Welcome to Aspen, a world-renowned ski destination nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. While Aspen is famous for its slopes, it's also a haven for foodies and cocktail enthusiasts. The Aspen Taphouse Guide is your insider's look at the best drinks and dining experiences in this mountain town. From craft beers to expertly crafted cocktails, and from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, we'll take you on a journey through the culinary scene of Aspen.
Aspen's Best Taphouses and Bars
Aspen is home to a thriving taphouse scene, with numerous venues offering an impressive selection of craft beers, wines, and creative cocktails. Here are some of the top taphouses and bars to visit:
The Little Nell
Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, The Little Nell is a luxurious hotel that also happens to have one of the best bars in town. Their cocktail menu features innovative concoctions made with house-made infusions and fresh ingredients. Be sure to try their famous Colorado Mule, made with ginger beer, lime juice, and vodka.
| Drink | Price |
|---|---|
| Colorado Mule | $14 |
| Craft Beer (pint) | $8-$12 |
Elk Public House
This casual taphouse in downtown Aspen offers an impressive selection of craft beers, with over 20 taps featuring local and regional brews. Their menu also features tasty pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
Some popular beers to try at Elk Public House include:
- Aspen Brewing Company's Pyramid Peak Pale Ale
- Breckenridge Brewery's Avalanche Ale
- Great Divide Brewing Company's Titan IPA
Key Points
- The Little Nell offers an impressive selection of craft cocktails made with house-made infusions and fresh ingredients.
- Elk Public House features over 20 taps with local and regional craft beers.
- Aspen is home to a thriving food scene, with numerous restaurants offering everything from casual pub fare to upscale dining experiences.
- The best time to visit Aspen is during the winter months, when the town is transformed into a winter wonderland.
- Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as Rocky Mountain Oysters and Colorado-style green chile.
Aspen's Best Restaurants
Aspen is a foodie's paradise, with numerous restaurants offering everything from casual eateries to upscale dining experiences. Here are some of the top restaurants to try:
Matsuhisa
For a taste of Japan in Aspen, head to Matsuhisa, a renowned sushi restaurant located in the St. Regis Aspen Resort. Their menu features an impressive selection of sushi and small plates, including uni (sea urchin) and wagyu beef.
| Dish | Price |
|---|---|
| Uni | $25 |
| Wagyu Beef | $35 |
Cache Cache
This French-inspired bistro is located in the heart of downtown Aspen and offers a cozy atmosphere and creative menu. Try their famous duck confit or steak tartare for a taste of France in the Rockies.
Some popular dishes to try at Cache Cache include:
- Duck Confit - slow-cooked duck leg served with garlic mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables
- Steak Tartare - hand-cut steak served with toasted baguette and quail egg
- French Onion Soup - caramelized onions and melted cheese served in a crouton bowl
What is the best time to visit Aspen?
+The best time to visit Aspen depends on your interests. If you're a skier, winter is the best time to visit. If you prefer hiking and outdoor activities, summer is the way to go.
What are some local specialties I should try in Aspen?
+Some local specialties to try in Aspen include Rocky Mountain Oysters (also known as bull testicles), Colorado-style green chile, and elk burgers.
Are there any good restaurants in Aspen for families?
+Yes, there are several family-friendly restaurants in Aspen, including Elk Public House and The Little Nell's seasonal restaurant.
In conclusion, Aspen is a world-class destination for foodies and cocktail enthusiasts. From upscale restaurants to casual taphouses, there’s something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, we hope this guide has given you a taste of the best drinks and dining experiences Aspen has to offer.
