Whistler is a popular ski town amongst Australians and fortunately for Whistler, they're bringing a little taste of home to the mountains in the form of Australian meat pies. Owners Kerri and Alex opened Peaked Pies so that other Aussies (like Kerri) could bite into a piece of home, while sharing the joy with the rest of Whistler. These flaky bundles are filled with quality ingredients and are made in-house daily. Want something simple? Opt for the traditional pie that's filled with ground beef, onions and gravy. For something a little more bold, try the butter chicken pie. If you're extra hungry, get "Peaked" and they'll top your pie with mashed potato, mushy green peas and finish it with gravy. Also on the menu are vegetarian options, breakfast pies, rolls, and sweets.
Recommended for Whistler's Best Restaurants because: As the name suggests, Peaked Pies is all about flaky Australian meat (and vegetarian) pies. Come here for a quick and hearty meal.
Natasha's expert tip: If you can't make it to Whistler, you can enjoy their pies when you're in Vancouver.
Open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, Elements Urban Tapas Parlour is a local favourite, any time of day. The open kitchen gives diners a sneak peek into the action and the warm atmosphere provides a neighborly feel. This locally-inspired restaurant has a heavy focus on creating dishes that are made to be shared and enjoyed like tapas. From fresh fish, seared meats and seasonal vegetables, there's no shortage of choice here. They're also committed to providing vegetarian, gluten-free and organic menu options so that everyone leaves pleasantly satisfied. While you may be tempted to order one of everything, make sure to save room for dessert.
Recommended for Whistler's Best Restaurants because: Elements Urban Tapas Parlour is one of the most popular places for brunch so get there early!
Natasha's expert tip: Seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis, but if you want to know how long the wait is, give them a call and they'll let you know.
If it's lunch with a view you're after, it's Christine's on Blackcomb you need. This full-service restaurant can be found at the top of the Solar Coaster Express in the Rendezvous Restaurant on Blackcomb Mountain. At 1,860 meters up (6,102 feet), it's safe to say that the panoramic views here are nothing short of spectacular. Whether you're stopping for lunch after a morning of skiing, or taking a ride up during the summer months, it's a lovely spot to stop and refuel. To eat, Christine's gives diners both fresh and comforting options that are creative and chockful with interesting ingredients. Because they use local, the menu changes seasonally. Winter or summer, you'll likely find a healthy offering of seafood, meat and some vegetarian options. Also on offer is a solid selection of wine, beer and drinks.
Recommended for Whistler's Best Restaurants because: Not only does Christine's make delicious and beautifully plated dishes, the view is unparalleled.
Natasha's expert tip: They can accommodate larger groups. If that's you, it's best to contact them ahead. Also, they aren't open for dinner.
When you're in the mood for casual and comforting, Creekbread is the place to go. These organic pizzas are loaded with local and seasonal ingredients, including free range chicken and nitrate-free meats. After your pizza has been adorned with tasty ingredients, it put into a wood-fired, clay oven and cooked to perfection. Located in Whistler's Creekside Village, it's just a short bus ride or drive from Whistler's main Village. These guys are super passionate about making a difference in their community and host a benefit night each week, where they donate a portion of the proceeds to a local cause.
Recommended for Whistler's Best Restaurants because: Not only are Creekbread's pizzas delicious, they're loaded with organic, free range and nitrate-free toppings.
Natasha's expert tip: They have gluten-free pizza crusts here that you can request.
The Four Seasons' SIDECUT Modern Steak+Bar has a fresh approach to "mountain lodge decor". Stone, leather and wood elements fill the space, but the accents of vibrant mosaic tiles and a rich color palette add a liveliness. SIDECUT's crowning glory (when it comes to atmosphere and decor) is a year-round terrace complete with fire pit that's perfect to sit around post-dinner. SIDECUT is known for their steaks and after one bite, you'll know why. Their beef is aged 40 days and grilled at 1800 degrees on an infrared grill so each steak is cooked just the way you like it. Steaks are served a la carte with their delicious signature sauces. Complete your meal with one (or a couple) of their side dishes. If you're not in the mood for steak, they have lighter options as well.
Recommended for Whistler's Best Restaurants because: Sidecut Restaurant's outdoor seating and live music are an added bonus on a warm day.
