Delicious food without the hassle? Bring the restaurant quality food and service to your home with a private chef booking. Aspen is home to top tier chefs who offer up various styles of cuisine and specialty. From pitmasters to vegan, Aspen Luxury Concierge can help book and manage the ideal chef to cook to your liking. Here is ALC’s guide to the [insert #] best chefs to hire now. 

Chef Talo

Where Spanish and Italian Flavors Meet

Chef Talo’s career began in the basement of a seafood restaurant, in Aspen, shucking oysters. He fell in love with working in the kitchen. After a stint in culinary school, and owning his own restaurant in Buenos Aires, Talo joined the team at Dancing Bear, where he was head chef. Talo eventually left the Dancing Bear to focus on private cheffing, where he could cook with more passion and heart. 

Brian Pierce

Healthy Cuisine Mixed with Urban Comfort 

Brian Pierce brings a wealth of experience from his days of cooking in five-star restaurants in Manhattan. While PIerce has experience and extensive training in farm-to-table, New American, and contemporary Mediterranean styles––with a varied knowledge of Thai and Chinese cooking techniques––he keeps sustainability top of mind. Pierce will source the best in local produce and take extra steps in his cooking to mitigate waste. 

Bobby Pollette 

The Well-rounded Chef

Born and raised in Hawaii, Bobby eventually made his way to Aspen; picking up food and cultural inspiration along the way. He can execute just about any type of cuisine. Bobby offers up menus such as Farm to Table and Asian Inspired. 

Mirasol Gomez and Nicole Carrillo of Forage Sisters

Locally Sourced, Sustainably Minded

Mirasol Gomez  and Nicole Carrillo take pride in sourcing the best produce locally, responsibly and sustainability. Their gourmet mouth-watering foods are not only displayed beautifully, but they are packed full of flavor and Argentinian influence. 

Chef Alex Schweitz

Gourmet in the Mountains

Chef Alex Schweitz grew up in Durango, CO where he cooked in his family’s Mexican restaurant. Throughout his years, Schweitz traveled to Mexico to further his knowledge of Latin cooking. He can customize the menu to your liking. Just need a night in without the chef around? No problem, Schweitz can prepare drop-off meals! 

Chefs J.D. Baldridge, Chris “Gerber” Mathie and Alvarez Wortham

The Triple Threat

With a combined 30 years of hospitality experience, Chefs J.D. Baldridge, Chris Mathie and Alvarez Wortham bring five star cuisine right to your dining room. All three chefs have held prestigious positions, cooking for The Little Nell and beyond. They each bring a unique flare to the kitchen with their diverse backgrounds and interests. These chefs can do it all. 

Chef Abhay 

The multi-cultural cuisine chef

Meet Capitol Creek’s executive chef, Chef Abhay. He cooks with Caribbean-Indian flair, something he gets excited about. A Trinidad and Tobago native, Chef Abhay likes to shake it up and is keen on cooking with more foreign flavors. If you’re a curry lover, Chef Abhay is the one to hire. 

To book, please reach out to us, and we will handle all of the details.

Aspen summers are magical, simply put. The Roaring Fork river moves the snow melt at a rushing pace, the days are warmer, brighter and longer. The mountain breeze evokes a sense of ease and hope that could make any visitor want to stay indefinitely. A large component of the magical equation are the mountains that make up Aspen’s backyard. Within these mountains are some of the most enjoyable trails to hike. Ranging in difficulty, we have broken down some of the best trails to hit this summer, and how to best prepare for them. 

While trails vary in difficulty and terrain, it is important to prepare ahead of time by packing the appropriate essentials and doing your research. Difficulty, elevation gain, length etc..are all important factors when choosing the best route for you. We suggest to always wear a backpack and fill it with essentials. What are some of the essentials we suggest? Always: water, snacks (such as a larabar, trial mix or salted nuts), sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, light layers and a rain shell. If the trailhead provides physical maps at the start, it is important to grab one and throw it in your pack. Some things to think about adding are a picnic blanket, extra socks and a small first-aid kit. Should you and your group want to enjoy a more substantial lunch, Aspen Luxury Concierge is more than happy to arrange lunch boxes. 

Ajax Trail

Beginning in Koch park, the Ajax trail measures 1.5 miles long and is dog friendly. Ideal for a casual hike at any point during the day. This trail contains mostly shade cover, but be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat. A small bottle of water should suffice for the trek. Afterward, walk over to Ajax tavern for a drink and appetizers, complete with views of Aspen mountain. 

