Quick-Take: Cloud 9 Alpine Bistro Overview
What is Cloud 9 Alpine Bistro? Cloud 9 Alpine Bistro is a Swiss-style cabin restaurant located at the top of the Cloud 9 ski lift on Aspen Highlands (elevation 10,725 feet). Famous for its European raclette, fondue, fine wines, and high-energy apres-ski champagne celebrations, it offers one of Aspen's most sought-after daytime dining experiences.
Reservation Requirements: Advanced reservations are required for both daily lunch seatings (11:30 AM and 2:00 PM late seating). Traditional raclette must be pre-ordered and is served exclusively indoors.
Non-Ski Access: Guests who do not ski can access Cloud 9 during scheduled evening dinners via a public open-snowcat ride, making it accessible for non-skiers seeking high-alpine dining.
Cloud 9 Alpine Bistro: The Ultimate Aspen Highlands Dining Guide
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro brings Swiss-style mountain dining to the slopes of Aspen Highlands. Perched at the top of the Cloud 9 lift, this European cabin offers an authentic alpine atmosphere combining fondue, fine wine, and a lively apres-ski setting overlooking the Maroon Bells.
Cloud 9 Alpine Bistro Overview & Dining Matrix
Plan your visit to Aspen's premier slopeside restaurant using this essential dining guide matrix:
Feature | Details & Requirements | Soffia Wardy Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
Location | Top of Cloud 9 Lift, Aspen Highlands Mountain | Ski in via Highlands slopes or book snowcat dinner |
Signature Dish | Traditional Swiss Raclette & Cheese Fondue | Pre-order raclette for indoor seating |
Lunch Seatings | 11:30 AM (relaxed) & 2:00 PM (party seating) | Book 2:00 PM seating for high-energy apres-ski |
Non-Ski Access | Weekly snowcat dinners (limited seating) | Reserve snowcat transportation well in advance |
Featured Wine | Gruner Veltliner & French Champagne | Pair Gruner Veltliner with warm raclette cheese |
The Cloud 9 Experience: Fondue, Champagne, and Slopeside Dining
Reservations are crucial, and the late seating is highly recommended for those seeking a festive apres-ski environment. Pre-ordering raclette is required for the full experience: melted cheese served in individual heating trays accompanied by cornichons, potatoes, garlic, peppers, and air-dried beef. The menu also features duck confit, braised beef short ribs, and fresh steak tartare.
Why We Like It
- Exceptional European-inspired food and wine pairings.
- Unmatched high-alpine atmosphere surrounded by Aspen Highlands peaks.
- Transports diners to Gstaad, Switzerland, while skiing in Colorado.
- Classic Aspen slopeside celebration and apres-ski energy.
Need To Know Before You Go
- Advanced reservations are required for all seatings.
- Raclette must be pre-ordered and is served strictly in the indoor dining room.
- The 2:00 PM late seating features dancing and champagne celebrations.
- Skiers should pace themselves as the descent down Aspen Highlands remains after lunch.
Notable Dishes & Beverage Pairings
Cloud 9's culinary program combines traditional Swiss specialties with elevated mountain entrees:
- Swiss Raclette: Melted cheese served with potatoes, cornichons, and cured meats.
- Mountain Entrees: Duck confit, braised beef short ribs, and classic steak tartare.
- Wine Pairings: Gruner Veltliner white wine pairs perfectly with rich cheese dishes.
Pictured above (lower left): Beatrice and Doug Allen, friends from Kauai and owners of The Hanalei Dolphin Sushi Bar and Piazza Kauai.
Pictured above (top right, left to right): Tamar Johnson, Pepper Weinglass, Beatrice Allen, and Skye Weinglass.
Location & Contact Details
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro
Aspen Highlands Mountain (Top of Cloud 9 Lift)
Aspen, CO 81611
Phone (Lunch): (970) 544-3063
Phone (Dinner): (970) 923-8715
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Frequently Asked Questions About Cloud 9
