When you think of Vail, Colorado, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Probably it’s world-renowned ski slopes, or maybe lots of postcard-perfect pictures, each worth a frame. BuBut let me tell you, the restaurants in Vail are equally impressive and not to be missed. During my recent trip, I discovered that this charming European-style village nestled in the Colorado Rockies boasts a dining scene second to none.
Home to not one but two Michelin-starred restaurants, Vail’s culinary offerings are as impressive as its scenic beauty. Here’s a guide to some of the best restaurants in Vail, where you’ll find everything from cozy cafes to upscale bistros.
Best Places to Eat in Vail
From cozy, rustic spots that feel like a warm hug after a day on the slopes to upscale dining experiences that make you feel like royalty, Vail has it all. Here are some of the best places to eat in this European-style village nestled in the Colorado Rockies.
Sweet Basil: A Michelin-Recommended Delight
Although it was just a convenient six-minute walk from my hotel, there were so many reasons to always end up having my lunch break at Sweet Basil. Operating since 1977, it’s one of the most cherished spots for locals and visitors for gourmet dining, date nights and special occasions.
It’s one of only two Michelin-recommended restaurants in Vail (with Osaki’s the second). We opted for outdoor patio seating, which offers stunning views of the creek, while the atmosphere is a mix of moody elegance and bright.
Some standout dishes include the Whipped Feta, Yellowtail Crudo, Braised Octopus Ragu, and the Venison Loin. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Rattlesnake. Reservations are essential for evening dining, but you might get lucky with a bar seat, which is first come, first served.
Pro Tip: If Sweet Basil is fully booked, its sister restaurant, Mountain Standard, is a fantastic alternative. It offers New American fare, including wood-fired dishes and an impressive selection of craft cocktails and wines.
Lancelot Restaurant: Prime Rib Perfection
Experience a taste of elegance at Lancelot Restaurant in Vail! With its warm wood accents, soft lighting, and charming decor, the ambiance perfectly complements the exquisite dining experience.
Delight in must-try dishes like their famous prime rib, rich French onion soup, and tender filet mignon, all crafted with the freshest ingredients. The prime rib is a culinary masterpiece that has been delighting diners since 1969. Guests can sip on a carefully curated wine list or indulge in a signature cocktail as they savor every bite.
Don’t forget to save room for their decadent desserts!
Sonnenalp: Dining Elevated to Michelin Standards
Speaking of a Michelin-recommended restaurant, it only seems fair to book a Vail hotel of equal standards. Located right in the heart of Vail Village, Sonnenalp Vail is your best bet, being one of only 124 hotels in the country to receive a Michelin Key.
Featuring 112 comfortable luxury suites and 15 hotel rooms with views of either Gore Creek or Vail Village, it offers authentic European hospitality in this ski town.
What’s even better? With four upscale restaurants, including Swiss Chalet, King’s Club, Bully Ranch, and Ludwig’s Breakfast, being part of Sonnenalp’s dining options, your hunt for the best place to eat in Vail won’t be on hold during your stay.
Excited to know everything about Sonnenalp? Here’s your in-depth review of the Sonnenalp Vail Hotel to get an insight into what to expect from the place.
Ludwig’s Breakfast: European Breakfast Bliss
No matter what adventure you are in Vail for, it will always start with a good breakfast, and there is no better place than Ludwig’s. A part of Sonnenalp’s private dining, this beautiful eatery overlooks Gore Creek from its glass-enclosed terrace and offers a full menu featuring European delicacies.
Their breakfast buffet is definitely a tough choice (what to miss, of course), featuring everything from eggs cooked to order, sausages, French toast, and waffles to more unique offerings like empanadas and chilaquiles. Their Lavazza coffee and the soothing cup of Ronnefeldt loose tea will get you started for a full day of adventure.
