Yellowstone National Park offers a diverse range of dining options, from upscale restaurants to casual cafeterias and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy local specialties like bison, trout, and huckleberry dishes while taking in the park’s stunning natural beauty. This guide covers the best places to eat within the park and nearby, including popular spots like Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room and Old Faithful Inn Dining Room, as well as more casual options and picnic areas for those on the go.
What Are the Top Restaurants Inside Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park boasts several excellent dining establishments that cater to various tastes and budgets. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room
- Menu: Upscale dishes featuring fresh fish, wild game, pheasant, and grilled bison rib-eye
- Breakfast specialties: Huckleberry pancakes and stuffed French toast
- Average meal price: $30-$60
- Peak dining hours: Dinner reservations required, available from May 7 to September 6
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Breakfast and lunch: First-come, first-seated
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Old Faithful Inn Dining Room
- Menu: Steak, seafood, and local favorites like bison
- Atmosphere: Soaring stone-and-timber architecture
- Average meal price: $30-$60
- Operating season: Mid-April through early November
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Reservations: Recommended for dinner
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Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria
- Menu: Bison meatloaf, barbecue sandwiches, roasted carved turkey, entrée salads, and deli sandwiches
- Snacks: Ice cream cones available at the Lobby Snack Shops
- Average meal price: $10-$30
- Operating season: May 11 to October 3
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Seating: No reservations needed, first-come, first-served basis
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Grant Village Dining Room
- Menu highlights: Slow-roasted Prime Rib, Trout three ways, Paprika Shrimp, and Bison Meatloaf
- Additional feature: Seven Stool Saloon adjacent to the dining room
- Average meal price: $30-$60
- Operating season: May 28 to October 3
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Reservations: Required for dinner
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Canyon Lodge M66 Grill
- Menu theme: Retro-themed dishes focusing on fresh, local food
- Specialties: Sauteed red trout and Montana Cream of the West Seven Grain Buttermilk Pancakes
- Average meal price: $10-$30
- Operating season: Summer months (exact dates vary)
Where Can You Find Good Food Near West Yellowstone?
For those staying near the park’s western entrance or looking for dining options outside the park boundaries, West Yellowstone offers several excellent choices:
- Running Bear Pancake House
- Location: West Yellowstone, close to the park entrance
- Cuisine: Breakfast favorites
- Specialties: Cinnamon roll pancakes, buttermilk pancakes, and buckwheat crepes
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Notable features: Generous portions and friendly service
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Ernie’s Bakery & Deli
- Location: West Yellowstone, near the park entrance
- Cuisine: French-inspired deli
- Menu items: Sandwiches, pastries, and baked goods
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Specialties: Croque monsieur and croque madame, custom sandwiches
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Firehole Bar-B-Que
- Location: West Yellowstone, close to the park entrance
- Cuisine: BBQ
- Menu highlights: St. Louis pork ribs, brisket, buffalo sausage, and turkey
- Claim to fame: Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
- Note: Limited menu but high-quality BBQ
What Are the Best Lunch Spots in Yellowstone?
For those looking to enjoy a midday meal while exploring the park, Yellowstone offers various lunch options, including picnic areas and casual eateries:
Picnic Areas
- Rim Trail of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- Scenic spots along the trail
- Sheepeater Cliffs
- Picnic area with views of marmots
- 7 Mile Bridge
- Picnic area with river views
Food Availability for Picnics
- General Stores: Available in various villages within the park for picnic supplies
- Cafeterias and Delis: Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria and other village eateries offer grab-and-go options
Recommended Dishes for Lunch
| Eatery | Recommended Dishes |
|---|---|
| Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria | Bison meatloaf, barbecue sandwiches, entrée salads |
| Lake Hotel Dining Room | Huckleberry pancakes, stuffed French toast, bison burgers |
Restrictions and Permits
- No specific permits needed for outdoor dining
- Be aware of park rules and regulations
- For those with dietary restrictions, some park kitchens may not be entirely gluten-free
- Consider picnicking on groceries from general stores or border towns for specific dietary needs
Where Can You Dine with a View of Lake Yellowstone?
For those seeking a dining experience with stunning lake views, Yellowstone offers two notable options:
- Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room
- Seating: Elegant setting with white linen tablecloths
- Accessibility: Located in the Lake Yellowstone Hotel with easy access to the lake and surrounding views
- Seasonal hours: Open from May 7 to September 6
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Reservations: Required for dinner, first-come, first-seated for breakfast and lunch
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Grant Village Lake House Restaurant
- Seating: Casual setting with a view of Yellowstone Lake and the Absaroka Mountains
- Accessibility: Easy access and no reservations required for breakfast and lunch
- Seasonal hours: Open from May 28 to October 3
- Menu: Simple options including fish tacos and nachos
What Are Some Tips for Dining in Yellowstone National Park?
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Make reservations early: Popular restaurants like Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room and Old Faithful Inn Dining Room fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
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Be flexible with timing: Consider early or late dining times to avoid crowds.
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Pack snacks and water: Always carry some snacks and water with you while exploring the park.
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Try local specialties: Don’t miss out on dishes featuring bison, trout, and huckleberries.
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Check operating seasons: Many restaurants in the park are seasonal, so verify opening dates before planning your visit.
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Consider picnicking: Take advantage of the park’s beautiful picnic areas for a unique dining experience.
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Explore options outside the park: Nearby towns like West Yellowstone offer additional dining choices.
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Be aware of dietary restrictions: If you have specific dietary needs, consider bringing your own food or checking with restaurants in advance.
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Enjoy the views: Choose restaurants with scenic views to enhance your dining experience.
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Budget accordingly: Prices can vary widely, from budget-friendly cafeterias to upscale dining rooms.
By following these tips and exploring the various dining options available, you can ensure a memorable culinary experience during your visit to Yellowstone National Park.