This comfort-food haven is worth the trek across the highway for hangover-curing Bloody Mary's and breakfasts. They claim to have the world's best Benedict's, and we might have to agree. Try the Red Neck or the Fried Chicken. Also an affordable spot for lunch or dinner.

As our top pick for an affordable, tasty lunch in Vail, Yellowbelly is a "fast gourmet" chicken joint that gets rave reviews. Try the Boylan's Cherry Soda on tap and the fried chicken. Vegetarians will be satisfied with quinoa salad, sautéed green beans, baby kale salad, and the popular Brussels slaw. If you venture down to the metro area, check out Yellowbelly's other location in Boulder.

There's a reason The Little Diner is one of the most popular restaurants in Vail: great food made from scratch and sold at reasonable prices. Try the Pannekoeken (German Pancake) for a twist on a breakfast classic; the baked to order airy dough rises like a soufflé. It's the best spot to grab breakfast or lunch in Lionshead, and one of our favorite places in the Vail Valley.

Whether it's Kelly Liken's time on Bravo's Top Chef Season 7 or her multiple James Beard nominations for Best Chef Southwest, the young chef is a powerhouse in the Vail culinary scene. Open since 2004, try the Colorado lamb and save room for Chef Kelly's famous Sticky Bun Sundae. The restaurant also has a fun tasting menu and runs great specials throughout the year, so check the website before you go.

In the heart of Vail Village, Osaki provides fresh sushi and a welcome change from the plethora of "New American" options in town. Prices are reasonable, the fish is fresh, and there's even a seven-course tasting menu from Chef Takshi Osaki. Be warned, the restaurant is super tiny, so reservations are a must.

Looking for a splurge restaurant that offers more than Colorado lamb and a fancy steak? Head to celebrity Chef Nobu's Vail outpost of Matsuhisa. Order the Broiled Black Cod with Miso or the King Crab Tempura "Amazu" Sweet Ponzu and prepare to be amazed. Or order the "Omakase" tasting menu and let the chef do all the deciding. Be forewarned, it's hard to get out of Matsuhisa for less than $100 per person, but it's worth it.

La Tour has consistently topped the Vail restaurant scene for a while now, so it's a must-try splurge when on vacation. But if shelling out big bucks for duck and lamb entrees isn't quite in your budget, check out La Tour's lunch or Sunday brunch menu. Well-composed salads and well-priced tartines allow you to try fabulous cooking at an easy-to-stomach price.

One of Vail's newer (and hottest) restaurants comes from the creators of Sweet Basil, offers guests wood fired cooking, and has been earning rave reviews from locals and tourists alike. Try the bruschetta, lamb salad, or the pork shank and you won't be disappointed. The wine list is decent, but the cocktails and draft beer list really shines.

A long time Vail favorite, Sweet Basil continually puts out delish American fare like Muscovy Duck Breast and Berkshire Pork Ribeyes. Consistency doesn't mean lack of innovation, however, and Sweet Basil is currently closed until May 23 for renovations. Upon opening, expect an updated dining room, a new wine room, renovated bathrooms, and expanded kitchen.

Every ski area has the "experience" restaurant and Game Creek is the go-to Vail spot. Located just below Eagle's Nest and above the Game Creek chair lift, the restaurant is only accessibly by snowcat in the winter or by hiking or taking a 4-wheel drive shuttle in the summer. The above-average ambience and spectacular scenery help make this a don't miss spot. A less expensive option is the Sunday brunch.

The pizza is good, but the best part of Vendetta's is the lively après scene and a hoppin' bar. Located on the main drag, Vendetta's is our go-to spot for an affordable, filling dinner after a day scoring powder in secret stashes around the mountain. Be patient with the crowds, order another beer, and watch the skier crowd cutting loose. There's also a sweet patio during warm weather.

Take a break from the fancy, pretentious food of Vail and head to Joe's Famous Deli for decent quick breakfasts and a good sandwich at lunchtime. They also have amazing ice cream and a small seating area. Don't be deterred by the line, it moves fast.

Terra Bistro has been impressing Vail diners for over 20 years now, so it's a solid choice. Guests rave about the Brussels sprouts, flatbread, and the entree scallops are also a good option. Attentive service and a good happy hour round out this Vail classic.

With an extensive wine list and elevated food, Larkspur is always a good choice when dining in Vail. Our local's tip: head there for happy hour on the patio and don't forget to try their sister restaurant Larkburger, a fast-casual joint with outposts in nearby Edwards.