Copper Mountain isn’t just a haven for outdoor enthusiasts but a hidden gem for culinary adventurers. As Copper’s premiere luxury airport shuttle provider with deep roots in this community, our goals at Blue Sky Limo go well beyond just getting you from Denver Airport to Copper Mountain. We’re Summit County locals who love the mountains and outdoor thrills, and it’s our privilege to help you experience the best that Copper Mountain offers.

Best Places to Eat – Copper Mountain

A great day on the slopes deserves to be paired with equally rewarding dining. In this guide on “Where to Eat” when visiting Copper Mountain, we’re setting aside the conventional “best-of” lists to offer you something unique: a curated culinary adventure put together by locals. We’ll guide you directly from the ski trails right to the best on-mountain dining spots. We’ll also showcase some unique historic eateries that are part of the area’s fabric and reveal all the hidden gems we, locals, hold dear. Consider this guide your culinary map to a gastronomical experience at Copper Mountain that’s going to be worth writing home about!

From Slopes to Plates – On Mountain Dinning at Copper Mountain

The trails in Copper Mountain and the restaurants surrounding them have unique characteristics. There’s nothing like a hearty meal after a thrilling day on the slopes. But why settle for the obvious choices when you could dine at places that the locals cherish? We’re pairing our favorite ski trails with eateries that offer not just convenience but a sumptuous feast. Think of it as a way to go from adrenaline rush to foodie bliss without skipping a beat. Here, we pair specific ski trails with nearby dining spots, offering more than just a meal but a seamless day of enjoyment. We’re talking about places that allow you to transition seamlessly from skiing boots to dining chairs. These on-mountain or slope-side restaurants are part of what makes Copper Mountain so special.

Koko’s Hut – Mountain Top Comfort

Koko’s Hut is an on-mountain restaurant located at the top of the Kokomo Express lift in Copper Mountain’s West Village area. It opened in December 2017 along with the new high-speed quad lift. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, accommodating up to 200 guests. It serves a variety of hot and cold food and beverage items and is known for its hot sandwiches, hand pies, soups, and baked goods. Koko’s Hut has large windows offering panoramic views of the Tenmile Range.

Menu Offerings

Koko’s Hut serves a variety of grab-and-go food options perfect for taking a quick break from skiing. Their menu has plenty of vegetarian, gluten-free, and kid-friendly options. Everything is made fresh daily on-site. As an added benefit, skiers and snowboarders will appreciate the fact that most of Koko Hut’s food is designed to be easy to eat on the go while wearing gloves and ski gear, so you can grab a delicious bite and be on your way down the slopes in no time with a happy, full belly.

What Others are Saying:

• “The hand pies are amazing – crispy on the outside and filled with savory meats or sweet fruits. Perfect ski snack!”
• “We love stopping at Koko’s for a hot lunch and drinks. After skiing the beginner slopes, the grilled cheese and tomato soup hit the spot.”
• “The outdoor deck has incredible views of the surrounding mountains. Great place to take a quick break before heading back out on the slopes.”
• “The staff is so friendly, and the service is quick. Our food was ready within 5 minutes!”
• “We loved the pulled pork sandwiches and the views of the mountain from the outdoor seating area. Great spot for a break!”
• “You can’t beat eating chili and drinking a beer while taking in the views. Koko’s Hut has a great ski lodge vibe.”
• “The kids loved the chicken fingers and fries. And I was thrilled they offer wine and beer for parents!”

How to Get to Koko’s Hut:

Koko’s Hut is located at the top of the Kokomo Express lift in West Village. Skiers and snowboarders can access it by taking the lift from the base area up to the top in just 4 minutes. The lift line is next to the restaurant entrance, making skiing or riding there easy.

T-Rex Grill – Best Burgers on the Mountain

T-Rex Grill is an on-mountain restaurant located at the base of the Timberline Express lift in Copper Mountain’s Center Village area. It opened in 1995 and is open daily during the ski season. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating, accommodating over 100 guests. Serving as a convenient spot for skiers and riders, it’s an ideal place to take a quick break, enjoy lunch, and bask in the sun before resuming your adventure on the slopes. Ohh – and they have amazing burgers!

