The 8 Best Restaurants in Vail, Colorado

Sweet Basil opened in 1977, making it one of Vail’s most enduring restaurants. Located in the heart of Vail Village, this is a romantic spot ideal for a fine-dining experience without pretension. Guests can enjoy creative cocktails, beer, and wine from the bar, while the seasonal menu offers a variety of hearty mains, vegetable-forward apps, and beautifully plated desserts. The views of the surrounding area aren’t bad either.

White Bison features contemporary comfort food and seasonal cocktails via Chef Jake Burkhardt, all perfect for warming up after a chilly day on the slopes. Burgers, steaks, wings and other casual dishes are served alongside rotating cocktails, tiki drinks, craft beers, and wine.

If you’re looking for a sumptuous fine-dining experience, newcomer Pendulum, also via Chef Jake Burkhardt, could be the place. The restaurant takes decorative inspiration from a ski lodge, but its ambiance is decidedly modern. Favorite items include the wagyu empanadas and the menu’s many seafood options. Entrées are on the pricey side, but the flatbreads and apps are just as good.

Matsuhisa is a beautiful spot for Japanese fusion food via renowned Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Find delectable seafood entrées, skewers, tempura, sushi, and sashimi on the menu, including the signature entrée, black cod with miso. Cocktails, beer, wine, and sake are available.

Located within the Four Seasons Resort, The Remedy Bar is a cozy place to fill up or grab a cocktail, which is best enjoyed beside a patio fire pit overlooking the property’s large pool. The bar menu includes salads, soups, pizza, burgers, sandwiches, and bowls. Try a local craft beer or their signature bourbon cocktail, The Medicine Cabinet, served on draft.

Mountain Standard is Sweet Basil’s younger, more casual sibling. Enjoy the tasty char of wood-fired dishes paired with craft beers or a lovely glass of red. The menu consists of bold, meaty entrées and seafood, including a raw bar. You’ll also find the occasional Southern twist in items, such as the shrimp and grits or pimento cheese on grilled bread.

Vail Chophouse, located in Lionshead, is a fun place to get a bite and hear some live music. They have a wide variety of proteins, including steaks and seafood, as well as hearty apps to warm you up, including poutine, crab cakes, or a bowl of French onion soup. Beer, wine, and cocktails are available, including custom Manhattans from their Manhattan bar.

Vintage is a darling French restaurant in Vail Village that serves breakfast and dinner. Find avocado toast, pancakes, benedicts, and galettes on the brunch menu, while staples such as mussels, escargot, and ratatouille can be ordered at dinner. Beer, wine, and cocktails are available during both meals, should you prefer to start your day off with a Bloody Mary or caffeinated cocktail.