What makes a place one of the best mountain restaurants worth visiting on your ski day? For some it is the food, a gourmet selection to rival those of your catered chalet evening meals, or the fine dining at in-resort restaurants. It might also be the location, set high up the mountain, affording incredible panoramas that make you feel on top of the world. It could also be the welcoming atmosphere. More than just a quick stop-off to refuel for an afternoon skiing, the best mountain restaurants in the Alps have you wanting to stay for hours. Enjoying long, lazy afternoons in charming interiors and on sizeable outdoor terraces.
This blog is a continuation of our Ultimate Bucket List Series, covering 100 of the best things to do, places to visit, and experiences to be had across the Alps. Last time we covered the Top 5 Ski Experiences, while this time around the focus is on where we stop when we take our skis off. Whatever you’re interested in for a lunchtime meal, we have put together a list of the very best mountain restaurants in ski resorts across the Alps. Read on to discover 15 of the best mountain restaurants worthy of a lunch reservation on your next ultimate luxury ski holiday…
La Fruitière is the main restaurant of the illustrious Folie Douce. Après ski at Folie Douce is legendary, with the fabled bar already making our bucket list of the best après bars in ski resorts. La Fruitière is located at every Folie Douce location across the French Alps. However, for those on a luxury ski holiday in Méribel, we’ve specifically chosen this resort for this entry of the bucket list series.
One of the main highlights of the Méribel location is its accessibility. Visitors can find the restaurant at the first station of the Saulire Express gondola leading up from Méribel. While you not only have an easy ski to the restaurant, it’s also accessible for pedestrians. And not just for those coming up from Méribel, but also from Courchevel 1850 in the next valley over. Additionally, La Fruitière in Méribel has the longest opening hours of any of the Folie Douce restaurants. Staying open from 12pm to 4pm, it gives you more time to savour the delicious food on offer, before you roll into dancing on the tables at après!
At La Fruitière, you can indulge on mouth-watering gourmet meals of true authenticity. Delectable Savoyard specialities are sure to delight, infused with an originality by the creative chef team. Whether basking in the winter sunshine on the sizeable terrace, or eating within the confines of the convivial main dining space, your meals will often be accompanied by electrifying performances from singers and dancers. A true feast for all the senses, this is assuredly one of the best mountain restaurants around.
Restaurant Le Carrefour is an easy recommendation for one of the best mountain restaurants in the Alps. Accessibility is key at this sparkling Swiss gem. Situated at the top of Le Rouge nursery slope, you can ski into the restaurant from the Planards-Carrefour blue run from the Savoleyres side of the ski area, as well as a number of different slopes coming down from the main Médran gondola. The restaurant also has a bus stop, and even more conveniently, is walking distance from town. The perfect lunch option for multi-generational groups on an ultimate luxury ski holiday to Verbier.
Restaurant Le Carrefour is not only great for its access, it’s also the best spot in town for a rösti. There is a big menu of substantial, nutritious Swiss meals found at the restaurant. Le Carrefour is simply one of the best mountain restaurants, both to fuel long afternoons racking up the miles on the pistes, or indulging in hearty, lazy afternoons that will leave you fulfilled. And that’s before embracing the epic panoramic scenery that Verbier is known for, and Le Carrefour showcases from its location high up in resort.
Le Carrefour is rich in history, with claims of the oldest restaurant in all of Verbier. This heritage is not only replicated in its menu of authentic Valais dishes, but also its traditional stone walls and natural wooden features. The restaurant also offers a dinner menu too, open for evening meals from 6:30pm to 9:30pm.
Zermatt is a ski resort noted for its fantastic restaurants. If you want to know where to eat in Zermatt, there’s an abundance of choice, from a stunning array of Michelin Star restaurants in resort, to some of the best mountain restaurants in the Alps. The wonderfully traditional Chez Vrony sits up there for title of best restaurant in Zermatt. Chez Vrony sits at an altitude of 2,100m, in Findeln, a short ski down below the Wolli Park beginner’s area.
Chez Vrony stands out as one of the best mountain restaurants in Zermatt for a multitude of reasons. Naturally, the cuisine is sublime. Traditional dishes using solely organic products, including meats from animals that are fed only on grass from Alpine pastures. The natural cuisine, complemented by fine wines, has a tradition going back over 100 years, with plenty of authentic house recipes to choose from.
The rich history and warm hospitality are other main highlights. The restaurant began life as an alpine hut generations back. Now it operates as a fabulous mountain restaurant in Zermatt. Vrony, Max, and their team are perfect hosts, delivering not just a quality mountain meal, but a memorable experience filled with happiness. Additionally, the rustic charm of the restaurant is juxtaposed with a unique art collection brimming with originality. Of course, as expected from places to eat in Zermatt on the mountain, there are glorious views of the Matterhorn on show. Recognised by a mention in the Michelin guide, and with 14 Gault & Millau points, it is impossible to find a reason not to visit Chez Vrony on your luxury ski holiday in Zermatt.
