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    Top 13 Restaurants In Yellowstone National Park: Best Places

    John SmithBy
    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Restaurants In Yellowstone National Park

    When it comes to exploring the breathtaking beauty of Yellowstone National Park, it’s not just the geysers and wildlife that deserve your attention—your taste buds are in for an adventure, too! From rustic lodges serving hearty comfort food to cozy cafés with fresh, locally-inspired dishes, dining in Yellowstone is as much a part of the experience as the wonders of nature itself.

    In this guide, we’ll take you through the best restaurants in Yellowstone National Park to eat, tips for dining in the park, and what to expect from these unique culinary gems nestled in one of America’s most iconic destinations. Let’s go with nationalparkshops’s team!

    Canyon Lodge M66 Grill

    Established in 2015, this eatery has a contemporary ambiance and specializes in retro-inspired dishes, prioritizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in an eco-friendly manner. For an authentic restaurants in Yellowstone National Park experience, you can sample the sautéed red trout accompanied by cilantro pesto and a mix of white and red rice along with seasonal roasted vegetables.

    For breakfast, visitors enjoy the Montana Cream of the West Seven Grain Buttermilk Pancakes, which come with options like blueberries, bananas, pecans, or chocolate chips, all made from local Montana Grains products.

    Some patrons express dissatisfaction, claiming the restaurant is lacking in flavor and overpriced; however, if you’re seeking innovation at the latest venue, this is the spot for you.

    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Canyon Lodge M66 Grill

    Old Faithful Inn Dining Room – One of the restaurants in Yellowstone National Park

    The Old Faithful Inn Dining Room is one of my top choices for dining in Yellowstone National Park due to its amazing atmosphere, especially if you appreciate a historic log cabin style (fun fact: this venue inspired Disney’s Wilderness Lodge).

    One of these restaurants in Yellowstone National Park offers an extensive breakfast buffet and a menu featuring items from burgers to prime rib during dinner (reservations are essential!). Since it opens very early, the Old Faithful Dining Room is also ideal for a hearty meal before exploring the Upper Geyser Basin. Plus, it’s conveniently located right next to the Old Faithful Geyser.

    In terms of atmosphere, you can expect a warm log-cabin feel with high ceilings. However, be prepared for large crowds due to its popular location.

    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Old Faithful Inn Dining Room

    >> Best Time To Visit Yellowstone National Park

    Old Faithful Snow Lodge Geyser Grill

    This is an excellent option for families who want to quickly eat and get back on their journey. It’s also a fantastic choice for having fast dinners before heading to bed. Additionally, the atmosphere is very laid-back, so there’s no need to stress about kids being rowdy or needing to dress up.

    If possible, choose a table by the window to enjoy views of the visitor center and the activity in this busy Old Faithful area. In winter, you can even see snowmobiles racing around the Old Faithful Snow Lodge during ski season!

    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Old Faithful Snow Lodge Geyser Grill

    Obsidian Dining Room

    The Obsidian Dining Room is a great choice for a sit-down meal. Located within the Old Faithful Snow Lodge, it offers a cozy atmosphere with a wilderness theme and wooden beams.

    It features delicious bison meals (the short ribs are particularly impressive!) along with fresh fish and wild game options like elk. One of the restaurants in Yellowstone National Park also has longer operating hours compared to other places like the Geyser Grill, and it remains open throughout the year, though reservations are necessary only in winter.

    While I wouldn’t classify it as overly expensive, it does cost more than an average deli. You can expect to spend about $20-$30 for a meal, excluding appetizers or drinks. However, the portion sizes are generous and suitable for sharing between two people. Additionally, there is a small children’s menu with familiar options like grilled cheese that most kids will enjoy.

    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Obsidian Dining Room

    Old Faithful Inn Bear Paw Deli

    In Yellowstone National Park, the Bear Paw Deli offers some of the best quick service dining options. It’s my preferred spot for picking up a morning coffee before witnessing the first eruption of Old Faithful (think of it as Yellowstone’s take on Starbucks).

    The menu features house-made deli sandwiches, salads, soups, and a selection of desserts. While the portions aren’t overly substantial, there are plenty of gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian choices available.

    Additionally, one of these restaurants in Yellowstone National Park might be one of the most laid-back places to eat in Yellowstone. You can comfortably stroll in with your family wearing muddy boots and a big coat, and no one will bat an eye!

    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Old Faithful Inn Bear Paw Deli

    Mammoth Terrace Grill

    At Terrace Grill, you can savor your breakfast sandwich and coffee in the morning (or evening ice cream) while watching live elk stroll by the windows. The service at the counter is quick, and the prices are affordable.

    It’s one of the ideal restaurants in Yellowstone National Park if you’re spending the night at the Mammoth Hotel or cabins (which I suggest).

    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Mammoth Terrace Grill

    >> Things To Do in Yellowstone National Park

    Mammoth Hotel Dining Room

    Located within the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, this dining room only serves dinner during the summer season. In winter, breakfast and lunch are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while dinner requires reservations.

    The space has a lovely Art Deco design, though the dress code remains fairly casual. If you’re fortunate, you might spot elk wandering on the hotel’s lawn, which is a major attraction. This can also keep children entertained while you dine, reducing their screen time!

    As for the menu, expect options like bison steaks, trout, and elk sliders, while kids will likely enjoy wings and wild game chili. There are vegetarian options available, but they are limited.

