At first glance, this little bistro doesn’t look like much—it’s small for Whistler (although it recently expanded) and the room is plain, with all white walls, round pine tables, and simple black and red chairs—though that cedar bar is pretty great, and the shelves filled with jars of house-made pickles and preserves give you an idea of how passionate the team here is about authentic, local food. Alta Bistro has the best cocktail program in Whistler, thanks to the talents of barman Scott Curry, who makes all his own syrups and bitters. Then there is the food. Rooted in French tradition, but dedicated to local ingredients, the ever-changing dinner menu might feature roast lamb shoulder with faro risotto, elk tartar with duck liver parfait, or clams and bacon with white beans. There is charcuterie, cheese, and a well-edited wine list. Seductive sweets round out the list at what is one of the best dining experiences in Whistler.