Getting your Money’s Worth
While Aspen boasts amazing cuisine from around the world, sometimes the prices can be as elevated as the altitude of the town itself! What’s the secret code for locals and guests alike? Say hello to the bar menu, a select group of signature dishes available in the bar area (and even some dining rooms) of many of Aspen’s most sought-after restaurants. Join us as we dive in to discover what’s cooking!
Our Top Picks
This lively, social Italian spot one block from the Aspen Mountain gondola features some delicious, wallet friendly bar menu options including salads for $8-$9, brick-oven pizzas for $10, traditional pastas from $11 to $14 and drink specials at the bar starting at 5:30 pm until closing. 624 E Cooper Ave., (970) 925-5882
Part restaurant, part lounge/nightclub, 7908 offers patrons a bar menu strong on decadent comfort food if not outright value. Chile-glazed fried chicken ($26) and achiote-marinated hanger steak ($31) share space with duck confit ($28) and an indulgent burger featuring a truffle parmesan sauce and tater tots ($20). Wash it all down with a few glasses of prosecco or even Moët & Chandon—7908 has three choices by the glass. 415 E Hyman Ave., (970) 516-7908
Asian fusion cuisine comes to life at Jing’s bar with a menu featuring great sushi including nigiri ($5-$12 per 2 pieces), specialty rolls, and even the popular lobster taco ($20). Bar patrons can also enjoy spicy edamame and a wide assortment of dumplings from the dim sum menu. Add in a $5 sake and you’ve got a perfect far-east meal. 413 E Main St., (970) 920-9988
Another go-to spot for locals since 1997 is the bar at Jimmy’s. If you don’t mind a crowd, the high-top tables feature a menu of great comfort food including a delicious meatloaf ($17), a flat-iron steak ($21), and blackened fish tacos ($15). Jimmy’s also features an unparalleled selection of tequila (think high-end and exclusive anejo and reposado!) 205 S. Mill Street (Upstairs) (970) 925-6020
A locals’ favorite for over 20 years, L’Hostaria owner Tiziano Gortan offers his guests a comprehensive bar menu that boasts more options than many competitors’ full menus. Think flavorful pastas and classic Italian entrees from both land and sea. Standouts include the carpaccio and burrata crostino appetizers, hearty carbonara and Bolognese pastas and grilled steak with mushrooms (all under $20). The welcoming bar staff stands ready with wonderful wine options ($10-$14 per glass) to accompany everything. 620 E Hyman Ave, 970-925-9022
As befits the fashionable, rat-pack atmosphere, Steakhouse No. 316 has a bar menu with suitably decadent options that will more than satisfy your appetite. Think jumbo crab cakes ($21), tuna tartare ($21), fish and chips ($20) and a wonderful filet accompanied by steak sauce, chimichurri, and a fried egg ($26). 316 E Hopkins Ave, 970-920-1893