Velvet Buck Aspen

Velvet Buck sits on E Dean St, a five-minute walk from both Belly Up Aspen and The Wheeler Opera House. The dining room runs smart and elegant, matching the polish expected of its surroundings. It currently holds a Wine Spectator Excellence Award.

The space is more composed than the high-traffic venues surrounding the nearby Wagner Park. While other spots in the area lean into the frenetic pace of a mountain town, the kitchen here stays focused on a blend of contemporary and classic South American techniques. The result is a dinner that rewards those looking to sit still, rather than a place designed for a quick turnover. It is the better choice for a quiet evening when you want to avoid the noise of the main drag.