Yellowstone National Park isn't just a paradise for nature lovers—it's also a hidden gem for food enthusiasts. Whether you're craving a casual bite or a fine dining experience, this iconic park offers a diverse range of eateries to satisfy any palate. Here's a roundup of the 14 best places to eat in Yellowstone National Park.
1. Canyon Fountain and Grill
Address: 3 N Rim Dr, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Canyon Fountain and Grill is a popular dining spot located in the Canyon Village area of Yellowstone National Park. Known for its casual American fare, the restaurant offers a variety of options including burgers, sandwiches, and ice cream. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a great place for families and visitors looking to refuel after exploring the nearby Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The grill is open seasonally, typically from mid-May to mid-October, and provides both indoor and outdoor seating. The menu features classic American dishes that are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The convenient location and casual dining experience make it a favorite among park visitors. Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Canyon Fountain and Grill offers a welcoming environment and a variety of tasty options to enjoy.
2. Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room
Address: 236 Yellowstone Lake Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
The Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room offers an upscale dining experience with stunning views of Yellowstone Lake. This fine dining restaurant is known for its elegant ambiance, featuring tall white beams and pristine tablecloths. The menu includes creative dishes such as bison burgers, elk ravioli, and poached pear salads, making it a top choice for special occasions. Open only during the summer and fall seasons, reservations are strongly recommended for dinner. The dining room is particularly popular for its panoramic lake views, making it a memorable dining experience in Yellowstone. The restaurant emphasizes sustainable and local ingredients, sourcing fresh produce from nearby farms and ranches. The Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room is a must-visit for those looking to enjoy a sophisticated meal in a beautiful setting.g experience, head to the Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room. With stunning views of Yellowstone Lake, this elegant restaurant offers dishes like bison burgers and elk ravioli. The ambiance is perfect for special occasions, featuring tall white beams and pristine tablecloths. Reservations are highly recommended for this seasonal fine dining spot.
3. Old Faithful General Store Grill
Address: 2 Old Faithful Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Located near the iconic Old Faithful geyser, the Old Faithful General Store Grill offers a convenient dining option for visitors. The grill serves a variety of American classics, including burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches. The store itself is a historic building, adding to the charm of the dining experience. Open seasonally, the grill provides a casual atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a meal before or after watching the geyser erupt. The Old Faithful General Store also offers a range of groceries, souvenirs, and other essentials, making it a one-stop shop for park visitors. The combination of convenient location, historic ambiance, and classic American fare makes the Old Faithful General Store Grill a popular choice for those exploring the Old Faithful area. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a place to relax and take in the surroundings, this grill offers a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.
4. Mammoth Dining Room
Address: 305A Grand Loop Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Mammoth Dining Room stands out for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. It is Xanterra's first officially certified green restaurant and Wyoming's first 4-Star Certified Green Restaurant, a distinction awarded by the Green Restaurant Association. The restaurant sources 70% of its food locally, including items like trout from Idaho, bison from Wyoming and North Dakota, and various products from Montana. The menu features a variety of American cuisine, with popular dishes such as bison short ribs and trout. The dining room is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering a range of options from hearty breakfast buffets to elegant dinner entrees. The nearly floor-to-ceiling windows provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including wandering elk and bison. The restaurant's sustainable practices include using compostable or recyclable disposables, energy-efficient lighting, and environmentally friendly cleaning products. The Mammoth Dining Room is a popular spot in the Mammoth Hot Springs area, known for its scenic views, eco-friendly dining, and commitment to local sourcing.
5. Firehole Bar-B-Que Co.
Address: 120 Firehole Ave, West Yellowstone, MT 59758
Located just outside Yellowstone National Park in West Yellowstone, Montana, Firehole Bar-B-Que Co. is a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts. This family-owned restaurant is renowned for its Central Texas-style barbecue, serving mouth-watering smoked meats such as brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. The meats are smoked fresh daily and served until they run out, ensuring high quality and freshness. The menu also includes delicious sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread. Firehole Bar-B-Que Co. has gained a strong reputation, even being featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." The casual, picnic-table dining atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a hearty meal after a day of exploring Yellowstone. The restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients and friendly service has earned it high praise from visitors, making it a top dining destination in the area.
