Key Takeaways
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Brian Head offers diverse dining from fine dining at Double Black Diamond Restaurant to casual cafeteria-style options at resort lodges
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Most restaurants are located within ski resorts and lodges, with Cedar Breaks Lodge and Brian Head Resort housing the majority of dining establishments
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Several restaurants operate seasonally, with Last Chair Grill & Brews and Navajo Coffee Corner closed for the 2024/25 season, reflecting the challenges of maintaining year-round operations in mountain resort communities
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Dining prices tend to be higher than average, but portions are generous and most locations offer stunning mountain views
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Outside food and beverages are prohibited in most lodge dining areas
Nestled at 9,800 feet elevation in Utah’s stunning alpine landscape, Brian Head offers a unique mountain dining experience that perfectly complements its world-class outdoor recreation. Whether you’re hitting the slopes at Brian Head Resort or exploring the breathtaking Cedar Breaks National Monument, the restaurant scene here caters to every appetite and budget. From upscale steakhouse fare with panoramic mountain vistas to quick grab-and-go options perfect for active adventurers, Brian Head Utah restaurants deliver both convenience and quality in an unforgettable setting. Centro Woodfired Pizzeria, located nearby, adds to the variety with its wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads served in a lively atmosphere.
The dining landscape in Brian Head reflects the rhythm of mountain life, with most establishments operating seasonally and hours that change with the flow of visitors. Understanding where to eat, when restaurants are open, and what to expect will help you make the most of your culinary experience in this charming alpine community.
Fine Dining Restaurants in Brian Head
For visitors seeking an elevated dining experience, The Double Black Diamond Restaurant stands as Brian Head’s premier upscale option. Located within the elegant Cedar Breaks Lodge & Spa, this restaurant transforms mountain dining into a sophisticated culinary adventure that rivals any urban establishment. Guests at the Lodge can also enjoy amenities such as a sauna and steam room, enhancing the overall dining and relaxation experience. Breakfast at the Restaurant at Cedar Breaks Lodge is served from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., offering a perfect start to a day of mountain adventures.
Chef Toni Gordillo has earned recognition throughout the region for his innovative approach to mountain cuisine, with his famous Short Ribs becoming a signature dish that draws food enthusiasts from across Utah. The restaurant’s gourmet burgers, enhanced with house-made umami dust, represent a perfect fusion of casual mountain fare elevated to fine dining standards. Each dish benefits from the chef’s attention to detail and commitment to using quality ingredients that can withstand the logistical challenges of high-altitude cooking.
The Double Black Diamond operates with specific hours designed to accommodate both early mountain risers and evening diners. Breakfast service runs from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM, perfect for fueling up before a day on the slopes, while dinner service from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM allows guests to unwind with a delicious meal after their mountain adventures. The restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows provide stunning views of both Brian Head and Cedar Breaks, creating an ambiance where the natural beauty of the location becomes part of the dining experience.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak ski season and summer months when the restaurant draws both resort guests and day visitors. The combination of limited seating and exceptional food means that securing a table in advance ensures you won’t miss out on what many consider the best restaurant experience in Brian Head.
Brian Head Resort Dining Options
Brian Head Resort operates multiple dining locations throughout its expansive property, each designed to provide convenient access to quality food without requiring guests to leave the mountain. It’s important to note that the resort maintains a strict policy prohibiting outside food and beverages in all lodge dining areas, ensuring that guests experience the full range of culinary offerings available on-site.
The resort’s dining hours may vary during holidays and peak times, and menu items are subject to change based on seasonal availability and supply logistics inherent to mountain operations. This flexibility allows the resort to maintain quality while adapting to the unique challenges of high-altitude food service.
Lift Bar and Patio @ Brian Head Lodge
Strategically positioned on the second floor near the Navajo Express Lift, the Lift Bar and Patio offers one of the most convenient dining locations for active guests. The restaurant’s proximity to the lift system means skiers can grab a quick bite or settle in for a leisurely meal without straying far from the action. The menu features appetizers, burgers, and sandwiches, catering to a variety of tastes and appetites. The Lift Bar and Patio serves dinner daily from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., making it a great option for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
The menu focuses on crowd-pleasing favorites that satisfy hearty mountain appetites. Appetizers provide perfect sharing options for groups, while the gourmet burgers have earned particular praise for their quality and generous portions. Sandwiches offer lighter alternatives, and the buffalo wings deliver the perfect combination of heat and flavor that pairs beautifully with the mountain’s crisp air.
