Just as important as making reservations for Vail accommodations for the upcoming ski season don’t forget about the Restaurants in Vail Valley. Whether it’s for on-mountain seating or scoring on seats at a top-rated restaurant, it’s better to get on the calendar sooner than later.
As we continue to see high demand in the travel industry, the need for food services for visitors in the Vail Valley is likely to be elevated. While some people will take advantage of cooking at home (if they are in a condo or home rental), most people on vacation want to leave that task to others.
Fortunately, visitors to Eagle County are fortunate to have an incredible array of fantastic restaurants from which to choose. Whether you are looking for budget fare or that special, memorable dining experience, the Vail area is awash in options.
From a cook-your-own entree at the Minturn Supper Club to a lavish meal at Beano’s Cabin at Beaver Creek, there is a dining experience to suit your wallet.
Below you’ll find some of Usaj Realty’s favorites.
Exceptional Vail Restaurant Experiences
Regardless of how you spend your day, top off your Vail experience with dinner at Sweet Basil or their sister restaurant Mountain Standard, both in Vail Village. Offering exquisite cuisine and unparalleled service, these two Vail gems are consistently among the top choices of locals and visitors alike.
#1 Sweet Basil
Sweet Basil is a creative, modern American restaurant and features seasonal imaginative cuisine with an innovative array of diverse influences. It has been in operation since 1977 and is considered to be one of the most iconic restaurants in Vail, combining sophistication, fine food, and unmatched ambiance.
#2 Mountain Standard
Mountain Standard offers a rustic and relaxed tavern setting in the Vail Valley and uses an ancient form of cooking. The majority of Mountain Standard’s menu is prepared via the most primal cooking method: over an open and live wood fire. As a result, the food at this exciting eatery has rustic, bold, and honest flavors, focusing on the purest ingredients in the Rocky Mountain region.
#3 Bart & Yeti’s
Bart & Yeti’s is all about tipple and banter. This Vail institution is the closest establishment you’ll find to a dive bar and they are OK with that. For 38 years, Bart and Yeti’s has been serving up perfect pub food with great service and a smile. Don’t miss out on their famous green chile and onion rings. The inside resembles that of a cozy (yet eclectic) cabin in the woods where over the decades, tens of thousands have enjoyed comfort food and chatter. The patio at Bart and Yeti offers a prime location for people watching as shoppers peruse the merchandise at nearby boutiques, ski shops, and art galleries.
#4 The Red Lion
For 58 years, the Red Lion has solidified itself as a storied establishment that has been serving up fabled drinks and food, and serving as a “boardroom” for business deals. Sporting the distinctive red and white awnings and located just a few steps from Gondola One in Village Village lies the Red Lion, which is, without doubt, one of the premier spots to be seen in Vail. Since 1963, it has remained steadfast in providing outstanding service and meals featuring its signature nachos, burgers, sandwiches, and BBQ. Outdoor seating at the Red Lion provides the preeminent location for people watching and unwinding after a day on the slopes. Live entertainment is back at the Red Lion, Thursday-Saturday. Check out their entertainment calendar and support the talented musicians in the Vail Valley.
#5 Alpenrose
Alpenrose is a distinctive Vail institution, smack dab in the middle of Vail. Despite a change in ownership several years ago, this landmark still carries on the exquisite Bavarian cuisine and atmosphere which has made this one of the area’s classic establishments. From the European-styled reclaimed barn wood paneling to the single-chair lift chairs “first date chairs” that envelop a small table, Alpenrose sets a tone that will long be remembered. Serving up traditional German cuisine, this establishment will instantly transport you to Bavaria and the Alps.
#6 Matsuhisa
Matsuhisa is located in the 5-star Solaris development, right in the heart of Vail. Providing a stunning atmosphere with a rustic urban ambiance, the cuisine incorporates Japanese cuisine with South American and European twists. showcasing signature dishes such as Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño, Black Cod Miso, and Whitefish Tiradito, Matsuhisa creates a complete dining experience.
#7 The Little Diner
Last but not least, The Little Diner has been serving up Vail’s favorite breakfast for decades. Get there early to avoid a wait as no reservations are taken. This quick-in, quick-out restaurant is perfect to assure an early start to your day on the slopes. Tucked away in Lionshead but right by the Lionshead bus stop, enjoy a hot cup of coffee while perusing the diner’s offerings of breakfast classics and regional specialties. Located at the West Lionshead Plaza in the Concert Hall Plaza Building, this diner is Vail’s only full-service diner serving breakfast all day and lunch after 11:30 a.m. daily during the winter and summer seasons.
Down Valley Restaurant Choices
Minturn Country Club
Outside of Vail in Minturn, you’ll find the lauded Minturn Country Club. Don’t be fooled by the name! This is hardly a country club but you’ll love the cook-your-own concept and it’s perfect for the whole family. Choose from an array of steaks, chicken and seafood, and there’s a children’s menu for the young-uns.
Northside Kitchen
Northside Kitchen in Avon is a local favorite, probably because the portions are huge! Give Jim’s Pesto Gnocchi a try, and it’s a great idea to add the braised short ribs to the order. This is comfort food at its zenith. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner!
Ti Amo
Another Locals favorite is Ti Amo, located in Eagle Vail. It may be off the beaten path, but you’re sure to return after experiencing mouth-watering northern Italian fare. The atmosphere is reminiscent of East Coast Italian restaurants, offering intimate and cozy seating. Try our house specialties like Pollo ala Fragole (strawberry chicken) or homemade gnocchi in Gorgonzola cream.
Beano’s Cabin
Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek is located on Beaver Creek Ski Resort and makes for a memorable evening. Arriving via sled pulled by a snowcat, you’ll feel right at home when your shoes are discarded for a cozy pair of slippers! Exquisite cuisine, incredible ambiance and service non-pareil will make that special occasion one to remember. It’s no wonder Beano’s has achieved the AAA Four Diamond Designation
