They say the mountains are good for your soul. If that’s the case, then a hearty breakfast is precisely what you need to fuel your outdoor spirit! The good news is that we are here to provide you with insider tips on where to get the best breakfast near Vail. All of the restaurants on our list have been hand-tested, fork-to-mouth, so rest assured our recommendations consider ambiance, quality, and service. We also include a link to each restaurant’s website and provide their current Google review rating for your convenience.
If you are looking for ski and snowboard rental in Summit and Eagle counties, don’t hesitate to visit one of Charter Sports’ 14 locations in the area. Charter Sports has proudly provided affordable ski and snowboard rental equipment since 1988.
Ludwig’s Breakfast
Sonnenalp sits atop Vail’s premium hotels, and the breakfast at this European-style lodge is nothing short of extravagant. Stacks of pastries, a smorgasbord of cheeses, and an array of fresh fruit amount on the buffet island. Hand-prepared Belgian waffles, french crepes, oversized omelets, and lightly powdered cheese blintzes can be ordered anytime to complement the buffet bar options. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows outline a naturally lit sunroom overlooking majestic Gore Creek. Fresh flowers sit along the deck in the summer as birds chirp overhead—the melodic sound of running water in the stream below. A professional wait staff unobtrusively approaches your table and takes your drink order. Cappuccino or mimosa? Decisions, decisions, why not both? Ludwig’s breakfast buffet is nothing short of luxury, and you deserve it! After all, you don’t have to be a guest at Ludwig’s to make a reservation.
Location: Vail
Google Rating: 4.6 Stars on 107 Reviews
The Little Diner
A local favorite, this hole-in-the-wall exudes the essence of Vail’s mountain-man roots and the nostalgia of the Tenth Mountain Division. Originated in 2008 by current owners Brian and Peggy Little, you cannot help but feel charmed as you sit at the full-service horseshoe countertop overlooking an open kitchen. The restaurant is classy and has an authentic diner feel, with red chairs contrasting the dark oak trim and off-white tables. Centrally located in Lionshead, there is no better place to fill your belly before heading out to the mountain for one of your favorite Colorado outdoor activities. We recommend the Cheesy Apples & Bacon Crepe, Jim Little’s Famous Egg Benedict, the Breakfast Burrito, or the Pannekoeken for a sweet treat.
Location: Vail
Google Rating: 4.7 Stars on 1,081 Reviews
Northside Kitchen Avon
You have to love a restaurant that serves a traditional breakfast and also has a takeout pastry counter. Northside Kitchen in Avon, just 15 minutes west of Vail, sits in an oversized, rustic log house, making you feel right at home. You know the food has to be impressive when there are more tables than can be counted, yet the line is out the door. It’s also a good sign that Governor Polis signed the to-go alcohol bill into law at Northside kitchen! Yes, that deserves an exclamation point. For you foodies, Northside boasts several unique breakfast dishes you simply can’t find anywhere else, such as the Filet Breakfast Burrito, Lamb Shank Hash, and Avoca-Dough Toast with pico de gallo. If you are making a pit stop at the grab-and-go, we recommend a dozen of their colorful, sprinkled donuts.
Location: Avon
Google Rating: 4.4 Stars on 1,829 Reviews
Big Bear Bistro
Big Bear Bistro is small, there isn’t much seating, and the menu is limited. However, what this hidden gem lacks in size, it makes up for in personality. Plus, who doesn’t love breakfast all day! Much of Vail resembles a European Alp village with chateaus, Tyrolean-style facades, and cobblestone streets. Big Bear is unique because it sits smack in the middle of Hanson Ranch Road, where the aesthetic couldn’t be more European. Sitting on the outdoor patio at Big Bear allows you to soak in Vail’s Bavarian vibes while enjoying a latte or cappuccino. To top it off, the food is quite impressive. We recommend rewarding your taste buds with the Da Vinci Bagel, Croissant French Toast, or one of their many crepes.
Location: Vail
Google Rating: 4.5 Stars on 454 Reviews
Loaded Joes
The casual vibe gets you in the door, but the coffee keeps you coming back! With two convenient locations in Vail and Avon, this rustic local favorite has a reputation for serving up some of the best lattes, espressos, and cappuccinos west of the Mississippi. But that’s not all. Director of Operations, Brandt Olsen has a way of treating his employees that keeps them at Loaded Joes for years, making this Vail Valley gem feel like Cheers – where everybody knows your name. In addition to your caffeinated beverage, the food at Loaded Joe’s leaves nothing to be desired. We suggest the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Pulled Pork Breakfast Burrito, and Brioche French Toast to treat your belly. Loaded Joe’s isn’t just a breakfast spot, though. The food is fantastic all day long, and make sure to stay for live events at night, such as trivia night, karaoke, and open mic.
Locations: Vail and Avon
Google Rating Vail: 4.3 Stars on 298 Reviews
Google Rating Avon: 4.2 Stars on 733 Reviews
Conclusion
No matter the season, you cannot help but feel adventurous for the great outdoors while in the Rocky Mountains. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It sets you up for productivity and ensures you have fuel for all quintessentially Colorado activities. But it is often hard to find time to make breakfast, especially when you have a busy morning routine. We hope you enjoy our top breakfast spots in Vail above. If you are looking for ski and snowboard rental in Summit and Eagle counties, don’t hesitate to visit one of Charter Sports’ 14 locations in the area. Charter Sports has proudly provided affordable ski and snowboard rental equipment since 1988.
