Ski resorts are literally the coolest summer spots in Utah. From hiking to zip-lining, they’re not only cooler than lower elevations, they host a ton of activities for the whole family. And then there is the culinary scene...delectable bites and full-on gluttonous events at altitude often served with sweeping views.
Several Utah cities have been recognized as culinary hotspots by Zagat, Wine Enthusiast, and Conde Nast. But Utah’s most innovative farm to table menus aren’t limited to bustling downtown hubs, some of the most talented chefs are crafting their art at mountain resorts.
Here’s where to find the best dining and drinks high above the heat at Utah’s Ski Areas:
Alta Ski Area and Town of Alta
Albion Grill
The Albion Grill is a family friendly cafeteria-style restaurant with a sunny deck and expansive views. The Albion Grill's summer dates are June 30 through Labor Day, seven days/week. Enjoy local organic food, music, coffee, craft beer and more. Outside on the patio, every Saturday from 3-6 p.m. relax to an eclectic mix of live music from Blues, Reggae, Bluegrass, Folk and Funk.
Alta's Sunnyside Lift will be running on weekends this summer!
More big Alta news! Sunnyside Lift will be running on weekends this summer so pack your hiking shoes and camera to enjoy some of the best wildflowers in the Wasatch. Hours 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. $10 adult tickets and $5 child 12 & under will be available at the Albion Grill.
Several other Alta restaurants will be serving throughout summer, view them all HERE. 
Deer Valley Resort
At Deer Valley Resort, dining is an integral part of a complete vacation experience. Deer Valley restaurants feature quality ingredients and fresh preparations with an emphasis on locally sourced products. Summer dining options include The Brass Tag, Deer Valley Grocery Café, Silver Lake Snack Shack and Royal Street Cafe.
If you’re looking for an upscale menu with a view, the Royal Street Café is a great pick. Don’t miss the Dungeness Crab Tower. If cocktails are your thing, pair it with the RSC St. Germain Cocktail…summery, light and delightful!
Gourmet Concert Picnic Bags
Deer Valley is famous for its summer concerts! Pack a blanket, bring a few friends, and dine on a delicious meal al fresco. There are three options to choose from: Deluxe, Gourmet, and Children’s, served in a reusable insulated bag. Bags are available for order up until 5 p.m. the day prior to each concert.
Park City Mountain
Farm-to-Table Dinners at Legends Bar and Grill
Back by popular demand this summer, the talented chefs at Legends Bar and Grill will once again offer a series of four farm-to-table dinners beginning in late June. The monthly prix fixe dinners will feature locally-sourced seasonal ingredients and showcase the creative talents of the chefs. Guests can enjoy the dinners al fresco at the base of Park City Mountain while relaxing to the sounds of local musicians.
Gourmet Dining at The Farm
The Farm restaurant at Canyons Village opens June 14thand will debut a new menu that features farm-to-table ingredients and seasonal dishes for summer. The Farm was named one of “Utah’s 25 Best Restaurants” in 2015. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating options for summer as well as an extensive wine list. For a light variation on a pub classic, try the Ahi Tuna Nachos. Add a local craft beer for the perfect match.
Powder Mountain
Open Air Dining Series
A one-of-a-kind outdoor dining and musical experience, perfect for anniversary celebrations, destination dinners, and slow food enthusiasts. Executive Chef Chris Park, of Sundance fame, will prepare a locally inspired, 5-course meal served with wines curated for each offering. Live music, performed by local artists, will complement the beauty of the surrounding Wasatch Range. These gatherings are intimate, only 40 seats available at each long table dinner.
Snowbasin Resort
Needles Lodge
Dine overlooking ridiculously stunning views at 9,000 feet! Saturdays at Needles Lodge features the Mount Ogden Burger Spa with six combinations of creative hamburgers. On Sundays, the Mountain Top Brunch is an event not to miss (Pro Tip: make a reservation)!
John Paul Lodge
John Paul will be serving lunch on Saturday, July 7, Saturday, July 28 and Saturday, September 22. The John Paul Lodge is the spot for panoramic views of Ogden Valley, Mount Ogden, and Morgan. A stunning location for a soup and salad lunch!
Dining Discovery
On select evenings, Snowbasin hosts Dining Discovery Events at Earl’s Lodge; each one based on a special theme for the evening. For example, the Brewmaster’s Dinner, June 15, 2018.
- Summer Lunch: Saturdays June 9 - October 6 11:00am - 3:00pm
- Mountain Top Brunch: Sundays June 24 - October 7 10:00am - 2:30pm (Reservations Highly Recommended)
Snowbird
The Summit
Crazy big views and healthy meals are on the menu at The Summit. Start by boarding the Arial Tram for a breathtaking ride to the 11,000-foot summit of Hidden Peak. As you step off, prepare yourself for cooler temperatures and a few photo stops on the way to the mountaintop dining room. Don’t expect hot dogs, hamburgers, or fries at The Summit. Instead, Executive Chef George Lackey has built a menu of healthy organic dishes. Craving a treat? Don’t worry, pizza and house baked cookies are available as well!
Solitude Mountain Resort
Once a year Solitude hosts an incredible exclusive dinner on the lawn of The Inn. This year's event, Pigs & Pinot will be held Saturday, August 4 and will feature a five-course dinner ($90 per person) and optional wine pairing ($40 per person). RSVP here.Honeycomb Grill
The Honeycomb defies the “resort diner” stereotype with contemporary American dishes such as their fresh and bright Poke Bowl with yellowtail tuna, cucumber, scallions, avocado, jalapeños, and wonton chips. They also serve an array of local craft beers. Like most of the options in this post, the views rock! Open for lunch and dinner Thursday through Sunday.
Kids (and kids at heart) will also enjoy the Stone Haus Pizzeria and Creamery for a meal or cool treat (open breakfast through supper daily). Root beer floats are a favorite.
Sundance Mountain Resort
The Tree Room
Perfect for a romantic event or celebration, the Tree Room has received the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Rating, Utah’s Best of State award for fine dining, the overall Best of State Statue (B.O.S.S.) and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. Serving seasonal mountain cuisine (such as king salmon served with turnip, apple, mushroom, dumpling, and rice pudding), the Tree Room epitomizes rustic elegance in both food and décor.
Open for dinner only Tuesday through Saturday. Call 866.627.8313 to make a reservation.
Bearclaw Supper Club
The Bearclaw Supper Club dining event takes the prize for best view and most romantic setting! Dinner begins with a scenic lift ride to a mountaintop venue overlooking the Wasatch Mountain Range in every direction. Here guests enjoy cocktails, live music and one of two Super Club variations – the Chef’s Seated Tasting Menu or the Supper Club Soirée.
Something this special won’t last, if you’re interested, buy tickets now! Only three dates remain.
What are YOUR favorite ski area dining spots during summer? Please share in the comments! For a collection of fun summer activities and events, read “Summer Fun at Utah’s Ski Resorts.”
