Quick Info
Best for date night: Tempranillo. Best casual: Café Bernard. Best brewery: Basalt Brewing. Best breakfast: The Art of Coffee. Price range: More affordable than Aspen. Reservations: Recommended for dinner, especially weekends.
Basalt's dining scene punches above its weight for a small town. Farm-to-table restaurants, creative brewpubs, and solid casual spots offer variety without Aspen prices. Most restaurants are walkable from downtown.
Fine Dining
Tempranillo
Spanish-influenced fine dining with local ingredients. Seasonal menu, excellent wine list. Intimate atmosphere. Reservations essential.
Heather's Savory Pies & Tapas Bar
Creative small plates and savory pies. Local favorite for dinner. Good cocktail program.
Casual Dining
Café Bernard
French-inspired café with breakfast and lunch. Crepes, salads, sandwiches. Relaxed atmosphere. Popular with locals.
Free Range Kitchen
Healthy bowls, salads, and fresh food. Quick service, quality ingredients. Good lunch option.
Rivers Restaurant
American comfort food with river views. Steaks, burgers, and seafood. Casual atmosphere suitable for families.
Breweries & Bars
Basalt Brewing Company
Local craft brewery with food menu. Rotating taps and seasonal releases. Dog-friendly patio in summer.
Capitol Creek Brewery
Another local brewing option with pub fare. Good after-fishing spot.
Coffee & Breakfast
The Art of Coffee
Local coffee roaster with café. Excellent espresso drinks. Light breakfast and pastries.
Two Rivers Road Café
Breakfast and brunch spot. Traditional American breakfast with mountain portions.
Tips
Make reservations for dinner. Popular spots fill up, especially on weekends and during ski season.
Prices are fair. Expect to pay 20-30% less than comparable restaurants in Aspen.
Downtown is walkable. Park once and walk between restaurants and bars.
Check hours. Some restaurants have seasonal schedules or limited days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Basalt dining cheaper than Aspen?
Yes. Similar quality at lower prices. You can have a nice dinner for significantly less.
Do I need reservations?
Recommended for dinner at popular spots, especially weekends and holidays. Lunch is usually walk-in friendly.
Are restaurants open year-round?
Most are, though some may have reduced hours in shoulder seasons. Call ahead in spring and fall.
Is there late-night food?
Limited. Basalt is a quiet town that closes relatively early. Breweries are your best bet for later evening.