Element 47 at The Little Nell, Aspen

Nestled in the heart of Aspen’s vibrant core, Element 47 at The Little Nell delivers a sensory journey steeped in Colorado’s alpine elegance and bold culinary flair. This Michelin Guide-recommended restaurant sits within one of Aspen’s most esteemed hotels, where luxurious hospitality meets contemporary mountain style. With a commitment to excellence and a menu that champions regional ingredients, Element 47 is a destination in its own right.

A Setting Steeped in Sophistication

Step inside Element 47 and the refinement is palpable. From the modern art adorning its walls to the soft glow of the seasonal fireplace, every detail feels thoughtfully curated. The space strikes a balance between intimate and expansive. Whether seated in the sleek dining room or lounging outside on the shaded patio known as The Nest, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere that invites long conversations and leisurely dining.

The restaurant’s name nods to Aspen’s storied silver mining history. Element 47 on the periodic table is silver, and here, the heritage of the town subtly informs the luxurious experience. It is a concept that is present in more than just the name; it flows through the polished service, the glint of glassware, and the meticulous care evident in every plate.

Colorado Contemporary Cuisine at Its Peak

Element 47’s culinary identity is rooted in what Executive Chef Matt Zubrod describes as Colorado Contemporary cuisine. This is a style that draws inspiration from the region’s rugged terrain, its passionate purveyors, and the seasonal rhythm of the Rocky Mountains. The result is a menu that is simultaneously refined and grounded.

Signature ingredients include locally raised Wagyu beef, wild mushrooms, and house-made pastas. Star dishes such as the Nell Wagyu with mushrooms, olives, and beef jus, and the hazelnut cavatelli with rabbit ragù and fennel capture the essence of the kitchen’s approach: technique-driven yet accessible, hearty yet elegant.

For those looking to sample a range of flavors, the restaurant offers a Chef’s Inspiration Menu, a multi-course experience designed to reflect the creativity of the kitchen. While the concept promises an immersive tasting, feedback from recent diners suggests it may benefit from a more curated execution.

A Wine Program to Rival the Best

Element 47 has long been known for its stellar wine offerings. The bar’s back wall sparkles with an impressive collection housed behind glass, a clear invitation to linger. With over 2,000 bottles in the cellar, the sommelier team is prepared to elevate any meal with thoughtful pairings that reveal nuance in both the food and the wine.

For those seeking a deeper experience, the restaurant also offers private wine tastings and dinners. Guests can work directly with the Wine Director to create a bespoke evening complete with a custom menu and hand-selected bottles.

Service that Shines Sometimes

Service at Element 47 is often described as attentive and warm, with many guests praising servers for their knowledge and ease. Highlights include speedy breakfasts for early risers heading out on mountain adventures and thoughtful accommodations for dietary needs. Names like Paul and Mac surface in glowing reviews for their attention to detail and genuine hospitality.

Still, the restaurant has not been immune to criticism. Some guests have noted uneven service, particularly during high-volume times or special events. Delays, lack of engagement from certain staff members, and confusion around seating policies have impacted the experience for a few. Despite these occasional missteps, the overall tone of feedback remains enthusiastic.

Atmosphere and Ambience

Element 47’s dining environment is part of what sets it apart. The main dining room, adorned with original artworks, offers a polished yet unpretentious experience. For something more casual, The Living Room provides cozy seating near a two-sided fireplace, ideal for enjoying a glass of wine and small bites from the bar menu.

The Nest, the restaurant’s outdoor space, is a seasonal favorite. Outfitted with Adirondack chairs, firepits, and plush throws, it offers a relaxed setting for après-ski cocktails or late afternoon bites under the Aspen sky.

What You Need to Know

• Location: 675 E Durant Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
• Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Meals Offered: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Late Night
• Menu Style: Seasonal, locally sourced, Colorado Contemporary
• Dietary Options: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free available
• Dress Code: “Aspen casual” relaxed elegance encouraged

A Place for Celebrations and Culinary Pilgrimages

Whether marking a milestone, entertaining business clients, or seeking a quiet table for two, Element 47 offers an experience that blends indulgence with authenticity. For Aspen visitors who value both style and substance, it is a restaurant that consistently delivers high-altitude dining with grounded appeal.

Even as it evolves, Element 47 remains an anchor in Aspen’s food scene. It invites guests to savor the mountain’s bounty, sip world-class wines, and enjoy a moment of alpine luxury at one of the most celebrated addresses in town.