Aspen Lunch Restaurants: Take a Break at These 6 Hot Spots
Whether coming off the slopes or finishing a hike, lunchtime serves as an important time of day. Those vacationing in Aspen find this especially true, as they find themselves hungry before their next action-packed adventure. That’s why we rounded up some top Aspen lunch restaurants. Go ahead and recharge.
Top 6 Aspen Lunch Restaurants for a Mid-day Break
The White House Tavern
Sandwiches are the main feature at The White House Tavern, a warm and welcoming favorite. The restaurant offers a lively atmosphere set among wood panels and interesting art.
White House Tavern’s sandwiches range from Honor Burger, crispy chicken and Gulf-coast fish. Or try French dip au jus made with roasted prime rib. To keep things interesting, ask the server for the day’s featured sandwich. If sandwiches seem a bit heavy, order a fresh salad. Options include kale with chicken, macho with mixed greens, and Thai steak and noodle salad.
Visitors should note The White House Tavern is often busy and does not accept reservations. Arrive before they open or after the lunch rush to avoid longer wait times.
Meat and Cheese
Doubling as a restaurant and food store, Meat and Cheese uses locally sourced ingredients and embraces Asian, European, and South and North American traditions. Due to seasonal changes, its menu varies. However, visitors should expect to find salads, sandwiches, and boards featuring meats and cheeses.
For example, friends and couples may want to share the meat and cheese board, a selection of three meats and three cheeses. Other options include biscuit, pate, sausage and steak boards, all offering fresh meats and veggies.
To enjoy something on-the-go, meet with the culinary team to create the perfect lunch at home. In addition, reservations are not accepted, but book through the app and avoid long wait times.
Big Wrap
With a name like Big Wrap, guests expect just that when eating lunch in Aspen. As winner of the best cheap eats by Aspen Times, diners enjoy hearty, healthy meals at a more affordable price.
Gourmet wraps come in 12 different styles – from swift kick to wrapzilla, with turkey, bacon and pico. Both meat-lovers and vegetarians have plenty of options, and each wrap comes with a side of tortilla chips. Other menu options at Big Wrap include salads, homemade vegan soups, tacos and smoothies.
Seating is limited, so grab lunch to-go or dine at the small bar. Guests should also bring cash for easy payment.
520 Grill
Located just two blocks from the gondola in Aspen, 520 Grill is a locally owned gem that offers fresh food and hearty portions. Plus, there’s no fuss.
For lunch, select from salads, wraps, pitas and hot dogs. In addition, try the 520 burger topped with fresh veggies and made from beef, bison, turkey, chicken or vegan. Grilled sandwiches are also a must, with wild-caught fish among the top choices.
Each dish is made to order, and guests are welcome to sit down or take it to-go. Keep in mind, this is a roadside diner atmosphere for casual dining.
La Creperie du Village (French Alpine Bistro)
Among the top Aspen lunch restaurants, La Creperie du Village sits in restaurant row. Offering a more upscale atmosphere, this bistro specializes in authentic French fare and fondue.
Lunch brings salads and crepes to meats and pasta. For example, try foie gras, escargots en brioche or truffle gnocchi-flette. Crepes range from the savory nirvana with chicken to sweet Nutella made with this popular snack. Those who want to share should try fondue, which is perfect for enjoying with someone special.
Reservations are recommended, or arrive before the lunch rush to secure a table.
Ajax Tavern
Ranked among locals for our best burgers in Colorado list, Ajax Tavern offers flavorful food in a casual atmosphere. Dine indoors or outside, where guests enjoy fresh air and scenic views.
Ajax Tavern offers an all-day menu with seafood, soups, salads and hearty courses. Order fresh oysters, crab or Maine lobster from the seafood bar. Or try a fresh salad, such as the in-house Ajax Tavern. For something heavier, try the double cheeseburger, Colorado striped bass, pochetta sandwich or poulet roti, a half-roasted chicken. Ajax Tavern also has several gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly options.
Ajax Tavern is located at the base of Aspen Mountain, and reservations are accepted for dinner only.
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