Fine Dining is Essential to the Ski Holiday Experience

By Robin Rutecki

The ski vacation has changed substantially from the no frills experience common in the 1970s and 80s. The resorts across Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah have been improving their facilities to craft the perfect ski vacation experience.

Ski resorts have expanded the overall size and quality of their facilities, increased levels of service, and focused on the quality of their dining and shopping. Ski Magazine readers consistently rate Vail in Vail, Colorado and Deer Valley in Park City, Utah as the number 1 and number 2 resorts in the U.S.A. and Canada. Vail Resort held the #1 position in 2006, 2003, 2002, and 2000. Deer Valley Resort won the top honors in 2001, 2005, 2007, 2008, and 2009.

Deer Valley focuses on the quality of its finely groomed runs, on mountain services, and on mountain restaurants to retain its #1 ranking. The resort prides itself on its award winning lunch menu as well as its fine dining restaurants open every evening during the winter season. The restaurants are located in Deer Valley Resorts elegant ski lodges.

Options at Deer Valleys three upscale dining restaurants include continental and European cuisine at Mariposa, fresh seafood at the Seafood Buffet, and Swiss selections at Fireside Dining. Mariposa consistently receives top ratings with the Seafood Buffet and Fireside Dining not far behind.

The town of Park City has followed suit by increasing the amount of luxury accommodations, upscale dining, and shopping options. The expansion over the last 10 years has been very dramatic with hundreds of new luxury accommodations gradually replacing the more traditional ski resort accommodations.

As a result of the recent transition towards a more distinguished palate, local restaurants have responded by introducing a rich dining experience worthy of high honors. Distinguished rating agencies such as the Zagat Restaurant Guide, Mobile Travel Guide, and Michelin Travel Guide have awarded Deer Valley area restaurants with their best ratings.

The Goldener Hirsch restaurant located in the famous Goldener Hirsch Inn and the Glitretind restaurant located in the Stein Eriksen Lodge are two such restaurants. My personal favorite is the Goldener Hirsch Restaurant because of the delicious cheese fondue appetizer and the quaint Austrian decor.

No matter what your personal preference, Deer Valley certainly lives up to its reputation as a top ski destination in North America. There are now many unique dining options to compliment the fabulous skiing and scenery. Its definitely worth a closer look. - 30543

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