One half of the famous Aspen Snowmass name, Snowmass, is an incredible destination for outdoors enthusiasts. In the winter, the Colorado resort boasts over 3,300 acres of skiable terrain. During the warmer months, visitors and locals take advantage of the hiking and mountain biking trails. Over the years, Snowmass has also quietly become a destination for foodies visiting Central Colorado. The fresh ingredients and creative chefs have quickly put Roaring Fork Valley on the food map.
So, where should you eat when visiting Snowmass Village? We’ve visited many of the best restaurants around Aspen, and this guide to the best restaurants in Snowmass will help you decide where to fuel up for your next alpine adventure.
The Stew Pot
Located just a short walk from the Snowmass Mall, The Stew Pot is one of our favorite options for lunch. The food is a mix of healthy options and stick-to-your-ribs fare, with hearty portions that will ensure you won’t leave hungry. Their mantra of “this ain't no soup kitchen” rings partially true, with anything from burritos to a portabella panini. However, they do live up to their name with options like beef or veggie chili and habanero pork stew.
There are enough tables inside and outside to accommodate dozens of diners fresh off the slopes. It’s also a great spot for families with a large kids' menu with anything from a PBJ sandwich to beef stew.
The Edge Restaurant and Bar
The Timberline Ski Lodging is a popular condo in the heart of Snowmass Village. It’s one of our favorite locations to stay, but also home to an excellent Snowmass restaurant. The Edge Restaurant and Bar - Snowmass is a charming eatery with a mix of mostly European fare. You can choose from German classics like schnitzel or pretend you’re in the Swiss Alps and share a steaming pot of fondue. They also serve mussels in several preparations, from a saffron tomato cream sauce to the classic French moules marinière.
Our favorite reason to visit? They have an excellent happy hour special! This season, The Edge offers your choice of a burger, sandwich, or hot dog with a shot of whiskey and domestic beer for just $25.
Daly Diner
If you are looking for an old-school, no-frills dining option near the village, head to Daly Diner. Though they’ve only been around since 2020, this feels like an Aspen classic. It’s hosted hungry locals, visitors, and even the occasional celebrity. The restaurant is outside the base area, but you can get there in 5 minutes via shuttle. The hearty diner food hits the spot, with their freshly made burgers being the main event for lunch or dinner.
It’s a great place for breakfast, with mountains of pancakes and spicy chicken and waffles highlighting the extensive menu. There’s plenty of seating inside and outside, with a few TVs where you can check in on the game between skiing, shopping, and dining.
Rock Island Oyster Bar & Grill
While you are hundreds of miles away from the ocean, Snowmass is home to an excellent seafood restaurant. Rock Island Oyster Bar & Grill in Snowmass Mall is a laid-back eatery specializing in oysters from the Pacific and Atlantic coasts. The popular restaurant also features American comfort food classics like baked potato soup, clam chowder, and lobster mac and cheese.
If you’re up for some après-ski, they stay open late and have live music featuring local musicians. Stop in from 3 pm to 5 pm any day of the week for an excellent happy hour with $3 oysters and $5 off some of the favorite menu items.
Taster's Pizza
Skiers looking for a quick meal in or food to go will enjoy the service and cuisine at Taster’s Pizza. It’s a casual restaurant with large portions and affordable prices that is a hit with Aspen residents and visitors alike. Locals like the pizza, chicken wings, and eggplant rollatini.
Stop in early if you want to dine inside; they don’t take reservations, and the space is limited. It’s a reliable option for families or small groups who want to pick up a few pizzas and head back to their lodging for movie night.
Venga Venga
Right in the center of the village, Venga Venga is Chef Richard Sandoval’s popular restaurant that serves pub-style Mexican cuisine in a stylish room. The outdoor patio is often packed with diners enjoying beers and cocktails, watching skiers cruise up Skittles Lift. You can choose from several house margaritas, with skinny margs packing a punch while saving you a few calories.
Save room for the tasty food after cocktails, with options like queso fundido, carne asada fries, and carnitas sliders. For dessert, don’t miss the cajeta-filled churros, a fried pastry with caramel that is one of the restaurant’s specialties.
