Cocktails in Steamboat Springs are as Unique as the Town Itself
Picture yourself spending the day biking through the golden Aspen groves in Buffalo Pass, gazing across the Yampa Valley, and soaking up all the natural splendor that this area has to offer in the Fall season.
As the sun begins to set, and the sky turns a brilliant orange behind the Rocky Mountains, you’ll need to find a place to unwind and reflect on the outdoor adventures you’ve had, and will have, in Steamboat Springs.
Sipping a hand-crafted cocktail and nibbling on scrumptious appetizers, while enjoying quiet conversation at one of the finest restaurants in Steamboat is the perfect end to a wonderful day.
We’ve found the best places in Steamboat Springs for you to experience unique cocktails, delicious dishes, and a cozy atmosphere.
Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails
This upscale Steamboat Springs restaurant is housed in the historic Soda Creek building that was the home of Steamboat Laundry from 1910-1977. The atmosphere is rustic country meets urban chic. With exposed brick walls, metal finishes, and one of the coziest patios in Steamboat, The Laundry beckons you in for an intimate dinner among friends.
Specializing in smoking and curing natural foods, then creating gastronomic experiences like no other, their chef Nick Winden was named Chef of the Year by the Colorado Restaurant Association in 2023 for his accomplishments.
The food here is served on small plates to encourage sharing these divine dishes so everyone can try more of the seasonally-changing menu. The cocktail menu is rotating and the skillful bartenders create a new signature cocktail nightly.
“The Laundry is one of our favorite restaurants in Steamboat. Cool ambiance with a great bar; stellar food and lots of choices. The bartenders are great with many infused liquors. Try it – you will not be disappointed.” – Tripadvisor Review
Must Try Cocktails: Kentucky Fall (a twist on apple cider with a hint of ginger and black peppercorn) or Lavender Lemondrop (lavender-infused vodka from Mythology with elderflower and lemon)
Hours: Open for dinner daily at 4:30 p.m, Happy Hour is 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
On Sunday, October 6, 2024, join their collaborative event with Mythology for the Cocktail Party by the Creek. From 4 p.m. – 7 p.m., enjoy cocktails from Mythology paired with appetizers from Laundry on the gorgeous Creekside deck. Tickets are $70 and include 3 cocktails and the food selection.
Table 79 Foodbar
This uniquely designed restaurant in Steamboat boasts marquee-style seating with an open window to the kitchen. This gives every seat in the house a view of the culinary skills and processes happening behind the scenes to create the masterpieces brought to the table.
Table 79 specializes in craft cocktails and elevated comfort food using local ingredients and seasonal specialties. They pull inspiration from around the world to infuse into the eclectic menu. Some favorites include the Korean Short Ribs and Colorado Lamb Meatballs.
“This is a must-stop when you’re in Steamboat – amazing food, friendly service and great drinks – what more could you ask for? They made the perfect dirty martini and have an impressive whiskey collection.” – Tripadvisor Review
Must Try Cocktails: As You Wish (gin mixed with lemon, grapefruit, and crème de violet) and La Pijama de Niños (a Mocktail featuring vanilla, agave, turmeric, honey, and ginger beer)
Hours: Open for dinner daily at 4:30 p.m. and Happy Hour 4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.
The Barley Tap and Tavern
This local bar is a center for community activities and a gathering place for friends after a day on the trails or the slopes. It has a laid-back atmosphere, with wood paneling, an ever-changing art wall, and a variety of seating options. They are passionate about supporting local charities and regularly host events to “make Steamboat a better place, one pint at a time”.
They have arguably the largest selection of craft beer and wine in Steamboat Springs – featuring 31 beer taps and 8 wine taps that rotate with every keg, their menu changes almost daily.
The Barley offers small bites to accompany your hand-crafted cocktail like a soft pretzel and the Camper Board, a charcuterie board with local meats and cheeses.
“Great beer list. Can’t choose one? Get a flight of six! Great place to sit on the patio and relax with good beer and cocktails.” – Tripadvisor Review
Must Try Cocktails: Lavender Fields (local favorite of gin, lavender, and lime) and any of their Jam Cocktails (locally made jam with a spirit – we like the Strawberry Rhubarb Jam with vodka)
Hours: Open daily from 12 p.m. – 12 a.m. and Happy Hour 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Bèsame
The Latin Fusion restaurant in Steamboat Springs presents a romantic atmosphere with dim lighting, dark colors, and lush fabrics creating the perfect ambiance for an intimate evening.
This restaurant takes on the Latin style of showing love through the sharing of food – offering a variety of hot and cold tapas, such as Patatas Bravas and Watermelon Gazpacho, and even a table-size Paella.
“We enjoyed a wonderful meal last night at Bésame in Steamboat Springs. The place is cozy and perfect for a cold Colorado night.” – Tripadvisor Review
Must Try Cocktails: The Tipsy Carrot (a spicy take on carrot juice with tequila and chili bitters) and flavored Mojitos (available in passion fruit, grapefruit, mango, guava, and ginger)
Hours: Sunday to Thursday 4 p.m. – 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. and Happy Hour daily 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Foxes
This is the hidden gem that’s taken Steamboat by storm. A speakeasy atmosphere with dim lighting and cozy seating makes this cocktail lounge the ideal location for a nightcap on a cool Fall night.
Winning Best of The ‘Boat’s awards for Best Cocktail and Best Bartender in 2023, this intimate locale transports guests into an enchanting world where they can expect to be inspired, educated, and delighted by the unique creations presented at the bar.