Operating hours accommodate both early risers and evening diners, with breakfast service from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM and dinner from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for groups with children, while the full bar service ensures adults can refresh themselves with their favorite beverages after a day of mountain activities.
The patio seating, when weather permits, provides an unmatched outdoor dining experience where guests can soak in the mountain views while enjoying their meal. The combination of convenient location, quality food, and stunning scenery makes this restaurant a favorite among both resort guests and day visitors.
Patio Grill & Brews
Located at the scenic Giant Steps Patio, Patio Grill & Brews offers a quintessential mountain dining experience that celebrates outdoor living. The restaurant specializes in grilled items that capture the essence of outdoor cooking, with each dish prepared to complement the fresh mountain air and spectacular views.
The cold draft beer selection features both local Utah brews and popular national brands, providing the perfect refreshment for guests who want to stay hydrated while enjoying the mountain atmosphere. The grilled specialties showcase classic mountain fare prepared with care and attention to flavor profiles that satisfy hungry outdoor enthusiasts.
The outdoor dining atmosphere represents everything visitors love about mountain dining – the opportunity to enjoy delicious food while surrounded by some of Utah’s most spectacular scenery. When the weather cooperates, few dining experiences can match the simple pleasure of enjoying a cold beer and grilled meal while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Casual Dining and Bar Options
Cedar Breaks Bar & Grill serves as the heart of casual dining within Cedar Breaks Lodge, offering a cozy atmosphere that perfectly balances comfort with quality. This restaurant has built a loyal following among both guests and locals who appreciate its consistent food quality and welcoming environment. Rosales Mexican Food, a family-run restaurant nearby, complements the local dining scene with its authentic Mexican dishes, providing another flavorful option for visitors.
The menu features several standout items that have become guest favorites over the years. The chicken salad provides a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, while the chicken Alfredo pasta delivers rich, satisfying comfort food perfect for mountain dining. The bison burger offers a unique taste of the region, showcasing local flavors in a format that appeals to adventurous diners. Fish & chips round out the popular options, providing a classic preparation that consistently delivers quality results.
Vegetarian options are admittedly limited, reflecting the challenges many mountain restaurants face in providing diverse dietary accommodations while managing complex supply chains. However, the generous portion sizes ensure that diners get excellent value, and the kitchen staff often accommodates special dietary requests when possible.
Service at Cedar Breaks Bar & Grill has earned particular praise, with servers like Kenny and Jon frequently mentioned in guest reviews for their friendly, attentive approach. This personal touch adds significantly to the overall dining experience, creating the kind of mountain hospitality that keeps visitors returning year after year.
Pricing tends toward the higher side, which is typical for mountain resort dining where transportation costs and seasonal operations impact overall expenses. However, most guests find the prices reasonable when considering the generous portions, quality ingredients, and unique mountain setting. The wine selection, while limited, focuses on bottles that pair well with the menu offerings and mountain dining preferences. The Restaurant at Cedar Breaks Lodge & Spa is open nightly from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, providing a consistent option for evening dining.
The restaurant operates on a no-reservation policy, encouraging guests to arrive early during peak dining times to secure seating. Bar hours may be limited compared to urban establishments, so guests planning evening drinks should check current hours to avoid disappointment.
Quick Service and Cafeteria-Style Dining
For visitors who prioritize convenience and speed without sacrificing quality, Brian Head’s quick service options provide excellent solutions. These cafeteria-style establishments understand that active mountain guests often need efficient service that allows them to fuel up quickly and get back to their adventures.
The grab-and-go convenience offered by these establishments proves invaluable for skiers who want to maximize their time on the slopes or hikers planning extended outdoor excursions. The format allows guests to browse options at their own pace and select combinations that match their specific appetite and schedule.
Giant Steps Cafeteria
Situated on the 2nd floor of Giant Steps Lodge, this cafeteria provides easy access for guests staying in the lodge or visiting the area’s recreational facilities. The location’s elevation offers pleasant views while guests enjoy their meals, adding visual appeal to the practical dining experience.
The cafeteria-style menu covers all the essential comfort foods that mountain visitors crave. Burgers remain a perennial favorite, prepared with attention to quality despite the high-volume service model. Grilled chicken sandwiches provide a healthier protein option, while chicken tenders appeal to families with children who prefer familiar flavors.
