Copper Mountain is a playground for skiers and snowboarders with its 2,500 acres of terrain in Summit County, Colorado. It’s known for its scenic location high in the mountains, and its challenging terrain parks. It’s also a favorite for hiking and mountain biking in the summer.
With all the outdoor adventures around “The Athlete’s Mountain”, it’s no surprise that you can work up an appetite quickly! Luckily, the resort has some excellent restaurants with plenty of dining options for every budget. Here’s a look at the best restaurant near the resort.
Slices on the Slopes
Who doesn’t love some good old-fashioned carb-loading before, during, or after a day on the mountain? Luckily, Copper Mountain is home to more than one pizzeria when you want to share some pies with your family and friends.
Nowhere Pizzeria
If you’re a frequent visitor to the nearby Keystone Resort, you may recognize the name of this eclectic bar and restaurant. Walk around the sleek dining room, and you’ll see whimsical artwork, including the locally famous green fairy statue on top of the bar (a nod to absinthe, which you can find here).
Besides being a fun spot to chat with locals at the bar, the pizzas here are well worth the wait on weekends. You can stick with traditional toppings or try one of their specialties, which include a uniquely tasty bacon and bourbon pie. You can also find a few gluten-free pizzas on the menu.
Sawmill Pizza & Taphouse
Diners can see the iconic American Eagle lift from the outdoor tables at this Copper Mountain standby. There is also seating inside, with plenty of additional tables that are ideal for colder days. You can find several pizza combos on the menu, as well as salads, sandwiches, and a separate kid’s menu. Craft beer and wine are also available, with an extensive list of Colorado brews to sip on.
Sawmill Pizza is a convenient dining option for guests staying in Copper's Center Village, particularly Mill Club.
Casual Colorado Dining Options
Sometimes, all you need is a quick and casual meal between groomers. The following restaurants fit the bill when you want to stick with familiar favorites on the slopes.
Downhill Duke’s
The wrap-around bar with beautiful views of Copper Mountain is the main draw at Downhill Duke’s. But they also offer good pub food to pair with the ski-in-ski-out vibes. You can order chicken wings, nachos, and burgers from a lengthy menu. Families will be pleased to see an affordable kids’ menu and ice cream for dessert.
Eagle BBQ
For nearly a decade, Eagle BBQ has served Copper Mountain skiers and snowboarders delicious ribs, brisket, and other smoked meats from its slopeside digs in Center Village. You can order meat by the pound or choose a sandwich or platter, which includes toast and a side dish. Vegetarians aren’t left out, with a shredded jackfruit that is popular with diners who aren’t interested in the smoked meats.
Above Eagle BBQ, Copper Junction offers ski-in convenience in the heart of Center Village, with the American Eagle lift only 50 yards away. These condo-style units range from studios to three-bedroom layouts and feature full kitchens, cable TV, and Wi-Fi—ideal for travelers who want to settle in and stay close to the action. Guests also enjoy access to the Copper Mountain Athletic Club (when open), with a pool, hot tubs, sauna, steam room, and gym. Access to the club varies by unit, with some including complimentary entry.
Copper Junction Property Amenities
- Ski In / Ski Out
- Walk to Lifts
- Common Hot Tub, Pool, Sauna, Fitness Facility (offsite)
Ten Mile Tavern
Situated in the heart of Center Village, Ten Mile Tavern is often packed with hungry patrons on any given ski day. It’s no surprise, as an approachable menu, fun environment, and convenient location make it an easy choice for skiers and snowboarders of all ages.
They open at 11 am and stay open late, making it a popular spot for après-ski. It has a front-row view of the American Eagle lift, where hungry diners can warm up with soups, burgers, and cocktails before their next trip up the mountain.
Upscale Eateries on the Mountain
Forage and Feast
If you take American Eagle up to The Aerie Lodge, you’ll find one of the more upscale dining options on Copper Mountain. Forage and Feast serves American cuisine sourced from mostly local ingredients like Colorado lamb or a venison steak. The presentations are elegant, and prices are reasonable for the quality of food in the mountainside dining room. There’s a fireplace in the cozy interior, but the outdoor deck is equally comfy on sunny days.
JJ's Rocky Mountain Tavern
A true local’s favorite, JJ’s is an upscale tavern in the heart of Copper Mountain. It has a casual atmosphere, but diners can enjoy a serious steak here, with filet, ribeye, and prime rib all available. There are also budget-friendly choices for families and travelers wanting an affordable meal, and you can order half orders of a few of the appetizers if you want a light bite.
International Flavors in Center Village
In a dining landscape that is mostly dominated by pub grub, there are a few welcome additions for diners tired of burgers and wings. Here’s a look at some favorites.
Sweet Soy
This popular restaurant has a diverse menu that features flavors from around the world. Whether you want to try the fresh, healthy cuisine of the Mediterranean or a sweet and spicy dish from Southeast Asia, Sweet Soy has something for you to enjoy. The prices are reasonable, and they have small bites you can share as a group if you want to try more than one item.
El Zacatecano Mexican Restaurant
The cheerful dining room at El Zacatecano Mexican Restaurant is suitable for groups, with plenty of space to sit at large tables. Share a plate of nachos or queso fundido before enjoying a seafood or meat entree, combo platter, or enchiladas from the extensive menu. Adults can celebrate a fun day on the mountains with a margarita while little ones cap off their meal with deep-fried ice cream or churros.
Sauce on Copper
If you want a nice Italian dinner without straying far from the mountain, Sauce on Copper is your best bet. The menu includes traditional and Italian-American classics, including bolognese, linguini with clams, and fried ravioli. They also serve pizza, making it a good option for families or groups who can’t decide between pizza or pasta. Diners on a budget can visit during lunch, when there are plenty of options for under $20.
Located in the same building as Sauce on Copper, Passage Point offers premium condo-style lodging just a short walk across a covered bridge to Center Village and the slopes of Copper Mountain. These spacious and well-appointed units provide all the comforts of home, making them ideal for couples, families, or groups who want easy access to shops, restaurants, and mountain activities. Guests can unwind in the three outdoor hot tubs or take advantage of the nearby Copper Mountain Athletic Club (when open), which includes a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, and more—access may vary by unit.
Passage Point Property Amenities
- Outdoor Heated Pool
- 2 Common Hot Tubs
- Sauna, Steam Room, Fitness Facility
- Walk to Lifts
Dine and Ski at Copper Mountain
We can help you find excellent deals on lodging and give you our favorite tips for planning a trip to Copper Mountain. This list of the best restaurants at the resort sets you up for knowing where and when to eat during your ski trip. You can also venture further out to Frisco if you want more options. If you have any additional questions or want some specific recommendations for the area, feel free to connect with our team!
Deric Brown is a writer who has traveled domestically and internationally, writing about his journeys along the way. A storyteller at heart, he’s always looking at both the small details and the big picture. Whether snowboarding in the Sierra Nevada Mountains or hiking the Marin Headlands near his San Francisco home, he loves experiencing the beauty of California and beyond and writing about each solo adventure and family trip.