By Adam Price, Executive Chef at Victory Ranch

The end of the winter is always an interesting time in a mountain town, the snow starts to melt the rivers rage and it seems the town goes into a dormant state preparing for the rebirth of spring.

Although we affectionately call this season the “mud season” and it appears that people flee by the masses, do not be fooled by the exodus, the mud season is one of the best times to be a local in the Park City area. For one you have the place to yourself, no parking issues, no reservation systems, and no one to tell you where you can or cannot dine out in town. It is a great time for exploring some of the off the beaten path eateries and watering holes that you may have overlooked during all of the hustle and bustle of the ski season.

Come early spring mountain town ski bums throughout the west may be floating down a river somewhere or have their feet in the sand of some coastal oasis, but this is the time of the year the true locals use to reconnect, rejoice and replenish. As with the emergence of the first buds of spring the flowers that follow pick up the spirit and paint the landscape. So too does good food shared with friends. I have picked out for you some of my favorite haunts that are open and accessible year round.

So while the big ticket restaurants on Main Street close their doors for months at a time there is an emerging food scene amongst those of us that call Park City Home of great food (at good prices) that is prepared with considerable detail and passion. “Locals serving locals.”

I hope you have a chance to come out and visit Victory Ranch this spring. If you do please stop in, say hello, and join us at the Freestone Lodge for a great variety of quick eats and nightly specials, as well excellent specialty cocktails and our boutique beer and wine list. When comes time to do some exploring outside of the ranch keep in mind, while it appears Park City’s Main Street is a ghost town there is a steady pulse beating just a few steeps away. I encourage you to try one of these great local eateries while you are in town, you may find a new favorite and you will definitely not be disappointed.

The Brass Tag – One of Deer Valley’s newest additions to their restaurant collection. Open year round, The Brass tag offers an eclectic variety of comfort food. Appointed to pay homage to Park City’s mining roots, the décor is sure to entertain. Using a specially crafted brick oven the Chef is able to produce some very exquisite and delectable dishes with a unique flair. Located in the Lower Deer Valley Loop, The Brass Tag is easily accessible by car or shuttle.

Sammy’s Bistro – Native Parkite Sam Harris opened this restaurant after having a very successful booth at the Farmers Market. A local’s favorite, Sam has created a menu featuring all of his most popular dishes from his many years as a chef in Park City. Try his Chivito Club sandwich or his chicken and rice bowl they will not disappoint. Recently featured on Food Networks “Diners, Drive In’s, and Dives”, Sammy’s Bistro is quickly becoming a local fixture that is sure to please. Located in the Bonanza Park area it is easily accessible and has plenty of free parking.

Fuego Bistro and Pizzeria – Offering a wide variety of pizza, pasta and salads Fuego is sure to satisfy any family or group. From their delicious wood fired pizza oven to their family recipe pasta dishes I have never left wanting for more. A family friendly environment and fun wine list top off the list of attractions at Fuego. Located in the Prospector neighborhood, this Italian Bistro is open year round for lunch and dinner.

Tarahumara – Located in Midway, just a short drive from Victory Ranch, Tarahumara offers an eclectic variety of North Mexican Cuisine. Lead by a classically trained chef, this husband and wife team brings their family recipes to you. Featuring all of your favorites and some very creative takes on the classic’s, Tarahumara is an exploration into the best of what Mexican food can be. One of my all-time favorite dishes there is their Duck Tacos…unbelievable. With their extensive salsa bar and great list of hand selected tequilas Tarahumara offers something for everyone. Choose between the Family friendly Restaurant or the Cantina seating. Open 6 days a week for Lunch and Dinner (closed Sunday’s).

ADAM PRICE – EXECUTIVE CHEF

Adam Price joined the Victory Ranch staff as Executive Chef in May 2013. Growing up in New York City, Adam started his culinary career at an early age. After working in restaurants in New York, Ohio and New Hampshire, he landed in Park City in 1997. Adam began his journey into the club and resort lifestyle as Chef de Cuisine for The Talisker Club and Canyons Resort. There, he helped open and run a variety of restaurants over a stretch of eight years.  Adam also spent time perfecting his craft at other Park City locations such as Sundance’s Zoom Restaurant and The Deer Valley Café. Adam has a BA in Human Ecology from Antioch College in Yellow Springs, Ohio.