For more information on Ajax Trail click here

American Lake Trail

For those seeking a more challenging hike––with a beautiful lake view at the summit––American Lake is a must-visit. The trailhead parking lot is a sharp right off of Castle Creek Road, about 9.75 miles from town. This hike is not for the faint of heart. It’s nearly 7 miles roundtrip. Make sure to pack extra layers, plenty of water, sunscreen and snacks. We suggest a high-ankle hiking boot for ample ankle support. Dogs are allowed, but on-leash only. 

For more information on American Lake click here

Cathedral Lake

A difficult trail with a beautiful view. Cathedral Lake is a 5.3 out and back that is steep but worth the workout. This is a popular trail, so we suggest starting early AM to avoid the crowds. Dogs are allowed, but on leash only. Make sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. Sunscreen, baseball hat and chapstick are all suggested for this hike. 

For more information on Cathedral lake click here

Chaparral Ranch Trail

Located in Woody Creek, this 3.5 mile long trail is ideal for walking, running or biking. Easy breezy and mildly challenging. Just a few miles from Aspen’s town center, this is a great place to start, or end, your day. Sunscreen and a hat are suggested as the sun is quite strong. Stop by Woody Creek Tavern post-activity for a margarita and snacks.

For more information on Chaparral Ranch Trail click here 

Crater Lake Trail

A shorter hike with beautiful views, including a start at the ever-popular Maroon Bells. This is an ideal day hike; which can be done solo, or with the entire family. It is dog friendly and quite popular, so it is suggested to start in the morning. It is 3.5 miles in total length––perfect for a pre-lunch workout. Make sure to wear a hat, sunscreen and bring a water bottle. While there are some trash receptacles at the base of the bells, it is best to be cautious and pack in and out, leaving no trace behind. 

For more information on Crater Lake Trail click here

Difficult Creek Trail

Located off Highway 82, towards Independence Pass, Difficult Creek trail is a dog friendly easy breezy hike. Three miles in length, this scenic adventure is ideal June through September. 

For more information on Difficult Creek Trail click here

Grizzly Lake Trail

Those looking for a challenge, look no further than Grizzly Lake Trail. The drive in is bumpy at best, but worth the trek. You begin your hike at high altitude. Measuring 3.6 miles each way, totalling just over 7.2 miles roundtrip, you ascend quite a bit of feet. Make sure to pack plenty of water, a light lunch and healthy snacks. Electrolyte powders or tabs are suggested to help ease any onset of altitude sickness. This is dog friendly, so feel free to bring your canine friends! 

For more information on Grizzly Lake Trail click here

Grottos Trail

This is a picnic lover’s dream. With an easy hike via dirt path, you can make your way to the ice caves and breathtaking waterfalls. Pack a picnic and bring some beverages because this is the ideal spot to spread out the picnic blanket and kick up your hiking boots. 

For more information on Grottos Trail click here

Hunter Creek Trail

Hunter Creek trail is a fun adventure, easily accessible from town. It is a rocky dirt path you can run, hike or mountain bike on. Varying in length, you can easily make this short or long depending on your mood. There are trail maps along the way that provide detailed information. Bring your dog, because this is a dog friendly path. Take in the Aspen tree groves and sunshine while hiking along waterfalls. This route also links to additional trails in the Upper Hunter Creek Valley with a connector to Smuggler Mtn trails as well as links that connect to the Hunter Flats, Four Corners and Van Horn Park. A versatile and less intimidating hike. 

For more information on Hunter Creek Trail click here

Little Cloud Trail

A short and steep “up” that connects you to Aspen Mountain.  Little cloud is the perfect “little” trail. It is dog friendly and mostly shade covered, but best to wear a hat and bring a small water bottle. Looking for more of a challenge? Continue onward and straight up Aspen Mountain to the sundeck. 

For more information on Little Cloud Trail click here

Lollipop Trail

A short 1 mile hike, walk or trail run located at the top of Smuggler Mountain. It is dog friendly and has tree cover for shade. Make sure to pack water and a snack in case. You may want to explore further and take some of the trail connectors leading to Smuggler or Hunter Creek.

For more information on Lollipop Trail click here

Lost Man Trail

A long and idyllic hike you must try. There are a few ways to slice and dice this trek. We suggest starting at the top portion. Make sure to take two cars or hire a driver if you would like to hike from point A to point B. For those hiking an out and back, one car will suffice. What to pack? A light lunch, snacks, water, sunglasses, sunscreen and a baseball cap. Be sure to bring extra layers in your backpack. Think sweatshirt, a long sleeve and a light shell that is wind resistant and moisture wicking. 

If you are looking to just take the out and back we suggest Lower Lost Man.  This out and back provides a fairly mellow single track trail with minimal elevation gain. It also includes the Lost Man Reservoir as well as one of the diversion canals that routes water from the West side of the Continental Divide to the East side via the Grizzly Reservoir.

