It's sadly true that the billionaires are pushing out the millionaires in Aspen, a foreshadowing of what's to come in all of our mountain and beach towns. The locals notice the changes abruptly as we lose many favorite bars and restaurants; L'Hostaria, Eric's and Su Casa, Jimmy's, Red Onion, Little Annies, Mezzaluna and Jour de Fete.
For we locals, the new dining hour is happy hour, the American early dinner is trending, and ordering entrees is out, replaced by a martini or three, and apps, eaten before 5pm to catch Happy Hour prices.
Below we have listed our favorite places to sidle up to the bar to enjoy engaging bartenders and great people watching, you don’t need Tinder in Aspen, just sidle up to the Clark’s bar, but unless you’re looking for trouble, don’t be fooled if there is no ring on the finger .. unless you don’t care about the consequences.
Eat early, dance early, bed, repeat.
Bad Harriet
While Hotel Jerome is certainly one of the most recognizable buildings in town, right next door, another sultry speakeasy-esque lounge sits ready to be visited.
Bad Harriet is a sexy, elegant, and lesser known cocktail lounge perfect for anyone looking to impress a date; it's a chic spot tucked away in a mysterious location that most visitors won't know exists. It’s scene-y and a little pricey, but the cocktails at Bad Harriet never disappoint. Named after the wife of Hotel Jerome’s original owner Jerome B. Wheeler, the style of Bad Harriet mirrors its name, while staying classy and shiny from your first sip to your last step out. Every detail of the speakeasy oozes mischief; foggy-glass lighting, dark leather chairs, and milk-chocolate-colored fine marble bar.
If you’re looking to truly experience the vibe here, try their signature cocktail: "Bad Harriet", made with Woody Creek single barrel rye, roasted pineapple, and pomegranate bitters; it’s a smoky fruity explosion of taste that perfectly exemplifies the fine vibe of the lounge. Tequila lovers would be remiss to not try The Dame—made with Tequila Blanco, jalapeño consommé, citric, and honey, or The Duke made with mezcal. The list is eclectic and diverse, and features something for everyone, at every price range, from craft beers to top-shelf whiskey.
Bad Harriet also offers a killer small plate menu, with dishes ranging from the classic Deviled Eggs to Rocky Mountain Blinis with Trout, to Elk Sausage with Cheddar and Jalapeño and Dungeness Crab Tots. If your mouth isn’t watering yet, try out a signature dessert like the Valrhona Chocolate Souffle or the Carrot Cake Madeleines.
Betula
The best cocktails in town may arguably be at Betula upstairs on E. Cooper Ave.; it certainly has some of the prettiest. Janet O’ Grady, freelance writer for The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, New York Times & other publications, and the former co-founder and editor-in-chief of Aspen Magazine, raves about Betula’s cocktails:
“A conversation curiosity is the curvaceous glass they serve its refreshing Drink Me from the Bottom cocktail in, with vodka, ginger, strawberry lime, and a kick of birch and basil tincture. I’m also loving its cool drinking Gustavia Secret with pear vodka. St. Germain, grapefruit and lime juice.”
O’Grady’s descriptions make me want to scamper up those stairs and join her at “the long cozy bar” where she often orders Crudos. A favorite of hers is, “The Tuna Ceviche served with crispy black rice and guacamole, as well as the Tuna Tacos and Hamachi Tiradito. And for something a little different I’ll order the Elk Carpaccio with shiitakes and yuzu soy sauce.”
Maybe by now, you’re thinking like I am “I’ll have what she’s having.”
Aside from the bar, you can order their Pan-American French cuisine in the lounge. But on a bluebird sky day, I love to sit outside on the patio and drink in the view of Ajax, while whetting my appetite with Pulpo Anticuchero (fresno pepper grilled octopus), a glass of Sancerre in hand.
