Lunchtime is one of the most important parts of a ski day in Courchevel. After several hours on the slopes, every skier needs somewhere warm, welcoming and convenient to recharge before heading out again.
This guide looks at how to choose the best lunch spots in Courchevel, what to expect from mountain dining, and how to make the most of your midday break without losing valuable ski time.
For a complete overview of eating well throughout your stay, see our visitor guide to dining in Courchevel.
What makes a good ski lunch?
Lunch in a ski resort is different from lunch anywhere else. Most skiers are looking for a few key things:
- Fast and efficient service
- Food that is hot and satisfying
- Easy access from lifts and pistes
- A relaxed atmosphere to rest tired legs
- Good value for money
The best lunch restaurants in Courchevel combine all of these elements, allowing you to refuel without interrupting your day on the mountain.
Types of lunch venues in Courchevel
Quick and casual cafés
For skiers who want to maximise slope time, casual cafés and brasserie-style restaurants are ideal. These places usually offer soups, pasta, burgers and simple dishes that arrive quickly.
They are perfect for:
- Families with children
- Groups who want to eat and go
- Busy peak-season days
Sunny terrace restaurants
On bright winter days, nothing beats lunch on an outdoor terrace with mountain views. Courchevel has many restaurants where you can enjoy a longer, more relaxed break when the weather is good.
Terrace lunches are especially popular in March and April when temperatures are milder.
Traditional Alpine lunches
Some visitors prefer to slow down and enjoy a proper mountain meal at midday. Savoyard classics such as tartiflette or a warming soup are excellent choices on cold days.
For more on regional dishes, read our introduction to traditional Savoyard cuisine in Courchevel.
Choosing lunch around your ski route
One of the secrets to a good ski lunch is planning ahead. Think about where you will be skiing in the morning and choose somewhere close to your route back onto the slopes.
Helpful tips include:
- Avoid peak times between 12:30 and 1:30 pm if possible
- Check how close the restaurant is to a chairlift or gondola
- Look for places with quick-turnaround menus
- Consider booking on very busy weeks
Up-to-date piste maps and lift information can be checked on the official Three Valleys ski area website.
A reliable lunch option in Courchevel 1850
For food-focused visitors, Courchevel 1850 delivers some of the finest mountain dining in the Alps, blending high-end hospitality with serious culinary ambition. If you want a truly special tasting-menu experience, Le 1947 at Cheval Blanc Courchevel is the headline name, while Le Chabichou in Courchevel 1850 remains a long-standing classic for refined French cooking. For another top-tier option with a distinctive setting, Baumanière 1850 at Hôtel Le Strato is a go-to for guests who want an elegant evening that still feels unmistakably Alpine.
If you prefer something more contemporary and experience-led, the resort has standout choices that feel very “Courchevel” without being stuffy. For bold flavours and a glamorous night out, L’Altiplano at Le K2 Palace is a strong pick, and for a memorable, destination-style dinner built around a highly creative approach, Le Sarkara at Le K2 Palace is one of the most talked-about tables in the resort. If you’re staying in the Jardin Alpin area and want a polished setting that works well for groups and families, La Table des Airelles at Les Airelles Courchevel is another well-known name to consider when planning where to eat in Courchevel 1850.
Balancing lunch and après-ski
It is worth thinking ahead to the rest of the day. A very large lunch can sometimes leave you too full for afternoon skiing or evening dinner plans.
Many visitors choose lighter lunches so they can fully enjoy the social side of the resort later. For ideas on structuring your evenings, see our guide to après-ski drinks and dining in Courchevel.
Lunch on bad-weather days
When snow or cold winds arrive, lunch becomes even more important. On challenging weather days, look for restaurants with:
- Indoor seating and plenty of space
- Hot soups and warming dishes
- Good hot drink options
- Friendly service that helps you dry off and recharge
These small comforts can make a big difference to your overall ski experience.
Making the most of your ski day
The perfect ski lunch should leave you feeling refreshed and ready for more runs. With a little planning, Courchevel offers excellent options for every style of skier – from quick snacks to memorable mountain meals.
For general resort information, weather updates and events, the official Courchevel tourism portal is a useful resource during your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best places for lunch in Courchevel?
The best lunch spots are usually those closest to your ski route, offering quick service, warm food and easy access back to the lifts.
Do I need to book for lunch in Courchevel?
Most casual lunches do not require booking, but during peak weeks it can be helpful to reserve tables at popular restaurants.
What time should I plan lunch while skiing?
To avoid queues, try to eat slightly before or after the main rush between 12:30 and 1:30 pm.
Are there family-friendly lunch options?
Yes. Many Courchevel restaurants are very welcoming to families and offer menus suitable for children.
Is outdoor terrace dining possible in winter?
Yes. On sunny days, many restaurants open terraces and outdoor seating, especially later in the season.
What type of food is best for ski lunches?
Warm, simple dishes such as soups, pasta, salads and traditional Alpine meals are ideal for keeping energy levels high.
Can non-skiers enjoy lunch in Courchevel?
Absolutely. Many lunch venues are easily accessible on foot within Courchevel 1850 and other resort villages.