In ski town hierarchy, not all restaurant/bar patios are created equal. You’ve got your patios with a primo view, brewery patios, baller après patios, and patios where you can get amaze cocktails or food made with local ingredients.
Thus, where you have an outside seat in Aspen depends upon who you’re with, your bank account, and what you’re looking for. To maximize your summer playtime enjoyment, I present my top five patios in Aspen (in no particular order), for every occasion. Cheers!
Ajax Tavern
Located at the base of the gondola and part of the Limelight’s sister property The Little Nell, this swank spot attracts everyone from tourists to celebs. The spacious patio is hopping in summer, especially at lunchtime, and no wonder, what with tasty eats, a slopeside location, and an in-your-face view of Ajax. Do yourself a favor and order a bottle from the Nell’s internationally-acclaimed “wine bible.”
Grey Lady
Credit: Nicole Barker
Since opening day last December, Grey Lady has been drawing crowds for its sustainably-sourced New England seafood and cocktails-on-tap program (in collaboration with Basalt’s Woody Creek Distillers). The new patio expands the cozy space and provides prime people-watching at the corner of buzzing S. Mill Street and the Hyman Ave. pedestrian mall.
The White House Tavern
If it’s a mellower– if still happening- outdoor vibe you want, this adorable restaurant located in a historic former home is the place. Craft brew, upscale pub food, and views of the summer slopes? Check, check, check. Bring your pooch; there’s plenty of room to tie up furry friends.
Jimmy’s Bodega
This airy raw bar and mezcaleria opened last fall to great anticipation; no surprise since it’s owned by beloved Aspen restaurateur/celebrated mixologist Jimmy Yeager. The bar menu is only available in summer, so settle in for a spell and order up a BOC on BFIC’s (aka “Bucket of [pre-mixed] Cocktails on Big F——g Ice Cubes) to go with your ceviche and fish tacos.
The Red Onion
Housed in one of the most historic buildings in Aspen (on the Hyman Ave. Mall), this former saloon has been keeping things rowdy since 1892. On summer weekends, the patio packs them in.
Staying at the Limelight? Check out our LOUNGE patio during Happy Hour (daily, 3-7pm), and on Rosé Wednesdays for great deals on drinks and food.
