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Reviews
Aspen Eateries reviewed by locals, tourists, and you. Click the restaurant to see the reviews.
 
 
Asie

Asie take out was generally good quality. The Pad Thai was hot, well seasoned, and ingredients tasted fresh, and contained and excellent quantity of quality shrimp . Delivery was ten minutes later than the committed time when we called in the order. Overall an experience I would definitely repeat.

Reviewed by "Satisfied Customer"
Feb 29th 2008

   
Eat Aspen Extras. Writings, reviews, nad more.
Big Wrap

Dear Eat Aspen,
 I ate lunch at The Big Wrap truly a quality value. The "To Thai For" wrap was excellent. Fresh ingredients, well seasoned,  appealing to the taste buds, and a very ample quantity. Service was friendly, prompt and the price reasonable. I would recommend them to anyone who seeks a fast, tasty, lunch and a menu with great variety. The kitchen appeared clean and well run as well as customer eating area. I shall return many times in the future. Keep up the good work.
 
Reviewed by "A satisfied customer from Oregon".
Feb. 27 2008

Blue Maize

#1
Although often hectic and chilly, Blue Maize is still one of my favorite places to grab a bite to eat.  I feel just as comfortable going in by myself as I do with a group.  When I am too lazy or too tired to make dinner for myself I saddle up to the bar for an icy cold Tecate and a couple of Mexican style tacos (these are offered only at the bar).  Yummy and it doesn't’t require taking out a loan.  I recently discovered those same tacos and some wicked good steak empanadas are served at lunch.  As are the Tecates if you don’t have to go back to work!  With large windows facing Ajax it makes for a nice place to have a quick or not so quick (if you want to hang out no one will bother you) lunch. 

Review by "Allen's n' Milk" Aspen, CO
Jan. 23 2008

#2
I love the organic greens salad with grilled steak and or chicken for lunch.  The dressings are tasty as well.

Reviewed by Lynne Billac at Vectra Bank, Aspen , CO
Feb. 28 2008

Brunelleschi's

I dropped into Brunelleschi's again last week to enjoy one of their great, light pizzas.  We crashed the scene with half the MP2's  (that's Mother Puckers for short) hockey team, following a Saturday night win - desirous of beer and some great fare. The place was jammed at 9 p.m. The hostess was very accommodating in squeezing us in and adjoining tables as they became available.
The pizzas here are thin crusted and a meal for one.  Though a tad pricey at $15, it's worth it. My favorite pizza is the Basil Pesto, which comes with spinach, pine nuts and a tangy Gorgonzola cheese.  Yum!  I also hear the Paisano, ordered by several of my mates is very tasty.  If you want a salad, I highly recommend the Portobello - grilled with roasted red peppers and goat cheese on greens.  There's a lively local bar scene here as well.  If you're a basketball fan visiting town, beware!  The owner Gil is a hockey player, and this is a hockey bar.  Chill out, catch an AVs game and meet some Aspen locals who are into more than just skiing.

Reviewed by Rachel Dayton, Wellness Wave Intl. and aging, but hip hockey jock.
March 9, 2008

 
Cafe Suzanne

Skied 3 days at Snowmass last week with a group from MI.  Kept meeting for lunch at Café Suzanne (Mid. Mountain, top of Alpine Springs Lift).  Had the Veggie Rice Bowl two days because it was so damn good.  Rice, Black Beans, Pineapple Salsa, and other veggies.  Very tasty and filling.
On the third day I branched out to the Veggie Wrap (Roasted Veggies and Fresh Mozzarella) it was O.K. but definitely not as good as the Rice Bowl.  One hit I had everyday I ate there was the dessert.  I really didn’t need dessert but I couldn’t pass it up. Strategically placed at the beginning of the line. I folded every time.  A Chocolate Vanilla Triangle, a Rum Cake, and a Chocolate Éclair were all hits in my book and they may be what bring me back.

Reviewed by “Dreamer” Aspen, CO
Feb 24th 2008

 
Explore

Had dinner last night in the atrium of Explore Bistro. The food was well received by everyone in our party, even the carnivore. It was nice to see an updated menu with some old favorites to choose from.  Shared all three appetizers. Coconut Tofu, baked Brie w/ sun dried tomato pesto, and the Spinach Artichoke Dip. The Brie was a favorite coated in walnuts and sun dried tomatoes leaning toward the more traditional appetizer, while the Coconut Tofu more of a veggie specialty, was quite nice with the firm tofu cubes coated in crispy coconut with a sweet chili dipping sauce. The classic Artichoke dip dressed up a bit with the addition of spinach made it seem some how lighter and not as heavy as most. Ordered the Blue Cheese Portabella for the entree which was beyond expectations… served with a Dijon cream sauce along side asparagus and wild rice…. rounded out with a Samuel Smith Tadcaster a fine English beer. Finishing the meal was the orange chocolate mousse, nice and rich, and believe it or not vegan. I would give the experience a 4 out of 5.

