The 5 Best Places For Burgers Around Vail Valley

A great burger starts with a flavorful patty, but the details make it memorable, from a perfectly toasted bun and melted cheese to crisp bacon, spicy peppers and house-made sauces. Throughout the Vail Valley, restaurants put their own spin on this American favorite with everything from classic smash burgers and barbecue-inspired creations to bison patties and Southwestern toppings. The Best of Vail Valley recognizes restaurants that bring distinctive burgers, creative ingredients and satisfying comfort food to local dining tables.

Après Cafe

Après Cafe at the Vail Racquet Club Mountain Resort offers a casual restaurant and bar experience in East Vail, serving burgers alongside pizzas, sandwiches and other comfort food. Its burger selections provide a hearty option for guests returning from skiing, hiking or exploring the surrounding mountains. The restaurant pairs its food menu with cocktails, wine and beer, allowing diners to enjoy a relaxed meal with their favorite beverage. Indoor dining and takeout service make Après Cafe a convenient neighborhood option for residents and resort visitors.

Craftsman Brew Co.

Craftsman Brew Co. in Edwards features smash burgers made with griddled patties and carefully selected toppings, reflecting its emphasis on creative comfort food. The Schmidt Mac combines two beef patties with American cheese, bacon, grilled onions, pickles, shredded lettuce and special sauce, while the House Single offers a simpler combination of cheese, onions, pickles and sauce. Diners can customize their burgers with additional toppings, including bacon, avocado and green chiles. The restaurant's brewing program and rotating craft beer selection provide complementary options for guests enjoying burgers in its casual dining room.

Rocky Mountain Taco

Rocky Mountain Taco in Minturn goes beyond its Mexican-inspired menu with a selection of quarter-pound burgers featuring distinctive flavor combinations. The Korean Burger pairs sharp cheddar cheese with cabbage slaw, bacon, caramelized onions and Korean barbecue sauce, while the Pepe Burger features Monterey Jack cheese, Hatch chiles, bacon, pico de gallo and avocado spread. Diners seeking a more traditional option can choose the Danimal Style or Aristocrat Burger, both served on brioche buns with familiar toppings. Customers can also add ingredients such as fried eggs, jalapeños, avocado or extra patties to personalize their burgers.

Hampton's Burgers

Hampton's Burgers in Gypsum specializes in smash burgers, focusing on the combination of quality beef, a crisp seared exterior and simple toppings. Its burgers feature a blend of chuck and brisket pressed onto a hot griddle, creating browned edges that contrast with the tender center. American cheese, soft potato buns and the restaurant's signature H sauce complete the classic preparation, with single and double patties available. Customers can round out their meals with fries cooked in beef tallow, bringing another traditional cooking technique to this burger-focused operation.

Westside Cafe

Westside Cafe in West Vail offers a varied burger menu that includes traditional beef patties and alternatives featuring regional ingredients. Its Westside Cheeseburger combines American cheese, bacon, house aioli, lettuce, tomato and pickles on a toasted brioche bun, while the BBQ Burger adds cheddar cheese, barbecue sauce and onion rings. The Bison Burger features a grilled bison patty with roasted red peppers, chipotle aioli and pepper jack cheese, and the Elk Chili Burger comes topped with red elk chili, cheddar, sour cream and scallions. Diners can choose sides such as fries, tater tots, coleslaw or vegetables, making the café a destination for a substantial burger meal.

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