Fine Dining in the Sky at Arizona Snowbowl
Not that you have ever daydreamed of downing more than a Gatorade and granola bar onboard a gondola, but you might now. Arizona Snowbowl has reinvented the ride (at least for the summer) so you can experience fine dining in the sky. The event masters have blended gourmet cuisine, fine wines, and breathtaking views of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff and given a reason to fire their pistons.
This a one-of-a-kind culinary experience hosted aboard the Arizona Gondola debuted August 24, 2025, with Flagstaff’s acclaimed Shift Kitchen and Oeno Wine Lounge. They delivered a five-course tasting menu paired with curated wines, all served at 11,500 feet above the stunning San Francisco Peaks.
Transformed gondola cabins provided an intimate alpine restaurant, complete with custom-built tables. Guests savored each course during an 18-minute gondola lap, enjoying new dishes, wine pairings, and panoramic sunset views with every rotation. The 90-minute experience showcased a meticulously crafted menu featuring seasonal ingredients and regional flavors. Each course was paired with a complementary wine.
The evening’s menu:
- Banh Mi Spring Rolls: Housemade chicken pâté, smoked duck breast, lemongrass pickled vegetables, jalapeño, and fresh herbs, paired with Tarland Zero Brut Nature Champagne.
- Lamb Meat Skewers: Filipino meat candy sauce with toasted chiles, paired with Los Milics Jule’s Vermentino 2024.
- Smoked Gouda and Potato Pierogi: Garlic dill sauce and crispy soppressata, paired with Los Milics Ita’s Rosé 2023.
- Campfire-Roasted Bison: Served with farm vegetables and accompaniments, paired with Los Milics Renato’s Red 2022.
- Scotchmallow Tart: Honey marshmallow, caramel, and nut brittle, paired with Graham’s Six Grapes Reserve Port.
Gourmet Dining In A Bucket
“We’re truly grateful for Shift Kitchen and Oeno Wine Lounge creating a dynamic menu that paired their passion for culinary excellence with our unique setting,” said Angie Grubb, Marketing Manager at Arizona Snowbowl. “We look forward to collaborating with other talented local restaurants to bring more unforgettable dining experiences aboard the Arizona Gondola.
You may have missed the August event but Satchmo’s BBQ and Mother Road Brewing will pair up for the next Shift Your Viewpoint Dinner on September 28, 2025. This upcoming event promises another unforgettable evening of elevated cuisine, craft brews, and stunning views. Tickets will be available on Arizona Snowbowl’s event page but if you’re like us you’ll be forwarding this post to your local ski area in the hopes they copy this innovative dining experience! Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique experience, riding a gondola for dinner rather than TO dinner is a must-try.
Where is Snowbowl?
Arizona Snowbowl is located in the heart of Flagstaff, Arizona; a little bustling college town known for year-round outdoor play. The Shift Your Viewpoint Dinner adds a new dimension to the resort’s offerings, combining adventure with fine dining.