The best way to unwind after a day filled with adventure, fresh air and sunshine? Watching the sun sink behind the mountains from one of Vail’s dozens of outdoor dining decks. We’ve broken down our favorites by area throughout the Villages and invite you to find your favorite spot (but no need to choose just one!). This list could go on and on, but this gives you a starting point to explore all the open-air decks and patios Vail has to offer. Bon appétit!
vail village
Pepi’s – Pepi’s deck, with its large orange umbrellas, is one of the most iconic spots in Vail. Situated in a prime location in Vail Village to see and be seen, Pepi’s deck is a go-to spot for lunch, afternoon snacks, and dinner. With extensive patio seating featuring maximum afternoon sun or options under cover, this legendary Bavarian restaurant is not to be missed! Enjoy authentic German, Swiss, and Austrian cuisine for lunch or dinner from this tried-and-true Vail dining experience.
Reservations recommended for dinner.
The Red Lion – At the top of Bridge Street, discover another iconic location by looking for the signature red and white striped umbrellas. Come early to secure the best spot and order a few drinks, enjoy the casual menu, listen to live music, and enjoy a parade of people watching.
No reservations.
Up the Creek – Serving lunch and dinner daily, Up the Creek is located right on the banks of Gore Creek and offers Vail’s only truly creekside patio – as close to the creek as you can be without getting wet. This family restaurant serves fresh ingredients sourced from local and sustainable sources. Enjoy a signature cocktail or fine glasses of wine and peruse the diverse and mouth-watering seasonal lunch and dinner menus.
Reservations recommended for dinner.
El Segundo – This Vail newcomer boasts a large deck overlooking Gore Creek. A high-energy, sophisticated, semi-traditional taqueria & tequila bar, El Segundo is the perfect spot for apps and drinks (do try the Kiss from a Rose white sangria) or full meal. Features modern Mexican cuisine for lunch or dinner.
Reservations recommended for dinner.
Sweet Basil – Sweet Basil is a creative, modern American restaurant located in the heart of Vail with an outdoor patio and seating on Gore Creek Drive where you’ll be surrounded by lush flower boxes. The menu features imaginative seasonal cuisine with an innovative array of diverse influences.
Reservations recommended.
Mountain Standard – From the creators of Sweet Basil, Mountain Standard is a rustic and relaxed tavern with a welcoming patio near Gore Creek. Most of the menu is prepared over an open wood fire, making it the only restaurant in Vail devoted to this age-old way of cooking. The tranquil beauty of its creekside location is contrasted by a high-energy vibe during lunch and dinner.
Reservations recommended.
La Tour – Located in the heart of Vail Village along Meadow Drive, La Tour was inspired by COVID to take outdoor dining to a new level. Glass outdoor dining pods, dubbed “Crystal Cabins,” are lavishly decorated with curtains, carpet, multisource lighting (even the tabletops emit a soft glow), and super-soft fur throws for a real “wow!” effect when you enter. Choose between two tasting menus, one with five courses, the other with nine. Note: As the weather warms up, the pods may be removed in favor of a fully fresh-air dining experience.
Reservations are a must well in advance!
Fall Line Kitchen & Cocktails – If you’re in the mood for fresh, contemporary cuisine with a hint of Asian influence, this dining spot offers all that and more with its retro 60s-inspired décor and patio seating off Bridge Street overlooking all the action of the Village. Don’t miss the inventive craft cocktail menu with something for everyone!
Alpenrose & Almresi – Alpenrose, located along Meadow Drive, has a delightful patio filled with charming Bavarian style that will help you feel like you were whisked away to Europe. Enjoy warmth, hospitality, and traditional Bavarian cuisine that includes hearty goulash, dumpling specialties, Walliser fondue, Kässpätzle, and savory snack plates. Don’t miss a sweet finish of traditional Alpine desserts. For a unique dining experience, spend an exclusive evening in their new fondue gondolas, an all-inclusive experience featuring champagne, Alpenrose-selected white and red wines, San Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, and 3-course menu with a delicious selection of appetizers, hearty Swiss cheese fondue, and a delightful dessert to top off your unforgettable evening. Their sister restaurant, Almresi, is located at the top of Bridge Street with 3rd floor patio views overlooking the village and offers an array of authentic Bavarian dishes, beer, live music, and more!
Reservations recommended for dinner and the fondue gondola.
The Bully Ranch – Round up your group for lunch or dinner to enjoy a Southwestern and American menu surrounded by aspen trees and flower boxes. With its beautiful patio right off the Sonnenalp, Bully Ranch provides a warm respite after a day of mountain adventure. Taste their famous mudslide drink (just one!), or feast on renowned burgers and sandwiches for lunch or dinner.