Hospiz Alm is one of the best mountain restaurants in Austria. This glamorous restaurant is located at the foot of the slopes of the quaint, charming village of St Christoph. St Christoph is situated high in the mountains of the Arlberg above St Anton. The Hospiz Alm has a variety of different dining options, making it not just a fantastic spot for lunch, but also worth a journey up from your luxury ski chalet in St Anton in the evenings for some of the best fine dining in the mountains.
During the day, a spacious sun terrace welcomes skiers to enjoy the finest selection of Austrian specialities and authentic Alpine cuisine. There are also a few more unique menu options too. For example, there aren’t too many other places you can enjoy oysters in the mountains. With its heated lounge area, you can indulge in magnificent views of the ski slopes, and outstanding drinks selection, including a wide variety of wines, Champagne, and cocktails. The Hospiz Alm is a fabulous mountain restaurant to spend a long afternoon.
In the evening, the Hospiz Alm transforms into a fine dining establishment. Awarded three toques by Gault & Millau, the menu at the restaurant is a mix of traditional Austrian fare and luxury food items, including lobster and black truffle. You can have an intimate dining experience in one of the stylish, private alpine lounges, or surrounded by the spectacular wine collection in the wine cellar. Alternatively, guests can have a more sociable evening in the main restaurant, which features an authentic design of classical nobility.
Peau de Vache has an incredible location on the famous La Face de Bellevarde black piste. Peau de Vache easily makes a case as the best restaurant in Val d’Isère. A suntrap of a terrace welcomes patrons of the restaurant, featuring a pefect vantage point overlooking the village and up the valley. Inside, a more intimate, cosy atmosphere welcomes you. Here, you can dine by candlelight, surrounded by cowhide decorations (where the restaurant takes its name), rustic decor, and historic photos that pay heritage to Val d’Isère’s past.
Peau de Vache promises its guests a varied and delicious menu, using locally sourced products to create an unforgettable gastronomic experience. You will be treated to French and traditional mountain dishes of a high quality. An exceptional menu of haute cuisine using carefully selected ingredients for a mountain meal experience that few other mountain restaurants in Val d’Isère can emulate. However, we do have a blog if you are looking for any similar high quality places to eat in Val d’Isère, whether for a mountain lunch, gourmet dinner, or other options.
Cortina d’Ampezzo is a world-renowned ski resort known for both its prestige and glamour. Thus, it is only natural that it is also home to one of the best mountain restaurants in the Dolomites. Baita Piè Tofana is situated in the very heart of the Tofana ski area of Cortina. You can access it via skiing to the bottom of the Forcella Rossa black run, or cutting off the Olympia delle Tofane, two of our top 5 ski runs in Cortina.
This Italian restaurant exudes elegance, from the subtle, refined alpine decor to the authentic dishes and exemplary wines. The team at Baita Piè Tofana carefully select raw, natural ingredients and seasonal produce to create delicious regional dishes. Additionally, the restaurant utilises a charcoal smoker to enhance the flavour of meats, fish and vegetables. A particular highlight of the dining experience is at the Larin table, where you can enjoy a convivial mealtime around the warmth of a fireplace. With Cortina jointly hosting the 2026 Winter Olympics alongside Milan, we’d recommend securing your reservations as soon as possible!
While there are a lot of Michelin Star restaurants in Courchevel 1850, the resort’s ski slopes also have many other restaurants worth a reservation. Cap Horn is not only one of the best restaurants in Courchevel 1850, but also the oldest. Established in 1954, the restaurant features a marvellous south-facing terrace, and a unique interior design of nautical inspiration. Cap Horn is located above Courchevel 1850’s altiport, situated on the blue Altiport piste. Whether occupying a table on the gargantuan terrace, or enjoying the revelry and party atmosphere inside, this is certainly a place for those who appreciate extravagance. Glitterballs, music, dancers, and celebrations form an ebullient atmosphere, one that even rivals the likes of Folie Douce.
In keeping with the thematic decor, the restaurant offers many seafood dishes and sushi. However, there is something for everyone here, as you can also expect gastronomic delights of rotisserie, meats, and an exceptional dessert selection. Additionally, the wine list is unmatched, with a list of over 600 carefully-selected options. It’s a must visit on your luxury ski chalet holiday in Courchevel.