Menu Offerings

T-Rex Grill serves a variety of grab-and-go food options designed for on-the-go skiers and snowboarders. With many vegetarian, gluten-free, and kid-friendly choices, everyone can find something they love. Everything is crafted to be easy to eat even while wearing ski gear, ensuring you can grab a quick bite and head back to the slopes efficiently.

What Others are Saying:

• “The burgers always hit the spot after shredding the slopes all morning. Great quality and so convenient right off the lift!”
• “Love grabbing a beer and bratwurst and sitting in the sun – the views of the Tenmile Range are stunning.”
• “The staff is super friendly, and the service is quick. Never had to wait more than 10 minutes for my food.”
• “It’s nice they have vegetarian burgers and dogs. The veggie burger and sweet potato fries satisfied my post-ski hunger!”
• “Can’t beat sipping a cold beer while looking out at the slopes. T-Rex has a great ski lodge vibe.”

How to Get to T-Rex Grill:

T-Rex Grill is conveniently located at the base of the Timberline Express lift. Skiers and snowboarders can effortlessly alight from the lift and ski just a few feet to the restaurant’s entrance. Additionally, the lift line is situated right next to the restaurant, ensuring a swift return to the slopes.

Flyer’s Soup Shack – Homemade Soup & Belgian Waffles

Flyer’s Soup Shack is a cherished on-mountain restaurant conveniently located near the top of the American Flyer lift in Copper Mountain’s Center Village area. Since its establishment in 1995, it’s been serving skiers and snowboarders daily during the ski season. With its limited indoor seating complemented by an inviting outdoor deck, it has become the go-to place for many to catch a breather, savor some warmth, and enjoy delightful bites. Whether you’re craving a bowl of steaming chili or a rich Belgian waffle, Flyer’s Soup Shack promises a comforting experience.

Menu Offerings

Tailored for the ski environment, Flyer’s Soup Shack’s menu accentuates warm and inviting food choices that are both tasty and convenient. Catering to all, including vegetarians, every dish is carefully prepared to ensure easy consumption for those fully suited up in ski attire. So whether you’ve just descended a challenging slope or are gearing up for one, a quick stop at Flyer’s promises a rewarding treat.

What Others are Saying:

• “The chili and beer combination is simply unbeatable, especially after an exhilarating morning on the slopes. Plus, the views are to die for!”
• “It’s become a ritual – a bloody mary, the outdoor seating, and the mountain air. It’s the perfect breather before getting back to skiing.”
• “The grilled cheese paired with the tomato soup feels like a warm hug on a cold day. The staff? Super friendly and attentive!”
• “The variety in Belgian waffles is amazing. Whether you like them stuffed with meat or fruits, they’re always perfectly crispy outside.”
• “It’s the quaintness for me. There’s something incredibly cozy about warming up inside with a bowl of baked potato soup and a cold beer.”

How to Get to Flyer’s Soup Shack:

Easily accessible, Flyer’s Soup Shack is positioned just below the top of the American Flyer lift. Skiers and riders can simply board the lift from the base area and, upon reaching the top, ski down a brief stretch to find the welcoming doors of the restaurant. And once you’ve had your fill, hopping back on the lift to continue your mountain adventure is just as straightforward.

Historic Eateries in Copper Mountain

A trip to Copper Mountain and its neighboring towns is like a journey through time, and there’s no better way to dive deep into this rich culture than experiencing some of Copper’s historic eateries. These establishments have stories to tell and that ineffable local character you can’t find just anywhere. Some of these restaurants have been around for decades, each with its own tale. So why not check out some spots that have stood the test of time? These places offer more than just a meal but a slice of local history. At Blue Sky Limo, we’re firm believers that the food you eat becomes infinitely more enjoyable when it comes with a story. We’ve even included a few options from nearby Frisco that are well worth the short drive.

JJ’s Rocky Mountain Tavern – A Historic Mountainside Saloon

Step into JJ’s Rocky Mountain Tavern and you’re not just entering a restaurant; you’re stepping into a piece of Colorado history. Conveniently located at the base of the Super Bee chairlift in Copper Mountain’s East Village, JJ’s is named after James Joseph “JJ” Brown and his wife Margaret “Molly” Brown, two of Colorado’s most iconic historical figures.

