Don’t believe anyone who tells you Vail’s dining scene is just ski-lodge nachos and overpriced fondue. (Point for Aspen. We see you, Aspen.) But also don’t believe anyone who says you can’t find truly exceptional meals in this mountain town. You absolutely can—from cozy alpine bistros to innovative fine dining—you just need to know where to look.
Wildwood SmokeHouse
$$$ | (970) 476-5601 | WEBSITE
You’re bound to over-order at this busy smokehouse in the mountains. That’s just what happens at a place with views this stunning and portions this generous. There are typically favorites like fall-off-the-bone ribs, tender brisket, and creamy mac n cheese—all of which are great. But if you need to narrow down your choices, go for the $24 loaded fries with pulled pork. It comes with a mountain of crispy fries, smoky pulled pork, melted cheese, and all the fixings.
The brisket is also essential, and great for sharing if you’re with someone else.
DECA+BOL
$$$ | (970) 476-5300 | WEBSITE
Like most contemporary fusion spots in Vail, this excellent DECA+BOL restaurant has a varied menu full of dishes like well-seasoned beef tartare with crispy toast points or tuna poke with notably fresh fish. But there are also classic comfort choices on the menu. Fill your table with food from all of the above categories—particularly the crispy lamb pops and pan-seared short rib.
And then admire the polished bowling lanes and industrial-chic lighting, both of which make you feel like you’re at a stylish urban lounge.
Starbucks
$ | (970) 479-7298 | WEBSITE
The menu at Starbucks is short–we’re talking a post-it note short–but it consistently delivers exactly what you need. Bring your laptop here and settle in with a caramel macchiato topped with perfect foam, a pumpkin spice latte that tastes like autumn in a cup, or an iced coffee so refreshing it could revive a skier after a long day on the slopes.
This casual coffee shop is often bustling, but it can still be your go-to for a reliable morning pick-me-up with smooth cold brews, rich espresso shots, and chocolate chip cookies as big as your palm.
Big Bear Bistro
$ | (970) 445-1007 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for a cozy spot in Vail, you’re looking for Big Bear Bistro. It’s the best option near the gondola, specifically when you want excellent sandwiches like the Masterpiece with its honey balsamic glaze or the satisfying Pearson. They also serve some good breakfast items like the bacon egg and cheese on a croissant and delicious chocolate and strawberry crepes.
The Little Diner
$ | (970) 476-4279 | WEBSITE
After we ate at The Little Diner for the first time, we had a dream about a mountain of cinnamon sugar crepes. We can’t guarantee you’re destined for the same path. But we can confirm the fluffy German pancake and plates of corned beef hash and veggie omelets at this friendly Vail spot are reliably great. Breakfasts don’t go above $15, unless it’s a weekend special like their perfect biscuits and gravy, and portions are twice as generous as comparable diners.
Since you’ll certainly have leftovers, you can just eat more delish grits and scrambled eggs again for lunch—after you have your own wonderful dreams.
Express Lift Bar
$ | (970) 754-4590 | WEBSITE
Express Lift Bar is a ski break spot in Vail with a cozy indoor fireplace and a great location. Their drinks, like the Mudslide Hot Chocolate, are delicious, and the pretzel with beer cheese is a tasty choice. The bartenders are friendly, though service can be inconsistent and the line gets long. It closes early, so snagging a table makes for a convenient pit stop from the slopes, where you can warm up in your ski gear and be back on the mountain in under an hour.
Vail Brewing Company – Vail Village
$ | (970) 470-4622 | WEBSITE
Vail Brewing Company pours everything from crisp lagers to bold IPAs and smooth stouts, with a rotating selection that keeps things fresh and exciting. It’s usually pretty packed with locals or visitors relaxing after skiing and passing around plates of chips and pretzels, and sipping on ales and hard seltzers. Besides the great beers, the perk of this brewery is the super chill space—and the fact that you’re in the heart of Vail Village if you’re looking for part two of your night.
Elway’s
$$$$ | (970) 754-7818 | WEBSITE
If you want a steakhouse pick, go to Elway’s in Vail and eat steaks like the incredible ribeye or spectacular salmon with lemon butter. The elegant ambiance, warm lighting, and rustic wood accents make the room feel a little more special than your average mountain spot. So will starting your meal with perfectly cooked calamari and the super rich sautéed mushrooms with garlic and herbs. You might even forget that your server was so attentive and Chef Victor went above and beyond.
Treff Café
$ | (970) 479-5466 | WEBSITE
The first thing you’ll notice about Treff Café in Vail is how easy it is to miss. (It’s tucked away in the pedestrian-free part of town, blending into the surroundings.) But then you’ll sip a turmeric latte with almond milk, nibble on a gluten-free blueberry muffin, and relax with a refreshing Hugo Spritz, and you’ll never overlook this spot again. The cozy atmosphere, with its bright wood accents and comfortable cushions, makes it perfect for a light breakfast or a sweet treat.
The staff, including Rebecca, Levente, and Pieter, provides friendly, excellent service that feels genuinely welcoming. Whether you’re grabbing a ham & cheese croissant or a classic mocha, Treff Café delivers a pleasant, memorable experience.
La Cantina
$ | (970) 476-7661 | WEBSITE
La Cantina’s shrimp tacos are one of our favorite Mexican dishes in Vail. They’re incredibly flavorful and satisfying. While you could make an entire meal out of these and be happy at this Vail Village restaurant, we also suggest getting the queso and a beer from their good selection at reasonable prices. La Cantina never gets too packed with its simple and funky space, which makes it perfect for walk-ins or a last-minute group dinner when you want a convenient spot before or after skiing.