Resnick Aspen Action Forum

While the town of Aspen is a popular destination for global travelers, there approximately 6,000 people who call the town home year-round. For 18 years, I called the Roaring Fork Valley home, so I have developed an insider guide to the small mountain town.

While most of the Action Forum will take place on the Aspen Institute’s campus, the town of Aspen offers some unforgettable experiences as well. This blog will focus on the food in Aspen and give you five different options, each with a local’s stamp of approval!

J-Bar: Are you looking to be inspired? Then grab a drink and a bite at J-Bar. The bar is found in the Hotel Jerome, one of the oldest buildings in Aspen. The Aspen Institute was conceived over a drink in this bar, so it’s the perfect place to discuss your big ideas on how to make an impact. While you’re in the area, make sure to walk across the street and see the “Working In America” art installation at the Aspen Public Library.


Spring Café: If you want a healthy way to start a day, make your way to Spring Café. They have organic juices, smoothies, and breakfast options, many of which are vegan. Their food is all plant and grain based, and you can find a variety of fresh, local vegetables and fruits in any of their dishes. To see each of the different options, check out their menu here. 

Meat & Cheese: While only a few years old, Meat & Cheese has quickly become a local favorite. They serve a variety of fresh cheeses, produced by Avalanche Cheese Company, accompanied by charcuterie, craft cocktails, and local beers. It is great for medium sized groups during the early evening.


Aspen Hickory House: A local favorite for BBQ, pulled pork, and any side you can imagine, Aspen Hickory House is an excellent place to bring large groups or kids. They bring out the messy, smoky, and unique BBQ that Colorado mountain towns are known for. If you go, make sure you’re not wearing white! Check out the menu here.

Chefs Club: Named one of Time Magazine’s top 100 restaurants, Chef’s Club combines rustic Colorado cuisine with flavors from around the world. Found in the historic St. Regis Hotel, it features guest chefs at any given time who bring their own unique take to the menu and serve their own inspired dishes. For a list of the current chefs, please look here.




Kidd Duhe Solomon is the 2017 Resnick Aspen Action Forum intern. He recently graduated from Tulane University, and during his collegiate years lived in Spain, Washington DC, and New Orleans. As an Aspen, CO native, he attended local Aspen schools and could be found performing and dancing in the Wheeler Opera House and the Aspen District Theater.