Aspen Restaurants

"A mile-high Nobu" that "lives up to its reputation", this Aspen eatery from the eponymous restaurateur is a "fabulous" "treat" delivering "jaw-dropping Japanese fusion" fare and "amazingly fresh" sushi; the "food outshines everything else", but the basement-level dining room has a "hip vibe" and the upstairs lounge is also a "happening" place to sip "chilled sake served in bamboo carafes"; still, "astronomical prices" have some insisting "it's not the lack of oxygen in the air that leaves you breathless – it's the bill."

"Nestled in The Little Nell Hotel" in Aspen, this "place to see and be seen" draws a "fabulous crowd" with its "equally fabulous food": chef Ryan Hardy's "sophisticated menu" of "inventive, well-executed" New American cuisine is coupled with an "opulent", "encylopedic wine list"; "unsurpassed service" adds to a "beautiful experience" that's costly and to some "a bit stuffy" but for most is "just magnificent" – "what more could you want?"

Still "an outstanding dining experience" after two decades, this "timeless" Aspen "favorite" draws "locals and VIPs" (hence there's "excellent people-watching") with its "superb" "Rocky Mountain haute cuisine", including meats that "practically 'moo' from your plate"; but whether you sit in the "elegant" interior or "outside on a perfect summer evening", be sure to take note of the "great mountain views" and take advantage of the "bargain", "early prix fixe dinner."

"It could be the best-kept secret in Aspen" aver admirers of this "ultrapopular standby" where an "ambitious" New American menu with "gourmet touches" is served in a "swanky" setting; the "hopping scene" comes complete with a "great wine list", a bar area offering cocktails and nightly live jazz, and an upstairs space sporting a "beautiful view" of the slopeside scenery – really, "what else could you ask for?"

"An Aspen institution" in a basement, this "comfortable" Japanese "gem" offers "sensational" "sushi on the slopes" and "welcoming" service that has made it a "locals' favorite for over 25 years"; factor in "creative specials", "culinary entertainment at the bar" and an outdoor patio in summer, and no matter the final cost, you'll "leave thinking it was a bargain."