The Lounge at the Limelight
One of our Travel Consultants’ favorite condos in Snowmass is the Limelight Hotel. The large property is located close to the slopes, but has a few extra perks like 2 hot tubs, a climbing wall, and one of the best ski-in-ski-out dining options in Snowmass. The Lounge specializes in wood-fired pizzas, with familiar and unique toppings.
Diners can stick to cheese or pepperoni, or get adventurous with a spicy Diavola or a gorgonzola & fig pie. There are also some shareable plates, with fun options like duck wings, house-made guacamole, and roasted pineapple. On Fridays from 3 pm to 5 pm, there’s a Veuve Clicquot happy hour, where you can pair the popular champagne with preset menus from the kitchen.
The Tavern Kitchen and Bar
If you’re looking for a fun evening out in Snowmass, The Tavern Kitchen and Bar is a great option that hosts live music in a lively space. There’s a full bar, foosball, pool, and stages inside and outside. The food is also a draw, with well-liked options like burgers, pizza, and a loaded baked potato. You can also get a giant tomahawk steak for $130, which has enough meat to feed a family of 4. If you’re looking for a fun night in a cheerful setting, this is one of the best options in the village.
Heather’s Snowmass
Stepping into the bustling bar and restaurant at Heather’s Snowmass, you’ll be greeted by a roaring fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Snowmass Village. The convivial space is a gathering spot for families and groups of friends, with a full bar and a menu that features both small shareables and full entrees.
While you can find anything from baked brie to seared duck breast, the savory pies are the main draw. Try Heather’s Famous Chicken Pot Pie, which is a traditional take on the American classic, served with cranberry sauce.
Alpin Room
If you head up to the very top of Alpine Springs Lift, you will find one of the most luxurious fine dining options in Snowmass. The Alpin Room is run by talented chef Emily Oyer, who serves a menu that pays homage to the cuisine of the Alps.
Sample gourmet versions of European fare like a pretzel with fondue, pork and apple stew, and black garlic short ribs in the charming slopeside space. They are only open for lunch, and reservations are strongly recommended.
Grub Thai Restaurant
If you’re in the mood for something spicy, Grub Thai Restaurant will be a welcome option for lunch or dinner. They serve Thai staples like chicken curry, pad Thai, and papaya salad. You can also find wonton soup, teriyaki udon, and shrimp and kimchi ramen. The space is small but inviting, and it is located inside the Snowmass Mall.
Wienerstube Snowmass
Visiting Snowmass, it’s easy to forget you’re in the USA. The towering trees, endless mountain peaks, and deep powder are reminiscent of the best ski resorts in Europe. Wienerstube Snowmass taps into the cuisine and culture of Germany in a cozy mountain cabin setting. Diners can enjoy schnitzels, sauerkraut, and pretzels as big as your ski helmet.
It’s an excellent option for large groups, with plenty of space and lots of beer from Colorado and Germany to sip on.
Base Camp Bar & Grill
Steps away from Elk Camp Gondola, Base Camp Bar & Grill has indoor and outdoor seating, packed with diners fresh off the slopes. The fireplaces outside are a cozy place to hang out between ski runs, and give you a chance to chat with friends or strangers. Food options include familiar pub favorites like chicken wings, burgers, and salads.
It’s just across the street from The Crestwood, so if you’re staying at one of our favorite ski-in-ski-out properties in Snowmass, this may quickly become your local restaurant during your visit.
Photo Credit: Base Camp Bar & Grill
Our Travel Consultants’ Snowmass Dining Tips
- Check out happy hour menus when you get off the slopes. You can save money by taking advantage of seasonal and daily specials at many of Snowmass’ best restaurants.
- If you visit Snowmass during shoulder season, many of these restaurants may be closed or have limited hours. Always check ahead online or by calling the restaurant before making plans.
- Restaurants can fill up during the peak ski season. If you are with a big group or dining during peak lunch and dinner hours, try to make a reservation.
- Ask about hotel discounts. Many of our favorite lodging accommodations in Snowmass have discounts at local restaurants.
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.