Are you heading to Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and interested in the best restaurants? This excellent restaurant guide includes all of my favorite places to dine in Steamboat from casual pizza to tasty Mexican to elegant dining for a special occasion.
Steamboat Springs is a special mountain town in Yampa Valley, Colorado with a western vibe and a truly spectacular ski resort!
Steamboat is the first mountain town in Colorado I ever called home after leaving New Jersey. I spent a few years in Steamboat Springs making great new friends, intimately learning all about the ski resort, and trying the restaurants and bars. I still visit Steamboat often, and every time I do I make sure to try a new restaurant.
Some of the best restaurants are still around and there are also new ones that have taken the spotlight! They’re all on this list of top restaurants in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
If you’re in Steamboat and looking for a great spot to eat, you’re in luck! There are some incredible restaurants in Steamboat to choose from for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and apres ski.
Here you’ll find the best, most up-to-day list of the great Steamboat Springs restaurants.
In This Article
Fancy Restaurants in Steamboat
These are the best fine-dining restaurants in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Although Steamboat is a casual, western mountain town, it still has a few very special restaurants that offer a fancy dining experience.
Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails
127 11th St, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 870-0681
Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails in downtown Steamboat Springs is one of the top-rated restaurants in Steamboat! Laundry is perfect if you’re planning a special dinner to celebrate an event. They have a great Happy Hour and Cocktail menu to get your evening started if you’re beginning early. On the dinner menu, you’ll find some small plates that include Pimento Cheese, Crispy Potatoes, Pork Belly, or Mac-n-Cheese. The Small Plates menu is pretty extensive so you can order a bunch of sharable dishes!
Or if Larger Plates are more to your liking, give a try to the Tuna, blackened with pickled pineapple and avocado. Or, choose the Fried Chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy for something a little heartier. To review the entire menu at Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails in Steamboat, go here.
Aurum Food & Wine
811 Yampa St, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 879-9500
For an elegant dining experience that is also relaxed in Steamboat, Aurum Food & Wine is an excellent choice with stunning views of the Yampa River. Enjoy a large dining room and bar with spacious outdoor seating in the summer months.
Start your dining experience with some Latin Street Tacos or Crispy Brussel Sprouts. From there, dive into a Yukon Gold Potato Gnocchi Shared Plate or Beef Tenderloin Tartare. For your main dish, choose Double Cut Pork Chop, Elk Loin, or a vegetarian option of Acorn Squash Risotto! Also offered at Aurum is a juicy Filet Mignon served with Aligot Potatoes and sauteed vegetables. Review Aurum Food & Wine’s menu in Steamboat here.
Cafe Diva
1855 Ski Time Square Dr, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 871-0508
Cafe Diva is a cozy and intimate dining experience in Ski Time Square in Steamboat. Chef Kate creatively designs a new menu every season that features naturally raised meats and sustainable seafood. Begin with the Tomato and Crab Bisque, Tuna Poke, or a Charred Little Gem Salad.
Some popular entrees include Zucchini Lasagna Involtini or the savory Onion Soup Braised Lamb Shank. Pair with a delicious wine from the extensive wine list at Cafe Diva for a complete meal. Leave room for the Creme Brule!
Mambo Italiano
521 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 870-0500
Mambo Italiano is one of my all-time favorite restaurants in downtown Steamboat and I dine there on every visit to my favorite mountain town!
in a great, central location in downtown Steamboat on Lincoln Ave. Mambo is a wonderful small restaurant with a cozy yet elegant vibe and amazing service. If you’re looking for a nice spot for a special dinner, Mambo Italiano is perfect. Start with some delicious Crispy Artichokes, Roasted Garlic, and Mozzarella Bread or Calamari Fritti for a perfect start to the evening.
Fresh pasta is on the menu at Mambo Italiano such as Rigatoni Alla Vodka, Tagliatelle Bolognese, and Gnocchi Gorgonzola. Or, if you’re looking for more of an entree, give a try to the Corvina Sea Bass or Eggplant Parmigiano with fried eggplant, mozzarella, and spaghetti marinara. A full menu of small or large pizzas is also on offer at Mambo Italiano. Check out the full menu for Mambo Italiano Steamboat here. Mambo Italiano is one of the best restaurants in Steamboat Springs, in my opinion.
The Cabin
2300 Mt Werner Circle, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 871-5550
The Cabin is a wonderful, classic yet rustic restaurant located inside the Steamboat Grand Hotel. The Steamboat Grand is one of the most luxurious hotels in Steamboat Springs and the dining experience reflects this.
