When you step into Lionshead Village in Vail, it feels like a scene straight out of a European alpine town. Cobblestone walkways, Bavarian-style architecture, and the sound of ski boots clattering across the plaza all set the stage for one of Colorado’s most charming ski destinations. But beyond the slopes and gondolas, there’s something else travelers always ask: Where are the best restaurants in Lionshead Vail?
Whether you’re winding down after a powder day or simply strolling through the lantern-lit village on a summer night, food is central to the Lionshead experience. In this guide, we’ll explore nine of the best restaurants in Lionshead Vail—a mix of fine dining, casual eateries, and hidden gems that locals and visitors swear by. Expect real insights, menu highlights, and even a few tips you won’t find on TripAdvisor.
1. Tavern on the Square – The Essential Après-Ski Spot
If there’s one place that screams “Vail après,” it’s Tavern on the Square. Located right at the base of the Eagle Bahn Gondola and one of the restaurants near Arrabelle Lionshead Village, this spot is as much about atmosphere as it is about food. Picture skiers still in their boots gathered around outdoor firepits, sipping hot toddies while the sun sets behind the Rockies.
- Must-Try: Bison chili and short rib grilled cheese.
- Insider Tip: Go during happy hour—locals pack the patio for discounted drinks and small plates.
2. Garfinkel’s – The Classic Sports Bar with a View
Affectionately called “Garfs,” this casual staple has been serving hungry skiers since 1993. It’s not fancy, but it doesn’t need to be. The deck alone is worth it—overlooking the gondola, with a pint in hand, you’ll understand why it’s a Lionshead institution.
- Must-Try: The Garfs burger with green chile.
- Why It Matters: Sometimes the best restaurant in Lionshead isn’t about Michelin stars, it’s about memories made with friends over wings and beers.
3. Blue Moose Pizza – Family-Friendly Comfort Food
Every ski town needs its iconic pizza joint, and in Lionshead, it’s Blue Moose. Bright murals, paper table covers for kids to draw on, and slices bigger than your plate make it a hit for families and late-night cravings alike.
- Must-Try: The Truffle Shuffle pizza.
- Insider Tip: Grab takeout and eat by the ice rink for a quintessential Lionshead evening.
4. Montauk Seafood Grill – For Coastal Flavors in the Rockies
Yes, seafood in the mountains can be hit-or-miss, but Montauk gets it right. It’s been quietly impressing guests with fresh catches flown in daily. Think seared scallops, Alaskan halibut, and even oysters on the half shell.
- Must-Try: Crab-stuffed trout (a nod to Colorado meets coastal).
- Story Worth Sharing: A Denver couple I met there last winter told me they return every ski season just for the cioppino. That says it all.
5. El Sabor – Latin American Flare at the Base
El Sabor translates to “the flavor,” and they live up to the name. Perched slopeside, it’s a colorful, lively place to enjoy street-style tacos, tequila flights, and warming pozole.
- Must-Try: Carnitas tacos with house salsa verde.
- Best Kept Secret: Their brunch huevos rancheros are legendary with the morning ski crowd.
6. The ChopHouse – Elevated Steakhouse Dining
For those nights when you trade ski pants for something nicer, the ChopHouse delivers. It’s the kind of restaurant where steaks arrive sizzling, wine pours generously, and servers know how to time everything perfectly.
- Must-Try: Wagyu filet with truffle butter.
- Pro Tip: Sit outside in summer for views of the gondola and live music on the plaza.
7. Bart & Yeti’s – Local Flavor With Legendary Stew
Tucked away near the base of Lionshead, Bart & Yeti’s is a true Vail classic. This casual, no-frills spot has been serving skiers and locals for decades, earning a reputation for hearty food, cold drinks, and a welcoming vibe that feels like home.
Personal Note: I absolutely love their Mulrooney’s Irish Stew—it’s my go-to lunch after a hard morning of skiing. There’s nothing better than thawing out with a steaming bowl of this savory, comforting stew before heading back to the slopes.
8. LES Delices De France – A Taste of Paris in Vail
Tucked away from the main plaza, this café is pure charm. Flaky croissants, café au lait, and delicate crêpes make it the go-to breakfast stop. For visitors who want a quiet start to their morning, this feels worlds away from the ski-lift chaos.
- Must-Try: Nutella banana crêpe.
- Local Tip: Arrive early—by 10 a.m., pastries sell out.
9. Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream Shop – A Family Favorite Treat
Sometimes, the simplest pleasures make the best memories. The Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream Shop in Lionshead is a sweet stop my family and I never skip.
Personal Note: I’ve been taking my kids here for years—it’s become our little tradition after long ski days or summer bike rides. A scoop (or two) of their rich, creamy ice cream is always the perfect ending to a day in Vail.
Why These Restaurants Stand Out
What makes these restaurants special isn’t just the food—it’s the role they play in the Lionshead experience. Each one tells part of the story: après-ski bonding, family pizza nights, indulgent steak dinners, or cozy café mornings. Together, they form the culinary heartbeat of the village.
FAQs About the Best Restaurants in Lionshead Vail
Q1: Are reservations required at most Lionshead restaurants?
Yes—especially during ski season weekends and holidays. Places like the ChopHouse and Montauk often book out weeks in advance.
Q2: What’s the most family-friendly restaurant in Lionshead?
Blue Moose Pizza wins hands down. Kids love it, and parents appreciate the easy-going atmosphere.
Q3: Can you find affordable dining in Lionshead?
Absolutely. Garfinkel’s and Moe’s Original BBQ are both casual, budget-friendly options compared to fine dining.
Q4: Do Lionshead restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes. El Sabor has plant-based tacos, and Montauk offers vegetarian pasta dishes. Many places adapt dishes if you ask.
Q5: What’s the best spot for après-ski in Lionshead?
Tavern on the Square is iconic, but Garfinkel’s deck also has one of the best après views in the village.
Conclusion: Where to Eat in Lionshead Tonight
From fine dining to pizza with the kids, the best restaurants in Lionshead Vail cover every craving and occasion. Whether you’re looking for romance, casual eats, or a place to celebrate the day’s powder, Lionshead delivers.
So the next time you’re wandering the cobblestones, follow your appetite. You’ll quickly discover why dining here is as much a part of the Vail experience as the skiing itself.
Planning your Vail getaway? Don’t miss our guides on the best hotels in Vail and the best restaurants in Vail to round out your stay.
Summary (TL;DR)
This article highlights 9 of the best restaurants in Lionshead Vail, from après-ski staples like Tavern on the Square to upscale steakhouses, family pizza joints, and Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream Shop for the kids. It blends insider tips, local favorites, and practical advice to help visitors choose the right dining experience in the heart of Lionshead Village.
