Dining

Given the strong French influence and regional culinary traditions in Verbier and the surrounding Val de Bagnes region, it is difficult to find a poorly prepared meal. Prices, of course, will depend on the establishment’s relative position on the luxury scale. Be sure to try the local raclette, a soft, melted cheese that is continually replenished on your plate, and typically served with potatoes, pickles, vegetables and assorted meats. Raclette is especially nice when accompanied by one of the crisp, dry white wines of the local Valais region.

At Au Vieux Verbier (027-7711668; photo left) you’ll find good service, exquisite food, and a unique mountain class. Prices for dinner range from €30–€60. La Grange (027-7716431), in a space resembling an old Valais barn, has very affordable menus at lunch ranging from €11–€16. A full meal at dinner will run €35–€65. Au Vieux Valais (027-7753520), in the quintisential Swiss chalet, has a nice terrace, next to the Medran lift, with lunch menus for as little as €15. The full meal in the evening starts at about €25. L’Ecurie (027-7712760) in the center of the village serves traditional meals with a very affordable daily menu. Iron lamps and stone and stucco walls add Swiss atmosphere. We especially liked the The King’s Restaurant (027 775 20 35), a trendy restaurant with stuffed leather couches, roaring fireplace and arched windows. The candle-lit atmosphere matches its sophisticated menu of game, fish and innovative salads.

Barsalino’s Pizzeria (027 771 17 50) across from the Hotel Bristol has excellent pizzas cooked in a wood-burning oven. The food in Le Fer à Cheval (027 771 26 69) is inexpensive and good, with a lively atmosphere where English is usually the common language.For a cheap burger, head to Harold’s Hamburger (027 771 62 43), where you can check your email while you wait for your order.

In terms of on-mountain dining during the day, Verbier offers the wide variety typical in Europe. Gondola-station buffets share duty with numerous private restaurants dotted about the slopes. At least two restaurants, however, merit a special mention. At the Chez Dany (027-7712524) chalet just above Verbier, visitors enjoy unsurpassed vistas of the valley below from the outside deck. Try the “Croute au Fromage,” a piece of locally baked bread topped with ham and smothered in melted Swiss cheese, with a fried egg on top. Those skiing the Savoleyres area should try lunch at Le Marmotte restaurant halfway down the slope. The specialty-of-the-house pasta is röstis and the view from the outside deck is equally rewarding.