With more than 100 bars and restaurants in Aspen, Colorado, it's a foodie's paradise. Needless to say, there are a lot of options to dine out! Aspen offers some of the most cutting-edge restaurants, diners and eateries in North America, and is world-renowned for its dining atmosphere, wide array of cuisine choices, top chefs and amazing cultural events like the annual Food & Wine Classic.
How do you sort through all these options? Unless you're planning on staying for a while, you won't have time to try all of the restaurants that Aspen has to offer. So, this week, we called in our head concierge, Mariya Mitsinova, to help us out. The concierge desk at Frias Properties of Aspen assists guests every day, making dinner recommendations and reservations for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Even on her own time, Mariya enjoys checking out what's new in Aspen, so she's perfect to give us the lowdown on what's in vogue in Aspen. No matter your taste, you're sure to find some good eats while you're in Aspen. Below, we asked Mariya to give us her Top 5 Restaurants in Aspen, and tell us why they stand out from the rest. For more information on a specific restaurant, or to view its menu, click the link. A new window will open.
Acquolina Trattoria & Pizzeria Mariya says: "The new hot spot in town - great pizza and Italian specialties. Make sure you try the homemade bread creations - fornarina, crustiono and many more. ... The lively atmosphere, super friendly staff, Italian wine list guarantee an authentic Italian experience."
Jimmy's Bodega Mariya says: "Best ceviche in town, great raw bar and seafood entries. Visit for a drink and an appetizer - fun atmosphere and awesome bar food menu."
The White House Tavern Mariya says: "Want a burger? The White House Tavern is the place to go. Great for lunch or a casual dinner. Short menu - burgers, salads and sandwiches."
Pinon's Mariya says: "Looking for high-end dining in Aspen? Pinon’s will exceed your expectations. Serving Colorado-inspired cuisine prime steaks (proclaimed the "Best Steaks in Colorado") and fish, paired with an extensive wine list. Specialties include Dover sole, lobster corn dogs, braised rabbit and potato gnocchi, Angus beef filet topped with foie gras, Colorado rack of lamb, trout and buffalo."
Zocalito Bistro Mariya says: "Authentic Latin American cuisine with eclectic dishes such as fried calamari with annato seed-garlic vinaigrette, shrimp and tilapia ceviche, chicken mole with beans, choyote squash and potatoes, poblano pepper stuffed with chicken (or potato), cheese, onion and tomatoes, Mayan fried calamari, guacamole made with panela cheese, Spanish Tilapia Veracruz entree, comes with an amontillado (a citrus, nutty sherry) sauce, mozzarella-stuffed skirt steak grilled and served with a chilihaucle sauce."