Steamboat Springs and the Yampa Valley have plenty of restaurants to choose from when it comes to summer dining. In the summer, patios, rooftops, and green spaces open at many of our restaurants so you and your friends or family can enjoy the sunshine as you indulge in our world-class cuisine.
Outdoor dining around Steamboat Springs is so plentiful that there are several categories of restaurants around the valley that offer it. Below you’ll find our guide to some of the best places to enjoy dining outside, whether it’s by the river, in a whiskey barrel, or on a rooftop.
Riverside Dining
To get a patio with river views and a steak dinner on the side, E3 Chophouse is an obvious choice. Their “ranch-to-table concept” starts with cattle being raised humanely, in an all-natural environment. It’s a true family business that takes pride in preparing their meals to perfection. The only thing that could make it better – the peaceful river flowing beside you as you sip a cocktail on their perfectly groomed patio.
Aurum Food & Wine, on the other hand, offers new American cuisine and a large outside deck overlooking the river. Their outdoor space is refined yet relaxed and their food – incredible. Preparing everything from Korean fried chicken to braised meatballs and shrimp & grits, their kitchen never disappoints.
Fine Dining
Located in the heart of the mountain village at Steamboat Resort, Café Diva offers an intimate dining experience on their small patio in the summer. Their eclectic menu, prepared by Chef Kate, features seasonal dishes that incorporate the freshest market ingredients each season. They also offer a wine cellar with over 275 wines to choose from to accompany the amazing setting and flavors. Seating here is limited so we recommend making a reservation.
If you’re looking for a nice meal downtown, head to the Primrose patio for great people-watching and the sound of the river to add to the ambiance. Described as “mountain certified social dining,” this is the place you want to go to celebrate a special occasion and try delicious food. Their menu includes unique dishes like fried oyster BLT’s, duck confit ramen, and Moroccan short rib.
Dining with Kids
For those hanging out at the resort, Slopeside Grill is a hard spot to beat in the summertime. “The Beach” at the resort is located right in front of the restaurant, making it a popular place to bring the whole family. Not only is it a great place to entertain the little ones, but it also offers a relaxed atmosphere and patio for adults to enjoy the mountain scenery.
Mambo is our pick for families that crave Italian and are looking for a kid’s meal that is made complete with dessert. In the summer, their lovely outdoor patio is decorated with blooming flowers to celebrate the season. Kids love the crayon coloring they offer, commonly accented with a little marinara sauce art for an edible masterpiece!
Unique Dining
At the base of Steamboat Resort are Stranahan whiskey barrels. At first glance, you may think these are simply décor but in fact – they are used as dining tables. These custom cedar barrels are used for a chef curated 4-corsuse menu paired with a flight of Stranahan’s whiskey. The barrels seat up to four guests and feature beautiful mountain views.
Last but not least, Lupita’s Cantina in Oak Creek is a summer favorite among locals. It’s the spot to be on a Sunday afternoon for their “Rock’n the Taco” live music series, and there’s no better place to experience the “small-town feel” found in Yampa Valley. Try their tacos, quesadillas, or burritos and hit the spot with their house margarita for a Mexican meal you’ll be sure to remember.
