Ajax Tavern

Situated at the base of Aspen Mountain within The Little Nell hotel, Ajax Tavern has defined après-ski culture in Aspen since its opening in 1989. One of more than 20 collaborations between Rowland+Broughton and Aspen Skiing Company over the past decade, this recent refresh builds upon an initial R+B renovation in 2007, deepening the tavern’s character while positioning it for the demands of a new generation of guests.

The renovation addresses both present needs and long-term operational flexibility. A new corner entry improves circulation and strengthens the restaurant’s presence along the gondola plaza, drawing guests naturally into the heart of the bar and reinforcing the communal atmosphere that has made Ajax Tavern a beloved Aspen institution. The original entry is retained for seamless service access between the patio and dining room.

Inside, flexibility was paramount. Existing booths and banquettes were preserved and complemented by a new central, divisible banquette set on casters, allowing the space to be swiftly reconfigured for private events and larger groups. A lightened color palette brightens the interior, while caramel-colored leather Sling Bar Stools by Industry West, natural light oak tabletops, and a custom mirror hung by leather straps animate the space with warmth and movement. A higher banquette along the rear wall offers elevated views over the main dining room and is among the best seats in the house.

Handcrafted details throughout reflect a distinctly Colorado sensibility. Custom banquette upholstery by Aspen Upholstery transitions from leather to fabric; matte black pendant fixtures with brass interiors and leather accents punctuate the ceiling; and handcrafted Industrial Glass tiles from Decorative Materials define the rear dining room wall and semi-open kitchen. Black leather Sling Barstools at the blackened steel bar and community table, along with sustainable Interface carpet, complete the interior and keep the interior practical for ski boots, while warm in atmosphere.

Glamorous yet relaxed, the sun-soaked terrace beside the Silver Queen Gondola is a front-row seat to the theater of Aspen Mountain and the backdrop for one of the most sought-after social scenes in town. Tuuci dual cantilever umbrellas cast generous shade over Outdoor Euro dining chairs, creating an alfresco setting that moves fluidly from leisurely mountain-view lunches to the festive, communal energy of the daily après crowd. As the lifts wind down and skis lean against the railing, the patio holds the ritual that has anchored Ajax Tavern for more than three decades.