JJ Brown was a mining magnate who struck it rich in the late 1800s, becoming one of Colorado’s wealthiest residents. His wife, Molly Brown, earned her nickname “The Unsinkable Molly Brown” after surviving the Titanic disaster. A socialite and philanthropist, Molly Brown was no less impactful in shaping Colorado’s cultural history. The couple lived in Leadville during the mining boom and built a grand Victorian mansion that stands to this day as a testament to their opulence.

JJ’s Rocky Mountain Tavern pays homage to this fascinating era by artfully blending the rugged charm of a Western saloon with turn-of-the-century sophistication. From its long mahogany bar and cozy leather booths to its ornate tin ceiling and mounted wildlife, JJ’s transports guests back to the glory days of the Browns and Colorado’s legendary mining past. This lovingly crafted ambiance makes JJ’s more than just a dining spot; it’s a living connection between Copper Mountain’s modern ski culture and Colorado’s rich heritage of fortune and fame in the high country.

Menu Offerings

With a menu packed with quintessential comfort foods and BBQ classics, JJ’s aims to satisfy hungry skiers and riders. The portions are generous, the prices affordable, and the flavors consistently delicious. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and kid-friendly options are also available.

What Others are Saying:

• “The smoked meats are incredible – so juicy and flavorful. And the bartenders mix up the best après ski cocktails!”
• “We come for the live music every Saturday. Such a fun and lively atmosphere!”
• “The patio is the best spot for soaking up the mountain views and sunshine with a cold beer.”
• “The mac and cheese is heavenly – rich, creamy, and baked to perfection.”
• “The rustic western vibe makes you feel like you stepped back in time. And the service is always so friendly.”

How to Get to JJ’s Rocky Mountain Tavern:

JJ’s Rocky Mountain Tavern is located at the base of Super Bee Lift. Once you arrive at the Village Plaza, you’ll see the tavern located directly to the left of the main fountain.

Ten Mile Tavern – Copper Mountain’s Mining Heritage

Imagine stepping into a rustic, mountainside saloon where time stands still, capturing the essence of Colorado’s pioneering spirit. That’s exactly what awaits you at Ten Mile Tavern. Located strategically at the base of the American Eagle chairlift in Copper Mountain’s Center Village, this long-running establishment is a must-visit for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the area’s rich history.

Ten Mile Tavern is named after the Tenmile mining region, a locale that was a hotbed for mineral extraction in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Just like the miners who once populated the region seeking their fortunes in gold, silver, and other metals, today’s visitors to Ten Mile Tavern are in for their own type of treasure—comfort food, Colorado craft beers, and an atmosphere brimming with local history.

The decor is a conscious effort to bring the past alive. With a long mahogany bar, plush leather booths, and an intricate tin ceiling, every element of the tavern aims to transport you back to Copper Mountain’s mining heyday. The ambiance effortlessly blends the nostalgia of the Old West with a modern-day ski resort.

Menu Offerings

Whether it’s “big, saucy, and delicious” wings or nachos “loaded with fixings,” Ten Mile Tavern offers a menu that reviewers call “tasty and filling.” If you’re in the mood for comfort food, the meatloaf and pot roast have been praised for their “affordable prices and generous portions.” And for snack enthusiasts, the “pretzels with beer cheese dip really hit the spot.”

What Others Are Saying

• “We always start our ski days on the patio with a bloody mary and breakfast sandwich.”
• “Love coming here for live music and drinks on the patio. Such a fun apres ski scene.”
• “Great spot for après ski. We always get wings and beers and watch whatever game is on.”
• “The wings and nachos are my go-to après ski snacks!”
• “Love the rustic old saloon vibe and the great selection of beers.”
• “The patio is the perfect spot for drinks and music after a day on the slopes.”

How to Get to Ten Mile Tavern

Ten Mile Tavern is conveniently located within walking distance of most hotels and condominiums in Copper Mountain Village. Simply walk out of your hotel or condo and head towards Center Village. Ten Mile Tavern will be on your right, just past the Village Plaza.