Ajax Tavern Community Table
An après classic at the base of Ajax. Yes, it’s iconic, yes the truffle fries are still addictive, and yes, you will see everyone you know on the patio between 3–5pm. Go for the classic Aspen energy and the people-watching, and book a seat at the community table.
Buck (Bar Under Cooper & Kitchen)
If you like loud sports bars that remind you of what was, The Bar at Cooper is a fairly new Aspen gathering spot that is government-subsidized, which makes it (somewhat) affordable, and a place where our younger adults, of course with a valid ID, can hang out. Known for its casual vibe and multiple screens to watch the games, Buck is located downstairs on Cooper Avenue. Read Lorenzo Semple's opinion on Buck in the Aspen Daily News. You'll get a good laugh.
Cache Cache
Cache Cache is downstairs in Mill Street Plaza. As you enter, you can’t miss the large horseshoe bar on the left. Facing you is a wall of wine behind glass, which has an eye-catching lapis-colored background. I like to sit at the bar with my back to the wine looking out. Better still, when it's warm enough, I nab one of the few bar tables by the windows, which open up to the patio and provide endless people-watching entertainment.
Cache Cache used to have an excellent bar menu including Coq au Vin. While it has not been reinstated post-Covid, one can still order off the dinner menu some personal favorites of mine, such as the onion soup and Organic Scottish Salmon Tartare along with Champers or sparkling wine which always elevates my mood. Oh and those lighter-than-air house potato chips. Yum! Wish I had some now.
Clark's Aspen
A favorite bar to sidle up to for a glass of wine and a dozen oysters while having a good conversation, Clark’s Aspen is your place. Located in downtown Aspen, this chic oyster bar delivers high-quality seafood in a cozy yet lively environment. With its top-notch oyster selection and an impressive raw bar, Clark’s is ideal for après-anything with friends, or if you’re solo. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a cool spot to enjoy a drink, we have made many friends at the bar.
Ellina
I’ve noticed when a new restaurateur or restaurant group comes to Aspen they often talk about the importance of catering to “locals,” though it’s not clear who they mean by local. Many visitors can well afford to keep pace with Aspen’s increasingly expensive restaurant scene, where one can easily pay $300 per person with drinks just for lunch (It’s becoming more of a case in Aspen now of “the haves” and the “have more.”)
But not every “local” can or even wants to pay those prices. And while it’s true bar menus can reduce the cost of a nice meal, it shouldn’t be looked on as a poor man’s feast when often a lighter bite is what one needs and is even an incentive to spend more on drinks – which is what a restaurant wants. So the restaurant can benefit too.
Jill Carnevale, the owner of Ellina, may have come up with the best solution without sacrificing quality or adding much labor, by adding to the main menu a few favorites from the bar, often requested by diners in the dining room. That way everyone is happy.
Unless you ‘vant’ to be alone, bars such as Ellina’s are a convivial place to be. No sooner has one person exited than you have a new dining companion.
Its eclectic menu includes northern Italian fare. It used to have a bar menu pre Covid, but owner Jill Carnevale says they’ve now added some bar favorites to the main menu, such as five kinds of tacos, and calamari. The bar itself is three-sided like Cache Cache, but smaller. It’s just inside the door to the right with the main dining room visible at the back of the restaurant. The bar seats fourteen so there’s a bit of jostling to find a spot, but it's so worth it.
Caroline Tory also likes the tacos at Ellina, “The summer squash and halibut are my favs.” Tory is the Managing Director at Aspen Words, a literary arts center of the Aspen Institute that hosts writers’ conferences, residencies, an author speaker series, youth programs, and a literary prize. She's also an outstanding athlete. Tory loves La Boca del Diablo. It’s a unique take on a margarita—love the cilantro and lime.”
Ellina is on E. Hyman Ave., and has outdoor tables both below in the courtyard and at street level.