Alpenrose: A Taste of Bavaria
For a taste of Europe in the heart of Vail, Alpenrose is a perfect place. This family-owned restaurant has served Austrian fare since 1974 and is now part of the Fall Dining Trail.
The menu features elevated classic German staples like raclette, schnitzel, and spätzle, best enjoyed with a mug of Bavarian beer. A must-try here is the Pretzel with Obazda cheese dip, a Bavarian specialty.If you’re up for something fun, don’t miss the boot shots featuring the Schladerer Schnaps – Taste of the Black Forest!
To wash it all the way down, Alpen Spritzer, a refreshing and non-alcoholic blue lemonade, Alpenrose Gletscherwasser is the perfect choice.
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Root & Flower: Wine Lover’s Paradise
Root & Flower on Bridge Street is a great place to cap off a day of exploration in Vail on a happy note. Featuring a superb selection of rare wines, beers, and signature cocktails, over 20 pours by the glass, and an extensive gourmet bite menu, this wine bar is the ‘go-to’ spot for after-dinner drinks.
With a food menu ranging from Snacks to Cheese & Charcuterie and Cold & Hot Plates to desserts, you can even have a dinner date at Root & Flower. We tried J Deez Raspberries and the Tinto de Verano, a refreshing alternative to sangria.
The Remedy Bar: Modern Mountain Cuisine
Located in the Four Seasons Resort, The Remedy Bar offers modern mountain cuisine focusing on fresh, local produce. The Seafood Cobbler Salad is the crowning jewel of their lunch menu, featuring Jumbo Lump Crab, Citrus-Grilled Shrimp, Maine Lobster, Arugula and romaine, Fennel, Tomato, and Blood Orange Vinaigrette. If you are here for dinner, the Tamarik-Brushed Scottish Salmon served with Trumpet Mushrooms and Patty Pan Ragout, complemented by a Dashi-Scallion Broth, will warm your heart and soul like no other.
No matter how many items you try at The Remedy, the highlight of your trip will definitely be their world-famous Haute Chocolate by the fireplace.
Chasing Rabbits: A Wonderland of Flavors
Chasing Rabbits is a unique, multisensory social club that has taken over what was once a movie theater and restaurant in the Solaris complex. This Alice in Wonderland-themed venue features a speakeasy, screening room, nightclub, arcade, and restaurant. The menu offers Mediterranean dishes like burrata peach, roasted bone marrow, and vegan mafaldine.
Braised Rabbit Bolognese, Grilled Whole Branzino, or Skirt Steak & Eggs accompanied by two perfectly cooked sunny-side-up eggs and a flavorful combination of fingerling potatoes and rich bearnaise sauce are some of the other menu highlights you might want to order.
After dinner, head to the Rabbit Hole for drinks or enjoy the arcade and club on-site.
Gorsuch Ski Café: Bavarian Bakery Delights
Near Gondola One, the Gorsuch Ski Café is part of the Fall Dining Trail and offers Bavarian-inspired bakery items. After a thrilling day on the slopes, it’s the perfect spot to warm up with a cup of coffee, although that’s not the only option. Indulge in oversized pretzels, chocolate hazelnut croissants, and warm drinks like Gluhwein or Café Coretto.
Don’t forget to check out their craft cocktails and extensive coffee and espresso menu! Perfect for a tasty break this season!
Sundae Vail: Handcrafted Ice Cream Wonders
Sundae Vail inspires the creative ice cream lover with handcrafted classics and inventive new flavors. From artisan waffle cones to unique sundaes and personalized ice cream cakes, this destination is a must-visit for those who adore a chilled dessert, no matter what the season.
Annapurna Nepali & Indian Cuisine: Spices of Nepal and India
For a taste of Nepal and India in Vail, Annapurna is the place to visit. From succulent goat curry to creamy lamb makhani and tantalizing chicken mango, the menu is bursting with rich and exotic flavors of the subcontinent. Even vegetarians will find something to love with options like baingan bharta and various fresh naan breads.
