dining out can be overwhelming. From high-end restaurants to casual cafes, there is no shortage of choices to satisfy any craving. But with so many options, how do you know where to go? In this guide, we will explore the best places to eat in Aspen and what makes each one unique.
The White House Tavern is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. This casual eatery serves up modern American fare, with a focus on fresh seafood and burgers. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great place to grab a quick bite or relax with friends over a cold beer. One regular customer raves, \”The salmon burger is to die for!\”
If you\’re looking for something with a bit more sophistication, Matsuhisa Aspen may be just what you\’re looking for. This Japanese restaurant, founded by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, features dishes that are both traditional and innovative. Sushi lovers will enjoy the extensive menu, which includes options like toro tartare and lobster ceviche. The elegant decor and attentive service make Matsuhisa a great choice for a special occasion.
For a taste of Italy, visit L\’Hostaria Ristorante. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up Italian classics for over 20 years. The menu features homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and a selection of antipasti to start. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a night out with friends or a romantic evening for two.
If you\’re in the mood for a steakhouse, the Aspen Branch of Steakhouse No. 316 is a must-visit. This upscale restaurant specializes in premium cuts of beef, as well as fresh seafood and classic cocktails. The chic decor and knowledgeable staff make it a great choice for a fancy night out.
For an experience that is truly unique, head to Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro. Located at the top of Aspen Highlands, this restaurant can only be reached by skiing or snowboarding. Once you arrive, you\’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and a menu that features fondue and raclette, as well as an extensive wine list. It\’s the perfect way to cap off a day on the slopes.
Aspen is also home to several more casual spots that are perfect for a quick meal or a grab-and-go snack. Jour de Fete is a charming French cafe that serves up croissants, quiches, and other sweet and savory treats. Poppycock\’s Cafe is a local favorite that offers breakfast all day, as well as salads, sandwiches, and homemade baked goods.
No matter what your taste buds are craving, Aspen has a restaurant that will satisfy. With so many great options, there\’s no reason to settle for anything less than the best.
The History of Dining in Aspen
Aspen has a long history of fine dining, dating back to the early 1900s. The Hotel Jerome, which first opened its doors in 1889, was one of the first places in town to offer a formal dining experience. Over the years, other restaurants opened up, catering to the wealthy visitors who flocked to Aspen for its skiing and outdoor activities. In the 1970s, the town became a hub for the free-spirited, and restaurants began to embrace more casual and eclectic themes.
Today, Aspen is known for its diverse dining scene, offering everything from sushi to Italian to French cuisine. The town\’s reputation as a foodie destination has only continued to grow in recent years, with chefs and restaurateurs opening up new establishments all the time.
The Best Places for Après-Ski
After a day on the slopes, there\’s nothing better than kicking back with a drink and some good food. Thankfully, Aspen has plenty of spots for après-ski. One popular choice is the Ajax Tavern, located at the base of the mountain. The menu features comfort food favorites like burgers and mac and cheese, as well as a raw bar with fresh seafood.
Another great spot is the J-Bar at the Hotel Jerome. This classic Aspen bar offers a cozy atmosphere, with leather chairs and a fireplace. The bar menu includes small plates like truffle fries and deviled eggs, as well as a selection of cocktails and craft beers.
For a bit more of a party atmosphere, head to the Limelight Lounge. This lively spot offers live music, a large outdoor patio, and a menu that includes pizzas and sandwiches. It\’s a great place to let loose and have some fun with friends.
The Rise of Sustainable Dining
Aspen has long been a leader in sustainability, and that commitment extends to its dining scene. Many restaurants in town offer organic, locally sourced ingredients, and some have even gone completely zero-waste. Meatless Mondays have become a popular trend, with many restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan options on their menus.
One restaurant that has gone above and beyond in its sustainability efforts is Meat & Cheese Restaurant and Farm Shop. The restaurant works closely with local farmers and ranchers to source ingredients, and all food waste is composted or fed to animals. The restaurant even has its own farm, located just 15 minutes from town. Diners can visit the farm and see the animals that will eventually become their meals.
The Best Secret Spots
While Aspen has plenty of well-known eateries, there are also some hidden gems that are worth discovering. One such spot is Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar, a speakeasy-style bar located in the basement of a building on Aspen\’s Main Street. The menu features inventive cocktails made with fresh ingredients and high-quality spirits. The atmosphere is intimate and cozy, perfect for a date night.
Another hidden gem is Meatball Shack, a tiny restaurant located in a food truck in Aspen\’s downtown area. The menu consists of, you guessed it – meatballs – served up in sandwiches, on top of pasta, or in a bowl. The ingredients are locally sourced and the recipes are inspired by recipes from around the world. It\’s a great spot for a quick, hearty meal.
Conclusion
Aspen has no shortage of dining options, from high-end restaurants to casual cafes. Whether you\’re in the mood for sushi, Italian, or just a good burger, there\’s a restaurant that will satisfy. With its commitment to sustainability and innovative chefs, Aspen\’s dining scene is only getting better. So the next time you\’re in town, be sure to check out some of these amazing spots.
