The Dolomites, with both their awe-inspiring peaks and stunning landscapes, are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Nestled within this UNESCO World Heritage Site are charming towns and villages, each offering unique and unforgettable culinary experiences, including some of the most renowned Michelin star restaurants in Northern Italy. So join us as we tour the top ski resorts in the Dolomites guided by a gastronomic journey of some of the best restaurants in the Dolomites…
Best Restaurants In Alta Badia
In the stunning Dolomite mountains you’ll find Alta Badia, a hidden gem in the South Tyrol region of Italy. This marvellous area is fantastic for culinary enthusiasts and where we begin our foodie Dolomites travel guide. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes and world-class skiing, this charming alpine resort offers an extraordinary culinary scene. So without further ado, here are our best restaurants in Alta Badia:
La Stüa de Michil
The beginning of our list is La Stüa de Michil, a celebrated restaurant offering a sensory journey for your taste buds. Chef Simone Cantafio creates exceptional dishes that highlight the flavours of locally sourced ingredients. Influenced by their travels, they like to marry Western and Eastern cuisines, however always retaining a refined simplicity throughout. The dishes typically feature four to five ingredients, favouring a less is more approach. The welcoming, rustic ambiance of this 17th-century Stuben adds to its charm, making it an unforgettable dining experience. They also enlighten younger audiences with fine dining by offering a Young Gourmands discount. With this scheme, under 30s can experience the delectable tasting menu at a reduced price.
KELINA
Another gastronomic gem awaits at 2,200m, accessible via the Piz Boé chairlift. KELINA, open exclusively for lunch, offers a gourmet experience in a minimalist setting with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing breathtaking mountain views. The menu features a curated selection of dishes made with Alpine ingredients, crafted by a skilled chef to create an exciting culinary journey. An exceptional wine list complements the menu, with over 800 wine labels filling their impressive cellar. If you ever need to find a gluten free restaurant in Alta Badia, then quite notably the restaurant became the first in Val Badia to be certified by the Italian Celiac Association. This certification highlights their commitment to creating a safe gluten free environment. With all the above it mind, it makes KELINA a top Dolomites restaurant for lunch and a must-visit spot during your ski holiday in Alta Badia.
I Tablà
If you’re looking for hearty Ladin cuisine, then I Tablà is a must-visit. Sitting on a plateau between Corvara, La Villa and San Cassiano, the restaurant is at an altitude of 2,040m. Expect homemade barley soup dumplings, as well as generous portions of eggs-speck-potatoes and polenta with sausage. Of course, this all comes with the magical flair from their talented chefs. Located in the heart of Alta Badia, this mountain restaurant offers a diverse menu filled with wholesome, delicious dishes that showcase the best flavours of the Dolomites. Throughout winter, I Tablà also hosts regular Sommelier events, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the exquisite wines of Italy and South Tyrol.
Best Restaurants In Arabba
The picturesque village of Arabba offers stunning alpine landscapes, rich culinary traditions, and diverse dining options. Experience the warm hospitality of the Dolomites while savouring the best flavours of the region. There’s truly no better place for delectable eateries when staying in a Luxury Chalet in Arabba. Here are our top picks amongst the best restaurants in Arabba:
La Stua
Sitting in an incredible location right in the heart of the Sellaronda, La Stua perfectly captures the essence of the region’s cuisine, offering a charming mountain setting. The restaurant serves warming Ladin dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the Dolomites. From expertly prepared game meats, to pork knuckle with potato and cabbage, and fan favourites such as Wienerschnitzel, it provides an authentic Italian alpine culinary experience not to be missed.
Stube Ladina
Known for its cosy rustic atmosphere, Stube Ladina offers an elevated take on traditional Alpine cuisine. The menu showcases Tyrolean dishes, focusing on locally sourced ingredients. Expect hearty yet refined meals combining fresh produce, meats, and cheeses, with an emphasis on seasonal and sustainable offerings. The restaurant also provides a selection of regional wines that will pair exceptionally well with your meal.
Refuge Luigi Gorza
Positioned at the top of the Porta Vescovo lift at a dazzling 2,478m of altitude is Refuge Luigi Gorza. This welcoming mountain haven is known for its stunning alpine setting, traditional Italian hospitality, and spectacular views of the Marmolada glacier. The restaurant serves authentic mountain cuisine, with a menu comprising of classic regional dishes made from local ingredients. Enjoy comforting plates like polenta, speck, and homemade pastries, perfect after a day on the slopes or trekking through the breathtaking surroundings. The expansive sun terrace reveals equally breathtaking panoramic views that sweep the entire Sella Massif to the Tofane group, passing by the Bec de Roces.
