Mid-Vail, at the top of Eagle's Nest ridge at the convergence point of several major chairlifts, is the main on-mountain lunch option. It is a large cafeteria-style facility but a decent one: the food is better than most ski resort lunch spots, with options ranging from burgers and chilli to carved roast meats and a salad bar. In good weather the outdoor deck, looking out over the front-side runs, is one of the better places to eat in Vail — the views extend across the valley to the Sawatch Range to the south.
Mid-Vail is always busy at peak lunchtime; arriving before noon or after 1:30pm means shorter queues. The Two Elk Lodge, further into the Back Bowls, is a more atmospheric alternative with a similar setup and a quieter terrace.