blue tiger

With tapas style entrees and an extensive drink list, this fusion restaurant inside the Cascade Resort offers a wide range of dishes from sushi to Mediterranean. The staff is always a good time at this slightly off the beaten path restaurant.

ambiance: Grab a few dishes and kick back with a swanky martini with a group of friends or that special someone.

Reviews:
Vail Daily Review: September 25

contact info:
1310 Westhaven Dr
Vail, CO 81657
(970) 476-1115
www.bluetigervail.com

alpenrose

Alpenrose is what you think of when you think of the classic Vail Village restaurant. A European feel compliments fine contemporary cuisine. Eating on the deck is accentuated with the completion of the Sonnenalp complex across Meadow Drive which gives this area a fresh extension to the Vail Village feel.

Their full bar has been a favorite for years and you'll know why if you stop by on a sunny afternoon.

reviews:
Google Reviews
Yahoo Reviews

contact info:
100 E Meadow Dr
Vail, CO 81657
(970) 476-3194

the left bank

Reservations are required and can be made online (for parties of 1-4) at this Vail staple that has been serving fine French cuisine since 1970. A phenomenal wine list compliments a quality menu. One of only 4 Zagat rated restaurants in Vail Village, The Left Bank should definitely considered one of the top restaurants in Vail.

A couple of things to know about The Left Bank -- although this restaurant was cash only for years they do now take credit cards and they are closed on Sundays.

menu: Posted on The Left Bank website along with their spectacular wine list.

reviews:
Google Reviews
Yahoo Reviews


contact info:
Sitzmark Lodge
183 Gore Creek Dr.
Vail, CO 81657
970-476-3696
www.leftbankvail.com

kelly liken

Kelly Liken is the new standard for fine dining in Vail Village. Named for the chef/owner, this place has some of the best ambiance, service, and quality in town. It has a more modern feel than most places in the Village and if you are not staying right in Vail Village, Kelly Liken has the best parking access for driving in during those cold winter nights.

Simply put, Kelly Liken should be at the top of the list for your fine dining in Vail.

menu: The menu is Seasonal American Cuisine with local ingredients and can be found online at www.kellyliken.com

contact info:
Open from 6-10 p.m.
12 Vail Rd., Suite 100
Vail, CO 81657
970.479.0175

reviews:
Vail Daily: August 2007

ore house

The Ore House is old school as it has been serving steaks in their great Vail Village location for over 30 years. It's a classic with many seasonal and front range regulars.

One hidden gem here is the bar menu that features appetizers and some tapas style entrees.

ambiance: Casual to semi-formal

menu: Entrees vary from $20-$45 and include steaks, prime rib, fish and specialty dishes. The menu is posted on the Ore House Website

contact Info:
232 Bridge St
Vail, CO 81657
(970) 476-5100

la bottega

Whether it's the local's special 14" cheesesteak for two or more classic Northern Italian cuisine, La Bottega is a great place to go just because of the settings. The recently remodeled feel of both the restaurant and wine bar are a great addition to a solid menu.

One relatively undiscovered place for free flowing wine, appetizers and tapas is the wine bar.

atmosphere: Newly remodeled with a vibrant yet cozy feeling. Casual to slightly formal.

reviews:
Vail Daily August 16, 2007

menu:They have a daily menu at La Bottega, but you can download a sample menu here: La Bottega Menu (.pdf download)

contact info:
100 E Meadow Dr # 37
Vail, CO 81657
(970) 476-0280

tap room

One place that always seems to have something going on and with a wide range of audiences. 'Burger and a Beer' nights (Tuesday) always bring in the locals seemingly even more during the shoulder seasons. During weekends and especially during the ski season, if you want a table, you better be there early. Tables fill up by 3 during ski season weekends and stay packed until late dinner.

It's no secret that the Tap Room is probably the best place to watch sports in Vail. Big Screens and football drink specials cater to this and every March you will find college hoops fans enjoying their teams on spring break.

Hidden gems are Monday and Tuesday food specials and the menu. Crowd pleasing American cuisine with regular specials.

Specials are kept up to date on the Tap Room website.

ambiance: Although it is sports oriented, it feels nicer than a sports bar, but outdoor wear is always present. As the night gets later, the feel gets more upscale.

contact info:
333 Bridge St
Vail, CO 81657
(970) 479-0500