A truly excellent hotel restaurant is so much more than a convenient dinner option – it’s a taste of a destination.
These restaurants transport diners beyond hotel walls through means such as locally sourced ingredients, topical decor, and an ambiance true to their surroundings; they are sensory reflections of what makes their locales special.
Below, you’ll find a list of hotel restaurants that are perfect examples of this phenomenon.
Ajax Tavern | Aspen, Colorado |
The Little Nell, Aspen’s only Five-Star, Five-Diamond, ski-in/ski-out hotel, offers luxury dining services and unparalleled access to America’s most famous mountain town. Say “apres-ski,” and most people picture something strikingly similar to Ajax Tavern – glamorous yet relaxing at the base of the slopes. Ajax Tavern’s sun-soaked, mountainside patio, next to the Silver Queen Gondola, is the restaurant in Aspen for casual fine dining in an unbeatable atmosphere. The Tavern comes to life at lunch, and the party rolls on well into the night. If you go no further on the menu, try the truffle fries and Ajax wagyu double cheeseburger – they have earned their reputation.
Dandelion Restaurant | Big Indian, New York |
Opened in 2023, Dandelion was born out of restaurateur Daniel Cipriani’s time exploring the Catskills and Adirondacks, getting in touch with nature, sharpening his foraging skills, and building relationships with conscious local farmers. His first venture outside of New York City, the restaurant employs hyperlocal ingredients–still foraged by Cipriani himself– to create a menu rooted in the environment around Eastwind Oliverea Valley, the boutique hotel that is the proud home of Dandelion. This “forage-to-fork” ethos that informs Dandelion’s culinary identity is best reflected in dishes like the Locals Salad, which consists of regional mixed greens from the Catskills, watermelon radish, and lemon vinaigrette, or the Smoked Trout Dip, always created with locally sourced trout fresh from the nearby farmer’s market.
Via Mare at Greydon House | Nantucket, Massachusetts |
Opened in 2019 inside Nantucket’s charming Greydon House hotel, Via Mare is a cozy, destination-worthy spot inspired by Venice’s lively taverns. From the team behind island favorites Ventuno and Pizzeria Gemelle, the restaurant offers a creative take on Italian flavors, blending influences from around the world. Designed by Roman & Williams, the space feels effortlessly transportive, with a stylish bar, an intimate dining room overlooking Broad Street, and a breezy porch for open-air dining.
elNico Rooftop | New York City, New York |
Nestled atop The Penny hotel in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, elNico is not just a restaurant—it’s a destination. Offering sweeping 360° views of the New York City skyline, this rooftop gem provides a one-of-a-kind dining experience that sets the stage for unforgettable evenings. With its prime location in one of Brooklyn’s most vibrant neighborhoods, guests can savor bold Mexican cuisine crafted by Executive Chef Fernanda Serrano while enjoying panoramic views of the twinkling lights of Manhattan. The menu features standout dishes like the Mole Tasting, Tempura Rock Shrimp tacos, and Short Rib Barbacoa, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that bring a burst of flavor to every bite. The carefully curated cocktail program, focused on innovative agave-based drinks, perfectly complements the vibrant atmosphere. With lush greenery, cozy vibes, and an ambiance that transforms with the sunset, elNico is more than a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an intimate night out, elNico’s breathtaking views and prime location make it the ultimate Brooklyn destination for those looking to indulge in both cuisine and scenery.
NoMad Restaurant | London, England |
Center stage in the NoMad London is the lushly landscaped atrium, transporting diners from the bustling Covent Garden streets to the green paradise of NoMad Restaurant. With a soaring three-story glass ceiling, the space is flooded with natural light, providing energy and liveliness during the day. In the evening, the restaurant transforms into an intimate setting, revealing its moody, sensual character, with a focus on regional bounty from farm, field, and coast. Guests can indulge in the open-flame creations from Michelin-starred Chef Bryce Shuman or relax over afternoon tea, honouring the timeless British tradition with distinct NoMad character. The cocktail program at NoMad Bar from James Beard Award-winner Leo Robitschek and Bars Director Liana Oster came to life in conjunction with the food menu, furthering the emphasis on seasonality and pairing seamlessly with the accompanying culinary offerings.
Limelight Lounge | Ketchum, Idaho |
Located in the heart of Ketchum, Idaho, Limelight Ketchum’s Limelight Lounge serves up creative comfort food, blending local flavors with fresh ingredients, all within a lively yet relaxed atmosphere just steps from Sun Valley’s iconic slopes. The cozy, warm lounge serves up daily après specials, perfect for enjoying after a day spent hiking or biking, skiing or shopping, as well as hearty dinner fare, including locally-sourced Grilled Cervana Elk Tenderloin, Panko Herb Fried Walleye, and the Limelight Lounge’s famous flatbread pizzas.
