Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley Restaurants

Sushi? Coconut curry? Bison and lobster? Colorado's culinary repertoire is at its broadest in Aspen. With all the Hummers and designer handbags come an equal number of menus with high-end ingredients and showy preparations. Plates can be pricey, particularly in Aspen, but many eateries have at least a few moderately priced entrées (usually pastas) and bar menus as a nod to the budget-conscious. For those who want a break from Aspen, there are excellent dining options down-valley in Basalt and Carbondale as well.

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  • 1. Town

    $$ | Modern American

    Sporting an open kitchen, exposed brick walls, and red leather banquettes, this chic bistro offers inventive, cleverly presented meals. The eclectic dinner menu includes starters such as "jars"—small Mason jars filled with yummy spreads like chicken-liver pâté and served with grilled bread or toast. Roasted vegetable sides, and the beloved gnocchi salad with asparagus and mushrooms delight vegetarians, while carnivores revel in such options as rabbit tacos, and cherry barbecue–glazed pork shoulder. A front counter serves baked goods and coffee in the morning, and eat-in salads, sandwiches, and small plates in the afternoon.

    348 Main St., Carbondale, Colorado, 81623, USA
    970-963–6328
  • 2. Cache Cache

    $$$$

    With a focus on locally raised meats, Cache Cache brings a Continental influence to sophisticated yet filling entrées that are served on the patio or in the dimly lit room, with its white tablecloths and black chairs. In warmer months, the chic bistro's vegetable accompaniments reflect whatever is freshest from area farms. Those on a budget can belly up to the raucous bar for less pricey entrées.

    205 S. Mill St., Aspen, Colorado, 81611, USA
    970-925–3835

    Known For

    • Excellent wine selection
    • Sensational rotisserie items
    • A decadent dessert menu

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No lunch
  • 3. Element 47

    $$$$

    Aspen's elite book tables at this swanky, highly regarded restaurant in the Little Nell hotel not only for the beautifully presented entrées but also for the glass, ceiling-height wine cases stocked by knowledgeable sommeliers who also make tableside recommendations. The seasonal menu highlights locally sourced produce and game, as well as meat raised on Colorado ranches. For a lighter meal, head to the bar, which features Colorado beers and spirits.

    675 E. Durant Ave., Aspen, Colorado, 81611, USA
    970-920-6330

    Known For

    • 20,000-plus-bottle wine cellar
    • Local Wagyu beef
    • Impeccable service

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No dinner Mon. and Tues., Reservations essential
  • 4. Pine Creek Cookhouse

    $$$$

    The journey to and from this elegant log cabin restaurant in an idyllic setting is even more memorable than the delicious local fish and hearty wild game plates served. In the winter, take in breathtaking views of the Elk Mountains as you snowshoe, cross-country ski, or ride in a horse-drawn sleigh to the cabin where large windows preserve the scenery. In summer, plan to hike or bike to take in the stunning surroundings for the reward of a filling lunch or dinner. Wintertime dinners are quite pricey, but they include transportation—by sleigh or a cross-country ski trek (gear provided).

    12500 Castle Creek Rd., Aspen, Colorado, 81612, USA
    970-925–1044

    Known For

    • Floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the woods
    • Wild game and fresh fish
    • The trip there is an event

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Tues., Reservations essential
  • 5. The Pullman

    $$

    With its exposed redbrick walls, pendant lighting, loftlike high ceilings, and zinc-topped bar, the Pullman exudes a sophisticated, urban vibe at a location across the street from the Amtrak train station (thus the name) in Glenwood's historic downtown area. This laid-back restaurant welcomes all types of casual diners with a contemporary American menu that specializes in steak and pork, though the salads and pasta dishes are excellent.

    330 7th St., Glenwood Springs, Colorado, 81601, USA
    970-230–9234

    Known For

    • The town's fine-dining preference
    • Chef specials
    • Seasonal meat dishes with decadent toppings

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No lunch
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