Skiing without apres ski is like New Year’s without resolutions, ham minus the eggs, Superman sans his cape … you get the idea.
The two have been unequivocally connected since the sports became popular nearly 60 years ago. There is no better method of rehashing your day on the mountain than over drinks and appetizers at your favorite watering hole. Add a nearby patio heater, fire pit or fireplace, and Vail Mountain looming in the distance, and you’ve got the perfect setting for socializing and sharing your exploits on the slopes.
Vail has no shortage of drinking establishments to quench your thirst while you savor the enchanting sights and sounds of the village. The idyllic backdrop of the White River National Forest along with the unique architecture and shops give apres ski and happy hour a whole new meaning. Relaxing with friends and family and reliving the day will make tomorrow’s adventures even better.
Check out some of Usaj Realty’s favorite lounges, bars and saloons that deliver delicious cocktails and equally bodacious food. Any of these picks are sure to put an exclamation mark at the end of your day.
Red Lion, 304 Bridge St.
For 57 years, this storied establishment 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 their 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.
Bad Kitty Lounge, 227 Bridge St.
If you’re looking for truly exquisite cocktails, look no further than this trendy new bar right next to the Covered Bridge. While their backstory remains a secret, the concoctions they mix up are getting noticed around town. Focusing on mixed drinks that were popular in the 1950s and 60s, these classic cocktails and highballs include top-shelf liquor, mixers and proper adornments. Open every day at 11 a.m., the Bad Kitty also have taken advantage of Vail’s new COVID-19 regulations that allow to-go beverages and common consumption in the village. Bad Kitty offers canned beverages in a variety of sizes and quantities for mountaintop barbecues and slopeside picnics.
Remedy Bar, 1 Vail Rd. (Inside the Four Seasons Hotel)
Fabulous outdoor terrace with five firepits, equally stunning lounge area and impeccable slate of cocktails make the Remedy a favorite among the locals. Nestled inside the chic Four Seasons Hotel, tap into their happy hour “elixirs, potions and antidotes” at reduced prices. Peruse the food concoctions and remedies that are sure to quell those hunger pangs. A truly one-of-a-kind experience in a one-of-a-kind town. Everyone is welcome at this bar, whether you’re decked out in fur or faux. Your friendly bartender or server dispatch the relief for whatever ails you. Be sure to reserve your space by calling 1-970-477-8600.
El Sabor, 660 Lionshead Place (Inside the Lionshead Square Lodge)
El Sabor has the premier location at the base of Lionshead in the Lionshead Square Lodge. You can schuss right up to the entrance after your final run of the day, park your skis or snowboard, and enjoy a refreshing beverage while enjoying the view of Gore Creek and Vail Mountain. Featuring an epic patio and large picnic tables, recap your day on the mountain with Latin American inspired dishes discovered from travels to Mexico, South America, Central America and Spain. Savor a lip-smacking Patron margarita and tasty appetizers ranging from chips and salsa to quesadillas and ceviche. El Sabor is open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily, proudly serving lunch, apres-ski snacks and dinner.
Garfinkle’s, 536 E. Lionshead Circle
There’s plenty that has changed in the Vail Lionshead area, but the one constant is Garfinkle’s. Since 1992, Garfinkel’s (or Garfs as it is locally known) has been a cornerstone in Lionshead inviting locals and visitors to what arguably is the most iconic deck in Vail. Its location across from the Born Free Express Lift provides the perfect excuse to pop in for a quick drink or bite to eat. Whether the sky is dumping powder or providing the ultimate bluebird day, you’ll find happy people quaffing beer and loving life at this throwback bar/restaurant. Their menu features hearty American food: wings, burgers, steak and prime rib, just to name a few.
Bart and Yeti’s, 553 E. Lionshead Circle
Here, it’s 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.
Thinking about buying a second home or even moving to Vail? We’ve got you covered. Contact Matt Wilson at 970-471-9959 or Usaj Realty at 720-398-2999.
