With so many outdoor activities and adventures awaiting you in Steamboat Springs, not to mention the fantastic skiing, you must get energized for all the action and also have a cozy space to relax and recharge after a day of exploration.
That’s what the restaurants in Steamboat Springs are for. Boasting a superb and diverse culinary scene, the mountain town offers a wide selection of eateries featuring American to international fare and catering to all tastes. Whether you choose a more upscale space or a more casual restaurant, the quality of the food and service in Steamboat is always above average.
Wondering where to find all these local treasures? Look no further; this blog will be your guide through the best restaurants in Steamboat Springs, CO.
Are you ready for a memorable culinary journey?
Laundry
Laundry is specialized in serving globally inspired cuisine and in smoking and curing natural foods. Located in the Soda Creek building that was once home to the Steamboat Laundry, a visit to this Colorado gem is a truly special culinary experience.
The creative menu includes small plates that offer a chance to share and have a taste of several of their creations, as well as larger plates. You can start with small portions like the duck confit, pork cheeks, beef brisket, bison carpaccio, and spicy tuna — all very popular among customers. Favorite large plates include the blackened tuna with pickled pineapple and avocado and the fried chicken served with mashed potatoes and gravy. Pair your meal with great wine or grab one of their whiskeys, tequilas, or many tantalizing house-infused spirits.
Laundry’s rustic-chic ambiance with its red-brick walls, wood accents, and dim lighting is ideal for commemorative dinners or a romantic date. The outdoor seating area faces the river, adding extra charm to the culinary experience, and sometimes they have live music, but it's never too loud. Reservations are highly suggested.
Café Diva
With a seasonal menu serving contemporary American fare, Café Diva, just a 9-minute drive from downtown Steamboat, offers an elegant and intimate space for a high-end dining experience but without the pretentious atmosphere.
The chef creatively designs seasonal menus highlighting the best features of each ingredient. Some of the restaurant’s most praised creations are the Spicy Tuna Roll, Mushroom & Gouda Empanada, Crab and Tomato Bisque, Cacio e Pepe Fettuccini, Pork Chop & Apple Sauce, and Beef Tenderloin "French Onion Soup." To make the most of your experience, pair your order with a good wine, and don’t ask for the bill before trying the Crème Brûlée or the Pecan Pie Cheesecake.
All the ingredients at Café Diva are sustainably sourced — naturally raised meats, seafood, and the produce comes from small family farms. Prices are on the high end but 100% worth the price tag. Add to that a fantastic mountain contemporary ambiance and top-notch service, and you have the formula for an unforgettable dining experience in Steamboat Springs. If you plan to visit, make sure to reserve a table in advance.
Mambo Italiano
Mambo Italiano is a piece of Italy right in the heart of downtown Steamboat. From classics to modern interpretations, this is the go-to place if you’re craving Italian fare in a pleasant setting.
A great way to start is by ordering some of the most popular appetizers like Crispy Artichokes, Roasted Garlic, Mozzarella Bread, or Calamari Fritti. Then pick one of their amazing fresh pastas that include hits such as Classic Fettuccine Alfredo, Calamari Arrabbiata, Rigatoni Alla Vodka, Spaghetti & Meatballs, and Carbonara al Tartufo. If you’re a pizza lover, they have a great selection of pizzas; the Quattro Formaggio, Fig & Gorgonzola, and Mortadella & Pistachio are must-tries. All the amazing food goes well with excellent wine or classic cocktails like the Negroni and the Venetian Spritz. Save room for dessert and do yourself a favor by ordering a Tiramisu or a Limoncello Cheesecake.
Open seven days a week, and featuring a romantic interior and beautiful patio, Mambo Italiano is where you’ll experience a piece of Italian “Dolce Vita” in Steamboat Springs.
Sauvage Restaurant
If you’re more into the French flavors and allure, Sauvage Restaurant on Yampa Street provides fine dining infused with delicious food and a contemporary European atmosphere.
Sauvage's menu changes seasonally or at the chef’s discretion, but some of the recurrent creations that are a hit include the Lamb & Ricotta Agnolotti, Foie Gras Torchon, Braised Colorado Beef, and Pork Cutlet. Ask the passionate sommelier for recommendations on wine or choose one fantastic signature cocktail — the Seattle Fog and Espresso Martini are phenomenal!