The Mint – A Summit County Legend

Just a short drive from Copper Mountain in Silverthorne stands The Mint Steakhouse, a legendary restaurant deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Summit County. First built as Jack Ryan’s Saloon in 1862 in the mining town of Kokomo, The Mint has been serving guests for over 160 years. Relocated multiple times, it narrowly escaped the flooding of Dillon in the 1950s to land in Silverthorne, where hand-hewn log walls and a restored antique oak bar transport you back to the mining era that shaped the region.

Step inside this National Register of Historical Places, officially listed for its enduring historical significance, and you’ll discover artifacts and architecture steeped in Western saloon history. The hand-hewn logs were uncovered during a 1980s remodel, offering tactile connections to the past. The intricate oak bar was imported from New York in the late 1800s, providing a centerpiece reflective of The Mint’s legacy. These painstakingly preserved historic features capture the establishment’s origins dating back to Colorado’s mining heyday.

The Mint also boasts a unique modern dining experience – the “Grill-It-Yourself” concept, where you cook your own steaks and seafood at your table. Whether you’re a history buff, culinary explorer, or love old-world charm, The Mint offers compelling reasons to visit. Indulge in their high-quality meats and fish, all-you-can-eat salad bar, and a taste of the past within this legendary Summit County landmark.

Menu Offerings

What Others Are Saying

• “The ribeye steak I grilled myself at The Mint was the best I’ve ever had!”
• The staff was awesome and the atmosphere so much fun.”
• “My wife and I loved our dinner here. The DIY cooking style is really neat. Our steaks turned out great, and the service was wonderful.”
• “The Mint Steakhouse is such a cool historic place with a fun twist – you grill your own steaks! Ours were cooked to perfection and delicious.”
• “We had an amazing dinner at The Mint. The steaks we cooked on the lava rock grills were incredibly tasty and cooked just how we like them.”
• “I love the interactive experience of grilling your own steak here. The meat quality is top-notch, and the service is excellent.”
• “The Mint Steakhouse is a Silverthorne gem. The DIY grilling is fun for the whole family and lets you customize your steak.”

How to Get to The Mint

The Mint Steakhouse isn’t just another dining spot; it’s a living museum where each meal tells a story. It offers an experience that is not merely culinary but also deeply rooted in the heritage of the Rocky Mountains. The Grill-It-Yourself feature, fresh seafood, and all-you-can-eat salad bar add distinct layers to this experience, making it worth every mile traveled from Copper Mountain. Situated just a stone’s throw away from the Silverthorne Pavilion on Blue River Parkway, The Mint is easily accessible from most ski resorts in the vicinity. If you would like to arrange a private car service from Copper Mountain to and from “The Mint” – Blue Sky Limo would be more than happy to help.

Local Favorite Restaurants at Copper Mountain – The Hidden Gems

Let’s talk about those lesser-known gems that you won’t typically find in a standard travel guide. These are the places we, as locals, hold close to our hearts. They may not have the flash of a high-end restaurant or the historical allure of an age-old eatery, but what they lack in glamour, they make up for in authentic flavors and genuine community spirit. While travel guides can offer standard recommendations, there are places that locals frequent for good reason. These spots may not be glamorous, but they offer authentic tastes and genuine experiences you won’t miss. While visitor guides and flashy billboards often spotlight the same handful of places, the spots frequented by those who live here year-round can offer a more authentic experience. These are eateries where the menu items are crafted with local produce, where the service staff knows regulars by name, and where you feel more like a part of a community rather than just a tourist passing through.

Mountain Melt – Local Comfort Heaven

Mountain Melt is a charming eatery serving up hearty comfort foods perfect for warming up after a morning hitting the slopes. Known for its indulgent grilled cheese sandwiches and mac & cheese varieties, Mountain Melt offers the belly-warming, soul-soothing fare that everybody craves between runs. For ski bums, families, and anyone craving comfort food with personality, Mountain Melt delivers. Their dedication to quality ingredients and customizable mac & cheese creations have earned them a cult following among Copper’s discerning locals for providing great food at really affordable prices. The atmosphere is casual and laidback, with friendly staff and swift service that quickly gets you back on the mountain. If you find yourself in Center Village around lunchtime, pop into this cozy eatery for some belly-warming fare that will fuel the rest of your day on the mountain. It might not be as glammy as upscale ski resort restaurants are reputed to be – but Mountain Melt more than makes up for this “shortcoming” with its ooey-gooey macaroni goodness.

