Vail Restaurants

There are few ski towns that can compete with the Vail dining scene. Vail’s dining options are as versed as it’s terrain, from Iron Chef Nobu **Matsuhisa’**s famed Japanese fine dining restaurant to affordable option like a slice pizza and a beer at Vendetta’s, the Vail dining scene offers something for every palate and budget. And there are unique dining experiences like boutique bowling or traditional alpine cuisine. Whether you’re spending $100 or $5 on meal, you can expect impeccable service and quality. This is Vail after all.

Lionshead + Vail Village Dining

Vail restaurants are varied and versed, perfect for the many different types of vacationers that frequent the Vail Valley. While it’s hard to narrow down a don’t-miss list−since there are so many incredible Vail restaurants−we rounded up a couple of favorites.

The Vail Chophouse is an easy pick thanks to its convenient location at the base of the Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead Village.  And it’s a lively place throughout the day: lunch, après or dinner. Known for their surf and turf, prime cuts and tasty appetizers, like buffalo meatballs and smoked honey salmon. Be sure to try their famed bloody mary with their house made pepper vodka. Make some memories over a pot of fondue at the Swiss Chalet in Vail Village. The Swiss Chalet is a great dining experience for families and larger groups. Beer and wine lovers, alike will be pleased with this high alpine European restaurant. The Swiss Chalet offers arm-sized mugs of European draft beers and a Wine Spectator-acclaimed wine list. And for dessert don’t miss the chocolate fondue or their classic apple strudel. 

For a creek side meal, and something a little off the beaten path, head to Up the Creek. This longtime Vail restaurant−since 1988− has tons of windows for perfect views of the babbling Eagle River, making it an ideal lunch spot. The roasted turkey and brie sandwich with orange cranberry relish is a long-time favorite. Check out their incredible cocktail list; be sure to try the Colorado Cucumber, which features Colorado-made Leopold Gin with fresh cucumber. Mountain Standard, a new off-shoot restaurant of long reputed fine-dining establishment Sweet Basil, also offers creek side dining, and pretty views of all the sparkling Christmas lights. The smells coming from Mountain Standard are tantalizing, as they cook nearly all dishes on an open, wood fire. The menu ranges from Southern comfort food to barbecue to Rocky Mountain fare.

On-Mountain Vail Restaurants

The 10th, located at the top of Mid Vail, is the resort’s newest development project and on-mountain restaurant. The lodge-style dining area features floor to ceiling windows, with incredible views of the stunning Gore Range. So be sure to make a lunch reservation, or early dinner reservation if you’re opt for a spring Vail ski vacation so you can enjoy day-time or sunset views of Vail’s most epic scenery. The menu focuses on modern alpine items, like chicken and pheasant pot pie and elk Bolognese.