When choosing a new Hotel Lobby Candle to launch in the fall, creating a scent inspired by one of my favorite travel destinations was a no-brainer. Aspen has always been really special to me, and the Hotel Jerome is one of my most-loved properties of all time. 

Of course Aspen is known for skiing and shopping, but the food and nightlife scenes are just as fabulous. Below, I'm sharing some of my favorite spots in town to inspire you to plan your own trip. 

THE BEST HOTEL IN ASPEN

Hotel Jerome

When it comes to accommodations in Aspen, there is truly nothing that compares to the Hotel Jerome. It's the exact kind of hotel that inspires our candles — a place with a strong brand identity and the ability to transport you from the moment you step foot inside.

Between the hotel's rich history (it was built in 1889!) to the incredible design, five-star service, and attention to detail, it is — in my humble opinion — one of the greatest hotels on earth. 

THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN ASPEN

Cache Cache

If you’re looking for a restaurant that has a warm and welcoming vibe, this is the spot to head to. Established in 1987, Cache Cache has created long-standing roots amongst the high-country dining scene. French cuisine prepared with local ingredients pairs brilliantly with an abundance of wine offerings. 

Betula

Care to dine with a view? This restaurant offers French Pan-American dishes served with stunning views of Ajax Mountain. DJs add in the perfect music mix on a daily basis and the vibes are always top-notch.

Jing Aspen

Steak, sushi, seafood, and sake — say less. If you’re looking for a casual yet lively spot to eat, Jing Aspen is surely the place. If you sit at the sushi bar, be prepared for the owner to take shots of sake with you. The award-winning menu and chic decor make this a spot you don’t want to miss. 

Wild Fig

Ideal for a romantic date night spot, this intimate, candle-lit restaurant is a go-to place in Aspen. Embrace all things autumn by ordering the “Pumpkin Milk Punch” in lieu of your morning latte. The restaurant is reopening this fall, after completing renovations and upgrades that will surely make the experience even better.

Matsuhisa

This is hands-down one of the best restaurants in Aspen. I highly recommend sitting downstairs at the sushi bar, which is nestled within a 120-year old Victorian house. You would never know that behind the doors of a cozy little home are the flavorful dishes prepared by Chef Nobu. 

Ajax Tavern, one of my favorite spots for post-skiing lunch. Photo: @thelittlenell

Clark’s Oyster Bar

Charming yet casual, Clark’s is an Aspen staple that has it all. From the raw bar and seafood selection to draft beers and daily cocktail specials, there’s something for every visitor to enjoy.  Top your meal off with caviar service and to-die-for desserts. The lobster rolls will have you dreaming of an East Coast summer. 

Ellina

The cozy interior will transport you to a wine cellar in Napa Valley. They have excellent food and an impressive wine list. This is a romantic spot that makes you feel like a local as soon as you step inside. If you want to take date night back to your home or hotel, they offer “Take Home Fresh” kits so you can prepare your own fresh pastas from the comfort of your room.

Steakhouse 316

If you're a fan of Wild Fig, the owners have done it again at one of Aspen’s best steakhouses. Between the moody and dark decor and the impressive butcher shop offerings, everything about this restaurant is decadent. Nothing kicks off a steak dinner like a fresh wedge cut salad — a must try at Steakhouse 316. 

Las Montañas

One of Aspen’s newer spots in town, Las Montañas has a cute ambiance, a good crowd, and offers a nice change of pace from the typical Aspen fare. Stop by for an appetizer and a drink, like Maudie’s Famous Frozen Margarita and some fresh ceviche or baja style oysters. 

Casa D’Angelo

Soak in the fall colors while kicking back in this elegant yet modern space with beautiful mountain views. Even after a trip to the Amalfi Coast, the Italian fare here will not disappoint. With Chef Angelo being from Positano, you know you’re getting an authentic meal. 

THE BEST BRUNCH & COFFEE SPOTS IN ASPEN 

Felix Roasting Co. at Hotel Jerome

This is one of the cutest spots to grab a hot cup of coffee or some avocado toast. Be sure to try one of their specialty drinks — each is infused with house-made non-dairy milks, tasty syrups, tonics, and custom spice blends. No doubt they will have something with pumpkin or cinnamon to get you in the fall mood. 

Spring Cafe

At Spring Cafe, they believe your food should not only be delicious, but beautiful too. Although on the casual side, this is a great healthy option to check out. It’s trendy, quick, and serves fresh juices, smoothies, and light breakfast and lunch staples.

Poppycocks

Poppycocks is an Aspen staple. This institution is known for its delicious breakfast and brunch, which always hits the spot after a late night in town. They also happen to serve the best pancakes ever — you’ll love it so much you might want to grab some pancake mix to go.

THE BEST LUNCH RESTAURANTS IN ASPEN

J-Bar at Hotel Jerome

J-Bar has been known as the town’s social hub for years. It’s ultra relaxed, casual, and is tucked inside Hotel Jerome. They make one of the best burgers you can find in the area, so if you’re craving that, dining here is a no-brainer. The chicken noodle soup is also a can't-miss.

White House Tavern

The name of this restaurant suits the exterior. As you walk up, you’ll be greeted by the cutest white cottage, and inside, you’ll be satisfied with excellent food. I highly recommend ordering the chicken meatballs with a side of french fries.

Ajax Tavern

Nothing says "mountain town" quite like grilled cheese and tomato soup. Located at the base of Ajax mountain, this apres-ski style tavern is great for views, people watching, and truffle fries. Name a better combo...I’ll wait.

THE BEST DRINKS & NIGHTLIFE IN ASPEN

Bad Harriet at Hotel Jerome

Explore an avant-garde experience in this speakeasy style bar. The redesigned space is subtle yet sexy, and ideal for a nightcap. The menu is inspired by powerful women throughout history, which will transport you to another time while embracing all of your senses. 

The Living Room at Hotel Jerome

With an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, this hotel lobby bar is an inviting place to unwind with a drink. Fall into one of the big comfy chairs, scan the specialty cocktail list, and watch guests as they check in for their getaway.

Hooch Craft Cocktail Lounge

Don’t be fooled by the basement location. Hooch Craft Cocktail Lounge is quite the hideaway, offering the perfect escape from the buzz of Aspen. The bartenders are insanely talented and often incorporate locally sourced mixes from all over Colorado. You’ll be delighted by the combination of creative and classic menu options.

Of course, if you're not able to get to Aspen this season, our Aspen candle promises to transport you there from the comfort of your own home. With notes of leather, cedarwood, pine, and smoke, it's the perfect combination to usher in the cold weather months.