The Ultimate List of Restaurants in Vail You Will Love

Are you visiting Vail, Colorado, and looking for the best Vail restaurants? Some of my all-time favorite ski town restaurants are in the charming villages of Vail, Colorado!

I’m telling you all about my favorite restaurants in Vail in this article! 

Whether you’re looking for the best chips, salsa, and margaritas or a fancy restaurant in Vail Village to dress up and enjoy a nice dinner, you’ll find your best Vail restaurant options here. 

Every time I visit Vail, I make it a point to try a new restaurant that I haven’t been to. On my last trip to Vail, I ate a spectacular lunch at Fall Line Restaurant in Vail Village and another lunch at Big Bear Bistro. Both of these restaurants were spectacular and I’ve included more details below. I also enjoyed a celebratory dinner with my husband at Matsuhisa Vail and we had an incredible dinner. 

Here I’m sharing with you the best Vail restaurants! I’m including restaurants in Vail Village, Lionshead Village, and surrounding areas around Vail. 

This list of restaurants in Vail is divided by the type of experience you’re looking for in Vail. They’re listed as Fancy Restaurants and Casual Restaurants. Also noted in this article is if the Vail restaurant is located inside a hotel in Vail. 

Whether you’re staying in Vail Village, Lionshead Village, or West or East Vail, it’s very easy to get around from Village to Village by their Vail Transporation. 

There are some incredible restaurants in Vail, Colorado to choose from and we’re highlighting them here with this most up-to-date list. 

Fancy Restaurants 

Sweet Basil Vail 

193 Gore Creek Drive, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 476-0125

Sweet Basil in Vail has consistently been one of the very best restaurants in Vail! With an elegant upscale style, Sweet Basil is the dining experience you want when you’re celebrating something special or just looking for a special night out. Sweet Basil has a long, celebrated history of amazing chefs, staff, and design and is still a staple in Vail.

Start with a delicious Ahi Tuni Sashimi or Large Caesar salad before moving into a serving of Angus Beef Tenderloin or Seafood Tagliolini featuring lobster and scallops. Complete your dining experience at Sweet Basil with Chocolate & Hazelnut made with dark chocolate ganache or Lemon and Fennel with lemon curd and fennel and brown sugar crumble. To review Sweet Basil’s entire scrumptious menu, go here.

Matsuhisa (inside The Solaris)

141 East Meadow Drive, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 476-6628

Matsuhisa in Vail is one of my favorite restaurants in Vail. On my last visit to Vail Village, my husband and I had a lovely “date night” sitting at the bar at “Matsu” (as it’s called by the locals). The atmosphere and service exceed expectations with the servers always making great recommendations. They attend to every need and are always excited to provide the best dining experience. They’re located in the heart of Vail Village inside the Solaris in Vail Village and next to Chasing Rabbits.

You’ll find creativity on Matsuhisa’s menu and be impressed with the amazing flavors. Begin with salty Edamame and Shishito Peppers for the table, plus an order of Nobu Tacos of lobster, king crab, or tuna. The menu includes a list of Specialties such as Yellowtail Tataki, Japanese Eggplant, or Miyazaki Wagyu Beef. Traditional Tempura is also on the menu if you love tempura as much as I do! Try the Shitake Mushroom, Sweet Potato, Japanese Eggplant, or any of the amazing other veggies.

The Sushi and Sashimi menu at Matsu is impressive and extensive so save room for the star of the show. Review the entire Matsuhisa Vail menu here.

This post is all about the restaurants in Vail.

courtesy of Montauk Seafood Grill 

Montauk Seafood Grill 

549 East Lionshead Circle, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 476-2601

If you’re looking for the best seafood in Vail, Montauk is going to be your choice! With a full raw bar on offer, Montauk Seafood Grill will meet your cravings for all things seafood. Entrees include perfectly seared Ahi Tuna, Steamed Alaskan Crab, and Carmelized Atlantic Scallops served with Pancetta, Risotto, and Brussels Sprouts.

