Vail, Colorado is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, but it’s also home to some of the best steakhouses in the Rocky Mountains. These establishments offer an unparalleled dining experience, combining exceptional cuisine, breathtaking mountain views, and a cozy alpine ambiance in Vail Valley.
In This Article
TL;DR
- Vail's steakhouses serve up prime cuts of Colorado beef, like filet mignon, cowboy ribeye, and Aspen Ridge tenderloin, often paired with local ingredients.
- Many restaurants offer mountain dining with panoramic Vail Mountain views, as well as live music and an alpine bistro atmosphere.
- Unique experiences include ski resort dining, snowboarding culinary adventures, and seasonal/festival offerings tied to Vail's events.
The Steakhouse Scene
Vail’s steakhouses are a cut above the rest, offering a truly elevated dining experience. In Vail Village, you are sure to find the best restaurant to suit your needs. From locally sourced meat to craft beer from Vail Brewing Company, Vail’s restaurants can please even the most discerning guest.
Establishments like Russell’s, Vail’s oldest steakhouse since 1989, serve up classic dishes like Steak Diane alongside prime cuts of Colorado beef.
Stop by Flame Restaurant inside the Four Seasons Resort Vail for a sophisticated dish infused with Latin flavors and locally sourced meat and fish. After dinner, stop by the hotel’s Remedy Bar for a late-night dessert like apple tarte tatin with ice cream or a craft cocktail.
For a taste of the Old West with a modern twist, the Slope Room delivers a truly unique dining experience with an alpine bistro vibe. It serves grass-fed ribeyes and center-cut filet mignon.
La Tour Restaurant and Bar serves French cuisine and is widely recognized for its excellence. Its menu includes oysters, steak, duck, and an assortment of fresh fish.
Warm up with a stone fireplace, outdoor fire pits, and a panoramic mountain view at the Matsuhisa Vail restaurant opened by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa for “new-style” Japanese cuisine. The menu includes sashimi, Miyazaki wagyu beef, lobster, and much more.
Near Gore Creek and known for its award-winning prime rib, Lancelot Restaurant serves steak and seafood paired with an extensive wine list.
Vail Chophouse is known for its creek views and stunning mountain vistas, where you can savor a New York strip or double Colorado lamb chops while enjoying live music.
Many steakhouses incorporate local ingredients like Aspen Ridge tenderloin and craft their menus around seasonal offerings.
The Mountain Dining Experience
One of the highlights of dining at Vail’s steakhouses is the opportunity for mountain dining with breathtaking Vail Mountain views. Restaurants like Wildwood Smokehouse are perched at an elevation of 11,000 feet, offering a unique culinary experience surrounded by alpine scenery.
The integration of the mountain environment extends beyond the views, with many establishments embracing a cozy, rustic ambiance that perfectly complements the hearty steakhouse fare. From the alpine bistro atmosphere of the Slope Room to the live music dining at the Vail Chophouse, these restaurants transport diners to a world of mountain luxury.
Catering to the Ski and Snowboard Crowd
As a world-renowned ski resort, Vail’s steakhouses cater to the ski and snowboard crowd with unique dining experiences. Wildwood Smokehouse, located at the top of Chairs 3 and 7, offers a convenient and delicious respite for those hitting the slopes.
Many steakhouses also incorporate elements of ski resort culture into their dining experience, from après-ski specials to cozy fireside seating perfect for unwinding after a day on the mountain. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-time snowboarder, these restaurants ensure a memorable culinary adventure.
Seasonal and Festival Offerings
Vail’s steakhouses embrace the changing seasons and local festivals, adapting their offerings to provide a truly authentic experience. During winter, you’ll find hearty, comforting dishes perfect for fueling up before or after a day on the slopes.
As the seasons change, so do the menus, with many restaurants incorporating fresh, locally sourced ingredients into their seasonal offerings. Additionally, special dining experiences are often available during Vail’s festivals, such as the Vail Ski & Snowboard School events, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture while indulging in exceptional cuisine.
FAQ
What are some of the signature dishes at Vail’s steakhouses?
Some signature dishes at Vail’s steakhouses include Steak Diane, filet mignon, cowboy ribeye, king crab leg, and grilled shrimp. Many restaurants offer unique preparations for Colorado prime beef, like the Aspen Ridge tenderloin or Rocky Mountain grass-fed ribeye.
Do the steakhouses offer vegetarian or vegan options?
While the focus is primarily on steaks and other meat-centric dishes, many of Vail’s steakhouses offer vegetarian and vegan dining options. It’s always a good idea to check in advance to inquire about their plant-based offerings to be sure you have chosen the best restaurant for your needs.
Can I enjoy live music while dining at Vail’s steakhouses?
Yes, several steakhouses in Vail Village offer live music dining experiences, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere. Vail Chophouse, for example, features live music on most evenings, with performances by the owner, Phil Long, and guest musicians.
Are there any steakhouses with outdoor seating or Vail Mountain views?
Absolutely! Many of Vail’s steakhouses offer outdoor seating or dining areas with panoramic mountain views. Vail Chophouse, for instance, has spacious mountainside decks that provide stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks. Seasonally, the front of Matsuhisa Vail becomes a large outdoor patio for dining with panoramic mountain views.
What types of Colorado craft beers and cocktails are available?
Vail’s steakhouses often feature a selection of locally brewed Colorado craft beers and signature cocktails that complement the dining experience. Some popular options include the Bloody Maria, Mellow Mule, and a variety of craft brews from Colorado’s renowned breweries.