Natasha's expert tip: If you've got some vegetarians dining with you, they also have a vegetarian menu.
The Toptable Group is no stranger to Whistler. Bar Oso's sister restaurant, Araxi, has been a destination restaurant and local favorite for years now. Their younger sister, Bar Oso, provides diners with a taste of Spain in this ski village. Serving an array of Spanish-influenced tapas, small plates, and house-made charcuterie, you're in for a real treat. The stocked bar keeps thirst at bay by offering bubbles, wine, beer, and cocktails. While the weather outside may be chilly, a glass of their sangria will warm you right up. Fun fact? The name "oso" is a nod to Whistler's wildlife and means "bear" in Spanish.
Recommended for Whistler's Best Restaurants because: Bar Oso brings Spanish-influenced tapas to Whistler and is the perfect place to go to nibble and sip the night away.
Natasha's expert tip: They have a private room available for parties and large groups.
After a cold day on the slopes, beat the chill with a warm and spicy serving of slow-cooked curry. When it comes to Indian food, Tandoori Grill is Whistler's go-to restaurant. Start your meal with onion bhajis, pakoras or vegetable samosas while you look over the extensive menu. With plenty of choice, it's nice to go with a few people so you can order a variety of dishes. Yogurt and spice marinated tandoori meats are always moist, flavorful and tender, but rich and satisfying tikka masala and korma options are equally tempting. Chicken and vegetarian dishes shine here. Whether you like to turn up the heat or dial it down, there are both hot and mellow options to choose from.
Recommended for Whistler's Best Restaurants because: While Tandoori Grill Indian Cuisine isn't a vegetarian restaurant, they've got vegetarians more than covered with multiple delicious options.
Natasha's expert tip: If you don't want to dine in, you can order dishes to go.
A cozy bistro is a welcome reprieve on any day, but there's something extra inviting after you've spent hours on the hill. The Red Door Bistro in Whistler is a delicious spot to relax while you tuck into one of Chef RD Stewart's dishes. The food here is rich and comforting, perfect for that post-ski hunger. On the menu, you'll find local produce, meat, and fish options for a taste of British Columbia. While the menu has a lot of meat options to choose from, there are also a couple of vegetarian options too. Make sure to save room for their decadent desserts that are made in-house.
Recommended for Whistler's Best Restaurants because: The Red Door Bistro is known for their delicious food and the duck confit spring rolls rank high on the list.
Natasha's expert tip: When the weather suits, they have a lovely patio to enjoy.
Having been around since 1987, the Rimrock Cafe is a Whistler icon. This local gem has consistently rated as one of Whistler's top restaurants by multiple outlets, so it's safe to say that you're in good hands with chef and owner Rolf Gunther. The space itself exudes a rustic elegance that's synonymous with dreamy mountain resort towns. The charming and cozy space sets the tone for a beautiful meal. Fresh seafood adorns the menu, providing a solid selection of dishes that make decision time a challenge. From freshly shucked oysters and seared scallops for starters, to grilled salmon with lobster and duck "two ways" to follow, you'll want to bring your appetite to the Rimrock Cafe.
Recommended for Whistler's Best Restaurants because: If you want to see what the Pacific Northwest's cuisine is all about, Rim Rock Cafe treats diners to a taste of British Columbia.
Natasha's expert tip: Reservations are strongly encouraged.
Attracting a well-heeled crowd, Araxi Restaurant + Oyster Bar is one of the best spots in town. This high-end restaurant serves incredible food and has been a leader of the farm-to-table movement over the years. At the helm is Chef James Walt, a passionate locavore. Chef Walt lives in nearby Squamish where he works with local farmers to source and pick the ingredients that show up on Araxi's menu. Because of this, you'll find local and seasonal ingredients throughout each dish. Here, it's not just about eating and enjoying the flavors, it's about taking in the experience with all of your senses. Each dish is as satisfying on the eyes as they are the palate. Thirsty? The abundant wine cellar is well stocked with a beautiful selection of fine wines.
Recommended for Whistler's Best Restaurants because: Whether you're celebrating something special or toasting to the good times, Araxi Restaurant + Oyster Bar is the place to do it.
Natasha's expert tip: During the summer months, they host a longtable dinner series that is a spectacular! Imagine the most beautiful food, paired with exquisite wine, and topped with an epic view.