Best Spots to Grab Grub on the Mountain
With great skiing comes great hunger. We’ve all been there – after a day of shredding some gnar (or simply cruising down some groomed trails), you’re hangry. We’ve got you covered.
From fine dining on the mountain to casual spots near lifts, there are plenty of Telluride restaurants just waiting to be enjoyed. Some of these restaurants are only accessible during ski season, so get ready to hit the slopes and experience them for yourself!
Feast on Some Charcuterie
There’s no shortage of food and drinks at Alpino Vino, the highest elevation fine-dining restaurant in North America. At 11,966 feet, each charcuterie plate and glass of wine come with a view of the Wilson range. If you’re looking for a more filling meal, the grilled cheese and tomato soup are the perfect lunch. If you don’t want to ski in to this quaint European chalet, you can also experience Alpino Vino at night after a ride on a snow-coach for one of their five-course dinner menu and wine pairings. This fine-dining restaurant is located off of the Gold Hill Express (Lift 14) by the See Forever Trail.
When You Want to Chill Out
Looking for a spot to relax while you chow down on your lunch? Gorrono Ranch is the place. Located mid-mountain along the Misty Maiden run, this historic sheep herding ranch serves casual American fare with stellar views of Mount Wilson. Food ranges from salads to BBQ, chili and burgers. Cozy up next to the fire indoors or take your food outside to Gorrono’s “beach” and enjoy live music daily. Save a spot for us on one of the Adirondack chairs!
When You’re in a Hurry
Giuseppe’s is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat if you’re in a hurry to get back to the slopes and enjoy everything the Telluride Ski Resort has to offer. Located at the top of Plunge Lift, Giuseppe’s offers New Orleans-inspired comfort food as well as sandwiches, soup, snacks, beer and wine. Don’t forget to try the Black Bean Saute – it’s a staple at Giuseppe’s. While you’re eating, grab a seat outdoors and enjoy the view! On clear days, you can see the La Sal Mountains in Utah.
Snack Break!
If you’re headed up high for the day (think Prospect Bowl and above), the High Camp Warming Hut is a great spot to stop for a snack. They serve hot drinks, sandwiches, soups and snacks and also offer beach chairs with pristine views of Palmyra Peak. The High Camp Warming Hut is also the launching point for Quail Ridge and Palmyra Peak hike-to-terrain, making it a great spot to stop and refuel before any big runs.
If You’re Feeling Fancy…
Bon Vivant is a must-visit if you’re in the market for exquisite French cuisine and wine. Located at 11,220 feet above sea level with epic views to boot, this is definitely a splurge-worthy place to grab some grub and a view. If you’re not looking to fork over the cash for food, simply grab a drink and you can get the views and atmosphere without the hefty price tag. Bon Vivant is located at the top of the Polar Queen Express Lift (Lift 5) but is also accessible from Woozley’s Way Trail via the Gold Hill Express or Apex Lift.
Best Spot to Catch a Game
No need to miss your favorite team’s game just because you’re spending some time on the mountain. Hit up Tomboy Tavern, located in the heart of Mountain Village, before, during or after your day on the slopes. With a wraparound bar, big screen TVs and an expansive beer garden and patio, Tomboy Tavern is a great place to catch a game. Their menu, which features the likes of mac ‘n cheese with short rib and pork schnitzel, goes great with any of the 30+ beers on tap.
Most Affordable Spot for Grub and Drinks
While technically not ON the mountain, Oak is a local spot at the bottom of Chair 8 and the gondola that offers reasonable food, cheap drinks and a friendly face behind the counter. Open for lunch and dinner, Oak is also a great spot to grab a bite after a day on the slopes (and after all the on-mountain restaurants have closed for the day). Be sure to check out the patio!
Prefer to DIY?
Do you prefer to make your own lunch? Pack a picnic and head to the Revelation Bowl’s observation deck. This ski-in/ski-out location is definitely not for the faint of heart (the only access is via a black diamond run) but the views and the affordability make it worthy of our list.