Also on the extensive menu at Montauk Seafood Grill are Steak, Chicken, and the Kurobata Port Chop Milanese if you’re not a seafood lover. Wonderful side dishes and seafood and steak additions are available if you’re looking to add to your entree with a little something extra. Take a look at their fabulous menu here.

Flame Restaurant (inside Four Seasons Vail) 

1 Vail Road, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 477-8650

Whether you’re a guest at Four Seasons Vail or not, you should make it a point to dine at Flame. Flame is one of those restaurants that offer an amazing menu, stellar service, and an overall special experience in Vail. if you’re looking for a very special steak restaurant for a wonderful evening, Flame will be an excellent choice!

Flame has a prime location in Vail Village, inside the Four Seasons Vail.

This 2023 ski season in Vail, Flame is featuring a take-over by Chef Tyler Florence and his restaurant, Miller & Lux! Miller & Lux is a modern sophisticated steakhouse in San Francisco, CA, 

Vail Chophouse

675 Lionshead Pl, Vail, Colorado 81657 / (970) 477-0555

Vail Chophouse is the perfect restaurant to dine at if you’re looking for a delicious dinner slopeside located in Lionshead Village. Mountain cozy sophistication is what you’ll find at Vail Chophouse, which is also, of course, casual. Start with a scrumptious Charcuterie Board, Yellowfin Tuna Poke, or Crispy Pork Belly Sliders. A Seafood Bar is also on offer at the Chophouse that includes Oysters or a Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail.

For dinner, order Vail Chophouses’ Filet for an amazing dinner or the Creekstone Farms Prime New York Strip. Choose your sides from Whipped Yukon Potatoes, Sauteed Mushrooms or Sweet Potato Fries are also a yummy bonus to add to your savory entree at Vail Chophouse. Review the Vail Chophouse menu here.

Elway’s Vail (inside the Lodge at Vail)

174 Gore Creek Drive, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 7547818

Elway’s Vail is a classic Colorado restaurant that has a special location in Vail Village inside The Lodge at Vail hotel. My favorite Starter at Elway’s is the Grilled Artichoke! The Rhode Island-Style Calamari is also usually one of our favorite appetizers when we eat there.

Elway’s features prime steaks, Colorado lamb, fresh fish, and a terrific menu of additional selections. Elway’s offers wonderful service and a great location in the heart of Vail Village. With an amazing menu of Filets, Strip Steak, Porterhouse, and more, if you’re a meat lover this is your place! 

You’ll also find amazing fish entrees at Elway’s Vail like Vancouver Island Salmon, Sea Bass, and Twin Lobster Tails. Tasty sides are on offer too, to add to your perfect meal – such as Potatoes Au Gratin, Creamed Spinach, or Sauteed Asparagus. Read all of Elway’s amazing menu here.

Swiss Chalet (inside Sonnenalp Vail) 

20 Vail Road, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 479-5462

Swiss Chalet is a traditional Swiss fondue restaurant located inside the Sonnenalp Hotel in Vail Village. The menu at Swiss Chalet is very authentic including Zwiebelsuppe, which is Onion Soup, Gruyere Cheese and Baguette Bread, or Kasespatzle, or, Swiss Dumplings with house-made three cheese blend, diced tomatoes, and fried onions.

You’ll find Meat Fondue, Cheese Fondue, Raclette, and Raclette Matterhorn to choose from. A long list of Additions will make your fondue or raclette even better! Check out the entire Swiss Chalet menu here.

This post is all about the restaurants in Vail.

courtesy of La Nonna Vail 

Casual Restaurants

La Nonna 

100 East Meadow Drive, Suite 24, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 393-5959

La Nonna is an Italian restaurant in Vail that just completed an extensive re-design! La Nonna offers a charming and quaint experience with amazing service. The servers and staff truly know the menu well and can make great recommendations. La Nonna is a place I like to return to every time I’m in Vail.

