When you're prepping for a busy day of outdoor adventure at Aspen Snowmass, it is important to find a great place to grab breakfast or lunch. Maybe you're looking for that first cup of coffee in the morning, or you'd like to grab a quick breakfast with the kids before heading up the mountain. If you want to meet up with friends for brunch or a lunch date, what's available? The answer is plenty, including everything from grab-and-go counter service to five-star dining. No matter the time of day, there's always something scrumptious just waiting to be devoured.
We've created A Guide to Breakfast and Lunch in Aspen. This daytime dining guide highlights our recommendations of the top eateries in town that offer breakfast and lunch, and we break down each restaurant by key offerings: coffee, full breakfast, brunch, counter service, table service, and kid-friendly dining.
Ready for the most important meal of the day? Read on to see some of our top recommendations for breakfast and lunch in Aspen. Your next great meal in Aspen awaits!
Top Coffee Spots in Aspen
It's no wonder that a mountain town would have some sweet spots to grab a cup of Joe. You don't have to go far to find a tasty cup because there are plenty of options right downtown or close to the gondola. If you need to warm up during the winter months, pick up your brew of choice at one of these great options!
Paradise Bakery & Café (Downtown Aspen)
Location: Cooper Ave Mall, across from the Independence Square Hotel
Hours: 6:30 AM - 9 PM Thursday-Sunday
A go-to for coffee, pastries, and quick breakfast bites. Known for cookies and easy grab-and-go options right in the heart of downtown.
Gorsuch Café (Gondola Plaza)
Location: Base of Aspen Mountain gondola
Hours: 8 AM - 6 PM
Perfect for a pre-ski coffee or light breakfast just steps from the lifts.
Full Breakfasts in Aspen
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast. Locals and guests alike love the atmosphere at Poppycock's, the classic mountain diner. It's also a favorite with kids.
Poppycock's
Location: 665 E Cooper Ave, Aspen, CO
Hours: 7:30 AM – 2:30 PM
A longtime local favorite serving hearty breakfasts in a family-friendly setting. Known for generous portions and classic comfort dishes.
Velvet Buck
Location: 315 E Dean St, Aspen, CO (The St. Regis Aspen Resort)
Hours: 7 AM - 11 AM, 3 PM - 9 PM
An upscale breakfast experience with refined dishes and a sophisticated mountain-lodge atmosphere.
Element 47
Location: 675 E Durant Ave, Aspen, CO (The Little Nell)
Hours: Breakfast 7 AM - 11 AM, Bar open 11 AM - 11 PM
A high-end dining option known for exceptional service, beautifully plated dishes, and an extensive wine program.
Prospect
Location: 330 E Main St, Aspen, CO (Hotel Jerome)
Hours: Breakfast 7 AM - 11 AM, Lunch/Brunch 11:45 AM - 2:30 PM
Blends historic charm with a modern Western menu in one of Aspen’s most iconic hotels.
Spring Café
Location: 119 S Spring St, Aspen, CO
Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM
A go-to for organic, vegetarian, and plant-based breakfast options, along with fresh juices and smoothies.
Legendary Lunches
There are literally too many awesome lunch choices to pick just one. If you're downtown and want an unforgettable made-to-order hamburger, try CP Burger or 520 Grill. If you want to grab a quick sandwich and get back on the hill, the gourmet Butcher's Block has been a local's favorite for years and is only one block from the gondola. All these and so much more make Aspen a great place to go for lunch!
Here are some more of our favorite lunch spots:
Crêperie du Village
Location: 400 E Hopkins Ave, Aspen, CO
Hours: Lunch & dinner; varies seasonally
A cozy French alpine bistro known for authentic crêpes and fondue.
Hickory House
Location: 730 W Main St, Aspen, CO
Hours: Open daily 8 AM - 2:30 PM and 5 PM - 9 PM
A local favorite for barbecue, especially ribs and pulled pork.
Kid-Friendly Eats
Food, family and fun go hand in hand in Aspen. There are a number of wonderful establishments around town that cater to families with children. If you're looking for something inexpensive near the gondola, grab a custom-made burrito at Big Wrap.
Aspen also has a tasty selection of pizza places around town. Brunelleschi's Pizza allows kids to make their own pizza as part of their dine-in experience. Ryno's Pub & Pizza has great food and games, all in a modern pub setting. Kids also love Taster's Pizza if you're near the library or Rio Grande Park. Other great spots for youngsters include the aforementioned Paradise Bakery, Poppycock's, Hickory House, 520 Grill and CP Burger.
Book Your Stay in Aspen Directly with Frias Properties!
Are you ready to eat your way through Aspen? Start planning your Aspen vacation by browsing our vast selection of centrally located vacation rentals. Or contact our reservations specialists to get recommendations on where to stay. Remember, when you book your trip directly with Frias, you're saving yourself time, money, and stress!