You can find the magnificent Idéal 1850 mountain restaurant at the peak of Mont d’Arbois in Megève’s ski area. Idéal 1850 is accessible for both skiers and non-skiers via the Princesse and Mont d’Arbois gondolas, and several other chairlifts. This restaurant is your best place on the mountain for those wondering where to eat in Megève. With its prime position, the restaurant proudly offers some of the best views in Megève. The breathtaking Mont Blanc Massif lays before you like a beautiful tapestry, best enjoyed from the restaurant’s capacious sun terrace.
The food at Idéal 1850 is fantastic, perfect for everything from a gourmet break to a relaxing lunch. The menu generally consists of high-quality mountain meals. Expect delicious Swiss fondue, the famous Mac Rothschild burger, and delectable beef tartare. However, more exotic, glamorous menu options are also available, including oysters. The wines are a careful, bespoke selection of Barons de Rothschild vintages, while the restaurant’s champagne bar is legendary. A truly unmissable stop when on your luxury ski holidays to Megève.
On the slopes of the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, at an altitude of 2,208m, sits a traditional stone and wood Valais mountain hut. Housing one of the best mountain restaurants in Switzerland, the warm and inviting establishment features the gourmet delights of Cabane des Violettes. This mountain restaurant is accessible to both skiers and non-skiers alike, located at the top of the Violettes Express gondola. To truly earn your mountain meal, however, ski touring to the restaurant is encouraged, with the journey taking around 2 and a half hours from the base of the mountain.
It’s an unbeatable spot to bring the group together on your luxury ski holiday in Crans Montana. There’s plenty of room for all; Cabane des Violettes features 60 seats inside, and a sheltered, sunny terrace with double that number. Naturally, the views of the Swiss Alps are completely breathtaking. The menu is one of fine dining, showcasing the best treasures of the Valais region. Using local produce, the dishes boast meticulous attention to detail, offering a dining experience not to be missed. These gourmet delicacies are on offer throughout the day from 11am to 4:30pm. However, for early risers, you can also order a special mountain breakfast before 10am with advance reservation. The perfect way to begin your ski day with a trip to one of the best mountain restaurants.
Not only one of the best mountain restaurants in the French Alps, but also one of the highest. Le Panoramic in Tignes sits at an altitude of 3,032m, on the slopes of the Grande Motte glacier. A great benefit to this restaurant is its accessibility for non-skiers, found at the top of the Perce Neige funicular. The extensive terrace lets you capture some sun and take in the awe-inspiring panoramic mountain scenery, leaving you no doubt for the inspiration of its name. With such incredible views, it is a true highlight of a luxury ski holiday in Tignes.
Of course, when the weather is not so good, there is a spacious inside to the restaurant. The interiors are adorned with decorations of a typical Savoyard nature. While there is a self-service area and snack bar for those just wanting a quick bite to eat, it’s the main restaurant of Le Panoramic that puts it on our list as one of the best mountain restaurants. Le Panoramic was set up by the Bouvier family, who are responsible for Ursus, the only Michelin Star restaurant in Tignes. With a reputation like this, you can expect nothing short of the finest quality. Most of the dishes are straightforward, often cooked over a large wood fire. Although the use of premium products and talented chefs undoubtedly result in a gourmet take on traditional, authentic cuisine.
The highest ski resort in Europe also offers you one of the highest, and best, mountain restaurants. At 3,000m, Les Aiguilles de Péclet provides magnificent panoramas that go hand-in-hand with hearty mountain lunches. The restaurant takes its name from the 3,561m tall mountain it sits upon. Found at the top of the VT13 Peclet gondola, Les Aiguilles de Péclet is a mountain restaurant in Val Thorens accessible to both pedestrians and skiers.
The restaurant is brilliant for whatever mood you’re in. There is a snacking menu for those who prefer some light bites or more standard lunchtime fare. Meanwhile, the main menu offers an assortment of bewitching, sumptuous Savoyard feasts. The restaurant features cosy alpine interiors, complete with an authentic stone fireplace. But a seat on the generous terrace comes highly recommended. The views here are phenomenal, overlooking Val Thorens and surrounded by prominent snow-white mountain prongs. If you wait around until closing, you’ll even be treated to a divine sunset, before a quiet ski down the empty slopes. It’s the perfect end to a day on your luxury ski holiday in Val Thorens.
When considering where to eat in Verbier, there’s another great option to tempt you at lunchtime. The second of the mountain restaurants in Verbier to make our list is Chez Dany. You can find Chez Dany in the Hameau de Clambin, a small hamlet above the village of Verbier. You can access the restaurant on foot, with a winter hike or snowshoe walk. Alternatively, ski via the Clambin itinerary ski run, which branches off the red Hattey piste. It is an idyllic spot away from busy crowds. A relaxing setting surrounded by mountain forests and breathtaking views, perfect for long mountain lunches in Verbier.