You’ll find a fresh menu featuring great salads, Cabin Beef Chili Bowl, Sandwiches, and Entrees that include Bison Bolognese and Sweet Potato Gnocchi served with broccoli and parmesan.
When you’re interested in a very nice, relaxing sit-down breakfast in Steamboat, The Cabin is an amazing option! If you’re celebrating an event or would simply like to spend a leisurely time eating breakfast, The Cabin is perfect. Check out the entire menu at The Cabin here.
E3 Chophouse
701 Yampa St, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 879-7167
E3 Chophouse has a lovely riverfront location along the Yampa River. Owned by Adam and Jenn LaRoache, E3 Chophouse proudly serves all-natural beef raised responsibly at their ranch in Kansas. E3 has an amazing atmosphere and menu, perfect for a special night out in Steamboat!
E3 Chophouse’s location provides guests with amazing river views from the large windows inside the restaurant. During the summer months, there are plenty of seats outside to enjoy the river. Start with their Chicken Fried Lobster Tail or the Charcuterie. For entrees, try the Bison Bone-in Ribeye or the Filet. Choose your accompanying sauce, such as blackened or with truffle butter. Take a look at E3’s menu here. E3 is one of Steamboat Springs best restaurants on the river.
E3 donates 10% of all net profits to the E3 Ranch Foundation which was founded by Adam and Jennifer LaRoach to support veterans and groups fighting against human trafficking.
courtesy of Carl’s Tavern
Casual Restaurant & Bar Dining
Carl’s Tavern
700 Yampa St, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 761-2060
Carl’s Tavern is one of my favorite bar restaurants in downtown Steamboat! The bar is expansive and comfortable and the perfect place to settle in for an apres ski cocktail or dinner. Start off with a Cast Iron Cornbread and Mac and Cheese, or Crispy Brussel Leaves. The menu at Carl’s is fantastic, from Burgers to main dishes such as Fettuccine Alfredo or Pan Seared Atlantic Salmon. Carl’s also has a great selection of salads to choose from and you can always add on salmon, chicken, steak, or avocado.
Carl’s beverage menu includes their specialty Craft Old Fashioned cocktails. Try the Love Tractor Old Fashioned, prepared with Oak & Eden single barrel select bourbon, dark maple syrup, black walnut bitters, and a lemon and orange twist.
Or, the Ninja Old Fashioned made with Suntory Toki Japanese Whiskey, eastern spiced tangerine bitters, kuru sato syrup, and candied ginger. Or, order a local draft beer or Craft Cocktail from their creative beverage menu to review here.
courtesy of Besame Steamboat
Besame
818 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 761-2561
Besame Steamboat is a delightful Steamboat restaurant that features Latin, Spanish, and international cuisine. Enjoy the lively and fun atmosphere along with South American flavors in downtown Steamboat Springs with your friends!
You’ll choose from a combination of small tapas and large tapas such as Salmon Ceviche with Plantain Chips, Grilled Cuban Bread, Seared Scallops, or Grilled Octopus. The diverse menu at Besame is so delicious and interesting. This is one of my favorite Steamboat Springs restaurants and I love how unique and different it is!
Also on the menu at Besame are larger entrees like Shrimp and Kimchi Fried Rice or Corvina Sea Bass. Order one of these along with a side of Jasmine Rice or Black Beans for a delicious meal. For dessert, Choco Taco, Churros, or Cuban Coffee Pot Ice Cream will top off your dining experience at Besame perfectly!
Besame also has a fantastic Happy Hour in Steamboat that is offered daily from 4 PM to 5:30 PM with 50% off house cocktails and 30% off all Tapas! Check out their entire menu here.
Mahogany Ridge & Grill
435 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 879-3773
Mahogany Ridge & Grill has been serving hand-crafted beer and delicious fare since 2003! In the original location of Steamboat Brewery in downtown Steamboat Springs, locals have come to love Mahogany Ridge for their wonderful menu and friendliness! Casual and comfortable, you’ll love the local vibe of Mahogany Ridge. Start with a hand-crafted seasonal beer brewed in this location, approved by their master brewer.
Mahogany Ridge’s menu is casual and yet eclectic with entrees such as Elk Shepherd’s Pie and Blackened Salmon Noodle Bowl. You’ll also find Tandoori Spiced Yellowfin Tuna and Caribbean Jerk Spiced Duck Breast. Take a look at their creative menu here. Mahogany Ridge is one of the best casual restaurants in Steamboat Springs.
