Aspen's Value Meals
The Locals’ Burger at 7908
This restaurant/lounge’s elevated comfort food comes through strong on the bar menu, where chile-glazed fried chicken and achiote-marinated hanger steak tangle with duck confit and a stacked burger accompanied by tater tots. What goes best with comfort food, as well as with the lively bar scene? Bubbles (of course!), and—from prosecco to Moët & Chandon—7908 has three choices by the glass. 415 E Hyman Ave, 970-516-7908
The rule of sushi: it’s best eaten at the bar. Lucky for diners, Jing’s bar menu is deep with sushi offerings—including nigiri, specialty rolls, and the well-loved lobster taco. Add in the somewhat addictive spicy edamame, a couple of offerings off the dim sum menu (may we suggest the gyoza and the pork shumai?), and a $5 sake, and dinner is served. 413 E Main St, 970-920-9988
This Aspen classic offers more on its bar menu than many restaurants do in full. In true Italian form, there’s a bounty of pastas and veggies, along with a smattering of meat and fish dishes to choose from. Don’t miss the silky-delicious carbonara and the wonderfully acidic arugula, gorgonzola, pear, and walnut salad. Lean on your bartender to help you choose the perfect glass of accompanying vino. 620 E Hyman Ave, 970-925-9022
Just as the plush décor enfolds you, so goes the bar menu, with decadent choices like jumbo crab cakes and a standout filet accompanied by steak sauce, chimichurri, and a fried egg. Or order up the steak sandwich, gooey with caramelized onions and melty fontina. Alongside, sip the Tempest Storm, with Pure Kentucky bourbon, Green Chartreuse, Luxardo cherry, and lemon. 316 E Hopkins Ave, 970-920-1893
Sure, you can order the ubiquitous meat and cheese plate, but why not opt for more interesting items, such as the lomo saltado empanadas, which aim to capture Peru’s national dish inside pockets of flaky dough, or a wild mushroom quesadilla with queso asadero and tangy tomatillo salsa? Pair them with a round of spicy palomas, which notch up the classic cocktail with jalapeño-infused vodka. 130 Wood Rd, Snowmass, 970-923-8008
