Top Ten Eats & Drinks in Whistler

I can honestly say that of all the ski towns I’ve been to in the world, none caters to foodies like Whistler does. The world of tastes and ingredients from nearby Vancouver, paired with the passionate farmers of small town Pemberton, and the proximity of Okanagan wine country have all turned Whistler into a gourmet destination. After a hard day’s work of skiing the largest ski terrain on the planet, I had no problem eating and drinking my way through the town below. The following were my favorites:

10. Schramm Vodka @ Pemberton Distillery Distilled from organic potatoes grown in the shadow of Whistler Mountain. A rising star among locals and the seasonal ski crowds, Pemberton’s spirits have worked their way on to many Whistler restaurant and bar menus.

9. Asiago & Fontina Fondu @ Chalet Fairmont Whistler  Always the traditionalist with fondue, I make a serious exception for this adventurous take on the alpine classic. Sharp, flavorful with a sweet touch of kirsch, it’s the ultimate comfort food in the ultimate comfort setting.

8. Giant slice of “Mexican” @ Misty Mountain Pizza Best deal in Whistler village, for $3.50, an amazing piece of pizza that’s bigger than you’re head and loaded with toppings.

7. Breakfast wrap @ Mogul’s Coffee  Whistler’s own anti-Starbucks keeps the snowboarders in caffeine and cookies, but their repertoire of wraps is equally famous.

6. “Bergamot” brandy cocktail @ Alta Bistro The most delicate tipple in town: vanilla bean-infused brandy, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, earl grey and lemon with lemon zest.

5. SASS roll @ Sushi Village S.A.S.S. = Shrimp tempura, Avocado, Scallop and Salmon. Sushi Village is by far the best splurge in town.

4. Nitro Ice Cream @ Bearfoot Bistro Vanilla bean ice cream whipped into creamy thickness using liquid nitrogen. Molecular gastronomy never tasted so good.

3. Buffalo Spare Ribs @ Rimrock Café Appetizer of meal, these bourbon barbecue sauce served with pomegranate-glazed yam. Delicious.

2. Bacon Cesar @ GLC (Girabaldi Lift Company) One heavily-garnished, hot and spicy après-ski cocktail. Perfectly paired with a gigantic plate of nachos.

1. Yarrow Farm Duck Breast @ Araxi Whistler’s famous foodie stalwart has become a classic for a reason. You can’t go wrong anywhere on their menu but this decadent dish was a personal favorite—served with soft saffron gnocchi and vegetables grown down the road. Delicious.