DISH

The who's who, and what's what of Aspen's dining scene

» NOODLES BY KENICHI is filling a long-standing void in the Aspen food scene by bringing fresh, custom-order salads and noodle bowls to its subterranean Cooper Avenue location. Expect Vietnamese pho, pineapple-coconut red curry, and locally sourced salads using 30 different ingredients. The kicker? The entire restaurant is built with reclaimed woods, and the to-go containers are biodegradable.

» DARK HORSE ALLEY French Press & Pastries, tucked into a 70-square foot outdoor garden space on Cooper Avenue, is giving Aspen some Seattle coffee flair. Vintage iron gates and winding flower bushes outline the tucked-away espresso stand, which dishes out treats like steaming lattes and  hot chutney-and-brie baguettes.

» Locals know that ZANE’S TAVERN has been a great spot to load up on tasty, low-priced tacos. But the secret’s out now that owner Eddie Zane is opening an authentic Mexican eatery in the location above the Hunter Street bar.

» Fall is the perfect time to head downvalley to sample the specials at some of the best local restaurants.  On Wednesdays, ELLA in Carbondale prepares a three-course menu, with an emphasis on local ingredients, for $28. SIX89 has an everything $12 bar menu, and Basalt eatery TEMPRANILLO  offers happy hour specials on tapas and martinis.

» Word is that Butch, of BUTCH’S LOBSTER BAR fame, has ditched Snowmass in favor of Basalt.  In August, the crustacean connoisseur took over the space of the former El Horizonte on Midland Avenue.

» Dena Marino’s beloved D19 is closing indefinitely while seeking new investors. Question is: Where will she land next?