Review by "Dreamer" Aspen, CO
Jan. 3 2008

   
 
Garnish Cafe

The Garnish Café is located inside the Aspen Club. No, you don’t have to be a member and don’t worry about parking because there is plenty of free parking! We were met by Clark Church the Chef and Owner of Garnish Café.  I can’t remember the last café I ate at in Aspen that I had contact with and was served by the owner of the place. If you are looking for a healthy place to eat, this is it. There were many options for a vegetarian and others who want to eat right. The portions are perfect with lots of vegetables. I had the Asian salad (Napa Cabbage, Julienne of Carrots, Edamame, Water Chestnuts, Toasted Almonds, Orange Segments, Sesame Vinaigrette $10), which I thoroughly enjoyed! I liked the crunchy element the water chestnuts and toasted almonds added to the salad.  I also tried a small serving of “Church’s Chowder”, which was delicious. The Garnish Café is a serene restaurant that has great service, food, and plenty of parking. All of those things are becoming harder to find in Aspen.  Served by the chef and in and out without a parking ticket!

Reviewed by "Pig E." Aspen, CO
Feb 19 2008

 
Gusto

I went to Gusto the other night and we only had reservations for 7 but they were able to squeeze two more people in which was awesome! Gusto is one of my favorite restaurants. I love the chocolate mousse but was dismayed to find they change the menu every day and my chocolate mousse wasn’t on the menu that night. I guess I’ll have to return again to quench my craving for the lightest chocolate mousse in Aspen!  We all shared plates of fried calamari (my favorite), and great bottle of wine.  Gusto even made a special dish for the seven year old in our group who didn’t want anything fancy. The atmosphere was great and the service awesome. I ate too much of their bread as usual but had just enough room for my main dish. I highly recommend Gusto for a great Italian experience with no Aspen attitude!

Reviewed "Pig E." Aspen, CO
Jan 26, 2008

   
 
Jimmy's

Tuesday evening at 6pm Jimmy’s was extremely high energy…The AHI salad was delicious with a semi spicy dipping sauce.  The service was efficient and attentitive.

Reviewed by Lynne Billac at Vetra Bank
Feb 26 2008
 

   
 
Kenichi
It all started with us both being in town after work.  “Wanna get an appetizer somewhere?”  Sure…  but where?  How about the bar at Kenichi?  O.K.  Upon entry the bar was full and the choice was a tiny two top at the head of the dinning room or the sushi bar.  Feeling a bit shy at the moment I was leaning toward the tiny two top when my partner pushed me toward the sushi bar. Well O.K.
It seems a must to start with edamame while at a sushi joint, so I did but with the Spicy edamame, a nice little Kenichi twist.  I don’t know how they prepare it but this I will try again and again to recreate in my own kitchen…. A big Sapporo for me, a Kenichi Martini for her, some friendly chatter with the waitress, and great service from the sushi chef led us two one after another of additions to our appetizer.  After the spicy tempura shrimp, my favorite Austin roll (asparagus tempura and masago aioli wrapped in edamame paper topped with eel sauce), 2 shrimp tempura rolls, and an avocado roll, our little appetizer had turned into a complete dinner.  No dessert this time, thanks.  And did you know that guy next to you is really famous in Brazil….

Reviewed by "Dreamer" Aspen, CO
Jan 24th 2008
   
 
L'Hostaria
After calling Cache Cache, Jimmy's, and several others I finally got a last minute reservation at 8:30 to L'Hostaria.
 
The restaurant was very busy and the few tables left weren't open for very long.

Starting with a glass of Ritz Pinot Noir ($10) and appetizers of Salmon and Tuna Tartar over greens ($18), which honestly didn't have much flavor to either of us. Then on to Crispy Calamari ($15) with a spicy red sauce, calamari is temper mental and tends to turn rubbery when overcooked, so there will always be a couple that just go a little over or under.
 
For dinner I chose the Osso bucco with Saffron Risotto ($31).  Like Calamari, if it is on the menu I will order it. I thought it was fantastic. Our server suggested the Pork version, after we had finished dinner, and if there were any specials we didn't hear those either.
 
