SUMMER DINING AL FRESCO: BEST OUTDOOR EATERIES IN THE MOUNTAINS￼

Warm weather and more daylight naturally draw us to the outdoors. Venturing to the mountains is a great way to spend those summer days. But when it’s time to take a break from all the mountain adventures and refuel, there’s no need to head inside. These great restaurants offer outdoor seating or grab-and-go options so you can dine al fresco. No matter what kind of scene or atmosphere you’re in the mood for this summer, there’s an outdoor eatery waiting for you.

MOUNTAIN DINING WITH A VIEW

If enjoying a meal with a stunning backdrop is your ideal dining setting, these restaurants give you unbeatable peak views.

Summit House at Crystal serves up local northwest flavors at 6,872 feet. Select a picnic table outside to admire the gorgeous views of Mt. Rainier as you savor selections from an incredible menu curated by Executive Chef Christian Adams.

A stunning view of Mt. Rainier from the Summit House at Crystal Mountain

Located at the top of Winter Park Mountain, Sunspot Mountaintop Lodge is the perfect spot to take in the mountain scenery while refueling with a mid-day post-hike snack. And if your appetite for sunsets matches your appetite for adventure, set up shop to watch the sun cascade over the continental divide while sipping a happy hour drink at 10,700 feet.

Lunch on the scenic patio of Oasis Sundeck is accompanied by one of the best views in Steamboat Springs. Ride the gondola up to the Thunderhead building, and kick back at 9,000 feet while enjoying tasty bites from the grill, such as the prime rib Philly sandwich or the mother earth salad. If you want to earn your meal, sign up for a guided hike & lunch, with a mile-long trek through vistas and forests before sitting down to a picturesque lunch.

Soak in the valley views from the Oasis Sundeck

GOLF-SIDE SCENES

Whether you’re playing a round or just watching others practice their swing, there’s a spot nearby to grab a bite and admire the scenery.

The Chip Shot Café at Mammoth Mountain is a quaint spot serving up breakfast, lunch, and happy hour cocktails all summer long. Kick off the morning with the early riser burrito or a brioche breakfast sandwich. For lunch, choose between the delectable pulled pork sandwich or house favorite fish tacos. No matter which meal you opt for, the best place to enjoy your food and drinks is the large patio overlooking the 18th green.

Clubhouse Grill at Big Bear Mountain Resort is another excellent place to observe the golfing action. This eatery is known for its flame-grilled burgers and signature grilled cheese sandwiches. Wash it all down with your favorite beverage as you take in the views of the ninth green.

Admire the award-winning mountain courses of Stratton from the patio at Green Apron. This restaurant serves a wide range of seasonal dishes, from fried pickles and avocado fries for starters to Vermont Paninis and New England Lobster Rolls. Top off the meal with a local craft beer or cocktail while watching the action on the 18th green.

Sunny golf views from Green Apron at Stratton

Soak in breathtaking views of the Sugarbush Golf Club and Lincoln Peak at Hogan’s Pub. Share plates of crispy chicken wings or fresh burrata as you sip a summer drink out on the expanded deck. There’s no better place to quickly refuel or end an exciting day of outdoor fun.

PATIOS AND SUNDECKS

Take a break from hiking and biking around Deer Valley, and soak in the sun on the deck of Royal Street Café at Deer Valley. Nosh on appetizers, sandwiches, fresh salads, and tempting desserts, as you sip on refreshing drinks and seasonal cocktails.

Enjoying at deck at the base of Deer Valley Resort

After a day exploring the Wasatch Mountain range, settle in with your crew at Honeycomb Grill at the base of Solitude. Taste contemporary American cuisine made with locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. If you’re up for it, order a bison burger like the locals and discover why this dish has gained a loyal home-grown following.

Revel in the summer scenes right by the water’s edge. Kaytoo Restaurant & Bar at Blue Mountain, situated on Mill Pond, serves up a delectable variety of food to satisfy everyone’s tastebuds. Get ready to devour a plate of perogies stuffed with potatoes and cheese, a resort favorite. Or pick from a selection of burgers, sandwiches, and entrees to fill your belly.

Water adjacent dining at Blue Mountain

In the summer, the Beach at Lac Tremblant is the place to be. Spend the day paddling on the water, diving for a volleyball in the sand, or just kicking back with a good book. And when you get hungry, head for the Beach club snack bar serving sandwiches, grilled options, and quick snacks. It’s the perfect place to refuel for more mountain lake excitement.

When visiting the mountains in the summer, nothing beats dining in the fresh air with the peaks in the distance. It’s the ideal spot to relive, replay, and relish in the adventures completed and memories made.