Fresh salads offer lighter alternatives for guests who want to balance their mountain dining with healthier choices. The grab-and-go options extend beyond main courses to include hot and cold drinks that help guests stay properly hydrated at altitude, along with beer for those looking to relax after their mountain activities. Snacks provide convenient energy boosts for guests planning extended outdoor adventures.
The quick service model means minimal wait times, even during busy periods. This efficiency makes Giant Steps Cafeteria particularly popular with skiers who want to grab lunch without losing valuable slope time, and with families who need to feed children quickly and efficiently.
Navajo Cafeteria
Located within Navajo Lodge, this cafeteria serves both breakfast and lunch crowds with a menu designed around mountain dining preferences. The breakfast offerings include satisfying breakfast sandwiches that provide substantial fuel for morning activities, whether guests plan to ski, hike, or explore the surrounding area. The lunch menu mirrors many of the popular items found throughout Brian Head’s dining scene: burgers that satisfy hearty appetites, grilled chicken sandwiches for lighter fare, chicken tenders for families, and fresh salads for health-conscious diners.
The lunch menu mirrors many of the popular items found throughout Brian Head’s dining scene: burgers that satisfy hearty appetites, grilled chicken sandwiches for lighter fare, chicken tenders for families, and fresh salads for health-conscious diners. This consistency ensures that guests know they can find familiar, reliable options regardless of which lodge they choose for their meal.
Grab-and-go convenience items make Navajo Cafeteria particularly valuable for guests with busy itineraries or those planning to take food with them for outdoor activities. The variable hours during holidays and peak times reflect the restaurant’s commitment to serving guests when demand is highest, though visitors should verify current operating status to avoid disappointment.
Seasonal Restaurant Closures
Understanding seasonal operations is crucial for planning dining experiences in Brian Head. For the 2024/25 season, two popular establishments remain closed: Last Chair Grill & Brews and Navajo Coffee Corner. These closures reflect the economic realities of mountain resort dining, where seasonal demand patterns make year-round operation challenging for some venues. Last Chair Grill & Brews at Brian Head Resort is closed for the 24/25 season, but it is expected to reopen in the following season, offering its popular menu once again.
Both restaurants are expected to reopen for the next season, though specific dates depend on various factors including staffing availability, supply chain logistics, and anticipated visitor volumes. These establishments have been popular in previous seasons, so their temporary closure represents a noticeable gap in the local dining landscape.
Visitors planning trips to Brian Head should check current operating status for all restaurants before making dining plans. Mountain resort operations can change quickly based on weather conditions, staffing levels, and seasonal transitions. Staying informed about which establishments are currently open helps avoid disappointment and allows for better meal planning.
The resort and lodge management typically announce reopening plans well in advance, so staying tuned to official communications ensures visitors won’t miss the return of these popular dining options. Social media channels and resort websites provide the most up-to-date information about seasonal dining availability.
Local Shopping and Convenience
Beyond the restaurant scene, Brian Head offers several local convenience stores that provide essential items for dining and daily needs. These establishments fill important gaps in the mountain community’s services, offering everything from wine and toiletries to gifts and souvenirs that help visitors remember their mountain experience.
The availability of wine at local stores provides valuable flexibility for guests who want to enjoy beverages in their rooms or during private gatherings. Toiletries and other personal items help visitors who may have forgotten essentials or who need replacements during extended stays.
The gift and souvenir selection allows visitors to take home postcards and mementos that capture the unique character of Brian Head. These items often feature local landmarks, wildlife, and scenic vistas that help preserve memories of the mountain experience long after the trip ends.
Staff at these local establishments typically embody the friendly, helpful attitude that characterizes mountain communities. They often provide valuable local knowledge about dining hours, seasonal closures, and special events that can enhance visitors’ overall experience. This personal touch adds to the welcoming atmosphere that makes Brian Head memorable beyond just its restaurants and recreational opportunities.
The convenience these stores provide proves especially valuable for evening dining preparations, allowing guests to supplement restaurant meals with snacks, beverages, or specialty items that enhance their mountain stay.
Local Attractions and Activities
Brian Head, Utah is the perfect year-round destination for anyone looking to get outdoors and unwind. You’ll find Cedar Breaks Lodge right in the heart of the Dixie National Forest, and it’s basically your home base for exploring everything this amazing area has to offer. Whether you’re here for adventure or just want to chill out, we’ve got you covered.