For more information on Lost Man Trail click here

Rio Grande Trail

This is the ultimate walking, running and biking trail. Mostly paved, this trail is dog friendly. Make sure to bring a leash as your dog can be on our off. This trail hugs the Roaring Fork River and provides breathtaking views, as well as calming sounds (from the water). Head towards woody creek and take the trail all the way to the Woody Creek Tavern for a bite to eat. 

For more information on Rio Grande Trail click here

Smuggler Mountain

This is the go-to for locals and visitors alike. This is in “Aspen’s backyard” so to speak. Easily accessible from the East and West sides of town, this hike is moderately challenging, dog friendly and a great way to start the day. Insider tip: take a seat at the lookout and take in the incredible view of Aspen mountain. 

For more information on Smuggler Mountain click here

Sunnyside trail (Out and back to the radio tower)

Sunnyside Trail loop in either direction––to or from Rio Grande Trail / Stein Park to Hunter Creek––offers a steep up  and down off the Stein Park start, then has a traverse through Aspen and Pine forests. This is a beautiful trail that is sure to challenge even the most fit of people. We strongly suggest you wear a hat, sunglasses, SPF and bring a waterpack; as well as snacks. This is dog friendly so feel free to bring your buddy! 

For more information on Sunnyside Trail click here

Tiehack Trail

A difficult, yet short, 1.5 mile hike up Buttermilk Mountain. Feel free to bring your dog/dogs as this is dog friendly and you may like the companionship as you hike this difficult trail. What to bring: water bottle, light snack, hat, sunglasses and your earbuds. 

For more information on Tiehack Trail click here

Weller Lake Trail

This is an easy mild hike just over 1 mile round trip. It is dog friendly and a great place to paddle board (should you feel like hiking up with it). The beauty in this hike is the enchanted forestlike feel. Bring some water and a snack, so you can sit and enjoy the lake view for a while. 

For more information on Weller Lake Trail click here

Woody Creek Trail

The Woody Creek Trail is just over 9.7 miles and leads to Lenedo, CO. Mostly flat, this mild path is ideal for walking, running or biking. There are sweeping views of ranch pastures, red rock hills and the Roaring Fork river. This is a more calm and quiet path, so for those looking for a tranquil time this is your spot. What to bring: a water bottle, hat, sunglasses and your earbuds. 

For more information on Woody Creek Trail click here

If we have gotten really good at anything this year, it’s how to adapt with change. Uncertainty has been the only constant, and so at Aspen Luxury Concierge, we have made it our mission to be the in-the-know so you can simply enjoy your luxury vacation.

Exquisite meals and dining experiences are a hallmark of Aspen, and we intend to make sure you still get the finest available. That said, we are encouraging our guests to consider alternatives to the traditional restaurant experience in the event of reduced capacity levels or other unforeseen circumstances.

Lucky for you, some of the best Aspen restaurants have decided to offer private chef services and catering so that you do not have to forfeit a thing. Here’s what we know so far.

PRIVATE CHEF & CATERING UPDATE

BOSQ

Just like he did this summer, Chef Barclay C. Dodge is offering his 30+ years of culinary experience outside his restaurant. While Bosq will still be open this season, he realizes not everyone wants to leave the house. Choose from a traditional private chef experience with your closest friends or what he calls the “Open Table” experience, in which you can pull up a chair and watch as he cooks, creates, and plates. 

CAMPO DI FIORI

While Campo di Fiori offers catering for your next gathering at home, they have begun something new: a “Stock Your Fridge” option. The culinary experts at Campo will prepare customized meals for you and quite literally stock your fridge, complete with heating instructions. It really couldn’t get any easier!

FLOURISH TO THRIVE

If you are looking for private chef quality meal prep or someone to pre-prepare your family dinners, Chef Sarah Mandell is the ticket. Her commitment to bringing joy to your table is palpable with her mix of unique creations and the classics (may we suggest the Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Crust). 

MEAT & CHEESE

Here’s something new. Meat & Cheese is offering Meal Kits this season! They will shop, chop, and prep your meal so you and your family can have dinner in 20 minutes or less. You can order online and pick up your meal at their commercial kitchen in the Aspen Airport Business Center. Done and done.

ASPEN RESTAURANT UPDATE

*Please check back often as we update this restaurant list.

CLOUD 9

While Cloud 9 is known for champagne-spraying après parties, this year will look a little different. And that’s ok, because we all value our safety and health first and foremost, right? For lunch reservations made more than 30 days out, there is a required minimum spend of $250+ per person ($300+ per person over peak days) as well as a 75% deposit. Otherwise, reservations open 30 days in advance.

