So you’ve finished the last run, you’re tired, thirsty, your feet hurt and you’re rapidly losing your patience. I hate to break it to you, but you’re entering h-angry territory. Yes, you can make the trek back to your resort if you please, but on a busy day, that’s not always the quickest mission…. especially when you’re accustomed to ‘Canberra traffic’. Back in the day and for this exact reason, seasoned snow professionals thought, “why waste the back-and-forth and just bring the food right here?” Directly onto the mountain, ski boot friendly and all. And voila! The slopes are now adorned with restaurants and foodie-joints so you can get your on-mountain fix. And for that, we are eternally grateful.
While you’re living your best alpine life at Perisher and Thredbo, slide down the mountain and straight into these epic eateries.
Kareela Hutte
If I told you to close your eyes and imagine what a classic, European alpine on-mountain restaurant looks like, you’d probably think up an image that matches Kareela Hutte. Open for breakfast and lunch daily, this iconic ski-in ski-out destination is famous for its à la carte European-influenced menu, never short on Schnapps and schnitzels. Complemented by a beautifully curated wine list and unparalleled views, Kareela is the true embodiment of Thredbo’s culture and vibrant après scene. If you’re like us and can’t get enough of the place, they also host spectacular evening events presented by none other than G.H.Mumm. No corners have been cut to make this a night to remember, kicking things off by a snowcat escort up the hill, dinner, drinks and unmatched view of the iconic Thredbo Flare Run and the fireworks from the deck. They say, “a day on the slopes in Thredbo is not complete until you’ve had a stopover at the legendary Kareela,” and after your first visit you’ll soon know why.
Black Sallees
If you thought the best part about the Snowgums chairlift was that it saves you the uphill hike, think again. Step off the lift and into an infinite rotation of Japanese-inspired good times at Black Sallees. Nothing warms the soul like a bowl of delicious ramen, fresh poke bowls, katsu curry and Japanese-inspired shared plates. With mountain views just off the top of the Crackenback Supertrail and nestled amongst the gum trees, take a seat on the deck and absorb the ’high on life’ vibes that come with your new-found alpine lifestyle. Nibble on Japanese grazing plates before delving into the larger plates and you’ll be momentarily transported to Japan’s iconic skiing destinations.
Sundeck
So you’re carving down the mountain, taking in the views and completely absorbed in the atmosphere…. until you smell a sausage sizzle. Step aside high-rises and skyscrapers – donning the title of Australia’s highest hotel, Sundeck is the place to be. As the first hotel in Perisher, Sundeck has snapped up the perfect position with panoramic views of Front Valley. Open from 10am daily, these guys know the way to an Aussie’s heart is a daily BBQ from 12-2pm every day. You’ll also find Tathra’s Humpback Brewery on tap, live music Mon-Sat 4-6pm, sports on the big screen, magic show Thursdays and might even catch a glimpse of the contenders of the annual snowman competition. When the slopes are giving you a hard time, pull up a seat, grab a snag, a beer and take in the sparkling scenery.
Eagles Nest
Unclick your boots and step into a scene that is undeniably straight out of a painting. Perched above Thredbo Village and 1937 meters high, sits Eagles Nest, Australia’s highest restaurant. Jump on the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift to the top of Thredbo, head in and you’ll find 270 degrees of sweeping views across the valley. Now, what better way to enjoy the view than with a pizza and spritz in hand!? Open 10am-3pm and offering a range of Italian-inspired lunch options including pizzas, meatballs, tortellini, tiramisu, gelato and resort-famous cheeky hot chocolates, there is something here for the whole family.
For those more advanced skiers and snowboarders, their Sunrise Sessions offer an experience like no other. Known as Australia’s most iconic on-snow experience, the Eagles Nest team will take you above & beyond to enjoy sunrise at Australia’s Highest Lifted Point and an on-mountain breakfast accompanied with a G.H. Mumm mimosa, the essential preparation for running the first tracks down Supertrail – Australia’s longest run.
Walk out with a full belly and a badge of honor knowing you’ve dined at Australia’s highest restaurant.
Merritts Mountain House
Say Seeya-later to mid-day munchies and hello to Merritts Mountain House. At 1660m sits Thredbo’s all-round family favourite restaurant, famed for its deluxe hot chocolates and traditional European market feel. Board, ski, walk or catch the Merritts Gondola up and find a hub of lively snow lovers chilling out and replacing the energy they’ve just burnt up with German beer under antler lamps. On weekends you’ll find that no one does an après session quite like Merritt’s with the freshest alpine acts spinning tunes on the Merritt’s Deck from midday.
If you’ve got a case of the Friday fever, check out their website for their exclusive ‘Ride Under the Stars,’ where you’re transported in Australia’s Only Alpine Gondola to Merritts Mountain House to enjoy a Bavarian-inspired feast.
Loving the ski-in ski-out content? Check out our list of the Must-stay chalets in the Snowy Mountains.
