With the weather warming up and the mountain waking up for spring, there is no better time to check out the sunny decks of the alpine restaurants on Telluride Mountain. Whether you are looking for a delicious lunch to enjoy between lapping the slopes, or a gourmet dinner under the stars, the on-mountain restaurants with their diverse menus have something for everyone. If you haven't tried them yet, these four spots should be on the to do list for your next ski trip to Telluride.
Giuseppe’s
Easily accessed from Plunge Lift, Giuseppe’s is a favorite lunch spot. The restaurant features a New Orleans-themed menu, complete with po’ boys, the famous black bean sauté, and as rumored some of the best gumbo in Colorado. The fresh made to order food in Giuseppe’s is only second to the views. Grab a cold beer, sit in one of the Adirondack chairs looking out towards Utah and enjoy your ski vacation.
Alpino Vino
Situated at 11,996 feet in elevation and located near the top of Gold Hill, Alpino Vino is the highest restaurant in North America. The restaurant provides a high alpine ambiance and is reminiscent of restaurants found in the mountainous areas of Northern Italy. A multi-tiered deck features an outdoor wine bar with European teak furniture, coveted daybed and comfortable sheepskin throws, which makes it the perfect setting for a midday escape with stunning views of the Wilson Range. At night guests travel to Alpino Vino via an enclosed Snow-Coach. But the scenery and the authentic alpine atmosphere by the wood burning fireplace are just compliments to the masterfully prepared food for which the restaurant is known. The wine tasting menu makes is a must do experience.
Bon Vivant
Bon Vivant, located at the top of the Polar Queen Express (Lift 5), is true to its name, which translates to "one who enjoys a sociable and luxurious lifestyle." It is the place to be for mountain views, people watching and some of the best French cuisine in the American West. Bon Vivant's menu, designed by the famous chef Jared Campbell, is a mixture of classical French country cuisine and his own contemporary creations, and features favorites such as elk cassoulet, croque madames, made-to-order crepes and hand-crafted hot chocolate. The all-French wine list is not to be overlooked either. This dining experience is a must!
Gorrono Ranch
A day of skiing at Telluride is not complete without a stop at Gorrono Ranch. Situated mid-mountain on the Misty Maiden run, this historic Basque sheep herding ranch not only has the best on mountain apres scene but it also offers a variety of mouth watering food options. Chuck’s Famous Chili is a must and so is a stop in the Smokehouse for unbeatable Rotisserie Chicken right off the spit, house made smoky Pulled Pork sandwiches and Alligator Ribs. After lunch stick around for Gorrono's famous beach apres ski party and listen to live music while enjoying the majestic view of Mount Wilson.