The food was wonderful. The service was acceptable. We did receive our second glasses of wine at the local’s discount of $6 a glass. The environment was that of a busy restaurant. I wouldn't suggest date night, but for friends just hanging  out with a little money to spend, go for it. Call and reserve a table a couple of days in advance, and remember just because your server is in a hurry, doesn't mean you have to be in a hurry.

Reviewd by “Aspen Chef”
March 2, 2008
 
Little Annie's

I remember the last time I went to Little Annie's Eating House. Over three years ago I entered the bar at 2:00 in the afternoon, well after the lunch rush. I had the urge for one of their excellent Rueben sandwiches. It came with fries. Horrible, double-dipped, dark brown, twice-cooked, greasy blistered wedges of surefire heartburn. No doubt, they were left stranded from the lunch hour and returned to the foul grease of the deep-fryer after sitting in the basket for who knows how long. Plus, the Rueben was cold inside, the cheese unmelted. In the past I'd spent enough money on booze and burgers at Annie's to be a stockholder.
 
The bartender was indifferent, while the chef sat at the end of the bar reading the paper. I vowed never to return.
 
That was until last Saturday night. Convinced by my friends to have dinner there before the Adrian Belew concert at the Belly Up, I reticently returned. We were greeted warmly by the waitstaff and hostess. After cocktails we were promptly seated at our table. Jane, the hostess treated us to appetizers. Fried shrimp and onion rings, they were piping hot and evidently the fryer was clean. After a little confusion in the crowded dining room, we were served a fine meal, by a waiter who aimed to please.
 
It's now safe to go back in the water.
 
Peace, Love and Doughnuts,
Reviewed by "Francis L" Aspen, CO
March 3rd 2008

 
LuLu Wilson

I recently went to Lulu Wilson and had an overall good experience.  The food was creative and tasty, but all I wanted was a small salad to go with my “small plate”, and my only option was a $15 salad.  It was a lovely experience for a small dinner and glass of wine with a friend at the bar, but my bill was $50 and I was hungry at 10PM.   If I went there again, I would have a glass of wine before I arrive(along with a Cliff Bar)then I would not worry about the bill so much.

April 3rd 2008
Reviewed by "V. B." Basalt

   
 
Merry go Round

#1
We ate lunch on February 28 at the Merry Go Round on the hill at Highlands. The chili was average. It was hot, had available chopped onions, grated cheese and sour cream for toppings the portion somewhat small for my appetite. All condiments were fresh and enhanced the taste. The cafeteria was clean and service prompt.

Reviewed by "Ski Tourist"
Feb. 28 2008

#2
Lunch at the Merry go Round.  Although I spend more time in the Merry go Round than any other On Mountain Restaurant it’s not often that I eat there.  The Merry go Round has the feel and convince of the “old school” ski lodge.  Located mid mountain on Aspen Highlands it makes a great stop to warm up and rest. Being that it was not a powder day I had the leisure to splurge on a lunch.  The Black Bean Burger topped with roasted veggies was one of the best veggie burgers I’ve had in a while. 

Reviewed by “Dreamer” Aspen, CO
Feb 17th 2008

#3
Lunch again at Merry go Round.  It was a powder day and the snow was so good, I needed to refuel around 1:30 so I could keep going. Went with the ultra budget option, the soup  “Jamaican Spinach” with lots of crackers.  Soup was good, like a cream of spinach; how it was Jamaican I’m not sure. Also had a side of fries (mixed sweet potato and regular fries) with lots of condiments. The regular fries could have been crisper while the sweet potato fries were too crispy.  Good thing I went with the mix to even them out.

Reviewed by “Dreamer” Aspen, CO
Feb 25th 2008

   
 
New York Pizza
Last night I was rushing to catch a flick at the Wheeler and popped into NY Pizza.  Hoping to grab a slice, eat quickly and go to the film, I was quite disappointed. The counter help was surly and un-responsive, the selection of slices all appeared cold and past their born-on dates.  When I inquired "how long for a pepperoni slice?" the clerk said " twenty minutes".  Just a thought, but if a pizza place is going to charge $5 for a slice, wouldn't it be nice if they had one ready, or at least "almost" ready.
 
Reviewed by "BAD ANDY"
Feb 19th 2008
   
 
Parallel 15
Explore Booksellers, already home to the only vegetarian restaurant in town, added Keith Goode's Parallel 15 Coffee & Tea next to the stairs – an organic, animal-friendly, environmentally conscious coffee bar.  
 
