New Years Eve Dining Delights

By Kyra Demla

Where to Ring in the New Year in Steamboat Springs

New Year's Eve with the whole family? Or maybe out on the town for a romantic date? Steamboat Springs has you covered with style, flair, and a delightful champagne toast.

Family Friendly

Bear River Bar & Grill and Slopeside Grill are both located at the base of the ski area and are a convenient dining option for watching the torchlight parade and firework show, which will take place around 5:30 to 6:00 p.m. Make a reservation beforehand, say around 4:30, then wrap up around 5:30 so you can easily step outside and have a front-row standing spot for the fireworks. Or, make a reservation directly after the fireworks around 6:00 p.m. All of your bases are covered for an easy, one-stop-shop New Year's meal and entertainment. Both restaurants are family friendly with a large menu of American-style cuisine.

Date Night

Treat your date to elegance and ambiance as you kick off a romantic 2018. There are a number of restaurants to choose from, both downtown and on the mountain. Two of my favorites are Aurum Food and Wine (downtown on Yampa Street) and Truffle Pig (at the ski area, adjacent to the gondola). As noted, the torchlight parade and firework show will be at the base of the ski area at 5:30 p.m. If convenience and accessibility have you staying on the mountain to dine, Truffle Pig is a great option to be within walking distance of the fireworks. Want more of a late-night scene? Then head downtown. Aurum Food and Wine has you covered with a comfortable yet swanky ambiance and picturesque views of the Yampa River and Howelsen Hill ski area.

Large Groups

The Ore House is a sure bet to please your group and palate. The building itself is a historic barn restored into a restaurant that is well known for its steak and seafood. There's plenty of room to host your group in the cozy dining area downstairs, plus a private room upstairs. Besides the quaint ambiance and amazing Rocky Mountain trout, my personal favorites are the salad bar and cinnamon buns that accompany every meal. Another large group option is a restaurant called Scratch, located downtown on Yampa Street. Scratch is lively and casual, with a large contemporary space that will host your group. Known for their wood-fired oven and creative menu options, your group will be satisfied with the large menu and contemporary ambiance.

Casual

Casual and fun for everyone! Mahogany Ridge Brewery, downtown on 5th and Lincoln Avenue, has a lively atmosphere serving up dinner after 5:00 p.m. in the dining room. The bar area is great for groups of friends who are ready to get their New Year's Eve party started. Try their local brews or a signature cocktail, paired well with tapas and the best salmon bowl in the mountains. Another option is Salt & Lime, located downtown on 7th and Lincoln Avenue. They offer up Mexican flair with a creative twist. The ambiance is fun, the street tacos can't be beat, and the margaritas are spicy and sweet!

Please visit www.steamboat.net for more dining options, and be sure to make a reservation. Cheers to your dining delight and a wonderful start to 2018!