Best Patios in Aspen

Zig Zag Patio in Aspen

Aspen’s patio scene is more than outdoor seating—it’s an immersive experience combining stunning mountain scenery, historic architecture, and culinary excellence. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed lunch, a sunset cocktail, or a polished dinner, these five spots deliver.

Summer turns Aspen into a vibrant, sun-soaked playground—and nothing showcases that better than the town’s top-notch patios. Here’s a guide to six of the finest al fresco spots in Aspen:

Zig Zag

$$ Vibe: Alpine elegance

Located just one block from Aspen Mountain’s gondola, Zig Zag offers a sophisticated patio experience that balances French finesse with mountain flair. Their stylish outdoor seating pairs beautifully with dishes like steak tartare and gourmet French onion soup. They also host a lively happy hour from 3-6pm with mountain views and wood‑oven pizzas  .

White House Tavern

$$ Vibe: Casual American in a historic cottage

Situated in a charming miner’s cottage on Restaurant Row, this spot features a year‑round patio under signature yellow umbrellas. It’s ideal for laid‑back lunches or dinners featuring their crispy chicken sandwich, smoked trout dip, and craft cocktails  .

Betula

$$$$ Vibe: French‑Pan‑American rooftop

Set atop a heart‑of‑town building, Betula’s rooftop terrace offers views of Aspen Mountain alongside elevated, fresh cuisine—ceviche, bison ribeye, and inventive shareables. It’s a hot ticket for both locals and visitors  .

Matsuhisa

$$$ Vibe: Nobu-style Japanese in a historic Victorian cottage

Housed in an 1885 miner’s cottage on Main Street, Matsuhisa blends a beautiful porch setting with top-tier Japanese cuisine—think pristine yellowtail sashimi and signature Nobu rolls. Outdoor seating is intimate, scenic, and refined  .

Saint Ambroeus

Both the cafe and sit-down restaurant have beautiful patios.

$$ Café (daytime)

Vibe: Milan meets the Rockies

The café terrace offers the perfect backdrop for a latte or light brunch—Milano-style seating with elegant green marble accents, Scandinavian flair, and casual sidewalk views .

$$$ Sit‑down restaurant (dinner only)

Vibe: Upscale Italian in a cozy and atmospheric

When night falls, Saint Ambroeus transitions into a dinner destination. The evening-only dining terrace feels like a hidden cabin behind the café—with warm lighting and refined Italian dishes in a relaxed yet intimate setting

Bear Den

$$ Vibe: Cozy patio on a Victorian home

All-day food and drink options at this beautifully decorated home. One of the few options for brunch in town.

Hotel Jerome Patio

$$$ Vibe: Gorgeous views in a historic buildings in Aspen.

Go for beautiful views and drinks in one of the most picturesque locations in Aspen.

Tips for Enjoying Aspen’s Patio Season

• Reserve early, especially for Betula and evenings at Saint Ambroeus

• Arrive right at happy hour (around 3–5 or 6 pm) for the best seats and deals.

• Layer up: Even restful summer nights in Aspen can get crisp after sunset.