Best Restaurants In Brunico
Brunico, the gateway to the Kronplatz ski area, has a rich medieval history. It has the most stunning views, alongside some of the best Michelin star restaurants in Northern Italy. It offers some great sightseeing after a day on the slopes and of course, some of the best restaurants in the Dolomites. Continue reading to see our list of amazing restaurants in Brunico…
Atelier Moessmer
Restaurant Atelier Moessmer exhibits a refined tasting experience, blending contemporary cuisine with local flavours. With 3 Michelin stars, and a Michelin Green star for it’s eco-conscious approach, it is the masterpiece of culinary legend Norbert Niederkofler. His “Cook the Mountain” ethos combines his global knowledge and experience with local ingredients for a truly exceptional experience, and undoubtedly marks it as one of the best restaurants in the Dolomites.
AlpINN
Niederkofler also brings his expertise to AlpINN, located within the “Lumen” building. A mountain refuge that’s also a photography museum, sitting at 2,000m in the Plan de Corones ski area. The restaurant offers stunning panoramic views, and a menu focused on sustainability, using local ingredients with a modern twist on Alpine classics. Despite its elevated mountain position, the restaurant is thankfully accessible for non-skiers. It is also conveniently located right next to a central lift hub, just a small walk across the snow, making it the perfect option if you’re looking for a Dolomites restaurant with a view.
Sichelburg
Sichelburg resides in a 14th-century castle just outside Brunico and has been under the management of Mirko Mair for the last 10 years. The restaurant blends South Tyrolean and Italian cuisine, focusing on high-quality, seasonal ingredients, for optimal quality. To complement, the wine list showcases both local South Tyrolean wines and renowned Italian labels. For the indecisive and adventurous, opt for a set course, where the chefs surprise you with a careful selection from their menu. In addition, the intimate atmosphere and panoramic views of the Dolomites make for the ideal setting to enjoy your meal.
Best Restaurants In Cortina
Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” is famous for stunning mountain views and world-class skiing, notably highlighted in our Insider’s Guide to Cortina. This charming town provides the perfect mix of dramatic landscapes, the Dolce Vita lifestyle, and highly regarded Dolomites restaurants. With a variety of dining options, it caters to every taste. Here, you can discover a blend of traditional alpine flavours and modern Italian cuisine at the best restaurants in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Tivoli
Located on the road to the Falzarego pass, Tivoli restaurant awaits your arrival at the foot of the Tofane mountains. This Michelin star restaurant in the Dolomites is a gem that has it all; from exquisite gastronomy to breathtaking surroundings. Chef Graziano Prest crafts captivating dishes, focusing on Mediterranean and alpine flavours using locally sourced ingredients. The pristine setting and attentive service undeniably enhances the gourmet experience. Your time there will be unforgettable, and an easy contender for one of the best restaurants in Cortina d’Ampezzo. Should you wish to bring their culinary magic into your own chalet, the restaurant can also arrange a private chef service. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a private party, the highly qualified chefs can cater to your every wish.
Baita Fraina
For an intimate dining journey in an enchanting alpine setting, Baita Fraina is certainly one to impress. Relish in hearty dishes of canederli, games meats and polenta, all with an elegant, elevated twist. The restaurant has a fantastic terrace where you can enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the Tofane mountains. With an extensive wine cellar featuring over 600 options, this charming refuge is a wonderful choice for those seeking exceptional traditional Ladin cuisine.
Alajmo Cortina
Another entry to the list of best restaurants in the Dolomites, a gastronomic experience that is a must-visit, is Alajmo Cortina. The restaurant is situated in the historic El Toulà building. An exceptional Haute cuisine experience with outstanding dishes prepared by a young, skilled, and enthusiastic team of chefs. Alajamo Cortina prides itself on serving the highest quality ingredients complemented by incredible vintage wines crafted by some of the most renowned wineries in the world. The menu features a decadent selection of dishes. You can expect things like, braised beef cheek, venison tartare with black truffle or even a bone marrow, caviar and champagne risotto. From our perspective, Alajmo Cortina is a must visit.
Best Restaurants In Selva Val Gardena
Selva Val Gardena, a resort that not only enchants with its towering mountain vistas, but also delights with its remarkable culinary offerings. The restaurant options here are an essential experience on a luxury ski holiday in Selva Val Gardena. Boasting the rich traditions of both Ladin and Italian cuisine, the scenic alpine village certainly packs a punch with the flavours of the South Tyrolian region, with options that further add to the star-studded list of Michelin restaurants in Northern Italy. Alongside the other wonderful Dolomites dining establishments, here are our choices for the best restaurants in Selva Val Gardena:
Dantercepies Mountain Lodge
Dantercepies Mountain Lounge offers typical Tyrolean cuisine in a stunning setting at 2,300 metres of altitude. Located at the top of the Gardena Pass, the lodge is accessible for skiers and non-skiers alike. With amazing vistas and a large terrace, it provides breathtaking views of the Sassolungo and Sella mountain groups. Moreover, it is easily accessible from Selva di Val Gardena, Passo Gardena, or Val Badia; the restaurant is reached via cable cars or chairlifts, so its the perfect spot for a unique restaurant in the Dolomites.
