Ready for some unforgettable lunches on the slopes? The 3 Valleys is home to an incredible range of mountain restaurants, each with its own vibe and culinary specialities. From rustic alpine chalets with roaring fires to modern spots serving fresh sushi at the top of the world, there’s a place for every taste and budget. Below, we’ve rounded up a selection of our favourites— across the 3 Valleys so you can plan each day around good food, great views, and a bit of well-earned indulgence between runs. And if you’re wanting the best of everything for your next trip, why not check out our guides to the Best ski pants and the Best ski jackets while you’re at it?
Chez Pepe Nicolas, Val Thorens
Perched on a stunning plateau above Val Thorens, Chez Pépé Nicholas offers an accessible culinary experience right on the slopes. You can ski down via the La Chasse piste or simply walk along a marked trail from the resort to get here. It’s family-run and named after the original “Pépé,” whose legacy is kept very much alive. Thanks to its location, views of the surrounding peaks come standard, and the laid-back vibe makes it a super popular lunch stop. If you want to secure a spot, aim to be here early!
Inside, wooden beams, antique farming tools, and a crackling fireplace lend a cosy ambience that pairs perfectly with the Savoyard menu on offer. You’ll find classic fondue, raclette, and a variety of regional cheeses, as well as plenty of more a a carte options sourced from local producers. Prices aren’t cheap, but portions are hearty and the quality of the food is some of the best in the 3 Valleys. On sunny days, the outdoor terrace is a must, letting you soak up the panoramas with your meal. Not the best choice for a snack on the go, but a must for a more swanky lunch, Chez Pépé Nicolas should definitely be on your list of restaurants to sample on your next trip.
La Fruitière Folie Douce, Meribel
La Fruitière sits right next to La Folie Douce in the heart of the Méribel ski area, easily reached via the mid-station of the Saulire Express gondola. This prime location means you can ski right in for lunch, then head back onto the slopes without missing a beat. When the sun’s out, you’ll see a lively crowd gathering on the terrace, drawn by the music and the promise of early-afternoon aprés. Despite the upbeat atmosphere, there’s a certain elegance to La Fruitière, thanks to its refined interior and attentive staff who greet you at the door.
Once inside, you’ll find a menu that leans into fresh, high-quality ingredients, often showcasing local Savoyard produce with a modern twist. It’s a cut above your typical self-service spot, featuring everything from inventive starters to gastronomical mains — plus a dessert list worth saving room for. Prices reflect the premium experience, but if you’re looking to treat yourself, it’s hard to beat lunch here followed by the legendary Folie Douce après scene. Expect a stylish yet sociable crowd, fun music, and an all-around memorable stop that combines mountain dining with Méribel’s signature party spirit.
La Cave des Cruex, Courchevel
La Cave des Creux perches high above Courchevel, accessible via the Creux or Creux Noirs runs. If you’re coming from Courchevel 1850, hop on the right lifts and make your way along a blue or red piste to find this spot, which sits in a perfect position for soaking up mountain views. Thanks to its altitude and quieter locale, it’s often less crowded than some lower-down restaurants, making it a brilliant choice for anyone seeking a scenic, more tranquil lunch break.
Inside, the atmosphere is smart but not stuffy, with a modern alpine design that sets it apart from your typical chalet-style eatery. The menu leans towards refined French cuisine—expect quality meats, fresh fish, and dishes that showcase local produce with a contemporary twist. Prices lean higher, reflecting the elevated setting and creative menu. On sunny days, the terrace is a must, offering an open-air dining experience that pairs perfectly with a chilled glass of wine. If you’re looking to slow down for a bit and treat yourself to something special in Courchevel, La Cave des Creux is well worth the journey up.
La Maya Altitude, Saint Martin De Belleville
La Maya Altitude sits above the tranquil village of Saint Martin de Belleville, reachable via the Saint Martin Express lift followed by a short ski across gentle slopes. Its secluded location keeps crowds at bay, making it a lovely option if you prefer a quieter atmosphere over the more bustling spots in the 3 Valleys. Once you arrive, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the surrounding valleys—perfect for those looking to enjoy their meal with an Alpine panorama in the background.