Only private dinners are allowed this year, requiring a buyout of a snowcat. Pricing includes the private snowcat ride, dinner, and one bottle of Champagne. Reservations are a must, so if you’re interested in either of these options, let ALC know right away.

MEAT & CHEESE

This season, Meat & Cheese will be offering lunch and dinner take-out and curbside delivery only. You can order online or call to place your order, but they suggest online if possible. Their farm shop will be open for in-store shopping (up to 4 guests with masks on) as well as online ordering, which can be picked up or shipped to you. And as it says above, there is always the Meal Kit option!

HOOCH

According to the powers at be, Hooch has removed their arm chairs and sofas and set up a formal dining room for this season. Don’t worry, you’ll still get the Hooch feel with the chandeliers and tableside Old Fashioned cart, but this winter, it’s more than just drinks. Dinner & Drinks at Hooch offers a three-course prix fixe menu with recommended cocktail and wine pairings for each. Reservations are required, so let ALC know if you want this underground, exclusive experience. 

BETULA

 This winter season, Betula will be open for dinner only from 5-10pm (with the last reservation being at 10pm). Parties of 12 adults or more will require a prix fixe menu. Reservations are encouraged and begin six weeks out, so if this sounds good to you (and it should!) please let one of our concierges know so we can do our best to accommodate. 

Speaking of reservations, Betula has already begun taking reservations for New Year’s Eve. This year, they will only have one seating with one party per table, but it still sounds pretty awesome to us: guests can arrive anytime and stay as late as the city of Aspen allows. There will be a DJ, party favors, a four-course dinner with caviar, truffle, and Bottomless “Cristal” Champagne all night while watching fireworks from the deck. It is $1000++ per person, fully prepaid at the time of booking.  If this sounds like your kind of party, let us know today!

I think we can all agree: these are some strange times we live in. 2020 has not been what any of us thought, except for maybe Bill Gates who apparently warned the world back in 2015 of an inevitable pandemic. (Still floored by that interview footage.) 

No, this is not what we thought was going to happen, but here we are. And if ALC has anything to do with it, Aspen will thrive! Our town has blown us away with the unity, the enginuity, the creativity, and the community effort we’ve seen firsthand. And we are so proud that we want to start shining a light on some of our favorite Aspenites and business owners who have shown up in big ways.

Our first feature is world renown chef and owner of Bosq, C. Barclay Dodge. 

To know Chef Dodge is to love him, and to taste his culinary creations is to swoon. Personally, Bosq is my husband’s and my favorite place in town for a meal, and to prove that point, they hosted the rehearsal dinner last year for our wedding.

But that was last year, and this is 2020, the year we didn’t quite see coming! That said, I have the BEST NEWS EVER: 

Bosq is currently open for limited dine-in and patio dining, but Chef Dodge is very sensitive to the fact that not everyone is ready to leave their homes just yet, so he has a solution. He will bring his flavors and the Bosq experience to you! 

Whether you are having a small gathering or you want to have what they refer to as an “Open Kitchen” experience while Chef prepares your meal right in front of you and shares his treasure trove of knowledge as he goes, you cannot go wrong here. 

A little more about Chef C. Barclay Dodge: He has been a chef for over thirty years and has worked in kitchens all over the world, which might explain why he’s known for a “globally influenced palate of bold flavors celebrated with locally sourced and foraged ingredients.”

Is your mouth watering yet? 

To book this rare opportunity and to learn more about pricing and availability, please contact Molly Dodge (the one who’s really in charge) at [email protected]. 

You will not regret it. Scout’s honor. 

Pro tip: Make sure to get some of Bosq’s Black Truffle Salt so you can keep tasting a little bit of that famed flavor well after your unforgettable experience.

If you’ve ever been to Aspen during summer, chances are that you were visiting for one of the amazing events hosted over summer. As you know, COVID 19 has temporarily altered how we socialize and gather with one another. Whether that’s simply dining with friends at your favorite restaurant or dancing under the stars at a concert, we now have to follow strict protocol to protect ourselves and others. Sadly, Aspen is no exception. 

Aspen Luxury Concierge is committed to keeping you informed so you have the latest news on our beautiful little town in one place. Here is a list of events that have been canceled or changed due to the COVID 19 pandemic, as of May 11th, 2020.

ASPEN

• Food and Wine Classic in Aspen 
• Aspen Ideas Festival
• Aspen Security Forum
• Aspen Summer Words and Literary Festival
• Jazz Aspen June Experience
• Aspen Music Festival 
• Jazz Labor Day Experience

Please contact us if you would like assistance transferring your passes to the following year or looking into refunds.