By The Editors By The Editors | March 2, 2022 | Guides,
Brunch is the ultimate comfort meal, especially after an eventful weekend, or at the end of a hectic workweek. From mimosas to buttery pancakes or creamy eggs benedict, plentiful brunch options await at these five eateries.
White House Tavern
Residing in the historic A.G. Sheppard House, White House Tavern serves up shareable sandwiches and brunch staples in an intimate setting. Enjoy house-smoked salmon and southern-style brussels sprouts with lemon aioli and grated Reggiano in the tavern’s ambient, gothic dining room. Pair your savory breakfast with the tavern’s signature “kickstart” bloody mary, which is made with a choice of vodka or tequila. 302 E. Hopkins Ave., 970.925.1007
Bear Den Aspen
There’s no shortage of hearty, decadent brunch foods at this Aspen hot spot. Organic teas and homemade cafe latte flavors, such as lavender and cardamom, can be found on the extensive barista menu. An assortment of sweet and savory breakfast options covers the menu, like the house-made granola made with yogurt, fresh fruit, honey and berry coulis. Boozy breakfast cocktails, like Bear Den’s french toast in a glass, are well fit to accompany a fresh cranberry scone or pain au chocolat. 301 E. Hopkins Ave., 970.922.9218
Poppycock's Cafe
Breakfast is served all day, making this place a brunch connoisseur’s dream. Elevated comfort foods, like oatmeal buttermilk pancakes, smoked salmon benedicts and Belgian waffles, are familiar favorites. Fresh fruit, homestyle egg dishes and protein-packed breakfast smoothies add to the wholesome and healthy ambiance of Poppycock’s. 665 E. Cooper Ave., 970.925.1245
Mawa's Kitchen Aspen
Mawa’s, a women-owned Aspen eatery, serves up an extensive weekend brunch menu brimming with fresh eggs benedicts, old-fashioned buttermilk pancakes and huevos rancheros. The bourbon rustic french toast combines tart flavors with bursts of sweetness: picture gluten-free granola and fruit compote contrasted with warm Vermont maple syrup and hints of bourbon. 305 Aspen Airport Business Center Suite F., 970.710.7096
Prospect at Hotel
From elegant ceiling molding to hand-stitched leather chairs, Prospect immerses guests in the historic yesteryear of rustic Aspen. This American bistro is bringing elevated, yet approachable dishes to the table, showcasing the best of Roaring Fork Valley’s in-season ingredients. With spacious courtyard dining, guests can enjoy a delectable brunch while taking in the Aspen air. 330 E. Main St., 855.331.7213
Element 47
Larger than life. That is the best way to describe the impact chef Matt Zubrod has had on the Aspen dining scene. A classically trained chef who could take his skills just about anywhere, he chooses to work with the esteemed team assembled at Element 47 and the adjacent Ajax Tavern. Whether Zubrod is preparing an outdoor grill for a culinary event, shaving truffles in the dining room for a guest or working with Wine Director Chris Dunaway on a pairing for a Burgundy wine dinner, his enthusiasm and talent are always on display. This spring the winecentric Little Nell was honored as one of five finalists by the James Beard Foundation in the category of Outstanding Wine Program. 675 E. Durant Ave.
Photography by: Photos by Eric Marion Williams/iStock