CheapoTrav
Call

Cheap eats in Aspen

The best places to eat well in Aspen without blowing the trip budget — meals under $15, food halls, and lunch specials.

Aspen, CO, USA· Airport: ASE
Aspen — Cheap eats | CheapoTrav travel guide

Skip the search — let a CheapoTrav expert do it for you.

Phone-only fares for Aspen, 24/7.

Call (815) 991-4848

Key facts

  • Lunch deals at many Aspen restaurants can be 30-40% less than dinner prices for similar dishes.
  • Food trucks and local delis are reliable sources for affordable, quick meals in Aspen.
  • Grocery stores in Aspen, like Clark's Market, offer prepared foods, salad bars, and picnic essentials.
  • Explore options slightly off the main downtown streets for more budget-friendly eateries.
  • Happy hour specials, typically 3-6 PM, provide discounted drinks and appetizers at various bars.
  • The Aspen Saturday Market, active seasonally, offers fresh produce and occasional ready-to-eat items.

Aspen's reputation precedes it, often painting a picture of high-end experiences that extend to dining. However, it is possible to eat well without breaking your budget. The key is strategic planning and knowing where to look beyond the more visible, upscale establishments. Many visitors come for the outdoor activities, and these often lend themselves to more casual, less expensive meal options.

A common misconception is that all food in Aspen is exorbitantly priced. While that can be true for fine dining, there's a surprising number of local spots catering to residents and seasonal workers who also need affordable sustenance. Exploring these places, often just a few blocks off the main promenades, can yield satisfying and inexpensive meals, particularly for lunch.

Making the most of Aspen's natural surroundings also helps manage food costs. Packing a lunch to enjoy on a hike, at a park, or by a scenic viewpoint saves significantly compared to restaurant dining. Grocery stores in town, while not always cheap, offer a wider variety of affordable staples and prepared foods. Look for delis within larger stores for sandwiches and salads.

Timing is also crucial. Lunch menus, happy hour specials, and even early-bird dinners can offer significant savings. Some establishments reduce prices on certain days or for specific items to attract a wider clientele. Don't be shy about asking locals for their favorite budget-friendly spots; they often know the best deals.

For complex travel planning, including finding value in dining, remember that our CheapoTrav agents are available to assist.

In this guide

  • Food halls in Aspen
  • Lunch specials
  • Street food
  • Local-favorite cheap eats
  • Tips to eat well for less

Frequently asked questions

What are some good places for a cheap lunch in Aspen?
For an affordable lunch in Aspen, consider establishments popular with locals. Clark's Market and City Market both have deli counters with sandwiches and prepared foods. Big Wrap is known for its large, reasonably priced burritos and wraps, a favorite among those looking for a quick and filling meal. You can also find good value at various casual cafes and pizzerias around town, particularly if you're willing to venture a block or two away from the main pedestrian malls. Many sit-down restaurants offer lunch menus that are significantly cheaper than their dinner counterparts.
Can I find affordable breakfast options in Aspen?
Yes, affordable breakfast options exist in Aspen. Bakeries often offer pastries, coffee, and simple breakfast sandwiches that are less expensive than a full sit-down meal. Paradise Bakery & Cafe is a popular choice for coffee, pastries, and bagels. Another strategy is to buy breakfast items from a grocery store, such as yogurt, fruit, or oatmeal, and prepare them at your accommodation if it has kitchen access. Look for early morning specials at some cafes as well.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
Are there any grocery stores in Aspen where I can buy food to cook?
Aspen has a few grocery stores where you can purchase ingredients to cook your own meals, which is a major cost-saving strategy. Clark's Market is located downtown and offers a good selection of produce, meats, and pantry staples, though prices can be higher due to its prime location. City Market, part of the Kroger chain, is another option, located a bit further out. Shopping at these stores for basics and preparing some of your own meals can significantly reduce your food budget while visiting Aspen.
How can I find happy hour deals in Aspen?
Many restaurants and bars in Aspen offer happy hour specials, typically between 3 PM and 6 PM. These deals often include discounted appetizers and drinks. The best way to find current happy hour information is to check the websites of individual restaurants you're interested in, or simply walk around downtown Aspen and look for signs posted outside establishments. Local publications or online event listings for Aspen might also compile happy hour guides. It's a good way to sample dishes and enjoy drinks at a lower price point.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
Is it cheaper to eat in Snowmass Village or Aspen?
Generally, dining in Snowmass Village can be slightly less expensive than in Aspen, especially for casual, family-friendly meals. Snowmass Village caters a bit more to families and mid-range travelers, so there are more options for pizza, burgers, and casual American fare at a more moderate price point. However, both locations have their share of upscale dining. For truly budget-conscious eating, both towns require you to seek out specific establishments or utilize grocery stores and picnic options rather than relying solely on restaurant dining.
Are there food trucks or street food options in Aspen?
While Aspen doesn't have a large, permanent street food scene like some major cities, you can find food trucks, especially during seasonal events or near popular outdoor areas. During the summer, the Aspen Saturday Market often features vendors selling ready-to-eat items. Keep an eye out for mobile vendors that might pop up at local festivals or concerts. These options typically offer a quick and more affordable alternative to traditional restaurant dining. Checking local event calendars closer to your travel dates can help you locate these temporary food options.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares

More for travelers visiting Aspen

Nearby destinations