Begin your evening with a lovely Bruschetta Pomodoro or a Piatto di Prosciutto. From there, you must try one of their homemade pasta, which they make fresh daily! Linguine Crudaiola is simple, fresh, and delicious or Gnocchi Alla Bolognese for something a bit heartier. Also on the menu is Pollo Alla Piastra, which is Cornish Hen marinated in Italian herbs, or Brasato Piedmontese, a braised short rib dish. To check out La Nonna Vail’s entire menu, go here.

Mountain Standard 

193 North Creek Drive, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 476-0123
Northside, Creekside

Mountain Standard is a favorite restaurant in Vail! Many locals (including myself) love the vibe, service, and menu at Mountain Standard. Mountain Standard in Vail opened in 2012 and is owned by the same folks as Sweet Basil, one of the top-rated restaurants in Vail. The Chef at Mountain Standard, Maria Busato, was named Colorado Chef of the Year in 2020 and has created a truly delicious menu.

My favorite dish on the Starter menu is Wild Mushroom Flatbread with truffle bechamel, pesto, ricotta, and mozzarella. A few of the other spectacular dishes to try are the Smoked Short Rib Char Sui, Grilled Mahi Mahi, Colorado Black Angus NY Steak or the Maine Lobster and Tiger Prawns. To finish your meal, you must leave room for the Nutella Brioche Pizzetta or the Snickers Ice Cream Bar.

Mountain Standard in Vail also has a creative and impressive cocktail menu with options such as the Sea Legs, made with Smith and Cross Rum, Jones family triple sec, lemon, and lychee liqueur. Another yummy choice is The Dreadnought, with Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, lemon, roasted pineapple juice, and jalapeno. Discover the full menu at Mountain Standard here.

La Tour Vail 

122 East Meadow Drive, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 476-4403

La Tour is a long-standing French restaurant locally in the heart of Vail Village. La Tour is Chef owned and operated and offers its guests a creative, lovely menu starting with a delectable selection of French bread. Once you make your way to dinner, select from Lobster & Shrimp Stuffed Dover Sole or Black Olive Crusted Cabrilla Grouper. All dishes are designed with lovely sauces and accompaniments.

La Tour Vail’s menu also includes A la carte Steakhouse cuts and everchanging seasonal offerings so be sure to check upon dining what the current, fresh, options are! Complete your meal with Bourbon Chocolate Mousse Bombe, or a Warm Apple and Date Cake. La Tour Vail’s menu can be accessed here.

courtesy of Alpenrose Restaurant

Alpenrose Restaurant

100 East Meadow Drive, Vail, Colorado 81657 / (970) 476-8899

Alpenrose Restaurant in Vail will charm you with traditional Bavarian cuisine and make you feel like you’re dining in the Alps! With a truly authentic European atmosphere and menu, you’ll thoroughly enjoy dining at Alpenrose. 

Start off with Rosti Ballchen, rustic potato balls stuffed with Swiss cheese, bacon, and sour cream. Or, a freshly based German Pretzel served with cheese dip. For entrees, try the Rosi’s Lachs, which is steamed Salmon with butter-lime sauce served with pasta. Or, a Tomato Soup with croutons and feta cubes to warm you up. Side orders on offer are of a European nature also, featuring Sauerkraut or German Bratwurst. Peruse Alpenrose’s beautiful full menu here.

Bully Ranch (inside the Sonnelalp Vail)

20 Vail Road, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 479-5460

Bully Ranch is a rustic, cozy, and comfortable bar restaurant located inside the Sonnenalp Hotel in Vail Village. With Sonnenalp being one of my favorite hotels in all of Vail, I highly recommend stopping at Bully Ranch for a casual meal.

The cuisine served at Bully Ranch is a blend of Southwestern and American dishes such as burgers, Creamy Tomato Cheddar Soup, and Wild Boar Green Chili Nachos. The main dishes at Bully Ranch in Vail include Elk & Barolo Bolognese, Tomahawk Pork Chop made with local 10th Mountain Whisky Bourbon glaze, and Bully Beef Fajitas.

