When you think of Whistler Resort, you probably conjure up fond images of bluer-than-blue skies and plentiful deep powder days, or elite athletes earning Olympic gold amid flashing cameras and cheers.
But with more than 90 restaurants, cafes, pubs and bars offering a wide range of sumptuous fare for all levels of gourmet, Whistler is also one of B.C.'s top gastronomic destinations. In fact, Whistler was named one of the Top 10 Food and Wine Destinations in Canada for 2011 by Trip Advisor's Travelers' Choice Awards.
Featuring some of the country's best chefs and award-winning eateries, the resort offers appetizing fare from all over the world, often created with organic and locally sourced ingredients.
Establishments like Araxi are cornerstones of the resort's upscale culinary experience, and the award-winning restaurant is currently celebrating its 30th anniversary. The Westin's Aubergine Grill is another Whistler favourite, featuring a show kitchen where you can watch their culinary masters as they prepare your meal. Similarly, the Hilton's Cinnamon Bear Grille always gets rave reviews for its ambiance and Pacific Northwest creations prepared fresh daily. And the Bearfoot Bistro's five-star, extravagant dining experience rivals anything you'd find in New York, Paris or London without the pretention!
In addition to world-class fine dining restaurants, Whistler offers a full calendar of Epicurean wine and food events. These range from the Slow Food Cycle - where participants bike through Pemberton's farmland sampling local produce - to Cornucopia, Whistler's annual dazzling and glamorous celebration of wine and food.
The resort also hosts the Annual Canadian National BBQ Championships at Dusty's Bar and Grill in August for those who like sizzling slabs of beef and fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Every year things keep getting better, as new restaurants and gourmet events add their flairs and flavours to the resort's culinary menu.
Newer establishments include the Nita Lake Lodge's Aura, offering a holistic approach to fine dining by working closely with local producers to ensure organic freshness for its sophisticated, European-style fare. The Pinnacle's Alta Bistro is also a recent addition to the scene, offering produce from the Pemberton and Fraser Valleys, organic meats from farms and ranches in BC, plus local seafood.
Even the impeccable Fairmont Chateau Whistler has revamped its already famous dining experience with the launch of The Grill Room - featuring regional ingredients with seasonal influences such as Canadian AAA Prime Beef, Ocean Wise Seafood, and local organic produce.
Right now you can also discover four of Whistler's best restaurants in one evening with the Whistler Tasting Tours guided program, featuring wine pairings and unique culinary creations at each venue.
So sample a taste of the resort - and discover Whistler's gourmet side.
For more information and a full list of restaurants, go to whistler.com/dining.
