hearty European-style bistro fare served in an unpretentious atmosphere
Arrive at Alta in time for first tracks, and by noon your stomach will be grumbling. Instead of wasting your ski break on pizza or basic burger at a ski cafeteria, step up your lunch and treat yourself at on-mountain bistro, Collins Grill.
Located mid-mountain on the third level of Watson Shelter, Collins Grill specializes in hearty European-style bistro fare served in an unpretentious atmosphere. Strip off your ski boots, change into cozy slippers, and take in mountain panoramas while you dine on chef-prepared cuisine paired with an extensive list of wine and spirits.
When Collins Grill first opened, it was at the forefront of local and sustainable cooking. Today, the shift toward sustainable is more pronounced, but Collins Grill is still a leader in keeping menus as local and sustainable as possible.
Dishes range from staple favorites to seasonal specialties with ingredients primarily sourced in Utah: eggs from Clifford Farm, organic beef and pork from Taylor Made Farms, cheese from Cache Valley, Salt Lake Roasting Company coffee, and local free-range elk.
Daily chef specials entice you to return again and again, and a Young Skier’s menu is available if you’re bringing the little ones along.
Of all the dishes on the varied, multi-course menu, here are a few of our favorites to try on your next visit:
1. Utah Trout Piccata
Utah is known for its flavorful pink trout, and in this outstanding dish, the fresh fillets come paired with white wine, butter, garlic, and caper broth served over fettuccine.
2. Daily Savory Tarte
Made fresh every day, the ever-changing flavors of this tarte make it a dish you’ll order again and again. The tarte starts with a flaky, buttery, French-style crust and is filled with Utah’s own Clifford Farm eggs and a variety of seasonal accoutrements.
3. Stuffed Acorn Squash
Looking for lunch on the lighter side or an app to start? Try this classic cooked veggie served halved and stuffed with jasmine rice, lentils, and coconut curry.
4. Free Range Elk Curry Stew
On a cold winter’s day, nothing is better for warming up than a hot bowl of stew. Collins Grill’s iteration features organic, free-range Utah elk simmered with curry, potatoes, and vegetables for a modern take on an old classic.
5. Veggie Meatloaf and Utah Meatloaf
Enjoy meatloaf just like mom used to make with this comfort food classic. The vegetarian variety comes filled with mushrooms, asparagus, red onions, peppers, walnuts, and a side of vodka-infused ketchup. Served with hearty mashed potatoes and green beans. The meat version is Utah-sourced and served with the same sides.
6. Spicy Lamb Skewers
For a hearty appetizer to keep you full on the hill, try these marinated skewers of Utah’s Morgan Valley lamb that come topped in a fresh, savory mint yogurt sauce.
An extensive list of red, white, and sparkling wines can go with every dish, and servers are happy to guide you in selecting a perfect pairing.
While not required, reservations are recommended at Collins Grill if you’re dining between noon and 2 p.m., and are vital on busy weekends and holidays. Whenever you choose to visit, Collins Grill wows not only with its white tablecloth, luxurious service on the slopes, but with its location. Ski right up and be sipping a glass of wine and dining on appetizers within minutes while taking in mountain views.
When you ski Alta, add lunch at Collins Grill and this entire list of dishes to your must list. You may never want to eat in the skier’s cafeteria again.
Written by Jenny Willden for RootsRated Media in partnership with Alta.
