On the Mountain
There are two restaurants on the mountain of Aspen and both are serviced by the Ajax Express – Bonnie’s near the bottom and Sundeck at the top. Definitely check out Bonnie's because it provides the most unique atmosphere and food, both set in the theme of an Alps ski lodge. Don’t miss out on the Apple Strudel for desert, philly cheese steak for lunch or pancakes for breakfast! All in all, Bonnie’s is a local favorite and our recommendation.
In Town
At the base of the mountain, the whole town opens up with dozens of restaurants within a few minutes’ walk from the slopes. Aspen restaurants are known for having a fantastic food culture and variety so explore the restaurant scene to find your personal favorite! We’ve put together a list of local favorites to get you started.
Restaurants to consider
CP Burger: A great kids spot with burgers, shakes, and ice skating during the winter months! CP Burger is located just across from the Ruby Park Transit Center and easy identified by its ice rink.
Shlomo’s: This restaurant offers kosher options and slope side convenience to Aspen Mountain, specializing in Jewish classics for lunch and brunch.
New York Pizza: A family favorite located in downtown Aspen across from Hops Culture. Super laid back pizzeria atmosphere where you can order a whole pie or by the slice! They are cash only so make sure you have that.
Matsuhisa: If you’re hankering for Japanese food, consider Matsuhisa a very classy restaurant for sushi. Owned by Nobu, expect great seafood and service.
Apres-Ski / Nightlife
Restaurants to consider
Ajax Tavern: The classic Aspen Après spot at the base of the Gondola. It’s a ski-in bar with a great outdoor setting for scoping out celebrities while you munch on truffle fries and down Clicquot champagne. It’s going to burn a hole in your wallet, but worth the experience! Inside, is the chair 9 bar, with live DJ’s every day of the week.
Red Onion: A more relaxed alternative is Red Onion – one of the oldest bars in Aspen with cheap drinks, great dining, and a friendly local vibe in a classic red brick décor, making this an awesome hangout any time of night, whether you’re just getting started or looking for a nightcap.
Aspen Brewing Co: For some serious drinking, Aspen Brewing Co is another popular watering hole. Aspen made brew is the only thing on the menu but it has a cool small taproom atmosphere and host events and parties throughout the season.
J-Bar: Located in Hotel Jerome offers upscale pub food and drinks in a classic historic bar setting, a great place to start your night!
Eric's Bar: Start the night at Eric’s Bar if you want to party with the locals. The bar is actually a complex of four different connected bars – Su Casa, Eric’s, Cigar Bar and Aspen Billiards. Here is where locals and tourists alike to go meet new people, play pool and party all night, every night!
Belly Up: After you're appropriately buzzed, saunter over to the Belly Up Music Hall to tear up the dance floor in a classic brick building with a ski-bum inspired atmosphere. It’s the best venue for live music and well known spot attracting musical talent!
And that’s just one of the many options in Aspen: House beats more your jam? Bootsy Bellows. Best Live DJs? Whiskey Rush. Crazy night out? Escobar. The possibilities are endless.