A Sneak Peek At The EMP Winter House In Aspen

The wintertime retreat of the famous and elite will be getting quite the cozy culinary upgrade this season, when the team behind Eleven Madison Park finally unveils the EMP Winter House at the St. Regis in partnership with American Express.

Though reservations can now be made by American Express cardholders for seating through January 31st, the buzzed about pop-up (which includes a yurt village), won't be opening its doors until December 15th. But this week, during an intimate dinner party with American Express and Eleven Madison Park's Will Guidara and Chef Daniel Humm, we got a preview of what to expect at the lush new après-ski hang in Aspen.

The chalet-inspired candlelit affair hosted at the NoMad in New York City saw lush, furry details, vintage skis and snowshoes, and, of course, dish after dish of top tier comfort food, including oysters, shrimp cocktail, scallop ceviche, and a decadent lobster salad with avocado, blue cheese and bacon. The main event, however, was the playful Alpine Fondue spread, which came complete with a bubbling pot of melted cheeses and a selection of dipping goodies, from marbled potatoes and charcuterie, to fluffy pretzels and sourdough bread. Trust, it's sure to warm you right up after a day in the snow

For those with more "Black Diamond" tastes (both on and off the slopes), the menu features a special section full of caviar and truffles - the chicest side dishes anyone could ask for, really.

As for the cocktails? Well, they're just as rich as the food. A boozy Egg Nog boasts Chivas 12 Year, Diplomatico, Pierre Ferrand Ambre, Egg, Cream, and Winter Spice, while the "Improved Whiskey Cocktail" features Jameson Black Barrel, Bushmills, Laphroaig, Maraschino, and Pernod Absinthe. There's even mulled wine, spiked cider, and, delightfully enough, shot skis of cinnamon whiskey or chocolate tequila. If you needed a reason to pack up your gear and head to Aspen this winter, this is it.

[Photos by Collins Nai/BFA][Courtesy EMP Winter House]