Bully Ranch Vail also offers a hearty Toasted Farro & Quinoa Power Bowl and other delicious salads. Pair that with Truffle Tots for a perfect meal, in my opinion. Sonnenalp Vail has been voted to have some of the very best restaurants in Vail and Bully Ranch is on that list! Take a look at the full menu at Bully Ranch here.

courtesy of El Segundo

El Segundo 

223 Gore Creek Dr, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 764-5470

El Segundo is a modern taqueria in the heart of Vail Village with an amazing tequila bar! El Segundo is an energetic and colorful restaurant with a fun vibe. Come to El Segundo when you’d like to enjoy a delicious margarita paired with chips and freshly made guacamole.

El Segundo’s creative menu features starters such as Elotes, which is Mexican Street Corn served with parmesan, mayonnaise, and lime. Or, try the Chorizo Queso Fundido made with Mexican chorizo, roasted hatch chilies, tomato, and warm tortillas.

El Segundo’s Taco Menu is extensive with succulent offerings! Choose from Grilled Mahi Mahi and Avocado, Carne Asada, or Grateful Veg to name a few. Check out the full menu here.

Fall Line Kitchen & Cocktails

232 Bridge St, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 470-4803

Fall Line Kitchen & Cocktails is another favorite spot of mine in Vail Village! Fall Line Kitchen’s vibe is contemporary, clean, and approachable. The friendly staff is welcoming and provides excellent service at Fall Line. They use the freshest ingredients to create dishes such as the appetizers Seafood Crudo or the Wagyu Filet Tartare.

For dinner, make your choice from Risotto Blanco, made with an array of veggies like sweet peppers, local snap peas, and sunflower micro greens. Or, for something heartier, the Fall Line Burger which is a short rib pattie, cheese veggies, and their special sauce. Here’s Fall Line Vail’s full menu for your review!

La Bottega 

100 E Meadow Dr, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 476-0280

Known for its giant stone oven, La Bottega offers a delectable list of homemade pizzas with creative blends of flavor. La Bottega is a relaxed, Italian eatery with an inviting, social atmosphere. Try a few of their inventive Northern Italian dishes such as Baked Spinach with Ricotta Cannelloni or Linguini with Clams. La Bottega is in the heart of Vail Village, next to the Sebastian Hotel.

Lemon Sole Filet is one of my favorite dishes at La Bottega, along with the Stone Oven-Roasted Scottish Salmon. For meat lovers, try the Wagyu Skirt Steak. Take a look at La Bottega’s fantastic menu in its entirety here.

courtesy of Leonora

Leonora (inside The Sebastian Vail) 

16 Vail Rd, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 477-8050

Leonora is a well-known restaurant in Vail Village inside the Sebastian Hotel. With a prime location in Vail Village, it’s easily walkable to Leonora from many hotels, condominiums, or townhomes in the Village. The menu at Leonora is designed as a tapas experience so guests can enjoy many different flavors! The vibe at Leonora is casual yet sophisticated with an international flair.

Start with a couple of very shareable appetizers such as the Preserved Fig Focaccia with blue cheese and caramelized onion balsamic reduction and a Tuscan Salad. From there, the White Bean Hummus is a lovely dish served with pita bread and the Crispy Brussel Sprouts are one of my favorites.

The Braised Pork Belly is a popular dish as well as the Lamb Lollipop if you’re a meat eater. Entrees are also on offer at Leonora, so if you’re feeling a bit hungrier opt for the Roasted Venison Loin or the Butternut Squash Curry. Check out the full menu here.

Pepi’s Restaurant & Bar (located inside Gasthof Gramshammer hotel)

231 Gore Creek Dr, Vail, Colorado, 81657  / (970) 476-4671

If you’re looking for authentic European cuisine in Vail Village, Pepi’s Restaurant & Bar is going to be your new favorite place! Owned by the Gramshammer family, Pepi’s is a slice right out of Austria with decor representative of the region. The menu at Pepi’s Restaurant is a blend of European favorite dishes and American-style favorites. Start off your evening with Steak Tartar or Hungarian Goulash to warm you up after a day of skiing!