EW Bar (“Aspen Chaps”) — New
Next to the former Maru space next to BOSQ, this new spot channels the irreverent spirit of the old Eric’s Bar—affordable drinks, billiards, and a golf simulator for off-mountain competition. Conceived by longtime local Andrew Cador and John Bukac of Jimoto Ramen, it’s meant to fill the hole left by Aspen’s disappearing local hangouts.
P.S. Jimoto Ramen on Hyman Ave is reopened, expanded, and absolutely worth a visit.
Hidalgo Agave Cocktail Lounge At W Aspen - New
Hiding downstairs in the former 39 Degrees space, Hidalgo is moody, sexy, and agave-forward—exactly the kind of late-night cocktail cave Aspen has been missing. Expect creative drinks, dark corners, and a revived social scene.
P.S. Aspen residents can still use the W’s rooftop pool + hot tub thanks to the city’s permitting. Don’t forget this.
Hooch Cocktail Bar
Hooch, in the basement under Meat & Cheese, has terrific craft cocktails. Aspen Word’s Marie Chan says, “It‘s one of my all-time favorite places in Aspen. We’ve been so fortunate to be able to host our Writers In Residence free public events there. Wendy Mitchell and her amazing team have been the most generous hosts. They love what we do and we love what they do! By far my fave Hooch drink is the Last Rose of Oaxaca. It’s made with Vida Mezcal, Yellow Chartreuse, Habanero Honey, Lemon, and Strawberry.”
In fact, Chan adds, “The Last Rose of Oaxaca is such a treat I look forward to it every event.” And adds with a wink, “Sometimes in between.”
Hooch doesn’t have much in the way of food, but enough to keep you happy if you need a bite to eat such as warm nuts, dips, or popcorn – the kind of food you’d have at home watching a sporting event. In fact, a Hooch description says, “It’s like being in your living room, only more fun!”
Hotel Jerome
J-Bar in the Hotel Jerome
Housed in the historic Hotel Jerome, J-Bar is an iconic Aspen hangout. Known for its Old West charm, classic cocktails, and lively atmosphere, J-Bar is where locals and tourists come to relax after a day on the mountain. Don’t leave without trying their famous Aspen Crud, a bourbon milkshake with a storied past, and definitely call Tipsy Taxi afterward to get you home safely.
Living Room & Bar
Speaking of snug, I love those carriage-like chairs with the curved backs in The Living Room & Bar at the Hotel Jerome on Main Street. Sitting opposite one another cocooned in those seats is perfect for an intimate conversation over cocktails. Some people prefer the famous J-Bar or The Library Bar at the Jerome, but Carbondale residents, Ed and Judy Brown love the clubby comfort of The Living Room adorned with Old West relics. After a day in town, Judy says, “It’s an ideal place to unwind over a good scotch like a Glenfiddich or Glenlivet. We usually have a bite to eat too from the bar menu. Ed especially loves the fish tacos and fries.”
Las Montanas
For good vibes and a flavorful experience, Las Montañas is the place to be. This contemporary Mexican eatery brings a unique twist to Aspen’s dining scene with its delicious tacos, fresh guacamole, and inventive cocktails. The stylish yet welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a casual meet-up or a lively evening out. The combination of authentic Mexican flavors and Aspen’s chic ambiance makes Las Montañas a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
Parc Aspen
What once was L'Hostaria, a beloved local hangout, PARC Aspen has taken over, and although we will forever miss Tiziano and his crew, PARC Aspen retains some of the charm, and the bar is a great place to experience fine dining. Led by Executive Chef Mark Connell and Master Sommelier Jonathan Pullis, PARC Aspen offers a curated menu highlighting locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Featured dishes include Mushroom & Polenta, Organic Salmon, & Prime Beef Tenderloin.
For reservations and more details, you can visit their website or check out reviews to get a feel for the unique experiences they offer.
