Steamboat’s Rex Brice wears a lot of hats running the Laundry, Creekside Café, Mazzola’s, and Salt and Lime restaurants in town, one of which is the chef’s hat he trained for. But he’s also an ardent philanthropist, community member, skier, mountain biker and more, all while refueling locals and visitors for their next adventure. We caught up with him for his take on everything from the local dining scene and running restaurants here to where to find him when he’s shredding Champagne Powder instead of pouring it in your glass.
When and how did you end up in Steamboat?
Growing up in North Carolina, I always dreamed of living in Colorado. While working at a seasonal resort in Vermont I met a group of friends that all shared the same passion. In 1993 we all packed up and headed for Steamboat. Little did I know it would be my home for the next 30-plus years.
What’s your restaurant background?
I began my restaurant career in my hometown of Chapel Hill at Swenson’s when I was 14, an old school ice cream parlor and sandwich shop. In high school I worked various restaurant jobs before moving to Asheville to attend culinary school. Then I worked as a chef in fine dining restaurants until opening my own restaurants.
What’s your take on Steamboat’s restaurant scene?
When I moved to Steamboat, there were one or two standouts, but it was hard to make a living owning a restaurant back then. Steamboat didn’t have the year-round population or summer tourism we do now. Today’s restaurant scene is very different. We still have the challenges of a seasonal resort town, but our restaurant scene is vibrant.
What’s unique about all your restaurants?
Our family culture is what sets us apart. It’s something that resonates throughout every aspect of our operations.
What’s the hardest part about running them?
The hardest is that unlike some businesses there isn’t one hardest part. It is the combination of lots of little challenges that makes this business difficult. You’re only as good as your last meal.
What do you love about Steamboat?
I love the people who live here. Whether someone has lived here their entire life or just moved here, most people you meet have a great outlook on life. And people who live here appreciate that we are a small community with a ski resort as opposed to a ski resort with a small community. This is part of what also makes Steamboat such a great place to visit.
What are some of your favorite summer activities?
Steamboat is such a wonderful place to be in the summer. I enjoy mountain biking, hiking, hanging out by the creek, and just walking around downtown.
And finally, favorite run on a powder day?
I love all the little gems that haven’t been hit yet. If you poke around on a powder day you can find fresh stashes all day long.