Inside, the décor strikes a balance between rustic warmth and a more modern touch, featuring plenty of natural wood and large windows for taking in the scenery. The menu focuses on classic Savoyard staples, like fondue and tartiflette, but you’ll also find inventive dishes that give local produce a contemporary spin. Prices sit around the mid-range for the 3 Valleys, a nice surprise considering the look and feel of the plave. If the weather’s clear, the terrace is an absolute treat, offering a sunny spot to soak up the mountain ambience. For a laid-back lunch with amazing views, La Maya Altitude ticks all the right boxes.
La Soucoupe, Courchevel
You can find La Soucoupe above Courchevel 1850, sitting close to the Chenus area so you can ski in easily after hopping off the lifts. The location is hard to beat if you’re linking up a big day between Courchevel’s different sectors and want to pause for something a bit special. Thanks to its altitude, you’ll enjoy sweeping views—particularly on clear days—making the restaurant’s terrace a go-to spot for soaking up some rays while you dine. It’s best to arrive slightly before the lunchtime rush to snag a prime seat, as the place can fill up quickly once midday hits.
Inside, you’ll find a cosy yet refined chalet setting, complete with wooden beams and a mouth-watering aroma from the wood-fired grill. Meat takes centre stage here, with sizzling steaks, burgers, and other hearty options on offer. There’s also a selection of more traditional alpine dishes if you’re in the mood for something comforting and Savoyard. While it’s not the cheapest lunch spot in Courchevel, the quality of ingredients and friendly service help justify the cost. Whether you opt for a quick pit stop or a long, lazy lunch, La Soucoupe delivers that quintessential Courchevel charm in spades.
La Rond Point, Méribel
La Rond Point, fondly nicknamed The Ronnie, sits right off the Doron piste in Méribel, making it one of the easiest places to swing by for a quick pitstop. It’s known for its laid-back menu of burgers, pizzas, and other crowd-pleasers, with prices that won’t completely destroy your credit card limit. Grab a table on the expansive terrace if the sun’s out, or tuck inside the chalet-style interior for a warm midday recharge. Despite its casual vibe, it draws a diverse crowd of skiers and boarders, creating a friendly, all-welcome atmosphere.
As the afternoon unfolds, La Rond Point really shifts into party mode. Live bands or DJs ramp things up, and before you know it, the terrace is buzzing with people dancing in their ski boots. It’s an iconic après-ski destination for anyone looking to let loose after a day on the slopes. Think of it as the polar opposite of a fussy, white-tablecloth meal: it’s all about good tunes, a lively scene, and a relaxed approach to mountain dining. If you’re craving a fun, sociable break in Méribel, The Ronnie is pretty hard to beat for an early afternoon snack that swiftly turns into something more fun.
Le Cap Horn, Courchevel
La Cap Horn sits by the Altiport in Courchevel 1850, and is just a short hop from the front door via gentle slopes, making perfect for mixed-ability groups looking for a stylish lunch stop. Though you’re surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the décor has a playful maritime theme, adding a splash of character you don’t often see in the Alps. Thanks to the large terrace, it’s a prime spot for soaking up some sun, people-watching, and getting some early afternoon aprés in when the weather is good.
On the menu, you’ll find a standout seafood and sushi selection that’s a nice twist if you’re craving something lighter than the usual cheese-heavy French fare on offer elsewhere. There are also protein-rich meat dishes for those who prefer more traditional mountain cuisine. Prices do reflect Courchevel’s upmarket vibe, so be prepared to spend a bit more, however. That said, if you’re looking to combine a classy setting, fresh flavours, and one of the most underrated aprés spots in the resort (complete with a DJ on the terrace on sunny days!), La Cap Horn is a memorable choice in one of the world’s most prestigious ski destinations.
