From Steak to Vegan: 6 Delicious Places to Eat in Jackson Hole

by  Elena Sonnino | Jul 9, 2015

Whether you're exploring Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park this summer or planning a winter ski trip to Jackson Hole, big adventures always require high energy. The good news for travelers to this Western-inspired, high-adrenaline destination is that its local eateries are more than just an afterthought. Rejoice in foodie treats that range from big steaks to vegan bowls of deliciousness. Here are six options for every palate in Jackson Hole.

1. Nora's Fish Creek Inn
For breakfast, hop on a bike and get your morning workout on the way to Nora's Fish Creek Inn, located eight miles away from Teton Village in Wilson. Known for a mighty plate of Huevos Rancheros, this 2012 James Beard Award winner blends local roots with a hint of Mexican flair. Not inspired by a corn tortilla, refried beans, and two fried eggs? Try the trout with two eggs or biscuits and gravy for breakfast.

2. Lotus Cafe
Forget what you think you know about all things cowboy for a meal that will leave you feeling healthy, energized, and happy at Lotus Cafe. Locals flock to this global eatery during all three meals of the day, for menus with everything organic from lentil tacos to macrobiotic bowls to elk or veggie lasagna. All the food here is made from scratch, including baked goods, breads, and pizza.

3. The Handle Bar
At the base of Teton Village, the Handle Bar provides more than whiskey and liquid energy. Here, Michael Mina marries comfort food with gastro fare, serving up treats like an artichoke and goat cheese tart and truffle mac and cheese. The Handle Burger -- with caramelized onions, truffle aioli, and smoked blue cheese -- is another favorite. Portions are generous, so consider saving a few pennies by ordering plates to share for the table. And we suggest tucking in on the patio, which is warmed by fire pits during the colder months, for a perfect vantage point for admiring the trails.

4. Local
For a night on the town, Local -- across from Jackson’s central square -- serves up a solid steak. If you ask a resident where they go for dinner for a special occasion in Jackson, chances are good this spot will be mentioned. While the exterior gives the restaurant a saloon feel, sit down and you'll see that the pan-seared duck breast, rib-eye steak, or dry-aged buffalo Kansas City strip all make for a splurge-worthy meal. Looking for a snack? Snag a seat at the bar for hand-cranked elk sausage or Wagyu steak frites.

5. Persephone Bakery
All things baked take the spotlight at Persephone Bakery, a beloved boulangerie and cafe offering French-inspired breakfast and lunch options in the center of Jackson. It's hard to resist a croissant with a cinnamon marzipan filling or bread pudding French toast topped with bourbon maple syrup before a day of activity. For something lighter, try the red quinoa and avocado or smoked trout and lentil salads.

6. Il Villaggio Osteria
Carb-loading with pizza and pasta are the name of the game at Il Villaggio Osteria in Teton Village. While foodies have to hold out for dinner during the summer months, this popular eatery bustles for lunch as well, fortifying skiers both during and after a day on the slopes. Traditional flavors play nice with modern twists here. We love the Little Miss Sunshine pizza, topped with preserved lemon, housemade ricotta, squash blossom, and parmigiano reggiano. Most of the pasta dishes -- including the housemade ravioli with English peas and ricotta -- can be ordered in a half size so that you'll have enough room left for the dessert panini or gelato sandwiches.

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