Adventure is literally right outside your door when you stay at Cedar Breaks, a Hilton Vacation Club. The forests and trails around here are perfect for hiking and mountain biking, or you can just breathe in that fresh alpine air. When winter hits, Brian Head turns into a total snow paradise with world-class skiing and snowboarding just minutes away from your room. Want to see some incredible landscapes? Cedar Breaks National Monument is only four miles from the resort – those dramatic rock formations and panoramic views are absolutely worth the trip.
Looking to explore even more? Zion National Park is about 50 miles away, making it a perfect day trip for hiking, canyoneering, or just taking in those jaw-dropping views. After a full day of adventures, you’ll want to grab some food back in Brian Head. Cedar Breaks Bar & Grill serves up amazing burgers and grill favorites, or you can relax with a drink on the patio at the Lift Bar – the mountain views and friendly atmosphere make for the perfect end to your day.
Need to recharge after all that outdoor fun? The spa at Cedar Breaks Lodge has everything you need, including a full treatment menu plus access to a sauna and steam room. Perfect for working out those sore muscles after hitting the trails or slopes. The resort also has a heated indoor pool and convenient ski storage, so you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable mountain getaway.
Brian Head Town has events happening all year long – from live music at local spots to outdoor festivals and seasonal concerts. Whether you’re traveling with family or looking for a fun night out, there’s always something going on nearby. Prices vary for different activities and attractions, so you’ll find options that work for your budget. Just make sure to check current hours and event schedules since they change with the seasons.
Cedar Breaks, a Hilton Vacation Club is located at 223 Hunter Ridge Road, putting you right in the center of all the action. The cedar-lined surroundings and rustic charm make it easy to escape everyday life and really connect with nature. With the unbeatable location, great amenities, and excellent food and drinks, Cedar Breaks Lodge is your perfect choice for a mountain adventure. Whether you’re here for outdoor thrills, spa relaxation, or just a cozy room with amazing views, your Brian Head experience is going to be one you’ll want to repeat.
FAQ
What are the operating hours for restaurants in Brian Head?
Restaurant hours vary significantly by establishment and season. The Double Black Diamond Restaurant serves breakfast from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and dinner from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Lift Bar and Patio operates breakfast from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM and dinner from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Cafeteria-style venues typically maintain longer hours to accommodate various meal times, but all establishments may adjust hours during holidays, peak times, and seasonal transitions. Always verify current hours before visiting, as mountain weather and operational needs can cause unexpected changes.
Can I bring outside food into Brian Head resort restaurants?
No, outside food and beverages are prohibited in all lodge dining areas throughout Brian Head Resort. This policy ensures food safety standards and supports the resort’s dining operations. However, guests can typically bring their own food and drinks to their lodge rooms or outdoor areas not designated as restaurant spaces. The policy applies specifically to established dining venues within the lodges and resort facilities.
Are reservations required at Brian Head restaurants?
Reservation policies vary by restaurant type and season. The Double Black Diamond Restaurant highly recommends reservations, especially during peak ski season and summer months, due to limited seating and high demand. Cedar Breaks Bar & Grill operates on a no-reservation policy with first-come, first-served seating. Cafeteria-style venues like Giant Steps and Navajo don’t typically accept reservations due to their quick-service format. During peak times, arriving early for dinner service generally ensures better availability at restaurants that don’t accept reservations.
What restaurants in Brian Head offer vegetarian options?
Most Brian Head restaurants offer some vegetarian choices, though options are generally limited compared to urban dining scenes. Cedar Breaks Bar & Grill includes vegetarian-friendly items like salads and pasta dishes, while cafeteria venues typically offer fresh salads and some sandwich options that can accommodate vegetarian diets. The Double Black Diamond Restaurant can often accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. However, dedicated vegan or extensive vegetarian menus are not widely available, reflecting the supply chain and demographic challenges common to mountain resort dining.
Which Brian Head restaurants are currently closed for the 2024/25 season?
Last Chair Grill & Brews and Navajo Coffee Corner are closed for the entire 2024/25 season. Both establishments are expected to reopen for the following season, though specific reopening dates haven’t been announced. These seasonal closures are common in mountain resort communities where operating costs and seasonal demand patterns make year-round operation challenging for some venues. Visitors should check current operating status for all restaurants, as mountain operations can change based on weather, staffing, and other operational factors beyond normal seasonal patterns.
