Brasserie les Marmottons (Le Comptoir)
Last updated: 23 December 2025
Craft-beer brasserie near Grands Montets in Argentière, pouring local brews alongside hearty brasserie plates. Great for beer lovers, groups and anyone who wants food and drinks without going far. Seasonal and weather-dependent—check opening hours (and lift times if relevant) before you go.
Key takeaways
- Best for: local beer, relaxed meals, groups.
- Vibe: casual brasserie with a focus on craft beer.
- Location: Argentière.
- Map: Open in Google Maps.
Full guide
Location & Setting
Brasserie les Marmottons – also known as Le Comptoir à Raclette – enjoys one of the best locations in Argentière for skiers. It sits literally at the base of the Grands Montets ski area, adjacent to the main lift station. This prime spot means that by mid-day its terrace is filled with skiers and snowboarders still in their boots, helmets on tables, soaking up the sun and recounting their morning runs. The venue includes an indoor self-service brasserie and an outdoor terrace with picnic tables that directly face the home piste. The décor inside is unfussy and functional (as many slope-side eateries are), but the atmosphere is lively – it’s a place to refuel and rejoice after carving the slopes. On bluebird days, the terrace is the star: expansive and sun-soaked, with panoramic views of the glacier and peaks around.
Food & Drink
Marmottons offers savory Savoyard cuisine and quick snacks. Being branded as “Le Comptoir à Raclette,” they specialize in cheesy alpine dishes: raclette, fondue, tartiflette can often be ordered, especially during special events or by reservation. However, as a daytime brasserie, the common fare includes hot sandwiches, burgers, pastas, and daily plats du jour (dish of the day). For example, you might get a generous serving of diots (Savoy sausages in white wine sauce) with polenta, or a classic croûte au fromage (cheese on toast) – perfect comfort food. They also do lighter bites like crêpes and soups for those who want just a snack. In spring skiing season, happy hour kicks in during the last lift hour – they often advertise beer or spritz specials to entice skiers to linger for après on the terrace. Speaking of drinks, a full bar is available: draft beers, mulled wine, bombardinos (that indulgent eggnog liqueur ski drink), plus soft drinks and good espresso for a post-lunch pick-me-up. Prices are reasonable for an on-mountain establishment, and portions are hearty – exactly what you need after burning calories in the cold.
Après-Ski Scene
As the lifts wind down, Brasserie les Marmottons transitions into après-ski mode. It’s one of the first bars people see as they finish the famous Pierre-à-Ric run back to Argentière, so there’s a magnetic effect – the terrace starts filling with jubilant skiers clinking glasses. There’s a festive ambience with music playing from the outdoor speakers. On occasion (especially weekends or holidays), they’ll have a live DJ or a small band set up on the deck, turning the base area into an open-air party. This brasserie is popular among ski instructors and workers as well – you’ll see many uniforms and name tags among the crowd, which speaks to its local credibility. It typically closes early in the evening (since it’s tied to lift operations), around 18:00 or 19:00, but until then it can be very lively. If you’re visiting in the summer, Marmottons also opens for hikers and mountain bikers, though with slightly quieter vibes – perhaps just a cold beer with mountain bikers comparing trail notes.
Tips
Given its self-service nature at lunchtime, plan to eat slightly early or late (11:30 or after 14:00)
to avoid the peak canteen rush at 12
30 – during peak times it can be crowded inside with trays. However, service is quick and efficient. For a classic experience, try their raclette à la coupe (melted raclette cheese scraped onto potatoes and charcuterie) – nothing says “French Alps” more, especially if you snag a spot by an outdoor heater on the terrace. If you’re just coming for après-ski, no need to change out of ski gear; in fact, it’s part of the charm that everyone is still dressed for the snow. Families will appreciate that it’s right by the beginner slope end, so kids can play in the snow near the terrace while parents supervise with a drink in hand. Lastly, keep an eye out for any signboards about “happy hour” or live music – Marmottons posts these near the lift or at the counter, and it’s worth timing your ski day to include them. There’s no better feeling than finishing an epic Grands Montets powder day and celebrating at Marmottons with friends as the sun sets over the Mont Blanc range.
Practical info
- Address: Argentière (near Grands Montets), 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France
- Phone: +33 4 50 54 10 67
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/Brasserielesmarmottons/
- Google Maps: Open map
FAQ
Where is Brasserie les Marmottons (Le Comptoir)?
Brasserie les Marmottons (Le Comptoir) is in Argentière. Address: Argentière (near Grands Montets), 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France. Use the Google Maps link in this guide for turn-by-turn directions.
Is Brasserie les Marmottons (Le Comptoir) good for après-ski?
Yes. Brasserie les Marmottons (Le Comptoir) is a popular après-ski option in Argentière. Expect a casual brasserie with a focus on craft beer vibe and it can get busy straight after the lifts close in peak season.
Do I need to book?
For drinks only, walk-ins are often fine. If you want a table for food (or you’re a group in peak winter weeks), booking ahead is recommended.
