10 Things to Do in Aspen Besides Ski

Trips to Aspen are a vital time for refilling the well. The Valley’s four unique mountains, gorgeous network of in-bound ski runs, and hum of the ski lifts always calls our name. However, it’s most important to meet our bodies where they stand, each day. Perhaps you’ve had a stressful month, are recovering from an… Read more

Into The Little Nell’s Wine Cellar [Q&A with Carlton McCoy]

The wine program at The Nell is known around the world for acquiring sought-after bottles, recommending varietals, and setting trends in the industry. Recently I sat down with Carlton McCoy, Master Sommelier at The Little Nell, to discuss a rather new aspect of the wine program: The Little Nell’s Wine Cellar. Whether you’ve been visiting… Read more

From Mushrooms to Wagyu – Aspen’s Farm to Fork Network

Progressive yet traditional; classic although contemporary; with a magnetic draw while having a taste of Wild West. Aspen is an eclectic mountain town unlike any other and while this unique place welcomes newcomers and out-of-box innovation, maintaining Aspen’s farm to fork network is what stabilizes and guides the sustainable growth. One central branch of that… Read more

The Very Best Breakfast in Aspen

Souffle pancakes. Poached eggs. Crispy bacon. Fresh coffee. All these culminate to the stellar dining experience that is Breakfast. Breakfast should energize you, recenter you, and prepare you for the day ahead, especially when vacationing at a high altitude, calorie-burning ski town . This is why being named the best breakfast in Aspen is an… Read more

Click: A Photo Editor’s Top Pics of Aspen

We invited photo editor Etta Meyer to curate a gallery of images for The Little Nell’s Instagram. Etta, a well-heeled travel writer, pulled together a series of photos that reflected her vision for a perfect day in Aspen as a guest at The Nell. See below for her favorite pictures from morning to noon to… Read more

Wine Tasting Experiences in Aspen

Food & Wine Classic In its 35 years, the FOOD & WINE Classic has turned Aspen from an alpine escape with decent eats to a coveted stop on the gourmet circuit. Each June, celebrity chefs and sommeliers land in Aspen for a three-day festival of seminars, demonstrations, parties, and tastings — all focused on what’s… Read more

Bug Out! To a New Culinary Sensation

Are you adventurous enough to eat bugs for dinner? Not as a garnish or shocking side dish; but baked, sauteed, and served front and center. If you’re feeling uneasy about eating insects, you’re not alone. There’s a mental hurdle to get over before you enthusiastically welcome them on your plate. Which is why we’re going… Read more

Five Reasons to Ring in The New Year in Aspen

Are you planning to be in Aspen for this New Year’s Eve? If you’re still unsure of your plans, why not come to Aspen and celebrate with the town and its wonderful people? If you’re not quite convinced, let us show you. 1. Drinks New Year’s Eve is a celebration of this year’s successes, failures,… Read more

How Chef Ryan Hardy Left His Mark on the Roaring Fork Valley

After decamping to Manhattan in 2013, Hardy returns in December to kick-off The Little Nell’s 2nd Annual Guest Chef Dinner Series. An excerpt from Aspen Sojourner, by Laurel Miller. Food-loving locals and devotees of The Little Nell still look back fondly on former executive chef Ryan Hardy’s tenure. The chef, who helmed Montagna (now Element… Read more

2017 James Beard Awards Call for Entries

The countdown to the 2017 James Beard Foundation Awards is underway. Considered the Oscars of the American restaurant world, the Beard Awards are the highest honor for food and beverage professionals working in North America. The awards cover all aspects of the industry—from chefs and restaurateurs to cookbook authors and food journalists to restaurant designers… Read more