Nives
Restaurant Nives in Selva Val Gardena is one of the highlights of the local area. It offers an exceptional dining experience that combines local flavours with a refined touch. The chefs expertly blend traditional South Tyrolean cuisine with Mediterranean influences, focus on high-quality organic ingredients sourced from the region. Browsing the menu, guests will find a wide range of dishes, from local favourites like cheese dumplings, homemade potato gnocchi and porcini mushroom tagliatelle. Meat lovers have great options too, such as venison carpaccio and rack of lamb. The variety ensures a culinary experience that will delight every palate. The restaurant has a cosy and elegant atmosphere, as well as rustic alpine décor throughout, so it makes the perfect setting for a sophisticated meal when in Selva Val Gardena.
Suinsom
Suinsom in Selva Val Gardena is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering an exceptional culinary experience. Led by Chef Alessandro Martellini, the restaurant utilises local ingredients, as well as innovative culinary techniques. The refined menu highlights the authentic flavours of the Dolomites region. With meticulous attention to detail, the chef’s creativity earned Suinsom its prestigious star. Whether for special occasions or casual dining, Suinsom provides a remarkable experience. It flawlessly blends regional cuisine with world-class execution, ensuring a memorable experience for all guests. With enough room for only 22 covers, we highly recommend getting organised and booking well ahead.
Best Restaurants In Ortisei
Ortisei isn’t just known for its stunning selection of luxury chalets. Beyond its stunning landscapes and excellent skiing, it’s the final stop on our foodie Dolomites travel tour, because it’s a culinary gem offering the best flavours of the South Tyrolean valley. It’s a destination bursting with strong entries for our list of the best restaurants in the Dolomites. From traditional Ladin dishes to classic Italian delights, discover the best restaurants in Ortisei here…
Tubladel
Translated to ‘Hay Barn’, Tubladel is a historic and aged alpine hut, but it’s certainly not to be underestimated. The Michelin-starred restaurant creates unique and story-telling dishes promising to amaze you with every bite. Starters include venison tartare and stuffed courgette flowers, setting the stage for main courses like venison pappardelle and roast pork shank. The restaurant also offers a variety of homemade pastas, such as gnocchi, and gluten-free options to accommodate diverse dietary needs. They are also known for their unique method of cooking meat in a Catalan oven, using charcoal. Thriving on reinterpreting traditional dishes and giving them new character, Tubladel is a gastronomic experience you won’t forget in a hurry.
Zicoria Brasserie
Zicoria Brasserie is a fine dining restaurant that boasts a warm and elegant ambiance. It features a spacious wooden terrace that benefits from panoramic views of Ortisei Val Gardena, especially at sunset. The culinary offerings at Zicoria Brasserie are a harmonious blend of Alpine and Mediterranean cuisines. The menu includes a variety of regional and Mediterranean dishes crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients, with specialties in both fish and meat preparations. Signature dishes include lobster spaghetti and duck breast, which have been praised for their flavour and presentation.
Anna Stuben
Finally, we must address the Michelin-starred Anna Stuben, led by renowned Chef Reimund Brunner. The tasting menu takes guests on an exquisite journey through the culinary heritage of the Dolomites, with creative reinterpretations of forgotten ingredients. Anna Stuben guarantees an unforgettable experience, and her determination to achieve this means that Anna Stuben is undoubtedly among the best restaurants in the Dolomites. Guests can enjoy artfully plated dishes paired with a curated wine selection to enhance each course. Anna Stuben offers a perfect amalgamation of tradition, creativity, and world-class cuisine, making it a must-visit in Ortisei.
That concludes our list of the best restaurants in the Dolomites. Luxury ski holidays and fine dining go hand-in-hand, offering both adventure and indulgence. Across the region, world-class ski slopes are paired with exceptional gourmet experiences, blending locality with Michelin-starred excellence, creating an impressive collection of Dolomites restaurants. For unforgettable moments on and off the slopes, the Dolomites provide the ultimate alpine escape. Get in touch with our knowledgeable team of Ski Specialists to plan your mountain holiday in Italy. Give us a call on +44 1202 203650 or send an email.
