With the rise of plant-based eating, dining out as a vegan has become a not-so-daunting task even in smaller towns known for their niche culinary scenes. Aspen particularly boasts an array of restaurants that cater exceptionally well to vegan and vegetarian eaters. Whether you're a local or a visitor taking in the natural beauty and charming ski resorts, Aspen offers some incredible dining experiences. Here are Modern Luxury's picks for vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in town.
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Website/ 415 E Main St 81611
This contemporary trattoria and pizzeria boasts an expansive menu, on which you can find an abundance of plant-based options. Who needs lamb chops when you can delight in flavorsome eggplant parmesan, tender grilled artichokes and a gluten-free crust vegetable pizza?
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Website/ 205 Mill St 81611
Campo de Fiori is vibrant in both atmosphere and vegetarian offerings. Its Zucchine Inverno promises fresh, rich flavors through a coalescing of basil pesto, sheep feta, pinenuts and wild mushrooms on a bed of zucchini pasta, while the Gnocchi Spinaci dazzles in a coating of tomatoes, feta and garlic tossed with olive oil. You can also opt to warm your belly with a bowl of minestrone soup, which comes with a dash of basil pesto.
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Website/ 305 Aspen Airport Business Center 81611
Mawa’s Kitchen has plant-based eaters covered whether you’re looking to dine out for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. Kick start the day with Mawa’s Granola Parfait or fuel up at lunch with the Big Wrap loaded with creamy lentil cashew hummus, cucumber, avocado, arugula and pickled vegetables. At dinner, a proper feast awaits with menu items like savory braised leeks, roasted cauliflower, Vegetable Maafe (a West African peanut curry with roasted acorn squash and forbidden rice) and the Butcher’s Daughter (lentil, sunchoke purée, vegetable ratatouille and kale chips). Even better, Mawa’s dining experience is distinguished by locally sourced, organic ingredients and an inviting ambiance.
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Website/ 110 Carriage Way 81615
The restaurant offers a delightful array of vegan-friendly dishes that don’t skimp on creativity or taste. Imagine savoring a plate of the ginger miso quinoa, bursting with seasonal vegetables and rich flavors that make each bite memorable. Aurum Aspen Snowmass also provides a selection of plant-based appetizers, such as the Aurum Fries and crispy curried cauliflower, that perfectly prepare your palate for the main course. With its sleek décor and panoramic mountain views, Aurum captures the essence of Aspen's upscale yet laid-back vibe.
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Website/ 515 E Hopkins Ave 81611
For an upscale dining experience that exquisitely balances flavor and presentation, Catch Steak Aspen is a must-visit. While it may surprise some to see a steakhouse on a list of vegan-friendly eateries, Catch Steak delivers a plethora of options that cater to plant-based diets. It has a separate vegan and vegetarian menu that rivals its traditional offerings. Sides like the waffle fries, spinach and zesty grilled asparagus already come vegan, but you can also have the vegetarian chicken parm and Spicy Gigli made vegan upon request—both dishes so delectable, it could convert the most devout carnivore. The restaurant's chic, yet cozy ambiance makes it perfect for a date night or special occasion.
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Website/ 533 E Hopkins Ave 81611
If you're craving sushi but want to stick to your vegan diet, look no further than Kenichi Aspen. Known for its tantalizing Japanese cuisine, the restaurant ensures plant-based eaters won’t ever have to miss out on the sushi experience again. Go omakase with the chef’s vegan nigiri plate or indulge in a cozy, savory culinary adventure with the vegan-by-request sukiyaki. Furthermore, Kenichi’s modern and inviting décor complements the culinary experience, making it a great spot for both intimate dinners and casual gatherings.
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Website/ 308 E Hopkins Ave 81611
Traveling the world through food is another joy for vegans, and Sway Thai in Aspen brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand right to your table. The menu brims with vegan-friendly options that stand out with their authenticity and zest. Start your meal with the po-pea jay, spring rolls packed with crunchy vegetables and served with tomato vinegar jam. For your main course, consider the green curry made with pan-seared tofu, Thai eggplant, English peas, roasted corn and fingerling potato; it’s as comforting as it is delicious. Other highlights include the baby bok choy, lotus salad and Brussels sprouts. The relaxed atmosphere and warm hospitality at Sway Thai make it an excellent choice for experiencing diverse flavors without leaving Aspen.
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Website/ 685 E Durant Ave 81611
Perfect for an afternoon bite, Ajax Tavern sits pretty at the base of Aspen Mountain—right next to the Silver Queen Gondola. The ultimate casual fine dining destination serves more than traditional favorites, with an extensive menu for meat and vegan lovers alike. Chow down on must-haves like the Ajax truffle fries and cauliflower gratin or get adventurous with the heirloom carrot and cauliflower “steak.” Although the meals pack a punch, Ajax’s flavor goes far beyond the plate with its sun-drenched patio with impeccable mountainside views.
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Website/ 119 S Spring St 81611
There’s clean eating, and then there’s Spring Café clean eating. With a kitchen dedicated to 100% organic ingredients, this is the perfect spot to hit after a long day on the mountain. Along with a delicious lineup of juices and smoothies, Spring Café brings fun pick me ups to the table like the Chickpea “Tuna” Pita full of lettuce, tomato, cucumber, avocado and alfalfa sprouts, with other honorable mentions like the Highlands Bowl made complete with your choice of rice/quinoa and tofu/tempeh, served with steamed veggies and vegan dressing.
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Website/ 301 E Hopkins Ave 81611
Right in the heart of Restaurant Row, Bear Den Aspen offers rich and decadent meals from morning to night. This cottage-esque eatery has perfected every mealtime with dishes for everyone to pass around the table. Start your morning with the Avocado Hussle, filled with white bean hummus, seeds, kale and avocado micro greens or stroll in for lunch and try the Red Mountain made with beets, white bean hummus, leeks, avocado coriander-mint, seeds, vegan yogurt and veggies. Stopping by for a late dinner? No problem, just order up the Purple Haze and bite into an assortment of beets, avocado, peas, mint and basil citrus dressing.
Whether you're looking for a fancy night out, a sushi fix, international flavors or modern American dishes, Aspen's culinary scene is ready to cater to vegan eaters.
See also: 18 of the Best Vegan Restaurants Across America
Photography by: iStock