European Specialities are what Pepi’s is known for, so order up the Wienerschnitzel or Jager Schnitzel, prepared with wild mushroom sauce, Spatzle, and braised red cabbage. Also on offer is Braised Beef Short Rib and other delightful dishes. If you’re vegetarian, you’re in luck! Truffled Gnocchi and Kasespatzle Allgauer Art are both vegetarian and served with delicious accompaniments like crispy fried onions. To review Pepi’s menu, go here.

The Red Lion Vail 

04 Bridge St St.1, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 476-7676

The Red Lion in Vail Village is known for their stellar Apres Ski scene in Vail! But, they also have a great menu for lunch and dinner to enjoy and it’s equally enticing. Sink into a big, hearty bowl of Green or Red Chili after a long ski day, or one of the tasty BBQ Platters on offer at the Red Lion.

All-natural beef burgers made to order are also on the menu at Red Lion along with a variety of sandwiches and salads. All salads have the option to add protein and the menu of sides will make you happy.

The Red Lion has a few choice specialties on its menu also such as NY Strip Steak, Ahi Steak, Smothered Burrito, and Center Cut Sirloin. These entrees come with yummy sides also for a full hearty meal at The Red Lion in Vail Village. Check out the full Red Lion menu here. 

Russell’s 

228 Bridge St, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 476-6700

Russell’s has been a staple restaurant in Vail for many years. Family-owned and operated, Russell’s will make you feel like a local with their comfortable atmosphere and friendliness. Russell’s overlooks Gore Creek and provides a lovely setting right next to the Bridge on Bridge Street. If you love seafood, start off with an order of Grilled Scallops or Tuna Sashimi. Or, begin with a nice French Onion Soup with gruyere cheese and a brioche crouton.

Meat entrees are Russell’s specialty. The menu features Russell’s Steak Diane which is a Filet served with shallot, mustard, and brandy cream sauce. Delightful sides of Russell’s scalloped potatoes and fresh vegetables also. Or, try the Cowboy Ribeye, New York Strip, and Fitel Mignon. See the entire menu for Russell’s here. 

Up The Creek Bar & Grill 

223 Gore Creek Dr #103, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 476-8141

Up the Creek is one of my favorite spots, especially in the summer in Vail Village, when you can dine outside and enjoy the creek and perfect Colorado weather. Up the Creek is family-owned and another popular spot for locals. Up the Creek has a comfortable, approachable vibe that truly welcomes diners to relax and enjoy the setting and meal. They boast organic, farm-to-plate cuisine that is of the highest quality.

To begin your evening, order some Calamari or Truffle Frites for the table, as they’re perfect to share! There are amazing salads on offer such as the Roasted Beet Salad (my favorite) with couscous, fennel, and kale with a tangy citrus dressing.

Deciding on your entree could be difficult because they’re all so amazing. Scottish Salmon, Pan Roasted Ruby Red Trout, or Braised Short Rib to just name a few. If you’re looking for vegetarian options you’ll find Napolitano which is a Quinoa cake with roasted tomatoes, diced squash and a yummy balsamic glaze. Up the Creek’s full menu can be found here. 

Vendetta’s 

291 Bridge St, Vail, Colorado, 81658 / (970) 476-5070

Vendetta’s is a cozy, local Italian restaurant that makes you feel right at home. It’s a perfect Apres ski spot in Vail Village just a short walk from the base of Vail Mountain and a vibe that will keep you staying for hours!

Vendetta’s has always been one of my all-time favorite Apres ski bars in Vail. Stop in for a cocktail or beer after the slopes or a summer hike in Vail and stay for the pizza.

Vendetta’s has a creative pizza menu featuring Willie’s White Room, which is a white pizza with cheese and a delicious blend of herbs. The W.V.A is another favorite pizza in Vail, topped with Pesto, Grilled Chicken, garlic, artichoke hearts, and Roma tomatoes.

