Aspen Coffee Shops Set an Avant-Ski Scene

"Guests of the Aspen Collection Café , with a convenient liftside location in Lower Gondola Plaza, can sip Italian espresso while they coordinate their ski rentals for the day’s activities, organize a private gear fitting, or peruse ski wear from the Aspen Collection line. Mountain-minimalist interiors create a lounge atmosphere, blending wood and leather furnishings, and there’s outdoor seating as well. The morning menu includes Lavazza coffee and baked goods from The Little Nell’s talented pastry chef, Barbara Marcos, including housemade hand pies — with a changing lineup of seasonal flavors including chocolate, raspberry, apple, and maple — to stow in your pocket for a mid-day pick-me-up." - Laura Beausire