Aspen is a world-class destination known for its beautiful alpine scenery, amazing skiing and snowboarding, high-end shopping, and vibrant dining scene. Whether you are visiting for ski season or exploring Aspen’s charm in the summer or “off-season,” finding the perfect lunch can help elevate your experience. Our guide will help you discover the best Aspen restaurants for a midday meal.
Why Aspen’s Lunch Scene Stands Out
It is well-known that the Aspen culinary scene is amazing and diverse, rivaling that of bigger cities. Let’s explore what exactly makes the food here a stand-out affair.
Culinary Diversity
From hearty mountain fare to more refined culinary dishes, Aspen offers an eclectic mix of cuisines. Whether you are craving a casual bistro, a farm-to-table eatery, or a fine dining experience, there’s something here to satisfy every palate.
Ambiance
Lunch in Aspen can be anything from cozy and intimate to lively and entertaining. Whatever you are seeking, the variety of settings available here help to ensure that the atmosphere is as enjoyable as the food itself.
A Scenic Midday Retreat
After a morning of skiing fresh powder, hiking scenic trails, or perusing designer boutiques, a well-earned lunch is the perfect way to recharge. Many restaurants offer stunning mountain views or sun-soaked patios (for those warmer months,) making for the perfect midday break in the heart of the mountains.
Aspen’s Top 5 Restaurants for Lunch
While Aspen offers a large variety of fantastic restaurants, here are our top 5 recommendations for a little mid-day nosh.
Element 47
Cuisine Type: Michelin-guide recommended; contemporary upscale American
Must-Try Dishes: Wagyu beef tartare and truffle fries
Ambiance: Refined with a warm and elegant vibe
Location and Hours: Inside the Little Nell hotel; lunch served daily from 11:30AM to 2:30PM
Ajax Tavern
Cuisine Type: French American bistro
Must-Try Dishes: Wagyu double cheeseburger and fresh seafood
Ambiance: Lively apres atmosphere with patio seating and scenic views
Location and Hours: Base of Aspen Mountain; lunch served daily from 11:00AM to 3:00PM
White House Tavern
Cuisine Type: Elevated American comfort food
Must-Try Dishes: Crispy chicken sandwich or trout dip
Ambiance: Casual chic, set in a 19th century miner’s cottage
Location and Hours: 302 E. Hopkins Ave., lunch served daily from 11:00AM to 3:00PM
Meat & Cheese
Cuisine Type: Farm-to-table with European and rustic American influences
Must-Try Dishes: Charcuterie boards and artisan sandwiches
Ambiance: Chic and inviting with a market style setting
Location and Hours: 319 E. Hopkins Ave., lunch served daily from 11:00AM to 4:00PM
Clark’s Oyster Bar
Cuisine Type: Seafood with raw bar
Must-Try Dishes: Lobster roll and fresh oysters on the half shell
Ambiance: Bright, airy, and relaxed with coastal charm
Location and Hours: 517 E. Hyman Ave., lunch served daily from 11:30AM to 3:00PM
Honorable Mentions
For other notable spots, check out the following:
Aspen Public House
Rustic pub with a delicious selection of sandwiches, salads, and more
Mawa’s Kitchen
Fantastic Afro-Mediterranean cuisine set in a cozy dining room
Aspen Hickory House
Down-home BBQ with mouthwatering ribs
Best Lunch Spots for Specific Needs
For Families
Brunelleschi’s
Kid-friendly pizza and Italian dishes
For a Quick Bite
Big Wrap
Wraps and smoothies for a great on-the-go bite
For Health Conscious Diners
Spring Cafe
Organic and veggie dishes
For a Special Treat
Matsuhisa
World-class sushi and Japanese cuisine
Savor Aspen’s Vibrant Dining Scene
Indulge in Aspen’s diverse culinary offerings for lunch or dinner, all while surrounded by the unforgettable alpine beauty that is uniquely Aspen. No matter how you choose to spend your time here, your stay is sure to be unforgettable.
At Aspen Square condominium lodging, you’ll enjoy the perfect blend of hotel-style services and the comforts of home, all set in a prime downtown Aspen location. With easy access to the mountains, entertainment, and top tier-dining, your getaway will be effortless and enjoyable.
Our condominium hotel combines luxury features such as well-equipped kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces, and private balconies with the convenience of hotel services such as a front desk, concierge, bell staff, and daily housekeeping. Contact the concierge at Aspen Square to plan your family vacation this fall in Aspen. Call (970) 925-1000 and let us assist you!