Early in the morning, Keith and his staff sell early morning pick-me-ups out of the front window of the bookstore, as well as delivering coffees, teas, and locally baked pastries to homes and businesses within range of their orange, electric moped.  While I'm not up at the gawd-awful hours that they open, (5 or 6AM?), I'm a big fan of the pumpkin-chocolate chip muffin, which is not too sweet, and is probably vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or possessed of some other healthy, tree-hugging qualities which, as an unenlightened diner, I'm clueless on; My motto: “I don’t know if it’s as green as possible, but I know what I like.”  
 
For sheer voltage, I recommend "The Crowbar", pretty much guaranteed to fuel anything you need to do - and will keep you buzzing along for hours.  The Peruvian Chocolate has been a big hit with other customers, but I'd have to say that the biggest benefit for me has been simply Keith's expertise and keen sense of taste.  With a flat palate and no sense of what makes one coffee much better than another, the best I can do is request a broad change to a drink, like: "Sweeter please," or "This is too thick."  It was not long however, before I noticed that although I have no qualifications for tasting coffee, (or wines for that matter), Keith is a real expert: with detailed technical knowledge of beans and roasts, and a nose and palate able to distinguish the subtleties of a brew, and skill mixing.  
 
It’s really a delight to enjoy the benefits of his passion for mixology and customer care: and he soon had me hooked on just the right mix of strong coffee, light milk, and a dash of Irish Cream flavor.
 
Stop by and Enjoy!

Reviewed by Buck Field, mba, pmp
March, 9 2008
   
 
Social

We had dinner the other evening at Social. They feature tapas with an Asian flavor. It was very different; fun to share the tapas with two others (most dishes have four each of something) the selection was very interesting, fish, seafood, and exotic veggies too. We especially enjoyed (sharing for two) the black cod. Also the shrimp on a skewer. The edamame had a new twist. Everything was a bit too salty because of the soy sauce infusion but next time I am going to tell them to go easy on the soy sauce. We recommend this new café with a charming interior.
 
Reviewed by R. F. Aspen
March 21st 2008

 
Su Casa
I have to say that for years, I have loved eating at Su Casa. My favorite thing to do is to sit with friends in the bar area and munch on appetizers.  I especially love the ceviche.  The margaritas are amazing, and so is the salsa.  The location of Su Casa is also a plus, since we always go there before going to a show at the Wheeler Opera House.  I'm getting hungry just thinking about it!

Reviewed by Elizabeth Ward / Active Life Massage and Wellness
Feb 27 2008
 
Sundeck

Had lunch at the Sundeck while skiing Ajax yesterday.  Ordered the Veggie Soba noodles from the Wok station. I added a little spice with the bottle of Sarracha on hand. The noodle bowl was really tasty and filling. Aspen Mountain prices, but can’t beat the Sundeck’s great views, huge ceilings, and hanging by the “fireplace”. Fortune cookie read, “All good things rise to the top”.

Reviewed by “Dreamer” Aspen, CO
Feb 21st 2008

   
 
Taqueria Sayulita
This place rocks!  Don’t let the cheesy décor put you off, this is one spot in Aspen where you can get homemade Mexican food at an affordable price, with telenovellas in the background to boot.  Everything is made from scratch and fresh, the burritos are huge, and the camarones are nice and spicy.  The tortas are also great—actually you can’t go wrong for a cheap and tasty lunch here.
 
Reviewed by Mary A. A. Holley, AIA / President ma2 architects / Basalt, CO
Feb 27 2008
 
   
  Some Downvalley Eateries Reviewed Below
   
 
Ella
I know its not in Aspen, but I had such a great meal there last week that I think any diner will enjoy themselves as well. It also goes to note that the restaurant is owned and operated by Chefs who have worked in Aspen at one point or another.

As soon as I entered I knew this was not another "trendy" restaurant, trying too hard to be cool. It was genuinely hip, and had a fun atmosphere (probably in part to all the locals who keep this place jammed Tues thru Sat). The menu has an option for any hunger; crab melts, mussels in a phenomenal bacon broth, little lamb chops, braised P.B.R.(yes, Pabst blue ribbon!) shortribs, and daily pasta creations. Everything was tasty and hot. My biggest complaint was regarding the temps of some meats, but the food was quickly replaced.

All in all a great meal!! I will definitely be going back. The journey down valley was well worth it, plus the bus ride affords me a good time to sleep off the food and wine coma. I've been recommending this restaurant to everyone, it's a great addition to our valley's dinning scene.

Keep eating!!

Pearlie

Aspen, CO

   
 
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