Best Cheap Eats in Vail, Colorado

If you’ve heard about the ski-resort town of Vail in Colorado, then inexpensive is definitely not the first thing that comes to your mind. Vail is prided to be among the more expensive skiing options around the US. Regardless, we are here to help you find some amazing cheap eats in Vail, Colorado.

Vail has some great slopes. Do we say why you should only enjoy skiing here if you are ready to spend a lot? It’s unfair! Whenever you are in Vail you can save a lot by choosing affordable restaurants.

If you want to find the best bang for your buck when it comes to cheap restaurants in Vail, you have to follow the locals. They are the ones who live there all year round and we assure you, that they are not keen on paying the expensive pricing every time they go out for dinner. Rather, they have some well-kept secret sports where you can dine like a local and enjoy cheap eats in Vail, Colorado.

Find the best cheap eats in Vail, Colorado

First things first, getting around Vail. In case you are looking to save even more, you will be happy to learn about the Vail public bus system. It’s maintained by the local government and you can use it to get around town with ease. Check the schedule here.

1. West Side Cafe

Let’s start with a true local spot. Started by two guys living in Vail it’s a favorite of the people who are full-time at Vail, Colorado. This restaurant is open until 9 PM and serves anything from breakfast to dinner.

We highly recommend it for the breakfast items. You’ll get all the US classics like hash-brown or even pancakes. You can get a great breakfast at West Side Cafe for under $15. The lunch and dinner menu has great burgers and sandwiches for around $15 as well.

The homely atmosphere, great cooking, and local crowd make West Side Cafe one of the best cheap eats in Vail. You can come here for a good meal and maybe to strike up a conversation with the locals.

Website: https://westsidecafe.net/

2. Moe’s Original Barbeque

A good barbeque is always welcome on any cheap eats list. We all know that barbeque meat is great and usually filling. Here at Vail, you can find some good deals at Moe’s Original Barbecue. Located a stone’s throw away from Lionshead Village it’s a great central location that’s super easy to access.

If you are looking for some inexpensive options go for the Pulled Pork Sandwich. All sandwiches are served with two different sides and a drink. If you opt for the pulled pork one it will all clock in at $10 which is a superb price in Vail.

Website: https://www.moesoriginalbbq.com/

3. The Blü Cow

If you like a good hot dog then The Blü Cow will be right up your alley. Their famous Swiss Hot Dog is what this restaurant is known for. You can get a regular one at $10.50 and it’s worth every penny. You may also opt for a great chicken soup at $8.95. The soup is an excellent choice if you want to feel the warmth from the inside.

Website: https://www.facebook.com/blucowvail/

4. La Cantina

Mexican restaurant La Cantina is our favorite spot to get some amazing and affordable burritos in Vail. They have an extensive menu of Mexican favorites, with most of the meals priced under $10. You can get stuffed with an amazing burrito after a day of skiing without spending a fortune.

One of our personal favorites is the Azteca Tortilla Soup. It’s an excellent choice for those snowy days and you’ll it’s under $4. Yes, it’s technically an appetizer, but the warm soup is a great addition to anyone’s day.

Website: http://www.lacantinavail.com/

5. Vendetta’s Pizza

Splitting a huge pizza is always a great opportunity to save money. Looking at all the options for cheap eats in Vail, Colorado, Vendetta’s Pizza comes in high. You can order one of their hallmark huge pizzas and share it with friends.

They have every type of pizza you could expect from an American pizza restaurant. Our favorite pizza is definitely the Snow Pig. It’s one for meat lover’s though so it’s best to take a look at their menu yourself.

They also have a great al-a-carte selection, however, the prices on that menu run up quite high. As such we can’t recommend any other item than pizza from Vendetta’s Pizza if you are looking for affordable dining.

Website: https://vendettasvail.com/

6. Northside Kitchen Grab & Go

Whenever you are looking for a quick bite you simply can’t go wrong with Northside Kitchen Grab & Go. They have excellent sandwiches for around $10. They also offer great burritos that are huge and tasty. You will feel like you’ve spent your money in a smart way when you choose Northside Kitchen Grab & Go.

Website: https://thenorthsidekitchen.com/grab-and-go-full-menu/

7. Big Bear Bistro

Charming little bistro in the middle of Vail, Colorado. Burritos are served all-day-long and they are a great deal at $10. The other local favorite item is their Gourmet Sandwiches. They are clocking in at $11.99, but have premium ingredients and a top-notch taste. Highly recommended that you try it at least once if you are looking for cheap eats in Vail, Co.

Website: https://www.bigbearbistro.com/

8. Alpine Burrito Company

The Alpine Burrito Company is one of those local places that we absolutely adore. They do one thing: make burritos. However, they do this one thing very well. Both the breakfast and lunch burritos cost $9.50. They are filling, tasty, and rather huge.

You can choose to have your burritos with either chicken, beef, or pork at no extra cost. We especially loved their pork burrito and found it a great choice.

Website: https://www.alpineburrito.com/

9. McDonald’s

What else can we say other than the name? You know it, you love it, or you hate it. But it’s McDonald’s. There is one in Vail and it’s the same affordable price as it is all around the US. We leave it up to you whether you want to visit it or not, but it simply can’t be missing from a list of cheap eats in Vail.

10. The George

The George is an awesome local pub. It’s the perfect place if you want to eat and drink at the same time. All of the pub classics are $14 or $15. These include favorites like Fish & Chips, Chicken Philly. and The King George, their own hamburger. They even have vegan options. Great for bigger groups where everyone is looking to get something different.

Great food and an even better atmosphere are what you’ll get when you eat at The George. We can wholeheartedly recommend a visit to this place.

Website: https://thegeorgevail.com/

Cheap Eats and Fun Skiing

Now that you know where to find the best cheap eats in Vail, CO, it’s time for you to get on those slopes and enjoy a day full of skiing. Coming off the mountain tired and hungry you can trust our list to find a great place where you can eat.

All this without spending too much. Enjoying Vail doesn’t have to be expensive after all. It’s easy to get lost in the many upscale, luxury, and fancy restaurants of Vail, but don’t let the fluff flatter you. These local favorites are at times even better than their overpriced counterparts.