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Everyone knows a skier who prides themselves on skiing through lunch, only to fuel up on pocket jerky and maybe a PBR on the lift. But during a long day on the slopes, we’re never opposed to warming up our toes and refueling in the lodge.
Of course, many lodge cafeterias offer an exceptionally average $30 plate of a burger and fries, but in recent years, some have started providing unique dining experiences (at often more affordable prices!). And while no one can argue that chicken tendies don’t taste amazing after crushing laps sometimes we’re craving something a little bit more. That said, we’ve hunted down the best and most unique dishes at ski lodges across the U.S. Check out our picks, below.
Green Chili Dogs from Ptarmigan Roost Café (Loveland Ski Area, CO)
While shredding at one of Colorado’s most underrated ski mountains, Ptarmigan Roost Café is undoubtedly a worthwhile pitstop. Cozy up with a can of Rolling Rock and a green chili dog either next to the wood-burning stove, or on the observation deck, which provides 360 views of the area at 12,000 feet of elevation. After a day of exploring the bowls or hitting the glades, the combination of the spicy green chilly — with a glizzy — is truly unmatched.
Bacon Bloody Mary and BBQ from Black Mountain Lodge (A-Basin, CO)
Although you may have to roll back down to the base lodge afterward, taking a mid-mountain break at Black Mountain Lodge is practically a requirement during a trip to Arapahoe Basin. Even though the pulled pork sandwich happens to be a household favorite, you really can’t go wrong with ribs or brisket, either. Make sure to wash it all down with one of the lodge’s iconic Bacon Bloody Marys, and you’ll likely be full until just before your morning laps tomorrow.
Veggie Ramen at Miso Hungry (Jay Peak, VT)
There is truly nothing more satisfying than cozying up with a steaming hot bowl of ramen after a few hours on the slopes (hey, even nutritionists approve of ramen during a long day on the slopes!). But it’s safe to say Miso Hungry’s Veggie Ramen does not disappoint. You can choose between spicy and regular miso (we’re always opting for spicy…it’s a quick way to warm up!) and top it with a little fried tofu for some extra protein. You can even make it vegan by asking to swap out the marinated egg for extra veggies.
Curry Fries from Roundhouse (Solitude Mountain Resort, UT)
Indian-Himalayan fusion might not come to mind when visiting the state of Utah, but Solitude’s mid-mountain restaurant, Roundhouse, has a mouthwatering menu (think: dals, butter chicken, and lamb curry) that’s worth flying in for. But if you’re looking for a big plate to share, curry fries may be the way to go, and definitely ask for extra napkins. We can’t think of a better way to warm up amongst friends.
Jerk Chicken from Jerk Jamaican Mountain Grill (Killington Ski Resort, VT)
During those extra cold days on the slopes, a tropical lunchtime vibe may be the way to go to get the feeling back in your fingers. One repeat recommendation for the best mountain food on the Reddit page r/skiing was the famous Jerk Shack at Killington Ski Resort, and needless to say, we’re dying to try it. “There’s a jerk chicken shack slopeside at Killington that is so good it’s hard to believe,” one user writes in a rave review. “Easily the best food I’ve had at any resort, ever.”
Barbacoa, Chicken Tinga, or Tofu Chorizo Tacos from Phlox Point (Timberline, OR)
Even though Portland tends to be Oregon’s primary food hub, one ski area along Mount Hood has a ski-in, ski-out taqueria that could just as well be in the city. Phlox Point at Timberline offers affordable and flavorful tacos, which beat any $30 burger lunch.
“Our personal faves include the barbacoa, a tantalizing shredded beef version braised in stout with ancho and chipotle chilis, oregano, and cumin,” writes the Harris family, behind Mount Hood’s Alpine Chalet. “The chicken tinga is also a standout, marinated in IPA, green chili, cumin, and garlic. And for the veggie peeps, they have a rotating option (currently tofu chorizo).”
The Reuben from John Paul Lodge (Snowbasin Resort, UT)
Snowbasin’s John Paul Lodge serves up what they claim to be “the best Reuben in Utah” — and the Internet seems to wholeheartedly agree. In response to Snowbasin’s Instagram post referencing the sandwich, one comment read: “Couple more weeks till I fly in for my Reuben,” while another added: “Best Reuben of all time.” And if you’re still not convinced, then trust your fellow SKI readers, who voted Snowbasin one of the top ten resorts in the West for dining in our annual SKI Reader’s Survey.
Fondue from The Roundhouse (Bald Mountain Ski Area, ID)
Fondue is a relatively common slopeside staple, but evidently, Bald Mountain in Idaho has nailed the art of melty cheese and crudités. Not to mention, a pretty stellar view from the top of the resort, only accessible by gondola. Not to mention, The Roundhouse claims to be the original on-mountain dining spot in the U.S.
The Roundhouse is popular amongst skiers and nonskiers alike, so if you’re planning on visiting make sure to make reservations ahead of time.
Deer Valley Turkey Chili (Deer Valley, UT).
You know a food is iconic when a quick Google search ranks copycat recipes to make at home higher than the resort’s website. Deer Valley’s Turkey Chili is certainly that type of dish and a staple at the Utah resort. You can snag this famous bowl of protein-packed goodness at several of Deer Valley’s onsite lodges, and even purchase the mix to bring home. Don’t forget to embrace toppings the Deer Valley way by adding cheese, sour cream, red or green onions, or even some sliced jalapeños.
Not into Chili? No worries, Deer Valley has plenty of other favorites like rich and silky smooth hot chocolate, and a whole variety of desserts guaranteed to please your sweet tooth and give you the energy to carry out your day.
Latin American food from Nob Hill Cafe (Sugar Bowl Resort, CA)
Situated in Sugar Bowl Resort’s Village Lodge is the Nob Hill Cafe, a casual spot to grab some Michelin-starred chef-created meals. This season, the cafe is bringing the heat with a flavorful Latin American-inspired fare. Between laps, you can choose from a tasty menu that includes birria braised beef, pollo asado chicken, vegetarian Pozole Verde, and veggie pupusas — yum.
Waffles from Corbet’s Cabin (Jackson Hole, WY)
If you’ve been skiing for more than a few years, you’re likely accustomed to a grab-and-go waffle before hitting the chairlift. But, Corbet’s Cabin at Jackson Hole is no run-of-the-mill Waffle Cabin. Skiers can grab a freshly made waffle reminiscent of weekend mornings and choose toppings accordingly, like bacon, peanut butter, or whipped cream. All that extra sugar pairs perfectly with a death-defying run off the cabin’s namesake, Jackson Hole’s famous Corbet’s Couloir.