Small snacks are offered alongside the cocktails and extensive wine list to heighten your beverage experience. A Wine Charcuterie Topper with a variety of cheese, pickles, and jams or Astrea Caviar will pair perfectly with the delectable cocktails in this Steamboat Springs establishment.
“Pleasantly underrated… For now. This is your traditional word of mouth hidden speakeasy gem. It’s about time the boat catered to the spirits.” – Yelp Review
Must Try Cocktails: Smoke on the Water (bourbon, mezcal, watermelon with a smoky finish) and Velvet French Martini (a new take on a martini with Chambord, pineapple, and fresh raspberries)
Hours: Thursday to Saturday open at 5 p.m.
Aurum Food & Wine Steamboat
One of the top-rated restaurants in Steamboat, Aurum prides itself on offering a seasonal menu with local ingredients.
Based alongside the Yampa River, a refined atmosphere with clean lines and a crisp color palette make this local restaurant an upscale dining experience. The spacious outdoor seating allows for uninterrupted views of the rumbling river that winds through the town.
Pair your cocktail choice with the local Steelhead Trout or perfectly-cooked 8oz Marinated Bistro Steak and finish your evening with a decadent Peach Pavlova or creamy Butterscotch Affogato.
“I am a Steamboat local & Aurum is hands down one of my favorite places to frequent in town. Everything here from the food to the cocktails to the atmosphere and staff combine to make it a necessary stop if you’re in town.” – Tripadvisor Review
Must Try Cocktails: River Mist (Mythology Jungle Cat vodka orgeat, kaffir, and lime) and Gold Rush (bourbon, lemon, and honey)
Hours: Open for dinner daily at 4 p.m. and Happy Hour 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Salt & Lime
This restaurant prides itself on being a twist on classic Mexican food. With specialties like Steak Ranchero, Baja Shrimp, and a dozen different options for tacos and burritos, you’ll find a new favorite dish here.
Salt & Lime has a colorful interior that includes natural wood tables, intricate patterns on the bar and walls, and even a mural of Frida Kahlo – you’ll be transported to a lively Mexican town during your meal.
For an even more authentic experience, head up to the rooftop patio and watch the sunset over Steamboat while sharing a pitcher of Margaritas with your friends.
“We had spent the afternoon walking around Steamboat Springs and wanted to sit and enjoy the view and have a drink. The rooftop was perfect for that with very good margaritas and chips.” – Tripadvisor Review
Must Try Cocktails: Paloma (grapefruit tequila, lime, agave, and grapefruit bubbles) and Cucumber Ranch Water (tequila, aloe liqueur, cucumber, and lime)
Hours: Open daily 12 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. and Happy Hour 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Truffle Pig
This is the perfect fine-dining restaurant for your après-ski refreshments.
Located on Après-Ski Way, this is the depiction of a ski-in ski-out location. Feast on Wagyu Beef Bolognese or Maine Diver Scallops, while taking in the sights of the Fall colors on Mt Werner right beside your table.
For more time in the fresh mountain air, enjoy a cocktail on the patio warming up by the fire-tables. Inside Truffle Pig you’ll find rich wood finishes, a warm color palette, and elegant leather seating.
“This is the spot!! Unique and gourmet dishes with excellent service with an unbeatable environment. Not to mention the cocktails/drinks- phenomenal.” – Tripadvisor Review
Must Try Cocktails: Leave No Trace (bourbon, cinnamon and rosemary demerara, orange bitters, and cherry) and The Ski Bunny (vodka, limoncello, creme de mure, and cane sugar)
Hours: Thursday to Monday 4:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., closed Monday and Tuesday, Happy Hour 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Lunch service runs December to March 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Slopeside Grill
This family-friendly restaurant in Steamboat Springs is located right at the base of beautiful Mt Werner.
A true ski-in stop in Steamboat, you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of the mountain and its changing Fall colors and of the bustle of activities happening slopeside. A large outdoor patio area allows guests to bring their furry friends to take part in the fun.
Some of the best hand-made pizza in town, there are 10 flavor combinations, or you can make your own. There’s also a delicious Mac-N-Cheese made using Irish cheese – top it off with bacon for an extra treat!
“Always make a point to stop at Slopeside. Sit outside, so beautiful at the base of the mountain. Very cold delicious beer. Service friendly.” – Tripadvisor Review
Must Try Cocktails: Steamboat Manhattan (whiskey, cherry bitters, vermouth, and Luxardo cherry) and The Lemon Bruise (gin, St Germaine, and lemon)
Hours: Thursday, Friday, Monday 12 p.m. – 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 11 am.m – 9 p.m., closed Tuesday and Wednesday, Happy Hour daily 3 p.m. – 6 p.m., Weekend Brunch 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Hand-Crafted Cocktails in Steamboat Springs Are Plentiful
Whether you’re looking for a luxury dining experience, or a place to rest after a day full of outdoor adventures, there’s a restaurant in Steamboat for that.
The local community embraces the après-ski culture and has always ensured there’s a variety of options for Happy Hour in town. Having cocktails in Steamboat Springs isn’t just about the beverage, it’s a time to reconnect with family and friends, share stories, and create new traditions.
For us at The Astrid, nothing is more important than family – and this is a dream our family is excited to share with yours. A place you can call home for generations to come.
The luxury you’ve been waiting for in Steamboat Springs is coming; we’re breaking ground on this ambitious project in 2025. To find out more, simply provide us with your name and email address. By doing so, you’ll be invited to join our exclusive mailing list. As part of this list, you’ll gain access to insider information, behind-the-scenes content, and a highly personalized email experience reserved only for members of The Astrid community.
