18 Aspen, Colorado Restaurants with Outdoor Al Fresco Seating for Unforgettable Dining in Summer and Fall
Stephanie Kroll
Stephanie Kroll
If you’re craving an elevated culinary experience surrounded by stunning scenery, Aspen’s outdoor al fresco restaurants offer the ultimate patio setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a casual meal, or looking for a romantic night out, these 18 Aspen dining spots with outdoor seating are sure to delight in any of the warmer seasons, like summer or fall.
Romance meets indulgence at French Alpine Bistro, where authentic French cuisine is served on a cozy outdoor patio. Savor their signature fondue, escargots en brioche, and freshly-shaved truffle dishes. This intimate, family-owned gem transports you to the heart of France with every bite.
Located within The Little Nell, Element 47 crafts refined American dishes with a Colorado twist. From Wagyu beef to house-made pasta, their seasonal menu highlights local, organic ingredients. Enjoy outdoor dining outside the hotel by the pool, paired with world-class wine, and don’t miss their private cellar tastings with an expert sommelier.
The Wild Fig captures the charm of European dining with a Mediterranean-inspired menu featuring flavors from Spain, France, Italy, and Greece. Their inviting patio, adorned with twinkling lights, sets the stage for signature cocktails like the Fig and Olive. A candlelit dinner here is a must.
Craving a perfectly-prepared steak? The Monarch delivers with premium cuts, bison fillet, and braised rabbit poutine. Pair your meal with a global selection of wines and beers. Reserve a spot on their cozy patio to enjoy an unforgettable fine dining experience.
Located on Aspen’s restaurant row, Meat & Cheese combines a gourmet food shop and restaurant in one. Known for sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients, their al fresco menu offers bold flavors perfect for a relaxed meal. Stock up on picnic essentials or indulge in a curated charcuterie board.
For health-conscious diners, Spring Café is a sunny spot offering organic and plant-based dishes. Their patio is perfect for enjoying a wholesome meal, from avocado toast to energizing smoothies, while taking in views of Aspen’s natural beauty.
Located in a charming historic house, The White House Tavern specializes in gourmet sandwiches like the French dip and Peruvian chicken meatballs. Their outdoor patio provides the ideal spot to savor comfort food with mountain views.
Ajax Tavern offers one of Aspen’s most iconic dining experiences at the base of Aspen Mountain. Known for their truffle fries and Wagyu double cheeseburger, this lively restaurant is perfect for après-ski or a leisurely lunch. Enjoy their expansive patio with stunning mountain views, pairing your meal with a crisp glass of wine or a signature cocktail.
Located in Aspen’s West End neighborhood, West End Social is a vibrant spot for casual dining with a creative twist. Their menu features a mix of shareable plates and flavorful entrees, perfect for gathering with friends or family. Their outdoor seating area provides a relaxed ambiance to enjoy a cocktail, and provides views of multiple ski mountains in one panoramic view - Buttermilk, Highlands, Ajax, and more.
For authentic Mexican flavors, Las Montañas is the place to be. Their menu showcases bold and fresh dishes like tacos, ceviche, and house-made guacamole. With an inviting patio, this restaurant offers a laid-back vibe where you can savor delicious margaritas while taking in the Aspen scenery.
Southern hospitality meets Aspen cool at Home Team BBQ, where pulled pork, ribs, and brisket steal the show. Enjoy their outdoor tables with friends, and don’t leave without trying the famous frozen Irish coffee.
With its picturesque patio near Wagner Park, Bosq offers an intimate dining experience. Chef C. Barclay Dodge’s menu features locally-sourced ingredients, from Peking duck to rabbit confit. Sunset dining at this Michelin star restaurant is nothing short of magical.
Housed in a historic Victorian building, Matsuhisa Aspen is renowned for Chef Nobu’s innovative Japanese cuisine. Signature dishes like yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño and black cod miso can be enjoyed on their inviting outdoor patio.
Seafood lovers will adore Clark’s Oyster Bar, where lobster rolls, fresh fish, and a raw bar take center stage. Their chic outdoor seating and daily happy hour (3–5 PM) make it a must-visit for oysters and martinis.
Nestled in the heart of Aspen, The Boat Tow is a cozy eatery specializing in Alpine-inspired comfort food. Their menu features hearty favorites like raclette, schnitzel, and Alpine mac & cheese. Their outdoor seating area provides a rustic, mountain-chic ambiance, perfect for enjoying crisp fall evenings with a warm mulled wine or a creative cocktail.
Whiskey lovers rejoice—Stranahan’s Aspen offers an unparalleled outdoor dining experience where you can sip Colorado-made whiskey while indulging in a seasonal menu of elevated comfort food. Their patio, complete with fire pits, is ideal for a crisp evening under the stars. Signature dishes like whiskey-glazed ribs and Colorado lamb burgers pair perfectly with their craft cocktails.
For a luxurious and intimate dining experience, Casa Tua is a must-visit. This members-only club and restaurant offers a taste of Northern Italian cuisine with an elevated flair. Their outdoor terrace is perfect for enjoying dishes like truffle risotto, handmade pasta, and grilled branzino while soaking in Aspen’s serene mountain atmosphere. Pair your meal with a selection from their curated wine list for a truly unforgettable evening.
A cornerstone of Aspen’s fine dining scene, Cache Cache is renowned for its French-inspired menu and sophisticated ambiance. Their outdoor seating area offers a chic yet relaxed setting, ideal for enjoying signature dishes like Dover sole, steak frites, or the house-made pâté. The extensive wine list, featuring over 1,000 selections, ensures the perfect pairing for any meal.
Explore Aspen’s Culinary Delights
Aspen’s outdoor dining scene perfectly pairs world-class cuisine with breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're indulging in fondue under the stars, enjoying mountain views with truffle fries, or sipping margaritas on a sunny patio, these restaurants promise a dining experience you’ll remember. Book your reservation today and make the most of Aspen’s stunning fall and summer seasons.
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