Reservations recommended for dinner.
La Bottega – If you’re into people watching, the sunny patio of La Bottega overlooking East Meadow Drive is your spot. Upscale Italian dishes, with more casual offerings at lunchtime, are a celebration for the senses whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two or wine-and-dine business deal.
Reservations recommended for dinner.
Vendetta’s Italian Restaurant – This sunny patio is tucked away on Vail Village’s Wall Street and has been serving locals and visitors since 1983. With its casual, friendly vibe, you’ll feel like a local as you pull up a chair and unwind with pizza and a beer.
No reservations.
Los Amigos – Possibly the sunniest deck in Vail Village, at the base of Gondola One, with incredible mountain views and thirst quenching margarita’s. Sit back and soak in the rays….you can even see the kids playing at Pirate Ship Park while you relax.
No reservations.
Honorable mentions: The outdoor patio scene at the top of Bridge Street has become the place to be, as many restaurants have spilled out to the street and often host live music. Notables include 7 Hermits Brewing Pub, Blu Cow, and Big Bear Bistro. And Solaris Plaza is home to many restaurants that offer outdoor dining with an exciting and cosmopolitan energy – don’t miss Vail Brewing Company, Deca+Bol, Yeti’s Grind, and Matsuhisa.
Lionshead
Garfinkel’s – Location, location, location! Garfinkels’ expansive deck overlooks Vail Mountain and the Eagle Bahn Gondola. Featuring casual food and libations, it’s a convenient stop before or after a mountain adventure.
No reservations
Lionshead Chophouse – Located at the base of the Eagle Bahn Gondola and Chair 8, enjoy the sunshine and often-live music of longtime Vail musician Phil Long while enjoying an incredible salad, gourmet sandwich, and unique cocktail for lunch or dinner.
Reservations recommended for dinner.
Tavern on the Square – With live music nightly during peak season and an outdoor patio with breathtaking mountain views, the Tavern is the perfect spot to kick back after a day on the mountain. Just steps from the Eagle Bahn Gondola in the Arrabelle, the Tavern has an exciting array of breakfast, lunch, après, and dinner menus with the perfect atmosphere for making new memories.
Bart & Yeti’s – One of Vail’s only local pubs left in the Valley, Bart & Yeti’s doors have been open for 38 years and they feature one of the most welcoming decks in Lionshead. Tucked in the Lifthouse Lodge, this little Vail bar-and-eats joint is a staple you’ll want to visit every time you’re in the neighborhood. The laid-back atmosphere is the perfect spot to enjoy burgers, ribs, wings, BBQ, and beer with good prices and a great staff that will bring a smile to the soul.
Honorable mentions: Blue Moose Pizza in the center of Arrabelle Square, Moe’s BBQ on the west end of Lionshead, and El Sabador overlooking Gore Creek in the Lionsquare Lodge.
Golden Peak
The Fitz: Elevated Bar & Bites – Located in Manor Vail, the patio at The Fitz sits just above the creek and is the perfect spot to grab a bite and beverage before or after a show at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater. Surrounded by trees and flowers, this stunning location is a gem serving modern and seasonal American cuisine.
Reservations recommended for dinner and/or pre- and post-show.
beyond the village core
A few noteworthy decks beyond the core villages:
The Grill on the Gore – Located in the Vail Golf Clubhouse and open to the public, the Grill on the Gore offers a creative take on American comfort food while boasting the most spectacular Gore Range mountain views. It’s the perfect place to gather and enjoy signature lunch dishes featuring handcrafted soups, salads, and sandwiches made with Colorado-sourced ingredients. Specialty cocktails and a diverse craft beer selection are also available daily.
No reservations needed.
Gessner – Located in the Grand Hyatt in Cascade Village, the resort’s signature restaurant is open breakfast through dinner with a stunning patio overlooking Gore Creek and the resort pool. Breakfast buffets, à la carte options, and dinner menus showcase authentic flavors from the Colorado Rockies to fuel your Vail, Colorado adventure. Dinner features both Colorado-inspired game entrées and vegan offerings from light to hearty to ensure there’s something for everyone. Check out their Tuesday Tiki cocktail parties!
Reservations recommended.
Westside Café – Located in the Highline Hotel in West Vail, the Westside patio is a favorite of locals and guests alike. Colorado-sourced menu items provide contemporary American cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Relax on the outdoor deck as the friendly staff serves food made with love! Relax, smile, and stay awhile.