Aspen’s culinary landscape is undergoing a vibrant transformation, moving beyond the traditional staples of Italian cuisine and sushi. A new wave of culinary talent has arrived, introducing diverse and innovative dining experiences to this luxury mountain town. This season’s additions offer a tantalizing array of flavors, from French-Indonesian fusion to elevated American bistro fare, enriching the après-ski scene and satisfying the palates of discerning diners. This shift towards culinary diversity signals a refreshing change, reflecting a growing demand for unique and exciting gastronomic adventures.
Leading the charge is Wayan Aspen, the brainchild of Cederic Vongerichten and his spouse, Ochi. Building upon the success of their New York ventures, Wayan and Ma•dé, the Aspen outpost offers a captivating blend of French and Indonesian flavors. Their signature dishes promise a symphony of taste and texture, with lobster noodles in black pepper butter and thai basil, peekytoe crab fried rice accented with kerupuk and cilantro, and Colorado lamb satay showcasing local ingredients. The menu also features a robust selection of hand-crafted cocktails designed to complement the unique cuisine, ensuring a complete sensory experience. The transition from a popular pop-up at The Little Nell to a permanent establishment speaks volumes about the restaurant’s resonance with Aspen’s discerning clientele.
The Snow Lodge, a winter iteration of the renowned Surf Lodge in Montauk, also contributes to Aspen’s culinary renaissance. Helmed by new culinary director Preston Hix, formerly of Vail’s La Tour and Miami’s Fontainebleau Hotel & Resort, the Snow Lodge presents a “new American” menu with a distinct Italian influence. The salt-baked whole fish has quickly become a standout dish, attracting a fashionable crowd that includes celebrities like Anna Kendrick and Heidi Klum. The Snow Lodge offers more than just a meal; it’s a curated experience, complete with live piano music and the exclusive Jade Room Caviar x Champagne lounge, adding to Aspen’s vibrant nightlife.
Adding another layer of culinary sophistication to the scene is ZigZag, a French-American bistro by veteran restaurateur Romain Pavee. Taking over the space previously occupied by Mezzaluna, a long-standing Aspen institution, ZigZag embraces the legacy of its predecessor while introducing a fresh perspective. The restaurant’s name, inspired by Pavee’s daughter’s observation of the Roaring Fork River, reflects a playful and intimate connection to the local environment. The menu promises a harmonious blend of French and American classics, utilizing the last remaining wood-burning oven in Aspen to create dishes that are both refined and accessible.
Pavee’s vision for ZigZag goes beyond simply serving food; it’s about creating a welcoming and inclusive dining experience. He emphasizes the importance of local produce, particularly during the summer months, envisioning a “garden” section of the menu that highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients. This commitment to farm-to-table dining, coupled with the bistro’s warm and gracious ambiance, positions ZigZag as a destination for both locals and visitors seeking a taste of elevated comfort food.
This influx of new culinary talent signifies a shift in Aspen’s dining scene. Beyond the traditional offerings, these establishments are introducing a welcome diversity, catering to a more adventurous palate. The arrival of Wayan Aspen, with its unique French-Indonesian fusion, adds a distinctly exotic flavor to the town. The Snow Lodge’s “new American” menu with its Italian influence provides a familiar yet elevated dining experience, while ZigZag’s French-American bistro concept offers a comforting blend of classic dishes. This evolving culinary landscape not only expands the choices for residents and visitors but also contributes to the dynamic and vibrant energy of Aspen.
The early opening of these establishments, as noted by Jayma Cardoso of Snow Lodge, highlights a growing trend in Aspen. The desire to experience the mountain before the peak season crowds, combined with a strong demand from luxury brands for exclusive events, has fueled this early start. The Snow Lodge, for instance, has hosted a series of exclusive dinners for brands like Gucci and Bottega Venetta, further cementing Aspen’s status as a playground for the discerning and affluent. This combination of culinary innovation and high-profile events positions Aspen as a must-visit destination, not just for skiing, but for a complete luxury lifestyle experience. The town’s culinary scene is no longer just an accompaniment to the slopes; it is becoming a destination in itself.
