Open for lunch and the occasional dinner, Empire Lodge is one of Deer Valley's three on-the-mountain cafeterias with identical food, which are not-to-be-missed eating experiences. They will change your mind about what is
possible in cafeteria dining. Tables and chairs -- no backless stools or benches. Free refills on coffee. We have tried everything on the menu, and nothing is less than top quality. The best deal is soup or stew with a handful of fresh baked bread for $6-7. Several choices, with daily variety. Some items, like coffee, are a little more expensive here than at the base cafeteria.
My only complaint is that you can’t order a medium-rare burger. Burgers are cooked when ordered, all to medium-well, per the Department of Agriculture's recommendation, because the Department of Agriculture allows contaminated meat into our food supply. All the grill sandwiches can be topped with chili, bacon, cheese, onions, and BBQ sauce at no extra charge.
Check your skis (free) at the coral between the lodge and the Ruby Chair. Deer Valley limits lift ticket sales so that everyone can get a seat for lunch between 11:00-2:00. 3.2 beer is available.
Empire Lodge is very popular -- especially the large outside deck in sunny weather, with impressive views of Empire Canyon. It's the only one of the lodges with restrooms on the same floor as the cafeteria.
Access: at the base of Empire Canyon runs and Bandana (Beginner). Try the pretty
Luck Jack cut off.
NOTE: There are free demos at the Rossignol tent behind the ski coral.
The Empire Canyon Grill also serves a dinner buffet one or two nights a week, but reservations made weeks ahead are essential. You can arrive by horse-drawn sleigh.