Author: The Smalls

The iconic Slanted Door is coming back to where it all began. Chef Charles Phan’s groundbreaking Vietnamese restaurant will reopen in its original Mission District location at 584 Valencia Street in Spring 2025. Known for redefining Vietnamese cuisine since the mid-’90s, the Slanted Door’s return marks a new chapter while honoring its legacy.

Phan plans to blend the restaurant’s history with fresh innovation, reviving its original layout and infusing the space with updated natural finishes and custom glass elements. The menu, too, will evolve with signature dishes like the chicken clay pot and new additions like lacquered squab.

This move is more than a reopening—it’s a homecoming for Phan, whose personal and professional journey is deeply tied to the Mission. Expect a dining experience that captures the essence of Vietnam while embracing the energy of its original home.

Located in the heart of Aspen, Bosq is a family-owned restaurant helmed by Chef Barclay Dodge and his wife, Molly. In 2023, Bosq earned its first Michelin star, distinguishing itself as one of only five restaurants in Colorado to receive this prestigious accolade.

Chef Dodge’s culinary philosophy centers on seasonally inspired cooking, emphasizing foraging, fermenting, and sourcing from local farms. The menu offers customizable tasting experiences, allowing diners to select four or more courses that highlight the essence of each ingredient.

The intimate dining room exudes a moody yet welcoming ambiance, complemented by a knowledgeable and engaging staff. This setting provides the perfect backdrop for Chef Dodge’s innovative dishes, which often incorporate locally foraged elements like hand-picked spruce tips and juniper wood-grilled New England lobster.

The Snow Lodge is the winter sister of Montauk’s perennially trendy Surf Lodge. It is located in the St. Regis, and it’s not the run of the mill supper club. This hot spot is sexy and intimate. Expect to be fully entertained, especially thanks to a curated music series with DJ sets and unplugged acoustic concerts. Unforgettable experiences await you!

The Aspen Mountain Club offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the stunning Elk Mountain Range. This remarkable destination is celebrated for its exquisite cuisine, stylish ambiance, and the refined charm of its members. The club provides an unparalleled atmosphere, combining luxury and elegance with a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe. Catering exclusively to members, the Aspen Mountain Club is a premier retreat for those seeking exceptional dining, stunning views, and a sense of community among like-minded individuals. It is a truly exceptional space, offering a one-of-a-kind experience at the top of Aspen Mountain.

White House Tavern, part of the esteemed Hillstone Restaurant Group, combines casual comfort with elevated cuisine in the heart of Aspen. Set in a charming historic building, this local favorite serves expertly crafted sandwiches, salads, and small plates, with standout dishes like the crispy chicken sandwich and kale salad. The cozy yet stylish atmosphere, paired with attentive service and an excellent selection of wine and cocktails, makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal or a quick bite after exploring Aspen. White House Tavern delivers simplicity done exceptionally well.

Situated in the breathtaking Ashcroft Valley, Pine Creek Cookhouse offers a quintessential Colorado dining experience. Surrounded by stunning mountain views, this rustic yet elegant lodge serves hearty, locally-inspired dishes like elk bratwurst, bison tenderloin, and fresh trout. Accessible by cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or a horse-drawn sleigh in winter, the journey to the Cookhouse is as memorable as the meal. Whether enjoying a cozy fireside dinner or a sunny summer lunch on the deck, Pine Creek Cookhouse perfectly blends adventure, nature, and gourmet cuisine.

Best known for Après ski, truffle fries, and people watching, don’t miss a coveted seat on the sun-drenched mountainside patio with a bottle of Veuve and dancing as the sun dips behind the mountain. Undeniably, the best seat in town!

JING’s menu features a Global Fusion Cuisine, with a focus on prime steaks, sushi, and seafood. Chef Frank has cultivated a passion for international cuisine. His passion is cooking the best food for everyone.

Aspen’s only authentic French and Fondue restaurant where St. Tropez meets Paris. It has an incredibly cozy and charming ambience, making it ideal for a casual lunch, après-ski, a romantic candlelit dinner and so much more. Seductive and sexy!