    For those concerned about the environment, one of these restaurants in Yellowstone National Park has received a 4-star Certification from the Green Restaurant Association. This indicates its commitment to sustainable practices and the use of local and organic ingredients!

    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Mammoth Hotel Dining Room

    Grant Village Dining Room

    For a dining experience suitable for families in Yellowstone National Park that is not overly casual, visit the Grant Village Dining Room. It features a diverse menu filled with wild game and is conveniently located next to the Seven Stool Saloon for a drink afterward.

    One of these restaurants in Yellowstone National Park has a cabin-like ambiance with its high beams and large vaulted ceilings. Although it gives off a slightly upscale vibe, the prices are quite affordable. You can look forward to delicious bison burgers, falafel wraps, steaks, and tasty desserts, including an excellent brûlée cheesecake.

    You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner here, but remember that making reservations for dinner is required. Additionally, most of the dining area offers a breathtaking full-wall view of the lake. If you’re visiting during the summer, I strongly suggest trying to secure an outdoor table if possible.

    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Grant Village Dining Room

    Grant Village Lake House Restaurant

    The scenery…and tacos! These are two excellent reasons to eat at the Lake House Restaurant. It’s an ideal spot to relax after a busy day in Yellowstone. Be sure to request a table by the window! Keep in mind that this option is available only for dinner, and the menu consists solely of tacos (along with a nice variety of alcoholic drinks…a fantastic pairing if you ask me).

    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Grant Village Lake House Restaurant

    Lake Lodge Cafeteria (Wylie Canteen)

    I always prioritize finding good food at affordable prices. That’s exactly what the Lake Lodge Cafeteria provides. Located near Yellowstone Lake, you might even see elk or bison passing by your window!

    While the dining area may not be the most thrilling, it features a daily rotating menu of specials that adds variety for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With options ranging from deli sandwiches to hot meals and fresh salads, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s taste.

    Additionally, I believe one of these restaurants in Yellowstone National Park has excellent hours for families wanting to explore nearby trails. It opens early and stays open late enough for quick dinners before heading out!

    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Lake Lodge Cafeteria (Wylie Canteen)

    Old West Cookout

    The Old West Dinner Cookout offers a distinctive dining adventure in Yellowstone National Park. It includes the option of a horseback or wagon ride across the prairie, followed by a traditional American meal. As you make your way through the sagebrush flats to the cookout location, it’s a fantastic opportunity for wildlife observation.

    For the meal, you can look forward to their famous Roosevelt baked beans, sirloin steak (cooked to your preference), cornbread, and potato salad, among other sides. Additionally, there’s live music performed by a real Western cowboy, along with a campfire to enhance your experience while you enjoy your “cowboy coffee” (a must-try).

    The whole event lasts approximately three hours and is on the pricier side, costing between $65 and $116 per person (prices may vary). However, it’s an unforgettable one of the restaurants in Yellowstone National Park that the whole family will enjoy. Furthermore, children under 3 years old can share food from an adult’s plate, which helps reduce expenses significantly.

    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Old West Cookout

    Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room

    Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room is one of my top choices for dining in Yellowstone National Park. It’s important to note that the restaurant operates only from June to early September. Therefore, it isn’t an option for breakfast or dinner during the winter months. However, if you’re in the mood for Old-West cuisine such as ribs, burgers, steak, and fried chicken, this place has exactly what you need.

    Additionally, one of these restaurants in Yellowstone National Park is a great spot to pick up affordable boxed lunches with simple sandwiches to keep the kids satisfied. You can also stop by the general store for picnic supplies (and ice cream!) for your trip!

    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room

    Canyon Fountain and Grill

    It’s…you guessed it! Another lunch counter! Yellowstone has a fondness for its lunch counters. Once again, you can look forward to traditional diner cuisine. The view won’t be spectacular, as you’ll only see the souvenirs from the shop that shares space with Canyon Soda Fountain, but you’ll be able to refuel the kids and prepare them for the rest of your day in Yellowstone.

    One of these restaurants in Yellowstone National Park becomes quite busy during the summer months, so if you’re planning to spend time there, it’s advisable to eat at unconventional times. Otherwise, be ready for a wait (and possibly some impatient kids during the wait). Alternatively, you could bypass the lunch counter and pick up groceries at the nearby general store.

    restaurants in yellowstone national park
    Canyon Fountain and Grill

    >> How Many Days Need For Yellowstone National Park

    FAQs

    How much does it cost to eat in Yellowstone?

    Yellowstone has many dining options, including restaurants and grills. A single person’s lunch might cost around $10 at a grill or significantly more in a dining room. Dinner prices range from $15 to $40 per person. Dining in nearby gateway towns can be more affordable than eating inside the park.

    What not to miss in Yellowstone Park?

    When visiting Yellowstone National Park, don’t miss the iconic Old Faithful Geyser, which erupts approximately every 90 minutes. Be sure to see the stunning Grand Prismatic Spring for its vibrant colors and the breathtaking Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, particularly the impressive Lower Falls. For wildlife viewing, head to Lamar Valley to spot bison, elk, and wolves in their natural habitat.

    Are reservations required at dinning in Yellowstone National Park?

    Yes, reservations are generally required for dinner at several restaurants in Yellowstone National Park, such as the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room and Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room. Breakfast and lunch are typically served on a first-come, first-seated basis. It’s advisable to make dinner reservations in advance to secure a spot at these popular venues.

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    CEO John Smith is the Founder and CEO of Nationalparkshops.com. As an expert with more than 10 years of experience in the field of travel, exploration, survival skills and a burning passion for national parks

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