Mezzaluna

Mezzaluna Restaurant Review:

A big circular bar, walls mounted with dozens of original Italian artworks, a patio and windows that overlook the streetscape and the peaks above make this one of the most popular see-and-be-seen destinations in Aspen, especially après ski. As happy hour turns into dinnertime, the room pulsates with city-slicker crowds ordering rock shrimp penne with avocado and citrus cream sauce, sesame-crusted ahi over roasted sweet potatoes in wasabi vinaigrette and, above all, pizzas from the wood-burning oven, paired with wines. Lump crab cakes with seasonal condiments are a popular signature starter, while the banana bread pudding, dolloped with vanilla ice cream, charms dessert fans. Reservations are only taken for parties of six or more, so prepare for a wait at the height of ski season.