On mountain
Limited by its size, Buttermilk only has two on-site dining options. However, what they lack in quantity, they make up for in quality.
The Cliffhouse: The Cliffhouse offers delicious dishes in a comfy cabin atop The Summit Express as well as spectacular views of Pyramid Peak and the entire Maroon Creek. Take a break from the slopes here and enjoy warm beverages, a fresh juice bar, and delicious Mongolian BBQ where you choose the ingredients and the chefs work their magic. For something a bit out of the ordinary, the Cliffhouse hosts various events throughout the year, such as the popular Full Moon Dinners where guests can skin/hike up, enjoy dinner, free hot chocolate and live music while relaxing around a Cowboy Cauldron before skiing back down under the moonlight.
Bumps Restaurant: End the day with a visit to Bumps Restaurant at the base of Buttermilk. Here you’ll find Mediterranean-inspired made-to-order pasta and a range of grilled dishes. They’ve also got the only bakery here! Sit back and relax on the expansive deck for views of the superpipe or hang out and enjoy après-ski specials at the end of a long ski day.
Off mountain
Aspen is known for its vibrant nightlife and thriving restaurant scene, inspired by the diverse crowds that visit the region every season. Should you choose to stay in the city, you’ll have access to a never-ending lineup of bustling bars, restaurants, and other après-ski options.
Bangkok Happy Bowl Thai Bistro and Bar: For a cheap and casual feed, this Thai joint is always a great choice. Be sure to try out their pad thai!
Hops Culture: If fries, burgers, and pints are what you’re after, Hops Culture puts out delicious pub fare at affordable prices. This industrial-chic gastropub has underground and outdoor seating offering a great selection of craft beers to go along with the pub classics such as the Bacon Mac N’ Cheese made with tender belly bacon, smoked Gouda and white cheddar.
Kenichi: Kenichi offers some pretty incredible Japanese food, though you’ll have to dig a bit deeper into your pockets for a meal here. They got everything from tuna sashimi with roasted almond and spicy cumin miso sauce to seared Chilean sea bass served over soba noodles with lobster broth.
Après ski
Much like the busy restaurant and bar scene in and around Aspen, the après ski options never seem to end. Bumps Restaurant in the Buttermilk main village is a hub for thirsty visitors after the mountain closes while providing scenic views of the slopes and X-Games during peak season.
Boosty Bellows: Take a free shuttle or an Uber into Aspen city for some drinks and dancing at Bootsy Bellows. Adding to Aspen’s infamous party reputation, this 60s art deco inspired nightclub is the lounge version of its sister venue in Los Angeles. With great DJ’s playing the best music around, you’re guaranteed to have a good time as this local favorite!
Jimmy’s: Jimmy’s is another great choice, serving dinner and drinks though you’re really here for the bar. They’ve got an extensive drinks menu featuring some interesting concoctions such as the Hokkaido Rendevouz, a mix of taketsuru pure malt whiskey, malvasia madeira, red grapes, inspired by their trip to Japan. Their lively bar is crowded for a reason and isn’t to be missed if you’re in Aspen!
Belly Up Aspen: If you’re looking to make the most of your trip, Belly Up Aspen hosts tons of music concerts with the likes of John Legend, Chris Isaak, and Ben Harper previously playing at this venue; so check their website to see upcoming events.