Backdoor Grill
825 Oak St, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 871-8777
Back Door Grill in Steamboat Springs is a casual spot for a great lunch, dinner, or beer. Back Door Grill serves tasty all-natural burgers, fresh soups and salads, tacos, and delicious sandwiches. Sit at the bar and try a Chicken Club with Sweet Potato Fries, a BDG Philly will provolone or mushrooms, or one of their creatively topped burgers. Choose your french fry sides from a menu of Curly Fried, Cajun Fries, Sweet Potato Fries, Traditional Fries, or Tator Tots.
Review Backdoor Grill’s menu here.
Save room for dessert because the dessert menu at Back Door Grill is scrumptious! Choose from Funnel Cake Fries, Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie, The Brookie (brownies and cookies with vanilla ice cream), or a Seasonal Cobbler.
Salt & Lime
628 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 871-6277
Salt & Lime is a stellar Mexican Restaurant with a fresh and creative twist! Freshly made Guacamole is a perfect way to begin your visit to Salt & Lime. Choose from traditional Naked Guacamole or Loaded Guacamole which includes salsa roja, charro bean, queso fresco, and crispy bacon. Or, select a specialty Queso as your appetizer with veggies, bison, or chorizo.
Tacos are famous at Salt & Lime, so take your pick from Chorizo Vampiro, Chicken Tinga, Shrimp BLT, or Al Pastor. There are many other taco choices to review on Salt & Lime’s menu here. Or, select a burrito, salad, or entree such as Pollo Enchilada or Carne Asada to enjoy for your dinner.
Salt & Lime is owned and operated by Rex’s Family, a wonderful local restauranteur in Steamboat. Read more about Rex’s Family of restaurants in Steamboat Springs here.
This post is all about the best restaurants in Steamboat.
courtesy of Table 79
Table 79 Foodbar
345 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 761-2463
Table 79 Foodbar is an elevated comfort food type of restaurant in Steamboat. With a fresh, eclectic menu and excellent service, Table 79 is a perfect place for a nice dinner out downtown Steamboat Springs!
Order a craft cocktail and some small plates to get started and your evening will be off to a good start. Burrata Salad, Tuna Poke, or Grilled Oysters are amazing fresh starters for the table to share.
For your main dish, Potato Wrapped Salmon is a delicious creation from the chef or the Korean Short Rib with kimchi fried rice, cucumber salad, a poached egg, and gochujang sauce. Table 79 Foodbar also offers a really nice veggie entree of a Vegetarian Cassoulet with grilled carrots, marinated tomatoes, gigantes beans, and other winter vegetables. To review the menu and some fantastic photos of the entrees and restaurant space, go here.
Mountainside Grill & Bar (PREVIOUSLY REX’S AMERICAN GRILL & BAR)
Mountainside Grill & Bar is a cozy bar located inside the Holiday Inn Steamboat. Mountainside is a casual spot perfect for families and locals to dine together and share stories. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Happy Hour, Mountainside Grill & Bar is a community restaurant that folks have come to love and trust!
Stop into Mountainside Grill for a few delicious starters like Pickle Fries, Hummus & Pita, or wings. From there, order up scrumptious burgers or sandwiches on the Lunch menu for a hearty meal after a fun ski morning. Try a Portobello Melt, Mushroom Swiss Burger, or Chicken Caesar Wrap with a side of french fries. Or, for a wonderful dinner, choose from Baked Salmon, Shrimp Alfredo, or Meatlovers Pasta! Check out Mountainside’s menu here.
Mazzola’s Italian Diner
917 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 879-2405
Mazzola’s is a classic small Italian restaurant in downtown Steamboat Springs. Mazzola’s has an old city vibe of an Italian diner and is a very cozy restaurant. The menu at Mazzola’s is traditional Italian style with an appetizer list of Cheesy Bread, Nonna’s Meatballs, Mozzarella Sticks, and Sicilian Mussels.
From there, choose your favorite Italian entree from a creamy Shrimp Scampi, Pesto Rigatoni, Pasta Bolognese, or Pasta Primavera. If pizza is more your craving, you can build your own at Mazzola’s. Mazzola’s is also one of the best family restaurants in Steamboat Springs.
This post is all about the best restaurants in Steamboat.