La Portetta, Courchevel
Another Courchevel must is La Portetta, which awaits at the base of the slopes in Courchevel Moriond, making it a convenient option for anyone finishing a morning session on the gentler runs there. Though it’s attached to a stylish hotel, you’re welcome to pop in for lunch or a post-ski drink even if you’re not staying overnight. With modern Alpine décor featuring wooden accents and cosy lighting, it offers an inviting yet refined ambience that can feel like a welcome break from the midday rush on the slopes.
Food-wise, expect contemporary European dishes that highlight local produce; so you might see risotto, fresh fish, or a twist on a regional classic on their specials board. Prices lean towards the higher end, but the attentive service and thoughtful menu make it worth it if you’re up for treating yourself. A particular highlight is the outdoor “Fire & Ice” bar, which keeps things toasty even on colder days—perfect if you want to soak up the sun and mountain views with a mulled wine in hand. La Portetta will suit those who appreciate an upscale vibe without forgoing the relaxed spirit of Courchevel Moriond.
Adray Telebar, Méribel
Adray Telebar can be fund just off from the Adret chairlift, making it an easy stop for skiers who want to break up their laps with a proper sit-down meal. The exterior looks like a classic mountain chalet, and once you’re inside, that cosy vibe continues with wooden beams, low lighting, and a comforting sense of Alpine tradition pervading throughout. Because it’s also a small, boutique hotel, you might see guests wandering around or hanging out in the lounge area, warming themselves by the huge central fireplace, which only adds to the welcoming atmosphere.
On the menu, you’ll find hearty French dishes with a Savoyard tilt: warming onion soup, steak frites, cheesy gratins, and desserts that feel just right after a cold morning on the slopes. Prices hover around middle-of-the-pack for the 3 Valleys, so you can get a filling meal without emptying your wallet. If the weather allows, the terrace is a highlight, offering a chance to bask in the sun and watch skiers glide by. It’s a place that doesn’t go in for flashy extras or DJ sets—just honest mountain food and a laid-back attitude. When you’re craving genuine Méribel charm, Adray Telebar ticks all the boxes.
Chalet de la Marine, Val Thorens
Chalet de la Marine sits up on Val Thorens’ upper slopes, so you’ll want to catch one of the higher lifts and then take a short ski down to reach it. The location, however, does mean sweeping views of the surrounding peaks, and on a clear day, it’s hard to beat the sheer grandeur of the scenery here. If you like to lunch with a serious mountain backdrop, this place delivers in spades.
Inside, you’ll discover two distinct dining options under one roof. The downstairs self-service area is perfect if you’re after something quick and budget-friendly—a simple, hearty bite before getting straight back to the slopes. Venture upstairs, however, and you’ll find a more refined restaurant with modern takes on Savoyard classics and a well-curated wine list. Prices are definitely higher in the sit-down space, but most folks agree the quality of the dishes and the relaxed, cosy ambience justify the cost. It’s a versatile option that suits both skiers with limited time and those looking to linger over a long, indulgent meal with alpine panoramas for company.
Things to remember
Remember! It’s worth planning your day around lunchtime if you can, by heading to your chosen restaurant before noon or after 2 pm to try and dodge the worst of the lunch rush. This is also a good chance to save on lift queue time when everyone else is eating if you can be back out and riding by 1 pm! If you’re on a tighter budget, mix a splurge day with cheaper options like self-service canteens or bring your own snacks. The 3 Valleys is massive, so try mapping out your routes in advance to avoid unexpected detours and delays. Also, keep an eye on local après schedules, as places like La Rond Point or La Folie Douce kick off the party in the early afternoon, and it’s easy to miss out if you’re not in the right spot at the right time.
Local specialities such as fondue, raclette, and tartiflette offer an authentic Alpine experience, but don’t shy away from the fresh seafood or inventive dishes many restaurants now serve. If you’re eyeing a higher-end spot, booking a table is never a bad idea—Courchevel in particular can get busy, and you don’t want to miss out on some of the places above! However you plan your day, make sure to pause, take in the views, and savour the food—after all, this is one of the best ski regions in the world.
Related Guides
