Aspen’s dining scene gains a new addition with Ajax Downtown, a restaurant that brings live-fire cooking to the Union Station neighborhood’s culinary landscape. Opening its doors to diners, Ajax Downtown has established itself as a destination where traditional cooking over open flames meets contemporary mountain cuisine. The restaurant’s centerpiece—custom Josper grills fueled by mesquite charcoal—creates a multi-sensory experience that engages guests from the moment they step inside.
The Restaurant Approach
The distinctive cooking approach at Ajax Downtown transforms ingredients into exceptional dishes through the strategic application of fire, smoke, and ash. Unlike conventional kitchens that rely on gas or electric heat, Ajax Downtown’s commitment to live-fire cooking methods delivers complex flavor profiles that can’t be replicated with modern cooking technologies. Diners can observe the cooking process while breathing in the rich, savory aromas that permeate the space, creating an immersive dining atmosphere that celebrates food in its most elemental form.
The Ambiance
Ajax Downtown has rapidly become a gathering place for locals and visitors, creating a seamless dining and socializing atmosphere. The restaurant’s designed space combines mountain elements with contemporary touches, offering various seating options from communal tables that encourage conversation to intimate nooks perfect for special occasions. The energy of the restaurant reflects the spirit of Aspen itself, creating an environment where friendships form naturally over shared plates and conversation.
The Menu
The menu at Ajax Downtown showcases the Rocky Mountains’ bounty with an impressive selection of responsibly sourced proteins and produce. Premium Dry Aged beef takes center stage, with cuts carefully selected for optimal flavor development when exposed to the restaurant’s signature live-fire cooking method. Seasonal vegetables harvested from local farms are given equal attention, often bearing the char marks that have become a hallmark of Ajax’s culinary style. The restaurant serves guests throughout the day with distinct breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner offerings, ensuring the Josper grills remain active from morning until late evening.
The beverage program at Ajax Downtown complements the bold flavors emerging from the kitchen with thoughtful libations. Mixologists create signature cocktails that often incorporate smoky elements to mirror the food preparation techniques, resulting in harmonious pairings that enhance the dining experience. The wine program features curated selections designed to stand up to the robust flavors of fire-cooked foods, while beer enthusiasts appreciate the rotating selection of local craft brews that showcase Colorado’s brewing culture.
