Aspen isn't cheap, especially if you're a grom or garden-variety dirtbag. But good news for X Games attendees: there's no shortage of affordable, seriously tasty grinds in town. Curbed Ski has tried them all, and whether you're looking for a killer après deal or something to soak up the booze, we've got it dialed.
↑ New York Pizza: When it comes to delicious, big honkin' slices and late hours, nothing beats this upstairs hole-in-the-wall. Open till 2:30am, the gregarious pie-slingers cater to the post-bar crowd. Be prepared for a long wait- even when it's not the X Games, the line stretches down onto the street. Still, few things are more gratifying- or sobering- than a great slice or three.
↑ The Limelight Hotel: Aspen's longest happy hour (3-7pm) is a dream for those with almost-empty pockets. Free cookies and snacks, $10 wood-fired, made-to-order pizzas, drink specials, and live music make this a great place to hang for a spell.
↑ Annette's Mountain Bake Shop: All hail Annette and Serafino Docimo, who literally work from dawn to dusk to prepare Aspen's most delicious baked treats, sandwiches, salads, and soup. You'll walk away stuffed for under a ten-spot; don't miss the daily specials board and bulging, pre-prepped sammies to go.
↑ City Market: If things are looking really grim, make for the grocery store on E. Cooper and E. Hyman. Pre-made deli sandwiches, soup, salad bar…it may not be Cache Cache, but it's cheap.
↑ Main Street Bakery: Perennially packed with locals and tourists alike, your best bet is to grab one of the bomber-size baked goods or a hefty breakfast sandwich (bagel, egg, cheese, ham or bacon) to go. Closes around 3:30pm or whenever they feel like it. Find the menu here.
↑ Louis' Swiss Bakery: Conveniently located near the action at Buttermilk, this old-school counter-service shop is located within the ABC (Aspen Business Center) across from the airport. Pastry chef/rancher/Swiss immigrant Felix Tornare and his crew turn out tasty European classics, doughnuts, cupcakes, tea breads, empanadas, and irresistible meat pies (made with Tornare's grass-finished beef). The breakfast burritos (try the chorizo and green chile) are good and keep hunger at bay for hours.
↑ The Meatball Shack: Feeling fancypants and need a splurge? This laid-back restaurant is a hell of a deal. Two heaping plates of pasta and drinks will set you back $50: not too shabby for an Aspen eatery with linen napkins. Friendly service and daily specials range from ribeye steak to sandwiches.
-By Laurel Miller
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