I always find that a quick pit stop in the late morning or mid-afternoon is critical to the success of spending an entire day in ski boots. I often skip lunch when out on the slopes so I appreciate the Utah resorts that provide convenient access to snacks, coffee, and hot chocolate for those on the go. It's a nice alternative to a sit-down meal and I do find I can hardly ski after a big hearty bowl full of chili or a burger. It's always fun to chat with the baristas while grabbing a sweet treat and a warm beverage, and you can often score some great info on snow conditions. Here are all the stops you'll find slopeside at Utah resorts and some of our favorite menu items.
ALTA JAVA
This ski-up café features an awesome drink menu and an impressive array of homemade snacks. To experience an understand the culture of Alta, you should stop by this Little Cottonwood institution. Located in the lower level of the Albion Day Lodge, Alta Java is easily accessible on skis. Simply stow your sticks in the rack and stroll up to the quaint takeaway window. You'll find a handful of tables with seats and rows of comfy Adirondack chairs perfectly situated for soaking up the sun and views of the stunning Mount Superior.
The gals who run the coffee shop are always keen to share a chat and a smile and you'll often find locals noshing on delicious bacon stuffed waffles or savory empanadas. My favorite snack is the Thai Meatballs served inside a warm pita with a refreshing slaw. The coffee here is top-notch and the menu offers a delicious array of drinks from the Mexican Mocha to the famous Susie's Special. The views and scenery from Alta Java are tops and many patrons will grab a warm drink and relax in the collection of chairs and tables nearby. If you get lucky, you may even spot one of Alta's majestic avalanche dogs!
BALDY BREWS
Another Alta staple, Baldy Brews is located mid-mountain in the lower level of the Watson Shelter where you can ski right up from either the Collins or Wildcat chairlifts. Delicious espresso is complemented by snacks both sweet or savory. My favorite menu item happens to be a chocolate and hazelnut Kinder Happy Hippo dunked in a steamy mocha. It must be said that the selection of chocolate at Baldy Brews is nothing short of impressive - in both liquid and solid formats. If hot chocolate is what you desire, you won't want to skip the Italian Hot Chocolate - a thick concoction of liquid chocolate in a dainty cup. Cookies, fresh baked goods, fruit, and bagels also provide quick fuel to return to Alta's steep slopes. Locally brewed beer from Uinta and domestic beers are also served up on tap.
Step outdoors and enjoy your food or beverage on one of the picnic tables while you enjoy the scene or peruse a magazine or the local newspaper.
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LITTLE DOLLIE WAFFLES
In an exciting development for the 2019-20 season, Solitude has introduced a new slopeside eatery, but we'll just call it a treatery. At the Moonbeam lodge, you'll now find a walk-up waffle window called Little Dollie Waffles just right off the snow. Stroll up and order a piping hot Liege-style waffle with a plethora of topping options. Little Dollie also offers a variety of convenient snacks and beverages for those on the go or wanting a warm drink to accompany their waffle.Once the aroma of fresh, hot, and fluffy waffles hits your nose in the Moonbeam Express lift line, you won't be able to resist the smell for long!
CUSHING'S CABIN
Atop Deer Valley's Flagstaff Peak at 9,100 feet you'll find a small cabin and a cozy respite from the slopes. With plenty of options for snacks for kids and adults alike, this convenient stop is a must for skiers. Rumor has it that Deer Valley has successfully crafted the most delicious and decadent hot chocolate around. The menu features a variety of snacks, sweets, espresso drinks, and Deer Valley's legendary turkey chili. Cushing's Cabin is also one of the spots where you can locate one of Deer Valley's huge homemade cookies - they are big enough to share!
As the site of many summer weddings, Cushing's Cabin offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains and the slopes of Deer Valley. The cozy atmosphere tempts skiers off the slopes and it's a great place to warm up when the mercury drops or the storms roll in.
Still hungry?
Check out our other dining guides!
Utah's Best Skier Friendly Pizza Restaurants - CLICK HERE
Utah Ski Itinerary For The Foodie - CLICK HERE
Dinner & Then Some | Adventure Dining - CLICK HERE
