Rootstalk is a modern American restaurant founded on the idea of connection and coming home. Chef Matt Vawter was born and raised in Summit County and spent the formative years of his culinary career in Keystone and Breckenridge. After spending a period of time away from Breckenridge, Chef Matt returned to his hometown determined to open a restaurant of his own and help grow the culinary landscape in Summit County. Chef Matt made a large step towards that goal when he won the 2024 James Beard Award for Best Chef Mountain.

From old dormant roots, Rootstalk was opened in December of 2020 in a historic home on North Main Street in Breckenridge. The name Rootstalk refers to rhizomes that are all connected via a complex underground root system. The name was inspired by the large stands of Aspen trees surrounding the community of Breckenridge. Rootstalk explores the notion of connection through the cuisine, hospitality, and beverage programs. The aim is to connect guests with farmers, ranchers, winemakers, and other producers; while providing a space where people can connect with each other during their dinner.

”It’s an ode to upscale comfort food featuring dishes such as Vawter’s French onion soup (which will ruin you forever on other versions), dreamy duck cassoulet, and the most perfect of house-made pastas, situated in a small Victorian house built in 1889.”
-5280 Magazine