Located high above the Vail Valley, The Summit in Cordillera, CO, offers more than panoramic Rocky Mountain views and stunning alpine homes—it’s an under-the-radar culinary gem for locals and travelers alike. From high-end hideaways to cozy mountain cafés and irresistible bakeries, The Summit’s food scene is both intimate and impressive, bringing together global flavors, approachable comfort, and local traditions in one delightful neighborhood. Whether you're savoring après-ski bites or winding down after a trail hike, these are the can’t-miss food destinations and local traditions that make The Summit a true haven for foodies.
Best Restaurants in The Summit
Summit Grille & Tavern
Located near the intersection of Summit Lane and Cordillera Way
As the clear local favorite, the Summit Grille & Tavern offers the kind of polished-rustic ambiance that makes every meal feel special. The menu is an all-seasons adventure—think Rocky Mountain elk burgers, hand-cut steaks, and Colorado rainbow trout, all sourced from local suppliers when possible. Their wine list leans regional, and the fireside seating is a winter dream. Prices are mid-to-high tier, but portions are generous and the quality is consistently top-notch.
- Must-try: Elk burger, truffle fries, chili-rubbed ribeye steak.
- Insider tip: The weekend brunch features decadent pancakes and bottomless mimosas.
Timberline Bistro
At the Cordillera Athletic Club crossing off Summit Trail
For a creative twist on classic mountain fare, Timberline Bistro offers an eclectic seasonal menu with a strong focus on farm-to-table ingredients. The chef’s wild mushroom risotto is legendary, and their wood-fired pizzas—especially the wild arugula and prosciutto—draw regulars from across Cordillera. Vegetarian and gluten-free options abound, and the lunch crowd loves their hearty soups and creative salads.
- Must-try: Wild mushroom risotto, arugula and prosciutto pizza, bison short ribs.
- Price range: $$-$$$
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Aspen & Sage Café
Tucked in a charming cluster just off Painted Rock Road
This beloved little café is one of The Summit’s secret treasures. With mountain views from every window, Aspen & Sage serves up the best coffee for miles—locally roasted and brewed to perfection. The breakfast menu features Colorado green chile burritos, house-made granola, and almond croissants worthy of a Parisian bakery. Their lunch offerings—like turkey avocado paninis and fresh salads—are equally satisfying.
- Highlight: Locally roasted beans and exceptional cappuccinos.
- Hidden gem: Lemon-zest scones (get them early before they sell out!).
Cordillera Crust Food Truck
Parked weekends by the Summit Park trailhead
A recent addition turning heads is the Cordillera Crust food truck. This mobile pizzeria brings authentic Neapolitan-style pies to The Summit, using a wood-fired oven right on wheels. The crust is blistered and chewy, toppings fresh and locally-sourced—don’t sleep on their mountain mushroom or spicy soppressata pies. With outdoor seating nearby in the summer, it’s the perfect stop after a hike or bike ride.
- Must-try: Mountain mushroom pizza, burrata starter, Nutella dessert pie.
- Price range: $-$$
Bear Paw Bakery
Just a quick jaunt down Summit Lane, look for the hand-carved sign
For those with a sweet tooth (or anyone in need of a hearty breakfast), Bear Paw Bakery delivers comfort and creativity in equal measure. Their berry-studded muffins, savory cheddar biscuits, and gooey cinnamon rolls are the stuff of local legend, especially when paired with a steaming mug of chai. Everything is baked fresh daily, and gluten-free pastries are available.
- Noteworthy: Signature huckleberry jam thumbprint cookies.
- Insider tip: Arrive early on Fridays for the seasonal danish.
Local Food Traditions
Farm-to-Table Pop-Ups
Throughout summer and early fall, The Summit hosts a series of “alpenglow suppers” and pop-up dinners at community spaces along Summit Lane and Cordillera Ridge. These dinners spotlight local farmers, ranchers, and mountain artisans—think summer squash lasagna, roasted lamb shanks, and wild berry crumbles. Tickets sell out quickly, but those lucky enough to attend rave about the communal atmosphere and vibrant regional flavors.
Après-Ski Snacks & Warm Drinks
Cordillera’s après tradition is strong in The Summit, especially as neighbors gather at Summit Grille or the sun-filled patio at Aspen & Sage for Colorado craft beers and hot toddies garnished with local honey or spiced cider. Warm cheese boards and charcuterie platters round out the late-afternoon ritual.
Where to Find the Best Bites
- Summit Lane and Cordillera Way: The heart of The Summit’s food scene, home to Summit Grille & Tavern, Bear Paw Bakery, and frequent food trucks.
- Summit Park trailhead: Look for the Cordillera Crust food truck (weekends, summer and fall).
- Painted Rock Road: Home to Aspen & Sage Café, a go-to for both locals and visitors seeking a quiet bite with a view.
Making the Most of Your Summit Food Experience
Like the best food neighborhoods, The Summit’s charm lies in its intimacy and local pride. Menus shift with the seasons and ingredients are often sourced from family farms in Eagle and Gypsum. Even amidst the modern elegance of some spots, there’s a laid-back friendliness—you might exchange ski tips with your server, or meet the baker behind your cardamom bun.
Here’s how to eat like a local:
- Make brunch plans for the weekend—Summit Grille’s spread is legendary.
- Late riser? Bear Paw Bakery’s cinnamon rolls go fast, so get there early.
- Sample the Cordillera Crust food truck after a morning hike or midday paddle.
- Ask the Aspen & Sage barista for the local’s favorite seasonal scone.
- Check neighborhood boards for alpenglow supper pop-up dates.
Beyond individual dishes, it’s the community and connection to Colorado’s land that set The Summit apart. Whether you’re a year-round resident or exploring for a day, the food here’s both a comfort and a celebration—inviting you back for seconds, and thirds.