Copyright Forbes
Rubirosa is one of the hottest Italian restaurants in New York, so it wasn’t a surprise when owner Maria Pappalardo teamed up with media mogul Brian Bedol to open an East Hampton outpost. After an incredibly successful summer, that restaurant will not only be back next season, but a third location is opening in Aspen for the season. Called Mt. Rubirosa, it’s located at 501 E. Dean Street, at the base of The Residences at Little Nell and just steps from the Aspen Mountain gondola. If the name sounds familiar to those outside New York, it’s because Rubirosa’s famed jarred sauces and pastas were named one of Oprah’s Favorite Things 2025. There’s a good reason for this—everything from Rubirosa is delicious. But the food isn’t the only thing with flavor. While Camp Rubirosa has an aesthetic separate from the original restaurant, so does Mt. Rubirosa. Here’s a look inside this uniquely designed space and everything that went into the opening. MORE FOR YOU The Concept While East Hampton has a summer camp vibe (after all, many people have dubbed the area “The Camptons”), the design of Mt. Rubirosa was influenced by Aspen’s ski culture. From the cool logo to the custom signs decorating the walls and local photography, it’s casual with a touch of kitsch, making it ideal for hungry families after a long day on the slopes in one of the most expensive ski towns in the country. With the capacity to serve approximately 200 people, Mt. Rubirosa features both indoor and outdoor tables. “In the morning, it’s where skiers begin their day; by noon, it becomes the hub for lunch; and when the lifts close, it’s the heart of the après scene,” says Bedol. “It’s a celebration of Aspen’s classic ski-town heritage, updated and brought to life through exceptional food and hospitality.” Like the other Rubirosa locations, the design was influenced by its surroundings. “We wanted to capture the nostalgic, Italian-inspired spirit that defines Rubirosa, reinterpreted through the lens of the Rockies,” Bedol tells me. “The result is a space that maximizes the mountain views, with a sun-soaked outdoor patio, large tables for groups, bar seating for walk-ins, and easy access from the slopes, creating a welcoming home base for guests of all ages.” The concept was a true labor of love. “The goal was to highlight the surrounding beauty and create a space that frames the outdoors. The previous restaurant had large television screens blocking the tall windows overlooking the slopes at the front of Ajax. Once they were removed, it was like restoring the Mona Lisa.” The Menu The menu features Rubirosa classics such as the Tie-Dye Pizza and housemade pastas, as well as the S’mores Sundae and family-style Sunday suppers. However, there’s also a wide selection of soups, local produce, meats, and freshwater fish. In addition to this, there are special options exclusive to the fire pit tables, including snack-sized pizzas, antipasti, polpetti, and other shareable dishes. Meanwhile, the bar offers its own special menu of hot drinks and amaros. Rubirosa will also be introducing a special après-ski experience with Resy. A True Piece Of New York In The Mountains For Pappalardo, opening in Aspen isn’t just about another piece of the (pizza) pie. It’s about building a legacy. “For the last fifteen years, my family has built Rubirosa on Mulberry Street with great passion, and to have the kind relationship we do with our community is humbling. Rubirosa, Camp Rubirosa, and now Mt. Rubirosa are, at their core, family restaurants—about connection, tradition, and the Sunday-supper joy of gathering around a dinner table, or even a fire pit! Becoming part of the local Aspen community lets us carry that spirit to a town that truly values tradition and hospitality. We can’t wait to welcome families, neighbors, and new friends to our new mountain home.”
