Best Restaurants near Yellowstone National Park (Outside the Park)

When it comes to finding the best restaurants near Yellowstone National Park, visitors are in for a treat. While the park itself has a few seasonal dining options, some of the most memorable meals can be found just outside its entrances, where charming mountain towns serve hearty, flavorful dishes that perfectly complement a day of adventure. Whether you’re entering through West Yellowstone, Gardiner, Cody, Jackson, or Cooke City, each gateway community offers unique restaurants that capture the spirit of the American West and the rustic flavors of Montana and Wyoming.

🍴 Quick Reference: Best Restaurants Near Yellowstone National Park (Outside the Park)

Restaurant Name	Nearest Entrance / Town	Dining Style	Cuisine / Specialties	Visitor Tips
Ernie’s Bakery & Deli	West Yellowstone, MT (West Entrance)	Breakfast & Deli	Breakfast burritos, sandwiches, strong coffee	Opens early for park-goers; perfect grab-and-go breakfast
Wild West Pizzeria & Saloon	West Yellowstone, MT (West Entrance)	Casual Pizza & Bar	Handmade pizzas, wings, local craft beers	Great dinner spot after a day exploring the geysers
Madison Crossing Lounge	West Yellowstone, MT (West Entrance)	Upscale Casual	Elk tenderloin, trout, cocktails	Modern vibe; reservations suggested during peak season
Pete’s Rocky Mountain Pizza	Gardiner, MT (North Entrance)	Casual Dining	Italian-style pizza, pasta, beer	Family-friendly; quick service before heading into park
Yellowstone Grill	Gardiner, MT (North Entrance)	American Café	Pancakes, burgers, soups	Excellent breakfast before entering park; scenic views
The Corral Drive-In	Gardiner, MT (North Entrance)	Fast Casual	Burgers, fries, milkshakes	Retro roadside charm; ideal summer lunch stop
Buffalo Bar	West Yellowstone, MT (West Entrance)	Pub & Grill	Steaks, burgers, cocktails	Lively evening hangout; great local atmosphere
The Branch Restaurant & Bar	Cody, WY (East Entrance)	Casual Dining	BBQ ribs, steaks, Wyoming specialties	Convenient for those entering/exiting via Cody route
Proud Cut Saloon	Cody, WY (East Entrance)	Steakhouse	Prime rib, bison, local meats	Classic Western dining experience; portions are large
Cowboy Coffee Co.	Jackson, WY (South Entrance)	Coffeehouse & Café	Espresso, pastries, breakfast sandwiches	Great for travelers continuing to Grand Teton
The Lakehouse at Signal Mountain Lodge	Near South Entrance (Grand Teton Area)	Scenic Dining	Trout, bison chili, desserts	Overlooks Jackson Lake; perfect lunch stop
Gun Barrel Steak & Game House	Jackson, WY (South Entrance)	Fine Dining	Elk, buffalo steak, trout	Rustic fine dining; top-rated in Jackson
Bearclaw Bakery	Cooke City, MT (Northeast Entrance)	Breakfast & Bakery	Homemade pastries, sandwiches	Ideal early morning stop before Lamar Valley
Buns N Beds	Cooke City, MT (Northeast Entrance)	Quick & Local	Burgers, sandwiches, fries	Affordable and family-friendly option
Beartooth Café	Cooke City, MT (Northeast Entrance)	American Bistro	Trout, bison burger, salads	Cozy mountain setting; great for summer visitors

West Yellowstone, located at the park’s most popular entrance, is a food lover’s hub filled with local gems. Ernie’s Bakery & Deli is a morning favorite for travelers gearing up for a day of sightseeing. Known for its fresh breakfast burritos, pastries, and strong coffee, it’s the perfect spot to grab something hearty before heading into the park. For lunch or dinner, Wild West Pizzeria & Saloon is a must-visit. This lively establishment has earned a loyal following for its handmade pizzas, generous toppings, and local craft beers. If you’re in the mood for something more refined, Madison Crossing Lounge offers a warm, modern atmosphere with dishes like elk tenderloin, trout, and gourmet burgers — a wonderful way to relax after a long day exploring geysers and wildlife.

The North Entrance near Gardiner, Montana, also has a great selection of dining options with a small-town charm. Yellowstone Grill serves classic American breakfasts and comfort food with mountain views that make every meal feel special. Nearby, Pete’s Rocky Mountain Pizza is a family-friendly favorite offering hearty portions of pizza and pasta, perfect for refueling after a day of hiking or sightseeing. For something quick and nostalgic, The Corral Drive-In is a local staple known for its juicy burgers, crispy fries, and hand-spun milkshakes, giving visitors a true taste of old-fashioned Montana dining.

On the eastern side of the park, Cody, Wyoming, stands out with its cowboy spirit and authentic Western dining. The Branch Restaurant & Bar provides an excellent introduction to Cody’s culinary scene, serving barbecue ribs, steaks, and hearty Wyoming-inspired fare. Those looking for a more traditional steakhouse experience should head to Proud Cut Saloon, where the prime rib and buffalo steaks are local favorites. Cody’s restaurants offer a comforting combination of rustic charm and bold flavors, reflecting the rugged yet welcoming atmosphere of the region.

Travelers entering or exiting through the South Entrance will find plenty of delicious options in Jackson, Wyoming, and the nearby Grand Teton area. Jackson is known for its vibrant food culture, blending upscale dining with rustic mountain style. Cowboy Coffee Co. is an ideal morning stop for espresso and breakfast sandwiches, while Gun Barrel Steak & Game House offers one of the finest dining experiences in the area, featuring elk, buffalo, and trout in a setting that celebrates the spirit of the old West. For a scenic meal, The Lakehouse at Signal Mountain Lodge near Jackson Lake provides breathtaking views of the Tetons while serving local favorites like bison chili and trout dishes — a perfect mix of flavor and serenity.

Finally, the Northeast Entrance near Cooke City, Montana, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking peace and quiet. Bearclaw Bakery is a cozy morning stop known for its fresh pastries and friendly mountain atmosphere. If you want something quick and satisfying, Buns N Beds serves delicious burgers and sandwiches that are both affordable and filling. For dinner, Beartooth Café offers a cozy bistro setting with dishes like bison burgers, trout, and fresh salads, ideal for those ending a day of wildlife watching in nearby Lamar Valley.

Each of these restaurants outside Yellowstone National Park brings something special to the table — from the rustic comfort of local diners to the refined atmosphere of mountain lodges. They not only provide nourishment but also a chance to experience the hospitality and flavor of the Yellowstone region. Whether you crave a hot coffee before sunrise, a hearty meal after exploring geysers, or a fine dining experience under the stars, the small towns surrounding the park ensure that every traveler can enjoy both the wilderness and the warmth of great food.