For a more complete experience, go for the 5-course tasting menu with wine pairing available from Wednesday to Friday. Don’t leave before trying the Sauvage Soufflé.
Adding to the exceptional food, Sauvage features stunning interior design blending chic and rustic charm. The large black and white granite bar is gorgeous, the mezzanine is cozy and intimate, and details like flatware with a European touch will draw you back to this Colorado treasure every time you visit.
Carl's Tavern
Carl’s Tavern is for those looking for a more casual and easygoing option. Despite not being fancy, their menu is filled with high-quality American comfort food with a Southern twist. This is a great option for an apres ski cocktail or dinner.
On their diverse menu, you’ll find classics like Cast Iron Cornbread, Carl's Wings, BBQ St. Louis Style Pork Ribs, Cast Iron Ribeye, Prime Beef, Fettuccine Alfredo, and Pan-Seared Atlantic Salmon. The burgers are sensational, but an absolute must-try is the Double Black Diamond with two patties of Wagyu beef and the Prime Hot Italian Beef sandwich with prime rib. Those with a sweet tooth will love to end lunch or dinner savoring the homemade carrot cake and the triple chocolate cake.
Carl’s cocktails are also famous in town. They have a great selection of whiskey, bourbon, and tequila-based cocktails as well as excellent beers. Coupled with the cozy pub atmosphere, this is the ideal place if you want to turn your dinner into a night out.
Besame Steamboat
Boasting a Latin-infused menu with global flavors, Besame Steamboat is a lively and colorful restaurant centrally located downtown, attracting locals and tourists looking for a taste of South American and Spanish delights.
Order an assortment of small tapas to share, so that you can taste different creations. All-time favorites are Guava Empanadas, Patatas Bravas, Croquetas de Jamón, Colorado Lamb Belly, and Grilled Octopus. The Charcuterie and Cheese Plate with an assortment of amazing Spanish meats and cheeses is also a top-seller. Larger entrees like Paella (vegetarian option available), Carne Asada, and the Colorado Lamb burger with manchego are also stellar dishes on the menu.
You should not skip dessert, since their Choco Taco, Churros, and Cuban Coffee Pot Ice Cream are all to die for. A kids' menu is available.
Table 79 Foodbar
Table 79 Foodbar offers a unique and upscale space where you can indulge in contemporary American fare and signature cocktails while getting a glimpse of the food being prepared.
The restaurant’s eclectic menu features stellar dishes like Potato-Wrapped Salmon, Korean Short Rib served with kimchi fried rice, Tuna Poke, Grilled Oysters, Portabella Fries, Short Rib Bao Buns, and Rocky Mountain Trout. While you dine in their modern-chic, softly lit space, you can catch glimpses of the action in the open kitchen.
Most of the ingredients used by the chef are sourced from the Yampa Valley and Rocky Mountain Region. Complementing the dining experience is a list of amazing craft cocktails. Don’t miss their happy hour offering food and drink specials.
Yampa Valley Kitchen
Located in Downtown Steamboat Springs, Yampa Valley Kitchen, affectionately known as YVK among locals, is the ultimate destination for memorable meals in the city. The elegant ambiance is a standout feature, with tall white walls, tropical plants, abundant natural light, and fresh flowers. The space is carefully curated to ensure every meal — from breakfast to dinner — is infused with style and excellent service.
With a commitment to using locally sourced produce and meat from Colorado ranches, YVK boasts a diverse menu, and it includes gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options as well. The lunch menu favs are the Truffle Rosemary Parmesan Fries, Smoked Salmon Salad, Truffalo Burger, and Tuna Melt. Diner must-tries include Truffle & Herb Frites, Crab & Jalapeño Hush Puppies, Shrimp & Grits, Stroganoff, Duck a L'orange, and Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Don’t forget dessert — their Black Forest Mousse, and Profiteroles are unbeatable!
The Best Restaurant in Steamboat Springs, CO
What could be better than adding a fantastic culinary experience to your vacation in Steamboat Springs? With our recommendations, you’ll certainly have the best time indulging in unique flavors and sharing unforgettable moments with loved ones.
Want more tips on Steamboat Springs, CO? Then head to our destination blog, where we cover everything from a full guide on family-friendly outdoor activities and the best places to grab coffee in town to the top activities to enjoy on a rainy day. And there's much more coming, so keep an eye out for future blogs!
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