Chow Down in the Mountains

I’ve walked by Craftsman in Edwards at least a dozen times in the past year (it is next to my favorite ice cream shop, Sundae, after all), but I had never ventured in. After a recent meal there, however, I’m hooked. This low-key restaurant makes all the right moves for a mountain-town joint: classic rock-and-roll on the hi-fi, a regulation-sized shuffleboard table to keep my kids occupied, craft beers on tap and a convivial vibe, with fast-casual counter service, common seating and lots of chatter.

With a team hailing from Sweet Basil, Mountain Standard, The Squeaky Bean, Zino and Beast + Bottle, it’s not surprising that the food here is distinctive. Owner and chef Chris Schmidt and his wife, Janelle, serve elevated pub fare, including a variety of vegetarian offerings, like a Crispy Avocado sandwich with roasted beets on brioche and a Wild Mushroom “Pastrami” with house sauerkraut, Gruyere and arugula on rye.

My favorite starter was the Red Lentil Hummus, served with homemade roti bread. And the Parmesan fries—they are simply a must.