More than Just a Pretty Plate

There is a noticeable trend in today’s culinary world, as diners seek to find more than a spot to simply satisfy their hunger. They’re looking for an experience.

Increasingly, menus are no longer just lists of dishes: they are narratives, connecting guests with the origins of their ingredients, be they painstakingly sourced, or locally and ethically produced. Perhaps the menu reflects an appreciation for the personalities and personal histories of their chefs. 

Restaurants of the Vail Valley certainly offer a wide variety of experiential dining, where guests can enjoy memorable, sensory-rich meals that go beyond what’s on the plate. Often, it’s the personalized service, or the ambiance that evokes a certain feeling or  transports you to another part of the world, like the “Vailcoming” staff that greet you in lederhosen and dirndl at the sister German-Austrian restaurants of Almresi and Alpenrose in Vail Village, or the 1930’s converted log cabin that houses The Gashouse Restaurant in Edwards with its hunting lodge décor and wild game specialties.

A vibrant open kitchen or tableside preparations can turn food prep into part of the show—like the iconic Antler’s Room at the Hotel Gasthof Gramshammer, known for the Steak au Proivre flambéed tableside. Numerous venues offer live music, where you can imbibe and refuel, and make every après an occasion to revel and reconnect. Here are some old and new standouts that you might want to consider. Some take eating from a function to an event—providing an escape from the ordinary. Some offer a chance to celebrate, learn, be entertained, or simply be surprised. 

Family & Adult Fun at Solaris Plaza

Situated in the heart of Vail Village, the iconic ice-skating rink is a great meet-up spot. Kids of all ages can get on the ice in wintertime or enjoy a game of cornhole in the summer—all while taking in views of Vail Mountain. Deca + Bol is the coolest bowling alley you’re likely to encounter. City vibes meet mountain culture in this sleek and stylish spot. Bol is an intimate setting with 10 custom lanes that can accommodate up to six people per lane. It’s important to make your reservations in advance as space is limited. Deca, the restaurant side of things, is a neighborhood restaurant with offerings both casual and elevated, and an impressive selection of crafty cocktails. DecaBolVail.com

The decidedly hip venue, Chasing Rabbits, is a true "through the looking glass" experience! Its four distinctive spaces invite you to eat, drink, socialize and play. Dine at the Restaurant or retreat to the seclusion of The Library for a quiet cocktail and conversation. The Rabbit Hole is a nightlife scene like no other. Creative snacks and beverage selections are mingled with classic diversions that include Skee-Ball and Pac-Man! The entertainment ranges from weekly DJ dance parties to magic shows or special movies screenings. Moon Rabbit is an exclusive speakeasy experience. With an ever-changing password, you’ll need to be in the know to get through the door at the end of the red-carpet corridor. For a list of events, or to learn about Social Club Memberships visit ChasingRabbitsVail.com

When Dinner is a Show

Located in the Heart of Avon at 240 Chapel Place, Fuji Mt. Sushi & Hibachi in Chapel Square, has taken over the space previously known as Nozawa. With multiple locations throughout Denver and its surrounding areas, the new ownership brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the space, serving up a sophisticated take on traditional Japanese dishes. Treat your family and friends to the Valley’s only hibachi restaurant, and marvel at the teppanyaki experience as your chef uses ninja-like precision flipping and combining ingredients on a flat-top grill, making dinner is both delicious and entertaining! Reservations are highly encouraged. FujiMtSushiHibachiAvon.com

Analog Vibes in Edwards

With multiple restaurants, boutiques and stores, Creekside concerts in the summer and more, The Riverwalk at Edwards is worth a visit. The Bookworm of Edwards is The Valley’s community-minded bookstore and café where you can shop for your next great read while sharing fresh coffee, great food and good ideas with friends. You’re invited to drop in for a book club discussion or catch their weekly Toddler Storytime. Check the calendar for event programing like meet and greet author events and more. A full calendar is available at BookwormofEdwards.com.

Riverwalk Theatre is a vibrant multi-screen movie theatre serving digital movies and analog vibes. In a world increasingly dominated by small screens, come rediscover the communal magic of stories unfolding on a giant screen. Feel free to come hungry as their expanded menu includes offerings like the chopped brisket sandwich with pimento cheese and pickled onion on a challah roll, or the whimsical Frito pie! For showtimes of the latest theatrical releases, menu options or to book a screening room for a private event, visit RiverwalkTheater.com.

A True Western Experience

The area offers two different options for experiencing the thrill of an open-air horse drawn sleigh or wagon ride. Step into the past and tour these historic grounds as knowledgeable team drivers impart a bit of local history. 

Bearcat’s Cabin and Stables sit on a parcel of the historic Bearden Homestead that was settled in the early 1900’s. It's just 15 minutes from Beaver Creek on the west side of Edwards. 4 Eagle Ranch, originally homesteaded in the 1800's, is a 1,000-acre year-round recreational facility 4 miles north of the Eagle River off Highway 70 in Wolcott, Colorado. In winter, the dress code is casual, and be sure to dress warmly, including footwear suitable for walking on snow. Both outfitters will provide you with warm blankets for bundling up as you glide through the crisp mountain air under star filled skies. Following your ride, you’ll be satisfied with delicious buffet style dining and the optional warming libations. Dinners include dessert—but there’s always that outdoor campfire for toasting a marshmallow or two—or building your own s’more! 

Make lasting memories at these authentic Colorado experiences steeped in rich western heritage. 4EagleRanch.com or BearcatStables.com

Wherever you dine, we hope your culinary adventures in the Vail Valley are full of moments of connection, stories worth retelling, and experiences that encourage you to return again and again!