Signature Dishes

Mountain Melt’s claim to fame is its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. Using artisanal breads and creative cheese blends, these grilled cheese masterpieces have developed a cult following among locals and visitors alike. Signature options include:

• The Cheesy Pig: Smoked gouda, ham, and caramelized onions grilled up with maple syrup on thick-cut challah bread. Savory and sweet.
• The Buffalo Chicken: Shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, blue cheese crumbles, and scallions in a spicy and creamy combination.
• The Philly: Thinly sliced steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and melted provolone on a hoagie roll. A cheesesteak twist.

Menu Offerings

What Others Are Saying:

“The grilled cheese sandwiches are incredible – so much high-quality cheese packed between two slices of the best bread.”
“You can’t go wrong with the mac and cheese, especially on a cold winter day. It really hits the spot after skiing.”
“The staff is super friendly and the service is quick. We never have to wait long for our food.”
“It’s nice that they have vegetarian and gluten-free options. The veggie grilled cheese is amazing.”
“This is our go-to lunch spot at the end of a long day skiing. The food always satisfies and the atmosphere is very welcoming.”
“Mountain Melt’s grilled cheese sandwiches are to die for! The cheese is perfectly melted and the bread is toasted just right. It’s the perfect comfort food after a day of skiing.”

How to Get to Mountain Melt:

Mountain Melt is located near the base of the American Eagle lift in Copper Mountain’s Center Village. Skiers and snowboarders can easily access the restaurant by riding down the mountain. The restaurant is also within walking distance of most hotels and condominiums in Copper Mountain Village.

El Zacatecano – Authentic Mexican

El Zacatecano is a charming family-owned Mexican restaurant serving up authentic south-of-the-border cuisine and margaritas. Known for its traditional dishes like tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and more, El Zacatecano offers the kind of vibrant flavors, laid-back atmosphere, and budget-friendly menu that keeps us locals coming back. With its casual interior decorated in bright Mexican tiles and artwork, El Zacatecano provides a festive yet cozy dining experience that’s fun any day of the week. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, with swift and friendly service from the owners themselves (how much more local does it get!) A sun-drenched patio is perfect for soaking up some rays while sipping on a margarita after an exhilarating morning on the slopes.

Signature Dishes

El Zacatecano’s claim to fame is its traditional Mexican dishes. Signature options include:

• Carne Asada Tacos: Tender grilled steak tacos with cilantro, onions, and salsa on warm corn tortillas.
• Chile Verde Burritos: Braised pork in a spicy green chile sauce, wrapped in a flour tortilla with rice and beans.
• Fajitas: Sizzling chicken or steak fajitas served with grilled peppers and onions, warm tortillas, guacamole, and pico de gallo.
• Table-side Guacamole: Fresh guacamole prepared table-side with avocado, tomato, onion, cilantro, and lime.

Menu Offerings

What Others Are Saying:

• “The carne asada tacos are incredible – so much flavor packed into each bite.”
• “You can’t go wrong with the chile verde burrito, especially on a cold winter day. It really hits the spot after skiing.”
• “The staff is super friendly and the service is quick. We never have to wait long for our food.”
• “This is our go-to lunch spot at the end of a long day skiing. The food always satisfies, and the atmosphere is very welcoming.”
• “El Zacatecano’s margaritas are to die for! They’re the perfect way to unwind after a day on the slopes.”

How to Get to El Zacatecano:

El Zacatecano is located in the heart of Copper Mountain’s Center Village. Skiers and snowboarders can easily access the restaurant by taking a break from the nearby slopes. The restaurant is also within walking distance of most hotels and condominiums in Copper Mountain Village.

