Culinary Delights in Vail, Colorado

There’s a good reason the mountain town of Vail is celebrated as a hub for outdoor activities—with its breathtaking scenery of mountains, lakes, rivers, and forests. However, Vail is not just about its natural wonders; it has also become a culinary hotspot. The town’s Bavarian roots serve as a foundation for a diverse restaurant scene featuring delicious food from around the globe. From fine French dining to authentic Italian and Japanese cuisine, Vail offers something for every palate.

Vail’s Headliner Restaurants

Most locals will tell you that you haven’t experienced Vail’s dining scene without indulging at Sweet Basil or Mountain Standard. Sweet Basil offers fresh, seasonal ingredients, unique flavors, and exemplary service in an elegant dining space. Its sister restaurant, Mountain Standard, provides a tavern ambiance with equally intriguing dishes. Therefore, reservations are highly recommended at both venues.

Bavarian Dining Experiences in Vail

Considering the alpine-inspired architecture throughout Vail Village and Lionshead Village, it’s no surprise that Vail boasts excellent Bavarian dining options.

Savor schnitzel and hefeweizen on the patio of the Alpenrose, which overlooks the charming cobblestone street of East Meadow Drive. Additionally, for a unique and intimate dining experience, Alpenrose offers an all-inclusive fondue gondola experience that lets diners relish a three-course meal in a specially outfitted gondola.

Fondue and raclette are staples at Swiss Chalet, located within the Sonnenalp Hotel. The decor and ambiance might just transport you to Switzerland.

At renowned Pepi’s Restaurant, guests can enjoy European specialties alongside Austrian beer, especially on the spacious covered deck adorned with colorful flowers, providing a great dining atmosphere in the summer.

As you enter Almresi, you’ll likely feel as if you’ve been transported to the Swiss Alps. From the decor to the menu, every detail exudes Bavarian charm. Don’t miss the Schlitten-Fondue and the homemade Black Forest cake.

Vail Steak Restaurants

Before Vail transformed into a Bavarian-influenced mountain town, it was ranch land, explaining its array of exceptional steakhouses.

Russell’s is a local favorite located at the entrance to the Covered Bridge, featuring windows both overlooking the creek and Bridge Street. Their steak selection is top-notch, and diners often rave about the crab legs.

Flame, situated at the Four Seasons Vail, offers a dining experience that is nothing short of exceptional. Enjoy exemplary service and luxurious surroundings.

For a distinctly Colorado experience, consider the steakhouse founded by former Denver Broncos quarterback and general manager. Elway’s, located in the Lodge at Vail, is renowned not just for its steaks but also for its grilled artichoke and lamb chop fondue.

The Vail Chophouse, located at the base of the mountain in Lionshead Village, presents a lively aprés ski experience, frequently featuring local music and entertainment on the sprawling patio.

International Cuisine in Vail

Vail’s global culinary scene notably includes Italian cuisine, particularly in the retail and restaurant block on East Meadow Drive.

La Nonna is a friendly Italian restaurant where guests are welcomed warmly. Chef Simone specializes in crafting fresh and authentic Italian dishes, particularly those featuring homemade pasta or gnocchi.

Just a short walk away, La Bottega also serves Italian cuisine along with a popular wine bar, renowned for its Philly cheesesteak sandwich.

For a more authentic sushi experience, Osaki’s Sushi is a must-visit. While the ambiance is casual, the food is exquisite, especially if you opt for the omakase experience with chef Takeshi Osaki.

Next door, Matsuhisa provides a sophisticated Japanese dining experience in Solaris Plaza that promises an unforgettable evening.

For those in search of fine French cuisine, consider La Tour. Here, Chef Paul Ferzacca creates a series of delicate yet bold dishes, paired with handcrafted cocktails and an impressive wine list.

New Restaurants in Vail

Recently, new establishments have joined Vail’s dynamic culinary landscape, including the trendy Mexican venue El Segundo and the innovative American restaurant Slope Room located in Gravity Haus. Notably, Barrio Social, an upscale tapas bar developed by the creators of La Bottega, is set to open soon.

Casual Dining in Vail

If you’re seeking quality cuisine on a budget, Vail offers several casual dining spots. For delicious pizza, head to Blue Moose Pizza, Vendetta’s, or Pazzo’s Pizzeria. Not in the mood for pizza? Consider grabbing a sandwich at Joe’s Deli or a BBQ platter at Moe’s BBQ.

Bars, Breweries & Nightlife

For an evening of tasting, visit Root and Flower, a wine bar that boasts over 50 curated wines and exciting craft cocktails, all available to complement small plates of food with intriguing combinations.

Bully Ranch is beloved for its famous mudslides, making it a delightful spot to unwind after a day on the slopes or a night out.

Vail also boasts local breweries and distilleries, providing a variety of beer and whiskey options. Explore the local flavors at Vail Brewing Company and 10th Mountain Whiskey, or venture to Minturn for a taste from Vail Mountain Coffee.

The nightlife in Vail is more than just drinks; it comprises vibrant entertainment, from live music to pop-up performances in town. The patios of Vail frequently host great musicians and entertainers, providing visitors with a rich atmosphere. Notable spots for live music include The Red Lion, Vail Chophouse, Shakedown Bar, among various restaurants.

Vail’s Food and Wine Festivals

Every fall, Vail hosts a series of food and wine festivals that allow both locals and visitors to sample the delicious offerings from various eateries. Events like Taste of Vail and Gourmet on Gore showcase unique dishes from numerous Vail restaurants against the stunning backdrop of the Gore Range’s beauty.