And don’t forget to top it all off with a cup of cheeya, a traditional Nepali spiced tea that transports you to the heart of the Himalayas.
Vintage: A French Bistro Experience
Vintage is a French restaurant that brings a slice of Paris to Vail. Enjoy classics like brie, escargot, beef bourguignon, and steak frites. Its breakfast offerings, like the Southwest Benedict and Huckleberry Bacon French Toast, are equally delightful.
Pepi’s Bar and Restaurant: European Tradition in Vail
Owned by one of Vail’s original Austrian families, Pepi’s is a landmark in Vail Village. Located at the crossroads of Bridge Street and Gore Creek Drive, the outdoor deck is the place to see and be seen.
The menu features traditional European and Austrian specialties like Wienerschnitzel and classic beef stroganoff. Continental cuisine is served in Pepi’s Main Dining Room, while the Antlers Room attracts crowds by offering wild game cuisine in winter.
Blu Cow: Swiss Hot Dogs and More
Located in the heart of Vail Village, The Blu Cow is a must-try on the Fall Dining Trail! Known for its famous Swiss hot dog, this charming eatery is perfect for a quick grab-and-go meal. But that’s not all! Enjoy homemade soups, refreshing cocktails, and a selection of beer on tap.
Whether you’re hitting the slopes or exploring the village, The Blu Cow is your go-to spot for delicious bites and cozy vibes!
Best Things to Do In Vail
Vail is a European-style village in the Colorado Rockies that goes far beyond just good food, attracting millions of visitors yearly. Although famous for being a ski haven, Vail Valley offers the most diverse lineup of activities and experiences for every season.
In the winter, you can hit the slopes at Vail Ski Resort, enjoy a scenic sleigh ride, or try your hand at ice skating. Summer in Vail brings opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and golfing, while the fall offers beautiful foliage and tranquil trails. For those seeking adventure, activities like zip-lining, white-water rafting, and exploring the vibrant Vail Village are a must.
Make the most of your getaway with our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Vail, Colorado. Whether you’re here for the food, the fun, or the breathtaking views, Vail has something for everyone.
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Best Restaurants in Vail: FAQs
What types of cuisine can I find in Vail?
Vail offers many cuisines, including European, American, Asian, Mediterranean, and more. Whether you’re craving Italian pasta, French delicacies, or hearty Bavarian fare, Vail has something to satisfy every palate.
Are reservations required for dining in Vail?
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular spots like Sweet Basil and Mountain Standard. Some restaurants, such as Sweet Basil, are often booked out a month in advance, but you can try your luck with first-come, first-served seating at the bar.
What is a good place for breakfast in Vail?
Ludwig’s at Sonnenalp offers a delightful European-style breakfast buffet. The buffet includes various options, from eggs in any style to French toast, waffles, and fresh fruit.
Are there family-friendly dining options in Vail?
Yes, Vail has many family-friendly dining options, including Alpenrose for Austrian fare and Vintage for a cozy French-inspired meal.
What is the best place for dessert in Vail?
The Gorsuch Ski Café near Gondola One offers some of the best Bavarian-inspired bakery items to curb your sweet cravings. Treat yourself to oversized pretzels and irresistible chocolate hazelnut croissants, and cozy up with a cup of Gluhwein or Café Coretto.
Best Restaurants in Vail: Final Thoughts
When I arrived in this mountain town, I knew I was in for a treat, but the upscale dining scene exceeded all my expectations. Each meal was an adventure, a story told through flavors and creativity that left me eagerly anticipating the next bite. If you’re planning a trip to Vail, bring your appetite and an open mind. There’s so much to explore, and the local chefs’ dedication to their craft is evident in every dish. Trust me, you won’t leave disappointed—or hungry!
Happy dining, and may your Vail food journey be as deliciously unforgettable as mine! Until next time, bon appétit!
Last Updated 3 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: September 22, 2024
