Andorra is sandwiched between the greater holiday destinations of France and Spain, yet the extent to which it is geographically underrepresented belies its brilliance. For one, Andorra is a skiing mecca, showcasing some of the better skiable slopes in the Pyrenees as well as some of the most astounding mountain villages in West Europe.

Andorra should absolutely be the top of your list when it comes to choosing your next mountain adventure. However, ski holidays aren’t always just about the skiing, as often your ski holiday memories can be just as defined by your experiences off-slope. Which brings us to the joys of Andorra’s culinary scene.

Whether heading to Andorra for ski holidays or simply for enjoying the pristine mountain-slope views, you’ll be sure to enjoy some simply phenomenal cuisine. Rich as this independent state is, so too is its food offering. What follow are a sampling of the very best, the cream of the crop that will make your visit especially special.

Restaurant Refugi del Llac de Pessons

Restaurant Refugi del Llac de Pessons is an a la carte establishment with a uniquely stunning Andorran view – that of Estany Primer de Pessons, the first in a linkage of lakes fed by the Rui del Pessons. This high-altitude lake is a watery idyll, and the ideal backdrop for a romantic early dinner with a skiing partner. Inside, a cosy atmosphere abounds, making for comfy dining if the lakeside doesn’t appeal to you.

La Borda de l’Avi

On the eastern side of Andorra, and north of La Massana, you’ll find La Borda de l’Avi. This is a small, homely-yet-princely family affair with a lot to attract both local residents and visiting travellers. The restaurant specialises in grilled meats, the perfect decadence for after a day of strenuous skiing and in preparation for the next – though La Borda also cooks up a number of Mediterranean and fish dishes for the less ‘game’.

Igloo Bar

Towards the Andorra-Spain border, and ensconced in the beautiful skiing landscape of ski resort Pal Arinsal, sits Igloo Bar. This is a chalet bar through and through, with a balcony overlooking the very slopes and ramps around which you may have already been chucking yourself. This place is much more chilled-out than other resort restaurants, with filling fries and sandwiches and a winning vibe to boot.

Cisco’s Apre Bar

For a completely different flavour, and also in the region of Arinsal, you could go to Cisco’s Apre Bar – an apres-ski destination perfect for lunch or late nights. This is another place where drinks take precedence, particularly cocktails, but it is a great lunch spot with some good vegetarian options; don’t overlook it for its nightlife activity!

Restaurant Coll de la Botella

Given Andorra’s ski-centric tourism, it’s no surprise that the best mountain eats in Andorra are close by to ski slopes. Here’s another slope-adjacent restaurant, this time back at La Massana: Restaurant Coll de la Botella. Coll de la Botella has an acclaimed grill and bistro menu, but is especially worth a visit for its incredible views of the night sky after dark.

Roc De Les Bruixes Restaurant

Last but not least, we come to one of the crispest, cleanest yet cosiest restaurant interiors in the whole of Andorra. Roc de Les Bruixes is in Canillo, and sets itself apart with a uniquely charming rustic interior – a complement to its considered menu of Pyrenean dishes done well. Get a bottle of red and settle in for a warm evening!