If you’ve come to Rossland in the winter, you likely came to ski; if you came to ski, you’re likely looking for some good après options, too. Luckily, Rossland has that in spades.
The Velvet Restaurant & Lounge
One of the main benefits of enjoying après at The Velvet: Proximity – at least if you’re staying at The Josie. As a ski-in, ski-out hotel, it’s hard to beat the convenience of après at the place you return your skis and (eventually) hit bed. The classy, contemporary restaurant boasts a diverse menu of beer and cocktails to pair with a cheese or charcuterie board.
Rafters Lounge
Mountain folklore is practically etched into the floors and walls on the top floor of RED Mountain Resort’s Day Lodge at Rafters Lounge. Despite a recent renovation, the lounge has lost none of its original charm (dating back to 1974) and still pays tribute to notable skiers who have come through, past and present, like European X Games Snowboard Champion Mattieu Crepel. The key to Rafters, though: Get there early, and get your drink – the bar fills up fast, especially when there’s live music on the weekends.
Rock Cut Pub
The après essentials are all here at Rock Cut Pub: A gorgeous view of Red Mountain, a family-friendly vibe (though, admittedly, this is not a draw for all!), plates of delicious wings, live music (on Sundays, at least), and of course, 11 premium draft beers on tap. Rock Cut doesn’t have a website, so for updates on promotions and live music, see their Facebook page.
The Flying Steamshovel
Recognized as the “best place to eat or drink” by Kootenay Business for 2018, The Flying Steamshovel gastropub is a favorite local après spot, and it’s easy to understand why: The burgers, tacos, poutine, bean queso, and nachos, in particular, are divine after a long day on the slopes. By the way: the origin of “The Flying Steamshovel” name is as quirky as it sounds.
The Josie