Vail, Colorado, sits just a few hours from Denver, yet this alpine valley feels like a place where mountain spirits might whisper secrets between the pines. The architecture is of the storybook chalet variety, the village wins accolades for its postcard perfection, and the very air tastes of adventure—a fitting stage for the culinary stars we’re about to celebrate.
Root & Flower
$$$ | (970) 470-4189 | WEBSITE
Root & Flower knows it’s cool. Cocktail names are like the confident declarations of a seasoned bartender (“Buck nasty, Scotch flight”), polished snow boots are lined up by the entrance, and the low-lit bar on a winter evening is the coziest spot for miles around. Like its elevated counterparts in Vail—The RemedyandThe Left Bank—this intimate restaurant is the stuff of glossy food magazines. Less predictable pub grub, and more Moroccan Zaalouk and sweet oysters.
Garfinkel’s
$$ | (970) 476-3789 | WEBSITE
This Vail restaurant appears from the street like a ski-lodge fantasy—all weathered wood and glowing lanterns on a sprawling deck, which is populated with fleece jackets and après-ski smiles. Come to Garfinkel’s for lunch. It’s served on the outdoor patio area and eating out here is like being wrapped in a cozy mountain blanket. The food won’t reinvent the wheel, but we always feel very satisfied digging into picture-perfect burgers and sweet potato fries in this friendly spot.
Westside Cafe & Market
$ | (970) 476-7890 | WEBSITE
Westside Cafe & Market is the coolest restaurant in Vail. Paper napkins—stained with poke sauce and coffee that dripped from a mug during an eager short rib Mac and cheese reach—tell the story of great meals. There’s a laid-back buzz to this mountain town-style spot off the highway, with staff in casual mountain wear delivering plates, branded with a simple ‘WESTSIDE’ like a local stamp, to tables celebrating ski days and nothing at all.
Revel
$$$ | (970) 477-5618 | WEBSITE
If you aren’t drawn to this Vail spot, with its modern clean lines and generous portions that you have to lean back from to make room for the next delicious bite, we recommend embracing a little more relaxation. Preferably inside, at the bar where regulars sip the standout Gothic Line cocktail. Get the elk, always, and if the lamb is on, it’s going to be a memorable evening.
Gessner
$$ | (970) 479-1538 | WEBSITE
Gessner is less restaurant and more destination. This expanse of elegant, interconnected spaces offers attentive service and well-prepared food, with dishes served promptly to large groups. Come evening, a mixture of ski-weary visitors and well-dressed locals fill the clean and fancy setting. Food lovers and those celebrating special occasions flock to this Vail spot for comforting American classics. Get the steak if it’s on, and plenty of napkins.
Eagles Nest
$$ | WEBSITE
Calling Eagles Nest a restaurant is an understatement. It’s a summit sanctuary of panoramic mountain vistas and après-ski vibes, with a first-floor bar where you might spot the occasional Olympic skier next to a Gore-Tex-clad family enjoying burgers and a warm-up. The American comfort food at this Vail spot is ski magazine photo shoot-ready: hearty slabs of roasted lamb sandwich, chili humming with spices and topped with melted cheddar.
And the floor-to-ceiling windows make a craft beer with your lunch feel like a necessary reward after conquering the slopes.
Loaded Joe’s – Vail
$ | (970) 479-2883 | WEBSITE
You could play ski-town diner bingo at Loaded Joe’s and quickly have a full card. Bacon & Swiss breakfast sandwiches? Highly recommended. Patty melts? Check. Medium roast coffee with great flavor? Absolutely. But your first sip of their bold coffee option tells you this isn’t your average mountain stop. Locals fuel up for ski days with near-perfect breakfasts and outside, tourists relax on the side patio that backs up to the river. Arrive early, this Vail spot is rightly very popular.
DECA+BOL
$$$ | (970) 476-5300 | WEBSITE
Much of your time at DECA+BOL in Vail will be spent deciding what to order because the menu has been written by someone who knows a fusion-lover’s deepest, darkest desires. The beef tartare is a big yes, so is the tuna poke. Sitting near the bowling alley is best. It’s a scene straight out of a contemporary dining fantasy with upscale lighting, casual seating that encourages friendly interactions, and happy groups sharing tacos described as the best ever.
The lamb pops are a must-try, and while service can be slow at times, the food is yummy without breaking the bank—most dishes hover around $18–$28, fitting the casual yet enjoyable vibe perfectly.
Sweet Basil
$$$$ | (970) 476-0125 | WEBSITE
Everyone at Sweet Basil in Vail Village is a visitor, or is quickly made to feel like a local by Ginney. Part server, part knowledgeable guide, she brings out savory dishes with a side of explanation—a helpful touch she offers after guests browse the unique menu—and calls warm welcomes into the bustling dining room. It’s a lovely place to settle for an evening, sipping creative cocktails and wondering how many desserts is too many after such a satisfying meal.
Pivot 62
$$ | (970) 476-2739 | WEBSITE
To skiers gliding past the Highline hotel, the scene at Pivot 62 must feel like a warm, savory dream. Families and groups gather around sturdy wooden tables under soft lighting, sipping unique craft drinks and sharing BBQ pizzas fresh from the oven. Inside the cozy space, wings and Brussels sprouts arrive hot and flavorful, while servers like Rolando and Sergio keep the atmosphere lively with their friendly service. It’s all very Vail by way of a neighborhood gem.
Which is perfect for après-ski crowds craving quick, delicious bites with their gluten-free pancakes and locals who want to swap mountain chill for something with Big Pizza Energy.
Cucina
$$ | (970) 754-7872 | WEBSITE
After enough glasses of wine, your game of ‘spot the skier down from Denver’ will really take off at Cucina. This warm Vail spot might look like a family restaurant, but you’re more likely to spot some designer ski boots than muddy hiking shoes. Even the live music sounds like it comes from a pretty comfortable stage. When it comes to food, our favourite thing on the varied menu is the bold lamb chops and fresh-crusted salmon.