As winter descends again and those first glorious layers of powder cover the mountains of Whistler and Blackcomb, there’s more to look forward to than epic ski slopes and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Whistler’s abundance of excellent dining establishments won’t just feed you – they’ll provide a refuge from the cold and a taste of pure comfort. We couldn’t possibly cover them all here, but read on to learn about a few of our coziest restaurants and their hearty dishes that promise to both fill your belly and warm your soul.
Rimrock Cafe: Fine food and great service in an elegant atmosphere
The Rimrock Cafe is known as Whistler’s go-to for upscale fish and game with an inspired menu full of creative takes on familiar dishes. Come here to treat yourself to an elegant yet rustic ambiance, a wine cellar that’s reason enough to linger, and wait staff known for their attentive and accommodating service.
The Seared Scallops with house cured bacon, apple and leek puree & pickled charred leek are a great starter to awaken the taste buds, and the Beef Tenderloin Tartare is exquisite.
For your main course we recommend the Wild Salmon, or the Roasted Rack of Lamb covered with herb provençal and served with garlic mashed potatoes and a red wine demi. The Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Butter makes an excellent side.
Enjoy the picturesque scenery along with your evening of exceptional service and unforgettable cuisine, and be sure to book your reservation well in advance as you won’t be the only ones coming in from the cold.
Website: https://rimrockcafe.com/
IL Caminetto: Sophisticated and elegant Italian classics with a modern touch
The ambiance of this restaurant led by some of the country’s top chefs is as mellowed as a finely aged wine, perfectly reflected in its name, which is Italian for “the fireplace.” Exactly where you want to be to tuck yourself away from the winter chill.
Featuring an expertly curated 4-course menu Sunday through Thursday, as well as a modern alla carte menu that reimagines Italian classics, you’ll be hard pressed to choose because everything at Il Caminetto is superb.
Our personal favorite? The currently featured “Prix Fixe” four course menu.
Start things off with a cicchetti of sicilian olives accompanied by roasted tomatoes, chilies, herbs, and orange zest. Next up, your antipasti. How about the Whistler Harvest Mushroom Risotto? Lavishly garnished with grana padano, chives, porcini, and truffle essence, this dish embodies warmth and comfort.
Now for your secondi. We can’t help but recommend the Tagliatelle Bolognese made with Brant Lake wagyu beef. Pair this dish with a recommendation from Il Caminetto’s wine experts and you’ll be in heaven.
And finally, your dolci: the tiramisu is fantastic, but why not try something new with the Torta Caprese. Hazelnut whipped ganache with candied hazelnuts and spiced chantilly cream?
“Molto bello!”
Website: https://www.ilcaminetto.ca/
Wild Blue Restaurant + Bar: Show stopping fine dining
Wild Blue is a relative newcomer to the culinary scene, but that hasn’t stopped it from quickly becoming known as one of the best restaurants in BC led by industry veterans and top chefs. This is elevated Pacific Northwest seafood cuisine at its finest, with a focus on sustainable and local ingredients.
Start things off with oysters harvested from the coastal waters of BC, or the divine caviar with creme fraiche, potato blini and smoked salmon. Choose from a number of mouthwatering appetizers like poached Dungeness crab with louie sauce or an Autumn Carrot Soup with hazelnut chantilly.
Move on to some house-made pasta or indulge in an entree of Pan Roasted Ling Cod or the to-die-for Sablefish with turnip, radish, maitake mushroom, sesame, and roasted fish bone sauce. For dessert, we recommend the Toffee Pudding with candied walnut, dates, almond streusel, salted caramel ice cream, and toffee sauce.
Keep a glass of champagne at your side and enjoy the culinary mastery at Wild Blue.
Website: https://www.wildbluerestaurant.com/
Aloha Whistler Accommodation and Itineraries
With options ranging from romantic and sophisticated to casual and family friendly, featuring establishments that emphasize local products and farm-to-table quality, and with every culinary region of the world represented here in Whistler, there’s truly something for everyone.
So replace the chill of the outdoors with the warmth of good company, great food, and the flickering allure of the open fire–and get in touch with Aloha Whistler to plan your exploration of Whistler’s winter culinary delights.
