RESTAURANT PEEK: Jing Aspen

Jing awaits in Colorado’s popular town of Aspen

By Mary Jeneverre Schultz

Hot Oil Salmon Blue Crab Soup Dumplings with Szechuan Chili Oil Spicy Citrus Ahi

Are you planning any ski trips this winter? Staying in one of Colorado’s fabulous mountain towns? If you find yourself in Aspen, head to Jing Restaurant for global fusion dishes with an Asian twist.

With additional locations in Denver and Las Vegas, Jing Aspen sits in Aspen’s historic downtown core. The restaurant has been a mainstay for 20 years that features an array of Chinese and Japanese infused menu options and a raw bar.

Menu Highlights

The menu shows a vast variety of sushi rolls and sashimi, soup dumplings and popular Asian dishes such as peking duck and honey prawns.

The French onion soup dumplings are highly recommended with the porcini mushroom dumpling coming in at a close second. Make sure to scoop up plenty of chili oil on your spoon, but watch out for the hot explosion of soup in your mouth.

For being in a land-locked state, the selection of seafood is over the top with rock shrimp tempura, cod and prawn dumplings, lobster dumplings, stone crab claws, and much more.

The seafood clay pot and truffle kale fried rice are an absolute must for those with more luxurious palates. The Japanese hot rock dishes feature wagyu beef, lobster, and scallop options cooked on piping hot stone.

In addition, the sake and wine lists are extensive. Sake is served in flights offering a chance to experience multiple flavors.

The Atmosphere

Service is amazing – just ask your wait staff for their personal favorites and you won’t be disappointed. Even the chef owner, Frank Lu, is visible in the restaurant, joining in the fun of doing a “sake bomb” with his regular customers.

The décor transports you from the mountains of Aspen to a journey in Asia. Contemporary and welcoming to out-of-town visitors, the restaurant has a trendy ambiance, especially on weekend evenings.

Outdoor patio seating is offered to anyone who wants to enjoy the cool breeze. Happy hour is available Monday through Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to unwind with discounted drinks, sushi, and dim sum.

Yes, the price point is high with dishes averaging a price of $38 and up. But realistically, the restaurant is located in Aspen, known as the most expensive ski town in America, and they serve sushi, one of the most expensive cuisines.

Tips for Your Visit

Make a reservation in advance as the restaurant fills up fast. Jing Aspen requires a credit card for reservations and charges $100 per person for no-shows, so stay committed to your timeframe.

If you are a Yelp user, check into the app to receive free sake.

Visit jingrestaurant.com/aspen to make a reservation or see their menu. Follow @jing_aspen on Instagram.