Steakhouse 316
is one of the most romantic bars in Aspen, with a luxurious yet intimate atmosphere and exceptional steakhouse fare. This restaurant combines old-world charm with modern culinary excellence and is in a cozy, historic building. The menu features prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and an array of delicious sides, all prepared with impeccable attention to detail. With its dimly lit, sophisticated interior and world-class wine selection, Steakhouse No. 316 offers an elevated dining experience perfect for a special night out or an indulgent meal after a day on the slopes. Whether you're a local or visiting Aspen, this steakhouse is a must-visit for anyone craving a high-end, classic steakhouse experience.
These top hangouts are where Aspen’s locals and visitors come together to unwind, socialize, and experience the best the town has to offer. Whether seeking an upscale experience or a casual evening, these spots deliver the perfect mix of community and culture.
Silver City Saloon
A Wild West-themed saloon with real character. Pool, great whiskey, an eclectic crowd, and Aspen’s most beloved karaoke night hosted by The Sandman every Monday at 9pm.
P.S. As of Dec 2024, this is Aspen’s ONLY public pool table.
The Sterling Aspen
This vibey lounge next to Hooch is known for its eclectic live-music lineup—techno, disco, experimental, jazz, you name it. Young, stylish, and always buzzing. Think of it as Aspen’s micro-club for music lovers, but probs don’t want to get there before 11:00 PM, unless they have live music or comedy going on earlier.
Westy's Tap & Tavern (Formerly Aspen Brewing Company)
This is still “Aspen Tap” to most of us, a relaxed locals’ spot for craft beer, pizza, and casual nights out. What began as a small brewery has grown into a full Colorado brand.
They now distribute to 75+ local restaurants and stores.
The Snow Lodge In St. Regis Aspen
The Snow Lodge comes from the mind of the same folks who brought the Hamptons the Surf Lodge, a world-renowned, celeb-loved favorite club and bar on the island of Montauk. A similar concept, the Snow Lodge, formerly Shlomo's, is the snowy version of Surf Lodge, with world-class top-shelf cocktails, chic and exotic decor reflective of ski seasons past, and all day food. Located at the base of Ajax, you're likely to spot many a Gucci belt here, but the indoor restaurant still maintains an unpretentious yet lively vibe. With wonderful views of Ajax, and excellent people watching, the après outdoor patio is the most buzzy spot in 2021 to see and be seen in Aspen. With show-stopping menu items like the Aperol Spritz on tap, the Hot Smoked Hotty Toddy, and all-day small bites, share-ables and dinner items like Roasted Branzino and Mushroom Lasagna, they offer it all. Come for the drinks, but stay for the party, because the Snow Lodge is now open seven days a week from 12pm-10pm.
The Wet Deck Bar At W Hotel
The Wet Bar at the W hotel is adjacent to The Little Nell, and features views of all of Aspen and the entirety of the front of Ajax mountain. A rooftop bar, this spot is a great escape from the booming Alpine scene, while still offering everything you’d want from an après experience and more. You can also book your own private “Grotto”, a dome inspired outdoor dining experience with unique and delightful offerings like the Truffle Mushroom Swiss Raclette Burger and Pork Belly Steamed Buns. The W’s "Chef Jackie" has prepared a globally inspired menu that keeps visitors and locals consistently coming back for more. Complete with a rooftop-length fire pit, big comfy seats, and heaters, this is a perfect spot to go if you want to get a killer view of the entirety of Aspen’s kingdom and enjoy the mountain from new heights. Perhaps the coolest part about Après-ing at the Wet Bar? The heated pool and giant-hot tub. That’s right, here you can enjoy your après drinks and treats while relaxing your skied-out muscles from a heated whirlpool while the waitstaff refills your glass. Even cooler? Due to high demand, the WET Deck and bar is now fully open to the public from 1-8PM on Thursdays-Sundays. You need to be patient though, you may be put on a waitlist with 30-minute increments in either the pool or tub. Pro-tip: Come in the evening and catch the sunset against Ajax and see the town light up—just don’t forget your camera.