Sunpie’s Bistro
735 Yampa St, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 870-3360
Sunpie’s Bistro is a local’s favorite spot along the Yampa River to enjoy yummy food and a great time together! Casual and eclectic, Sunpie’s is a Louisiana-themed and inspired restaurant with a great vibe that has been in Steamboat since 2005. From the Cajun-inspired menu, pick a few starters like Hush Puppies, which are fried cornbread fritters, Fried Okra, or Chicken Tenders.
From there, dive into a Shrimp Basket with Cajun flavor served with Remoulade or Cocktail sauce or a Cuban sandwich. If you’re one who enjoys a vegetarian menu, check out the Veggie Muffaletta made with Tomato, onion, artichoke hearts, provolone, olive salad, and mayo. Most of all, enjoy the company of your friends, and the views of the Yampa River!
In the winter in Steamboat, you can also enjoy the view of Howelsen Hill from Sunpie’s. Sunpie’s is one of the best Steamboat Springs restaurants with a view!
Check out Sunpie’s Bistro’s full creative menu here!
Apres Ski Bars & Restaurants
Slopeside Grill
1855 Ski Time Square Dr, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 879-2916
Slopeside Grill is my favorite apres ski restaurant in all of Steamboat! Slopeside Grill is in a perfect location, directly on the slope in Steamboat as the name describes at the base of Mt Werner. The energy and vibe at Slopeside Grill are vibrant, fun, and friendly and their menu is full of fresh, delicious food. Plus, an apres ski drink menu that you’ll crave every day that you’re in Steamboat! The bartender creates a delightful Steamboat Manhattan or Slopeside Silver Margarita with Naranja orange liqueur, agave nectar, and fresh-squeezed juice.
Take a look at the full Cocktail and Beer menu at Slopeside Grill in Steamboat Springs here.
Slopeside Grill is known for their fresh burgers and hand-made pizzas. The specialty pizzas are creative and made with the freshest ingredients. Try the Vagabond, a white pizza made with local feta cheese, spinach, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes. Or, if you prefer a meatier pizza check out the Four Points, prepared with Billy’s Italian sausage, applewood bacon, Capicola ham, and pepperoni. Slopeside Grill’s food menu can be found here.
courtesy of Truffle Pig
Truffle Pig
One Steamboat Place, 2250 Apres Ski Way, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 879-7470
Truffle Pig has one of the best locations for Apres ski in Steamboat! Located at the base of Steamboat Ski Area, it’s the perfect spot to chill with a beverage and snack after a fun day of skiing or snowboarding. The Apres Ski Menu at Truffle Pig is offered from 2 PM to 4 PM every day with drink specials such as local Colorado beers, Sangria Red or White, hand-crafted Margaritas, and wines by the glass.
Along with your Apres ski cocktail, choose from Truffle Pig’s lovely menu of Apres Ski Bites! Truffle Pig Fries, Marinated Olives, Caprese Style Burrata, or a delectable Charcuterie Board. Salads are on offer and daily sandwich specials are available too. If you stay for dinner, you’ll have an extensive menu to choose from that includes Braised Beef Short Rib, Wild Mushroom Ravioli, or Kabocha Squash Risotto. Review the entire menu for Truffle Pig here.
Truffle Pig blends a mountain casual vibe with elegant entrees for an elevated dining experience in Steamboat Springs.
Big House Burgers
2093 Curve Plaza # 101, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487 / (970) 870-8500
Big House Burgers has an incredible Happy Hour in Steamboat from 4 PM to 6 PM every day. They offer $4 Draft beers, well drinks, and sliders! The appetizer menu at Big House Burgers will delight you with delicious, satisfying plates that are perfect after a day of skiing or hiking. Try the Fried Pickles, Tator Tots, Loaded Nachos, or the Pork Green Chili with cilantro.
The Burgers at Big House Burgers will also impress you with a long list of creative flavor combinations. The Holy Chipotle is topped with cheddar cheese, sauteed peppers and onions, avocado, and chipotle mayo. Or, try the Ring of Fire which includes toppings of fried onion ring, roasted jalapenos, creamy goat cheese, and barbeque sauce. Big salads are on offer too with loads of toppings also and Big House Burgers also offers Chicken sandwiches too. Review the entire menu here.
In Conclusion
Steamboat Springs has come a long way with their incredible dining options! This casual, western mountain town has stepped it up in the last few years and now offers something for every taste and craving in their restaurant scene. From local cozy bars and diners to fancier, eclectic menus, Steamboat is a perfect foodie’s mountain town!
If you’re looking for the best breakfast spots in Steamboat, check out this article for the Complete Guide to Breakfast in Steamboat.
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