From traditional steak dinners to contemporary Japanese dishes, you’re sure to fall in love with these six Aspen restaurants
Nestled in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Aspen is a picturesque resort town beloved by outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. While it’s best known for its superior ski resorts and landmarks, such as the Wheeler Opera House (which was built in the 1800s during the area’s silver mining heyday), Aspen also has plenty of high-end restaurants designed to delight. If you’re looking for a romantic restaurant that you and your significant other are sure to love, we’ve got you covered. So book a sitter, make a reservation, and treat the love of your life to a dinner that’s just as special as they are. From Ellina to Steakhouse No. 316, here are six restaurants to try during your next date night.
Steakhouse No. 316
If you’re in search of a traditional steak dinner, this is the place for you. Owned by Craig and Samantha Cordts-Pearce, Steakhouse No. 316 is an Aspen institution complete with red booths, gilded mirrors, and midnight black walls. This old-school steakhouse serves everything from oysters and crab cakes to striped bass and Dover sole. But the real attraction is, of course, the steak—and their menu doesn’t disappoint. Diners can choose from favorites such as New York strip, prime cowboy ribeye, or prime porterhouse. Sides such as twice-baked potatoes, charred asparagus, and roasted wild mushrooms perfectly complement the melt-in-your-mouth cuts of meat. Enjoy a glass of wine from their extensive wine list, or ask for a hand-stirred cocktail (we recommend The Huntsman, a delightful medley of pineapple and dark rum mixed with ginger and lime).Ellina
Nothing says romance quite like an upscale Italian meal—and if you’re looking for one in Aspen, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better option than Ellina. Known for its romantic vibe (think stone walls and elegant white tablecloths), Ellina has long been a go-to for anniversary meals, birthday celebrations, and other special life events. Start your meal off on the right note by choosing a bottle of wine from their well-stocked wine cellar. Next, opt for handmade pasta with homemade sauce. With a menu that includes everything from spaghetti marinara and mushroom ravioli to short rib and lamb chops, Ellina’s menu is sure to satisfy all palates. End the meal on a sweet note by ordering a molten chocolate cake or espresso martini to share.Cache Cache
Cache Cache has been an Aspen staple for over three decades—and for good reason. Partner and general manager Jodi Larner along with Chef Lanter are committed to offering an unforgettable experience that combines authentic French cuisine, an extensive wine list, and top-of-the-line service. All ingredients are fresh, high-quality, and local. From Fettucine with Alaskan crab to Wagyu New York steak strip, you and your partner are sure to enjoy one of several delicious dishes in a sleek, modern setting.Matsuhisa
If sushi is the way to your partner’s heart, Matsuhisa is the place for you. Chef Nobu (yes, the same Chef Nobu of the famous Beverly Hills favorite) combines his formal training in Tokyo with his experiences in Peru and Argentina to create stunning dishes such as Black Cod Miso and Whitefish Tiradito. Guests can also enjoy sake, beer, and cocktails, including the premier Golden Sakitini, made with Beluga Gold Vodka and YK35 sake. The experience takes place in a 120-year-old Main Street Victorian house complete with a beautiful walnut cocktail bar, bamboo-wrapped ceilings, and a large sushi bar. Matsuhisa is without a doubt the place to go for an upscale sushi fix.Piñons
For over 30 years, Piñons has been known for its seasonal American cuisine, generous wine list, and panoramic mountain views. This award-winning restaurant has long been one of Aspen’s most distinguished eateries, so it’s the perfect place to take your partner for a fancy night out on the town. Start the night by ordering some appetizers to share (you can’t go wrong with their sashimi tuna tacos or duck quesadilla). While the appetizers are to die for, you’ll want to leave plenty of room for the main attraction, since the menu has everything from buffalo tenderloin to ribeye steak to tofu enchiladas. Pair your main course with a glass of wine from the 20+-page menu, and toast to a special night out with your loved one.Pine Creek Cookhouse
Treat your partner to a romantic rendezvous at Pine Creek Cookhouse, an upscale restaurant tucked into a remote log cabin surrounded by the Elk Mountains and fir trees. Each day, the team puts fresh fish and wild game to good use by pairing it with organic, locally-sourced produce. The seasonal menus might include everything from stuffed acorn squash and smoked salmon to braised beef cheeks and baked potato dumplings. The food is rivaled only by the panoramic views and stellar service. After dinner, you can go on an outdoor adventure (such as snowshoeing and skiing in the winter and hiking and biking in the summer).From unforgettable restaurants to world-class ski resorts, Aspen has something for everyone— which is why it’s no surprise that the mountain town is popular with families, retirees, and young professionals alike. Whether you’re looking for an investment property or a year-round home, Aspen is a community that should be on your list. Contact Carrie Wells today if you’re interested in purchasing a home in Aspen. Whether you’re looking for Aspen luxury homes for sale or less expensive Aspen real estate that fits your budget, she can answer any questions you have and help you find a home that matches every item on your checklist.