If you’re a meat lover then your go-to pizza will be Popeye’s Passion with pepperoni, sausage, and veggies. Vendetta’s has a full menu of soups, salads, pasta, seafood dishes, and more. Check out Vendetta’s extensive menu here for all of the delectable selections!

El Sabor

660 Lionshead Pl, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 393-3164

El Sabor is an authentic Latin American restaurant serving delicious fresh cuisine in an energetic slopeside location next to Gondola One and the skier bridge in Vail. Stop into El Sabor for an Apres ski margarita and some chips and salsa and maybe even stay for dinner! El Sabor Vail has an enticing list of appetizers to start off your meal, such as Nachos De Sabor or Camarones Del Diablo made with shrimp and garlic and served with warm tortillas.

El Sabor tacos are a perfect place to head next with Mahi Mahi Tacos, Avocado Tacos, or the Al Pastor Tacos. These come with a side of rice and beans or a Cuban corn salad. Even on offer at El Sabor are savory burgers and sandwiches, so if you aren’t in the mood for a Mexican dish you can still enjoy it.

Order up a Cuban Sandwich with Carnitas, ham, and cheese or the Agave Fried Chicken that will come with french fries. Fresh salads are on the menu also, if you’re looking for a bit of a lighter option. Review the menu at El Sabor here.

Bart & Yeti’s 

553 E Lionshead Cir, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 476-2754

Bart & Yeti’s is a local’s favorite casual restaurant in Lionshead Village. With a long history of being a go-to place in Vail, Bart & Yeti’s will welcome you with their casual and friendly service. They have a laid-back attitude and vibe and offer a hearty menu for the seeker of Apres ski appetizers, soups, chilis, and sandwiches.

On their creative and extensive sandwich menu, you’ll find the Dino Sandwich which is a grilled, boneless chicken sandwich with Swiss cheese and guacamole, and the Yeti Dog, a quarter-pound hot dog!

A scrumptious Portobello Mushroom Sandwich is also on offer for the vegetarian guest, topped with roasted red pepper and cheese. Burgers like Chili Cheese Bart are available which is a burger topped with Red Chili or a vegetarian Black Bean Bart Burger! Take a look at the entire menu here.

Tavern on the Square

675 Lionshead Pl, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 754-7704

You’ll find Tavern on the Square inside the Arrabelle Hotel in Lionshead Village in Vail. Tavern on the Square is a classic bar with an energetic vibe to match. Just steps from the gondola, you’re in perfect proximity to grab an Apres ski drink, people watch and just enjoy that post-ski day glow.

Tavern on the Square has a traditional upscale bar menu featuring hearty burgers, chicken wings, salads, and grilled artichokes. Start with the popular Mezze Platter that includes crispy falafel, hummus, pickled veggies, and Naan bread for dipping. There’s also a delicious Tuna Poke Bowl and Fish & Chips on the menu at Village on the Square. Review the menu here.

Big Bear Bistro 

297 Hanson Ranch Rd, Vail, Colorado, 81657 / (970) 445-1007

Big Bear Bistro is one of my top favorite restaurants in Vail Village for either breakfast all day or lunch! Big Bear Bistro is a small, casual restaurant located in Vail Village, just steps from the base of Vail Mountain. The breakfast burritos are some of the best in Vail and omelets are hearty and made with fresh ingredients.

A few of my favorite items on the lunch menu are The Monet, which is a vegan sandwich made with cranberry walnut chickpea salad, crunch celery, scallions, and vegan dressing. It’s hearty, healthy, and one of the few places you can truly find a great vegan lunch in Vail, Colorado. Also on offer at Big Bear Bistro are soups, salads, and additional sandwiches such as the Briggs, made with roasted turkey, cheese, and fresh pesto. The Ultimate Grill Cheese will delight you if you love a good grilled cheese sandwich. Check the entire menu from Big Bear Bistro here.

If you’re looking for the best bars in Vail, check out this article.

Or, best coffee in the morning in Vail? Check out this extensive list of Coffee Shops in Vail, Colorado.

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