Sugar Lips Mini Donuts – A Sweet Treat on the Slopes

Nestled in Copper Mountain’s Center Village, Sugar Lips Mini Donuts is a delightful little spot that serves up fresh, hot mini donuts. Known for their sweet treats that are perfect for a quick snack or dessert, Sugar Lips Mini Donuts offers a unique and delicious experience that locals and visitors alike adore. With its small, open-air stand decorated with vibrant colors and whimsical donut-themed decor, Sugar Lips Mini Donuts provides a fun and inviting atmosphere. The quick and friendly service makes it an ideal stop for a sugary treat between runs. They also serve fantastic coffee if you need a little extra “boost”.

Signature Dishes

Sugar Lips Mini Donuts is famous for its mini donuts, which are made fresh to order and served hot. Signature options include:

• Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Classic mini donuts dusted with a sweet blend of cinnamon and sugar.
• Powdered Sugar Donuts: Light and fluffy donuts coated in a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Chocolate Glazed Donuts: Mini donuts topped with a rich and creamy chocolate glaze.

Menu Offerings

What Others Are Saying:

• “The mini donuts are so fresh and warm – the cinnamon sugar is my favorite!”
• “It’s awesome that you can pick your own toppings and customize your mini donuts.”
• “We always stop in for a sweet treat after a long day of skiing. The donuts are the perfect pick-me-up.”
• “The staff is so friendly and they get your customized donuts out so fast. Great service!”
• “Sugar Lips is the cutest little shop, and the donuts are absolutely delicious. A must-try in Copper!”

How to Get to Sugar Lips Mini Donuts

Sugar Lips Mini Donuts is conveniently located in the heart of Copper Mountain’s Center Village. Skiers and snowboarders can easily access the stand by taking a break from the nearby slopes. The stand is also within walking distance of most hotels and condominiums in Copper Mountain Village.

Wrapping it Up – Where to Eat at Copper Mountain

We hope this culinary guide provides a unique perspective into the area’s dining, highlighting places that capture the local culture beyond the conventional recommendations. At Blue Sky Limo, our goal is to help our guests experience the best that Copper Mountain offers, highlighting places that capture the authentic mountain town spirit beyond the conventional recommendations.

Copper Mountain offers an exciting culinary scene as varied as its outdoor activities. Whether it’s an invigorating day hitting the slopes paired with a warm, hearty meal at an on-mountain favorite like Koko’s Hut or an evening spent savoring Copper’s rich history at a storied saloon like JJ’s, we want to connect you directly to quintessential dining experiences here. For cravings of authentic Mexican flavors and festive margaritas, the locally beloved El Zacatecano promises vibrant tastes and laid-back charm. Or, if you simply crave a sweet treat between runs, indulge in fresh mini donuts from Sugar Lips.

At the end of each thrilling day, a memorable meal shared with friends and family is what makes a Copper Mountain vacation truly special. We hope this guide provided a taste of the distinctive eateries that reflect the spirit of this incredible mountain community. Let us know if you discover any new favorites along the way that we should add to our list! The Blue Sky Limo Copper Mountain team wishes you an amazing time exploring the slopes and flavors that make Copper such a unique destination.

Denver to Copper Mountain with Blue Sky Limo

Blue Sky Limo is dedicated to providing a luxurious and memorable car service from Denver to Copper Mountain. As a family-run business, we prioritize personalized service and high-end transportation to make your trip to this renowned ski resort extraordinary. Our experienced and friendly drivers prioritize your comfort, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic journey. Our fleet comprises top-notch SUVs meticulously maintained for a safe and comfortable ride from Denver International Airport to your Copper Mountain accommodation. Our shuttle service operates 24/7, so you can avoid the hassle of car rental, fuel costs, and parking fees. We customize every booking to meet your travel requirements and family preferences. If you’re flying into Eagle County Airport, be sure to check out our full How to Get to Copper Mountain from Eagle Airport Guide:

Our meticulous attention to detail, superior vehicles, and exceptional customer care have earned us high praise on Copper Mountain TripAdvisor page, and we are proud to be the preferred transportation choice for Copper Mountain. We aim to enhance your travel experience and make your stay in this beautiful mountain location more enjoyable. Contact Blue Sky Limo to arrange your exclusive shuttle service to Copper Mountain and enjoy a smooth and upscale travel experience.