6. Geyser Grill at Old Faithful Snow Lodge
Address: 1000 Old Faithful Road, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Geyser Grill at Old Faithful Snow Lodge offers a convenient and quick-service dining option for visitors exploring the Old Faithful area. Specializing in American fare, the grill serves a variety of items including burgers, deli sandwiches, salads, and value meals. The whimsical character carvings overhead add a unique and playful touch to the dining experience. Open seasonally from mid-April to late October and again from mid-December to mid-March, the Geyser Grill caters to both summer and winter visitors. The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis, making it an ideal spot for a quick bite before or after watching the geyser erupt. The casual atmosphere and friendly service make it a popular choice for families and groups. With seating for 106 people and an additional 50 in the lounge, the Geyser Grill provides ample space for diners to enjoy a meal in a relaxed setting.
7. Old Faithful Inn Dining Room
Address: 3200 Old Faithful Inn Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
The Mammoth Dining Room is located in the Mammoth Hot Springs area and offers a diverse menu with American cuisine. Known for its sustainable practices, the restaurant sources 70% of its food and beverages locally. The dining room is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and features dishes such as bison short ribs and trout. The restaurant is Xanterra’s first certified green restaurant and Wyoming’s first 4-Star Certified Green Restaurant, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability. The Mammoth Dining Room is particularly popular for its nearly floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of wandering elk and bison. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability and its scenic location make it a standout dining option in Yellowstone. The Mammoth Dining Room is open seasonally, with breakfast and lunch being first-come, first-served, while dinner requires reservations during the winter season.
8. Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room
Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY
For a rustic Old West dining experience, visit the Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room. Built near one of Theodore Roosevelt’s favorite spots, this lodge is Yellowstone’s tribute to the Old West. The rustic log lodge features two stone fireplaces, a family-style restaurant, a lobby bar, and a front porch perfect for rocking and relaxing. The menu includes hearty options like applewood-smoked baby back ribs, bison tamales, and mesquite-smoked chicken, reflecting the lodge's cowboy feel. One of the unique offerings is the Old West Cookout, where guests can enjoy a chuck wagon dinner complete with camp songs and storytelling. The dining room operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is open seasonally from June 7 to September 2, 2024. The casual atmosphere and historic charm make it a memorable dining experience for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the park's rich history and natural beauty.
9. Grant Village Dining Room
Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY
Grant Village Dining Room provides full-service dining with a focus on American cuisine. Located near the scenic Yellowstone Lake, the dining room offers a comfortable and casual atmosphere, making it a great spot for families and groups. The menu is varied, featuring dishes like trout, bison meatloaf, and other house specialties that cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets. The restaurant is open seasonally from May 31 to October 6, 2024, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast and lunch are first-come, first-served, while dinner requires reservations, which can be made up to 60 days in advance for guests staying at Grant Village Lodge and up to 30 days for other park guests. The adjacent Seven Stool Saloon offers a cozy spot for pre- or post-dinner drinks. The combination of delicious food, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere makes Grant Village Dining Room a popular dining destination in Yellowstone.
10. Fishing Bridge General Store
Address: 1 East Entrance Road, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
The Fishing Bridge General Store, built in 1931, offers a variety of dining options and a charming, rustic atmosphere. Located near the Yellowstone River and the historic Fishing Bridge, this general store provides groceries, ice cream, souvenirs, and apparel. The sit-down restaurant inside serves a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring items like burgers, sandwiches, and a confection area with ice cream and espresso. Open daily from May 17 to October 13, 2024, the store is a convenient stop for visitors looking to refuel and shop for essentials. The store's historic architecture and scenic location add to its charm, making it a popular spot for both dining and shopping. The Fishing Bridge General Store is wheelchair accessible and offers designated accessible parking, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy its amenities. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or exploring the store's offerings, it provides a delightful and convenient experience in Yellowstone.
