Ski Vacation Dining and Beverage Guide: Steamboat Springs, Colorado
If you’re still deciding which town in Colorado you want to host your annual ski trip, consider heading up to Routt County. Known for its preserved cowboy culture, consistent powder ski days, and quaint downtown, Steamboat Springs, also known as Ski Town U.S.A., is one of the most iconic Colorado ski towns with lots going on!
In Steamboat, there’s enough to keep you entertained, regardless of if you’re a skier or not. Between skiing at Steamboat Ski Resort, soaking in Strawberry Park Hot Springs, or snowmobiling Rabbit Ears pass, you’ll be craving some vittles by the end of your vacation days. On any given weekday or weekend, you’ll find travelers and locals hanging at the many bars and restaurants on and off Lincoln Avenue and Yampa Street.
On Mountain Options:
Routties BBQ:
If you’re looking for a classic après option, just steps away from the base of the resort, check out Routties BBQ. They specialize in slow, pecan smoked Colorado meats. This spot is great to soak up the spring sun after a warm ski day and some of the best happy hour beer deals on the mountain.
4pm to 6pm: $4 Budweiser or Bud Light Drafts and $6 Craft Drafts.
Taco Beast:
Operating out of snowcat, this fast-casual dining option on the mountain is taking the food truck to a new level. Weather permitting, Taco Beast operates five days a week, generally Thursday through Sunday. The menu consists of four types of trail tacos, Mexican street corn off the cob, and Mexican sodas and beers!
Slopeside Grill:
Known for its iconic heated bar, you can enjoy Après Ski “with Lifties, Locals, and Legends” right at the base of the Christie Peak Express. From apps and wraps to handmade pizzas, burgers, salads, and more, this is a convenient offering for all hours of the day. Whether staying in the village and looking for a casual evening offering or getting off the slopes after a long day of skiing, find yourself at Slopeside!
Downtown Casual:
O’Neills:
Steamboats Irish Pub! Specializing in an extensive whiskey assortment, O’Neill’s carries Irish and local brews with a food menu full of classic Irish American bar food. This is a great spot for game day, with a lively bar and an abundance
Sunpies:
A Louisiana style, eclectic dive bar located right on the river on Yampa Street serving a variety of Cajun style foods, cocktails, and local brews. This is a great late-night social spot, especially if you’re looking for a casual yet lively post-ski day.
Schmiggitys:
Live music and dance bar located right on Lincoln Avenue. Hosting a variety of entertainment from local bands, country two-step dance nights and karaōke. This is the spot if you’re looking to have a night! Check the events calendar here.
Downtown Elevated:
Aurum Food & Wine:
With locations in Steamboat, Breckenridge and Aspen, the Steamboat right on the is on the Yampa River and is some of the best riverfront dining in town. Find yourself at Aurum after a long ski day and indulge in their happy hour running from 4:30pm to 6pm, offering $9 classic cocktails, $4 draft beers and a variety of fusion snacks for under $15.
Café Diva:
Café Diva’s Chef Kate curates a new menu every season that features naturally raised meats, sustainably sourced seafood and produce from small family farms. This restaurant is the epitome of warm mountain contemporary ambiance. People continue to rave about this spot for the dining options, curated wine pairing and excellent veteran, well-informed employees.
E3 Chophouse:
If you’re looking for a downtown steak in Steamboat Springs or a lovely brunch right on the river, E3 Chophouse is the spot. The black angus cattle offerings are all hormone, steroid, and antibiotic-free and sourced just a state away on the family ranch in Fort Scott, Kansas.
Not at the chophouse for a steak? Check out the surf options and go for the Ahi tuna starter, lobster macaroni, Maryland crab cakes, or megalodon seafood tower.