Utilising fresh and organic ingredients, Chez Dany provides its visitors with a delightful seasonal menu. Dishes range from traditional classics and vegetarian delights, to international specialities. Whether you want authentic Swiss fare or flavours from the far corners of the world, Chez Dany has it all. The traditional chalet-style restaurant also perfectly suits special occasion dinners. Chez Dany can offer a setup for birthdays, corporate groups, and even weddings.
Lech, and in particular, Oberlech, are ski resorts known for their ultimate luxury chalets. As such, if you’re looking for places to eat in Lech, you can expect a similarly high-end offering. Our pick of the bunch for mountain restaurants in Lech is Griggeler Stuba. Located in the exclusive Oberlech area above the main resort, this might just be the best restaurant in Lech. Griggeler Stuba is a multi-award winning restaurant, recognised by many renowned publications and organisations. It boasts 4 toques (18/20 points) from Gault Millau, and a 96/100 (“the best of the best”) from Falstaff Restaurant Guide.
Griggeler Stuba is conveniently located just 2 minutes walk from the top station of the Lech-Oberlech cable car. You can also reach it in 2 minutes walk from one of two blue pistes: 200 Kriegeralpe-Oberlech-Lech & 210 Grubenalpe-Oberlech-Lech. And with so many luxury ski chalets in Lech situated in the Oberlech area, it’s also a short walk for any non-skiers too.
Griggeler Stuba offers innovative and creative gourmet dishes, using the best selection of ingredients from both local and international suppliers. The sophisticated restaurant features a stately, wood-panelled design and an exemplary service. Head Chef Sebastian Jakob promises the menu to be a cosmopolitan mix of Alpine and Asian cooking. Naturally, the wine list to accompany the food is equally spectacular. One of the best mountain restaurants, Grigeller Stuba is perfect for refined palates wanting to experience gastronomy at its finest.
Much like previous entries in our bucket list series of blogs, including best non-skiing mountain activities and top 5 off-piste experiences, the Aiguille du Midi features again; this time for best restaurant in Chamonix. At the top of the Aiguille du Midi cable car, sits a high-altitude restaurant. The restaurant is appropriately name Le 3842, for the number of metres it sits above sea-level. Here you can enjoy one of the most unique dining experiences in the Alps. There are exceptional views along the ridge that leads to the famous Vallée Blanche, the magnificent peaks of the Mont Blanc Massif, and the Chamonix Valley.
This gourmet restaurant has an intimate atmosphere, a cosy setting where you can enjoy some lovingly-prepared mountain cuisine. The menu is concise, but of extreme quality, with seasonal dishes that deliver an unforgettable culinary experience. Each plate provides a flavourful experience that recalls the terroir from which the ingredients are sourced. Le 3842 is open from December through October, but only for a short two-hour window between 12pm and 2pm. Therefore, advanced reservation and preparations for travelling up the cable car are a necessity to tick this luxurious restaurant off your Chamonix ski holiday bucket list.
There are many award-winning and Michelin guide-recommended mountain restaurants in Zermatt that may vie for this final spot; we could have filled our list with establishments in this resort alone. All are definitely worth visiting on a luxury ski holiday to Zermatt. However, they often provide similar experiences of authentic Swiss and Valais meals in a traditionally-styled restaurant. In comparison, Aroleid Restaurant stands out as one of the best restaurants in Zermatt, offering something altogether different….
Aroleid Restaurant is conveniently located a couple of minutes walk from the Furi gondola station of the Matterhorn Express gondola. You can also reach it by skiing down the Furgg-Furi black run, the Staffelalp red run, or the Hermetje itinerary (which leads off the restaurant’s namesake, the Aroleid red piste).
At Aroleid, expect a showcase of high-quality, gourmet cuisine. Housed in a modern, fully-renovated chalet, the restaurant features a diverse menu of innovative, contemporary dishes with international inspirations. A truly cosmopolitan indulgence awaits at this mountain restaurant in Zermatt. Naturally, the views are incredible, with the Matterhorn above and the charming car-free village below. Enjoy further unique experiences at the equally excellent Aroleid. The restaurant has its own coffee roastery and makes all its crockery in-house. Uniquely, they also provide classes in ceramics making and the roastery.
Thus concludes our selection of the best mountain restaurants in ski resorts across Europe. If these restaurants have piqued your interest, or you seek further recommendations for your next ultimate luxury ski holiday, then our Ski Specialists are available. For help finding the perfect chalet for exploring the best mountain restaurants, simply give us a call on +44 1202 203653, or send us an email.
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Blue Skies Lifestyle Ltd, established in 2005, is an online luxury ski holiday agent that specialises in finding clients the perfect luxury ski chalet in France, Switzerland, Austria and Italy. We feature an extensive portfolio of luxury chalet accommodation and luxury ski hotels that are ideal for group and family luxury ski holidays.
