Top Restaurants in Gardiner, MT: Dining at Yellowstone's North Entrance
02/02/2026
Gardiner, Montana, sits at the threshold of adventure — literally at the North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park. As the only gateway to Yellowstone that’s open year-round, this small mountain town punches well above its weight when it comes to dining options.
Whether you're fueling up for a day of wildlife watching in the Lamar Valley or unwinding after hiking to breathtaking vistas, the restaurants in Gardiner, MT, offer something special for every appetite.
Planning a trip to Gardiner, MT? Book your stay at the Travelodge by Wyndham — just minutes from these incredible dining spots and the Park entrance.
Wonderland Cafe & Lodge: Farm-to-Table Excellence
206 Main St, Gardiner, MT 59030 | (406) 223-1914
Consistently ranked as a top restaurant in Gardiner, Wonderland Cafe & Lodge brings farm-to-table dining to Yellowstone country. This locally-owned gem features chef-inspired cuisine made with organic, locally sourced ingredients that change with the seasons.
What They Serve: The menu spans from hearty salads and scratch-made soups to Montana-raised bison dishes and fresh walleye. Their famous huckleberry scones are definitely worth trying, and the espresso drinks use locally roasted coffee. Wonderland accommodates various dietary restrictions with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Why Visit: As a proud member of the farm-to-table movement, Wonderland stands out for its commitment to sustainability and quality. The cozy atmosphere features local art on the walls, a wood-burning fireplace, and a full bar with craft cocktails and Montana beers. The restaurant is open year-round, making it a reliable choice no matter when you visit.
Hours: Open 7 days a week, 8 AM - 9 PM (coffee and baked goods from 8-11 AM, lunch 11 AM - 3:30 PM, dinner 4:30 PM - 9 PM)
Iron Horse Bar & Grill: Riverside Dining with a View
212 Spring St, Gardiner, MT 59030 | (406) 848-7888
For the best views among restaurants in Gardiner, MT, Iron Horse Bar & Grill can't be beaten. Perched on the banks of the Yellowstone River, this establishment offers the only restaurant deck in town directly overlooking the rushing waters.
What They Serve: The menu celebrates Western flavors with dishes like bison burgers, elk nachos, bison meatloaf, and fresh salmon. The appetizer selection is robust, and the full bar features local craft beers, specialty cocktails like their mulberry margarita, and an impressive whiskey selection.
Why Visit: The authentic Western decor creates an atmosphere that's pure Montana. Outdoor patio seating lets you watch for wildlife along the riverbanks while you dine. The combination of hearty portions, reasonable prices for a tourist area, and that unbeatable riverside location makes this a memorable stop.
Hours: Monday-Tuesday and Thursday-Sunday 12:00 PM - 9:30 PM, Wednesday 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM (Winter hours may vary)
The Corral: Award-Winning Burgers Since 1961
711 Scott St W, Gardiner, MT 59030 | (406) 848-7627
As Gardiner's longest-standing business, The Corral has been serving up legendary burgers since 1961. This no-frills burger joint earned recognition from USA Today as having one of the best elk burgers in Montana — and once you taste it, you'll understand why.
What They Serve: The Corral specializes in "rare species of hamburgers" — bison, elk, and locally-raised organic beef burgers that are ground and mixed in-house daily. Beyond burgers, the menu includes hand-cut fries, onion rings, salads, grilled cheese, and their famous milkshakes made with Montana ice cream. The huckleberry shake is a local favorite.
Why Visit: The Corral sources organic beef from local ranchers, including B-Bar Ranch, ensuring every bite supports Montana agriculture. The casual outdoor patio with string lights creates a perfect evening atmosphere, and prices are family-friendly (entrees range from $7 to $16.50). Fast, friendly service means you won't wait long, even when there's a line.
Hours: Open 7 days a week, 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM (winter hours may vary)
Yellowstone Grill: Breakfast Done Right
404 Scott St, Gardiner, MT 59030 | (406) 848-9433
When you need a big breakfast before heading into Yellowstone, Yellowstone Grill delivers the fuel. This family-owned restaurant has built a loyal following among both locals and visitors for its fresh, homemade approach to breakfast and lunch.
What They Serve: The breakfast menu features creative options like the Old Faithful breakfast, hash with corned beef, Mediterranean omelets, and their famous tower of pancakes. Everything is made from scratch using Montana ingredients whenever possible. They also offer burritos, tacos, wraps, and daily specials for lunch, plus homemade baked goods.
Why Visit: The portions are generous, the service is friendly, and the prices are fair. This is where locals go for breakfast, which is always a good sign. The casual atmosphere welcomes families and groups, and they offer vegan options to accommodate different dietary needs.
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 7:00 AM - 11:30 AM (Closed Mondays)
Cowboy's Lodge and Grille: Southern BBQ with Montana Hospitality
208 Stone St, Gardiner, MT 59030 | (406) 848-9175
Step into the Old West at Cowboy's Lodge and Grille, where Southern barbecue meets Montana charm. This family-owned establishment brings a taste of authentic BBQ to the gateway of Yellowstone, complete with live music on select evenings.
What They Serve: The kitchen specializes in slow-smoked meats — St. Louis ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and chicken — all prepared with homemade sauces. Beyond BBQ, the menu includes Montana game burgers with bison and elk options, plus Mexican-inspired dishes like burritos with slow-cooked barbacoa beef. All sides are made from scratch, including their famous peach cobbler for dessert.
Why Visit: The outdoor seating area with live music (typically 6-9 PM) creates a fun atmosphere. The rustic log cabin setting puts you right in the spirit of the West, and local Montana brews on tap pair perfectly with smoky BBQ. It's an ideal spot for groups looking for hearty, satisfying meals after a day in the park.
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM (Closed Mondays; winter hours may vary)
Backcountry Bistro: Elevated Dining Experience
225 Main St, Gardiner, MT 59030 | (406) 848-9987
For travelers seeking a more upscale dining experience among restaurants in Gardiner, MT, Backcountry Bistro offers quality cuisine in a clean, modern setting. This newer addition to Gardiner's dining scene has quickly earned praise for its attention to detail and fresh preparations.
What They Serve: The menu focuses on high-quality proteins, such as ribeye steaks, pork chops, walleye, and chicken, all cooked to perfection. They also serve Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and appetizers like beer-battered cheese curds. The portions are generous and the presentation is thoughtful.
Why Visit: If you're craving something beyond the typical burger-and-BBQ fare, Backcountry Bistro delivers. The newly remodeled interior provides a comfortable, contemporary atmosphere, and the friendly service adds to the experience. It's perfect for a special night out during your Yellowstone trip.
Hours: Check Facebook page for current hours; typically open for dinner service
Planning Your Adventure to Gardiner, MT
Whether you're grabbing a quick breakfast burrito, enjoying a riverside lunch, or celebrating your Yellowstone trip with a steak dinner, these restaurants deliver Montana hospitality and quality food.
Most restaurants in Gardiner, MT, operate on seasonal hours, with some closing or reducing service during the winter months. It's always wise to call ahead, especially if you're visiting outside of the peak summer season (June-September).
When you're planning your Yellowstone adventure, remember that choosing the right base camp makes all the difference. Explore Starry Night Lodging's hotels in Gardiner, including the Travelodge by Wyndham.
Enjoy comfortable rooms, convenient locations, and the peace of mind that comes with staying at properties committed to hospitality and environmental responsibility.