Ask A Local: Best Places for Breakfast in Vail

Breakfast has been called the most important meal of the day. As a result, it would be only fitting to have a great breakfast before a day on the slopes or before meandering around Vail Village. Numerous visitors have inquired where to go for the best breakfast. The employees of American Ski Exchange have decided on these three favorites! Stop into one of these restaurants before venturing into American Ski Exchange to pick up your rental clothing/equipment and hitting the mountain!

The Little Diner

Website: https://thelittlediner.com/

IG: @thelittlediner

Menu: https://thelittlediner.com/menu/breakfast-2/

The Little Diner is a locally owned diner located in Lionshead Village just up the stairs from the West Lionshead Plaza Bus Stop. As soon as you walk in, you are greeted by the smell of bacon and eggs. It is almost always packed with people at the horseshoe shaped bar that is off to your right and the numerous booths to your left. It has a warm, homey feel that serves comfort food. It has all the classics, and does them all well.

As you sit at the bar, you can experience your food being made in front of you. It is a favorite for skiers who can have a quick, good breakfast and then conveniently walk over to the Eagle Bahn Gondola. They make delicious crepes and omelettes. However, my favorite item on the menu is the Pannekoeken - otherwise known as the German Pancake. Here is a local tip, order the German Pancake as soon as you sit down because it takes roughly 20 minutes to cook. It is an airy dough pancake that is sprinkled with lemon juice and some confectioners sugar. You won’t be disappointed. Maybe

throw in a side of bacon for some protein or a side of fresh berries. It is pure deliciousness. The Little Diner has a convenient location for skiers enjoying their stay in Lionshead. It also offers a high quality, local breakfast that is affordable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vintage

Website: https://vintage-vail.com/

IG: @vintage_vail

Menu: https://vintage-vail.com/brunch/

Vintage is located in the Gateway Plaza Building next to The Sebastian Hotel. It is reminiscent of a romantic French café. It has a very European feel with its small café tables and flowers on the front porch. Vintage is recommended for anyone who would like to enjoy an upscale brunch. It is also a great place to enjoy bottomless mimosas, Bloody Marys, and coffee cocktails. If you are in the mood for a coffee cocktail, “Don’t Mess with the Zoran,” is a MUST. It is made with french vanilla vodka, Kahlua, cold brew, and a splash of cream. Best way to wake up!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

One of Vintage’s specialties is their Huckleberry Bacon French Toast, made with bacon-mascarpone & dulce de leche stuffed brioche, huckleberry syrup, and bourbon whipped cream. Vintage is also known for its Maryland Crab Benedict, made with poached eggs served over a blue crab cake and bacon smash brown. It is then smothered in delectable Old Bay hollandaise. Sweet or savory? It is up to you! The food at Vintage is always beautifully presented. Overall, breakfast at Vintage is an experience. Keep in mind, though, Vintage only offers brunch Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 8:30am-2pm.

 

Westside Cafe

Website: https://westsidecafe.net/

IG: @thewestsidecafe

Menu: https://westsidecafe.net/breakfast-menu/

Westside Cafe is located conveniently off of I-70W at Exit 173 (West Vail) near the Highline Vail Hotel. This makes it the perfect breakfast spot when driving up from Denver for a day or weekend in the mountains. When you walk in, you are greeted by the barista bar and a friendly host who will seat you in a comfy booth.

Once you are seated, I recommend starting your breakfast off with a cappuccino from the barista bar. If you are in the mood for a healthy breakfast, I recommend the Y.G.F.F. Bowl (Citrus Yogurt, House Granola, and Fresh Fruit). The Chipotle Veggie Bowl (quinoa, chipotle spiced veggies, pinto beans, mixed greens, cilantro-

lime dressing, sour cream, corn chips, and a poached egg) is also popular amongst my vegetarian friends. Although this restaurant is not in Vail Village, it is very easily accessible with onsite parking. It is always busy and a local’s choice for a delicious breakfast.