11. Terrace Grill
Address: 235 Yellowstone Lake Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Terrace Grill, located in the Mammoth Hot Springs area, is an ideal spot for a quick and casual meal. This fast-food style restaurant offers a variety of American fare, including breakfast sandwiches, burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and value meals. The grill is open seasonally, with breakfast available from June 6 to September 4, and lunch and dinner served from April 26 to October 14. The ice cream shop operates from May 22 to September 4, providing hand-dipped ice cream to cool off during the warmer months. The relaxed atmosphere of Terrace Grill, combined with its convenient location, makes it a popular choice for visitors who are short on time but still want a satisfying meal. The occasional live elk sightings add a unique touch to the dining experience, making it a memorable stop for those exploring the Mammoth Hot Springs area.
12. The Branch Restaurant and Bar
Address: Holiday Inn® West, West Yellowstone, MT
Just outside Yellowstone National Park, The Branch Restaurant and Bar is located in the Holiday Inn® West Yellowstone. This restaurant offers a variety of American dishes, including steaks, burgers, fish, and poultry, making it a versatile dining option for families and groups. The bar features a selection of local beers and cocktails, providing a comfortable and lively atmosphere. The Branch is known for its hearty breakfasts, which are perfect for fueling up before a day of exploration in the park. The restaurant also boasts six 60-inch TVs for viewing sporting events, a game room with a pool table, air hockey, Xbox, pinball, and more, making it a great spot for relaxation and entertainment. The Branch Restaurant and Bar is currently undergoing renovations and is projected to reopen on April 15, 2024. Its combination of delicious food, local beverages, and entertainment options makes it a must-visit for those staying in West Yellowstone.
13. Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria
Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY
Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria provides a casual dining experience with a variety of American dishes, making it a convenient option for visitors near the Old Faithful geyser. The cafeteria serves lunch and dinner, offering great value and selection. Guests can enjoy their meals with views of the Old Faithful Geyser from the dining area, or opt for to-go items to continue their park exploration. The cafeteria is open seasonally from May 10 to October 6, 2024, with lunch served from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm and dinner from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Additionally, the Bake Shop offers light meals, snacks, and beverages from 6:30 am to 11:00 am, and the Ice Cream Shop operates from May 24 to September 15, providing soft-serve ice cream from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The relaxed atmosphere and quick service make Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria a popular choice for families and groups looking for a convenient and enjoyable dining experience near one of Yellowstone's most famous landmarks.
14. Canyon Lodge Eatery
Address: 83B Lupine Ct, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Canyon Lodge Eatery offers a diverse array of dining options, making it a popular choice for visitors to Yellowstone National Park. Located in the heart of Canyon Village, this eatery is open seasonally from mid-May to mid-October, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The eatery features two main dining concepts: Fresh Wok and Slow Food Fast. Fresh Wok allows diners to customize their meals with a base of greens, rice, or noodles, and a selection of vegetables, meats, or tofu, topped with a variety of flavorful sauces. This option is perfect for those looking for a fresh and healthy meal. Slow Food Fast, on the other hand, offers homestyle favorites such as rotisserie chicken, mashed potatoes, and hearty stews, providing a comforting and satisfying dining experience.
The casual atmosphere of Canyon Lodge Eatery, combined with its convenient location, makes it a go-to spot for park visitors. The eatery also emphasizes sustainability, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. In addition to the main dining options, the eatery offers grab-and-go items, making it easy for visitors to pick up a quick meal before heading out to explore the park. With its variety of menu options and commitment to quality, Canyon Lodge Eatery caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences, ensuring that every visitor can find something to enjoy.
From fine dining with breathtaking views to quick bites near iconic landmarks, Yellowstone National Park has something to offer every foodie. Whether you're exploring geysers, canyons, or lakes, these 14 dining spots ensure you won't go hungry while enjoying the park's natural beauty.
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