Photo courtesy of W Aspen
Locals in Aspen are eager to be one of the first to try the new HaSalon culinary adventure at the W Aspen hotel. Opening in mid-December 2024, the globally renowned celebrity Israeli chef Eyal Shani is bringing his innovative Mediterranean concept to Colorado. This storytelling, multi-sensory dining experience pushes the boundary of excitement and unexpected experiences.
“HaSalon Aspen is elevating the culinary scene in Aspen, perfectly in sync with the passion and energy that defines W Hotels,” said Martin Magdeburg, General Manager of W Aspen. “HaSalon will be complemented by the fun, innovative mixology that Dushan Zaric.”
The talented mixologist is a cocktail visionary. Zaric is behind the iconic Employees Only bars and will debut a new bar concept – Hidalgo. Inspiration for many of the beverages is from the surrounding vibrant ingredients in Aspen. There will be an array of enticing handcrafted agave cocktails.
Photo by Jill Weinlein
Located on the lobby level in the hotel’s coveted grotto, the new bar will become a permanent fixture at W Aspen. Guests might want to start with a Pine For Aspen cocktail, made with Bombay Gin, Becherovka, lemon juice, pine needle leaf infused syrup and a spray of Fernet Branca. A spring of rosemary provides an aromatherapy garnish.
The “Improved Margarita Cocktail” and “Yellow Jacket” are other classic cocktails with modern twists made with fresh ingredients. This new cocktail bar will be open Thursday through Monday starting at 6 p.m.
Golden Focaccia. Photo Jill Weinlein
All guests who dine at HaSalon (translates to Living Room in English) receive beautifully baked squares of golden focaccia topped with roasted tomatoes and strings of red onion. A light dusting of sea salt brings out the appealing earthy flavors. ”Food is as natural as it can be,” said restaurateur Erica Pulicicchio. ‘Chef Eyal is a curious chef and his staff are involved in the culinary journey, walking guests through the storytelling of the menu to enhance one’s dining experience.’
Fennel Salad. Photo Jill Weinlein
A good example is the ribbons of fennel with small slices of avocado, and a sprinkle of earthy dill and poppy seeds. The dressing is light and doesn’t mask the flavorful fennel and other ingredients.
Beet Carpaccio. Photo Jill Weinlein
Culinary delights on the menu include charred beet carpaccio that arrives in a sheet looking like a stunning piece of stained glass. Ruby red and yellow beets are sliced thin and baked. The center is tender, retaining their natural sweet flavor, yet there is a pleasing smokiness with each bite. The earthiness of the beets is balanced with a dollop of creme fraiche and shaved horseradish.
Other shareable dishes include baby potatoes topped with Osetra caviar, bluefin tuna cut perfectly, and ribeye steak cooked just the way a guest requests.
Green pasta. Photo Jill Weinlein
Signature pasta dishes include creamy green rigatoni and ricotta filled pasta pillow clouds. Chef makes spaghetti crowned with Ossetra Caviar that dazzles in an ethereal San Marzano tomato sauce.
Chef Eyal has unveiled over 46 highly acclaimed restaurants globally, including Michelin-starred Shmoné, Port Sa’id, Miznon, and Malka. With locations across New York City, Las Vegas, Miami Beach, Tel Aviv and now Aspen, HaSalon is a destination for fans to experience while visiting one of theses cities.
Bourekas. Photo Jill Weinlein
Another fan favorite is Bourekas ready to be baked. The puffed pastry is filled with spinach, comte’, ricotta and parmesan cheese and herbs. It’s an uber-popular Israeli specialty topped with sesame seeds. At HaSalon it is served piping hot right out of the oven, with an Israeli salad and creme’ fraiche with herbs.
Pistachio Olive Oil Cake. Photo Jill Weinlein
Finish the evening with a generous slice of Pistachio olive oil cake with raspberries adding a touch of sweetness. Other menu favorites include a Basque cheesecake, sorbets, and a chef’s mystery selection.
Photo courtesy of W Aspen
W Aspen is a year-round destination at the base of Aspen Mountain. The property also features the Rooftop, Aspen’s only year-round rooftop bar where guests and locals can enjoy the pool, hot tub, fire pits, beverages and food service among stunning 360° mountain views.
The resort offers modern WOW and Extreme WOW suites that draw on Aspen’s rich local history. What once started as a mining hub during the Silver Rush has turned into the booming ski town of today. WOW suites are decorated in a color palette reminiscent of the ’60s and ’70s.
Since W Aspen is a hotspot for locals, celebrities and discerning travelers, the new HaSalon Mediterranean restaurant provides those seeking a mountain escape an unforgettable culinary adventure.
