A little bit of everything at Lionshead’s Tavern on the Square

Ideally situated by the Eagle Bahn Gondola and Born Free Express in Lionshead Village, Tavern on the Square is an ideal location to unwind, fuel, indulge and linger during or after a day on the slopes or another of outdoor adventure. Featuring an eclectic sampling of gastropub fare, Tavern has achieved the dining sweet spot of offering something for almost any palate. From hearty comfort food to fun twists on street food and options in between, Tavern showcases elevated flavors with a creative spin.

Food and Beverage Director Chef Paul Wade, Executive Chef Nick Steger and their team take pride in their ability to reinvent the classics while encouraging culinary creativity.

“Our menu is about versatility and worldliness,” Wade explains. From grilled triple creme brie paired with huckleberry conserve to crispy pork belly banh mi sandwiches, the dishes balance familiar flavors with culinary flair.

For skiers looking to refuel, Tavern’s signature elk chili — rich, hearty and satisfying — pairs perfectly with a quick pint. On the other end of the spectrum, the short rib poutine is the definition of indulgence: savory gravy spills over tender short ribs and melty cheese curds onto golden fries, creating a hearty and decadent dish. One guest offered without prompting that the brisket on the nachos was perfect — as a home smoker himself, he knew.

Seafood lovers, too, can indulge in pescatarian preferences with options like the grilled calamari and scampi (which can double as a salad), classic fish and chips or the Asian-inspired tuna poke bowl. For those looking to fuel up for afternoon runs, the superfood salad, a nutrient-rich medley of Tuscan kale, quinoa, blueberries and strawberry-chia dressing, will provide the energy to tackle the back bowls. Each plate offers a fun and thoughtful perspective, showing that mountain fare can transcend expectations.

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“People don’t expect a tuna poke bowl in a ski village, but they love it,” says Tavern on the Square’s General Manager John Dooley.

As the Tavern’s wine list underscores, the experience is about more than just food. With an impressive selection that spans the globe — think a crisp Riesling from Washington’s Columbia Valley or a complex Rhône-style red — the staff delights in guiding guests toward the perfect pairing.

“It’s like a dance,” Dooley says, emphasizing the interplay of flavors between food and wine. “Sometimes the wine leads; in other cases, the cuisine leads. I enjoy helping guests on that journey.”

For those with a sweet tooth, the desserts are nothing short of decadent. The hot caramel bread pudding is a favorite, while the gluten-free Mexican hot chocolate cake — with a hint of chili for a subtle kick — provides a sweet ending to any meal.

But the appeal of Tavern on the Square isn’t just the menu; it’s the atmosphere, too. The expansive dining room and large communal tables encourage lingering, making it a great spot for groups to gather and swap stories from the slopes. Live music can provide a focus or a backdrop, depending on your mood.

“We welcome people to stay, enjoy and relax,” Dooley says. Whether it’s a quick bite before heading back to the lifts or a long, leisurely meal paired with good company, the Tavern on the Square is an ideal destination in Lionshead.