Updated: May 2024
Thank you to Visit Yellowstone Country Montana for hosting our recent visit to Yellowstone Country. Any opinions we provide are our own views and reflect our experience. We promise to provide truthful and honest reviews to our viewers.
A trip to Montana's Yellowstone Country was life-changing. What you read is correct. Never before have we experienced a place like this together. Wide open spaces, friendly and open people, slow and leisurely steps, and food. Wait… did you say food? yes. Of course, the West is famous for its high-quality, delicious meat. But there is so much more to explore. We'll show you some of the delicious stops along our delicious journey through Yellowstone Country and share why we love this beautiful region.
![Lone Mountain Big Sky Resort Yellowstone Country](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Lone-Mountain-Big-Sky-Resort-1024x768.jpg)
Big Sky Resort
When you think of Montana, the first thing that comes to mind is probably “Big Sky Country.” After arriving at Bozeman's classic lodge-style airport, it's no surprise that Big Sky Resort is your first stop. Yellowstone Country has 5,800 acres of land. Climb to the top of Lone Mountain at Big Sky Resort for panoramic views that include two national parks and endless mountain peaks. To say it was breathtaking is an understatement. Taking the ski lift and tram to the top is a fun trip any time of year.
![Big Sky Resort](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Big-Sky-REsort.jpg)
If you visit during ski season, there are over 250 ski trails available. There are many courses for beginners and intermediate skiers, as well as expert courses that will challenge even the most experienced skiers. It is fully equipped for winter mountain sports and also has a spa center for relaxation. Summer is great for hiking, mountain biking, ziplining, swimming, and golf.
![Vine & Dine Big Sky Resort Yellowstone Country](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Vine-and-Dine-Big-Sky-Resort-Yellowstone-Country-1024x768.jpg)
What we liked was the variety of choices for meals. Looking to attend a weekend fine dining event or sample local craft beer at Montana Jack? The resort has it all. There are 9 restaurants on site to satisfy your taste buds, whatever your cravings may be.
![Sample a variety of local beers at Montana Jack's at Big Sky Resort](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Huge-Local-Beer-Selection-at-Big-Sky-Resort-1024x699.jpg)
Lone Mountain Ranch
It's not enough for Lone Mountain Ranch to be listed by National Geographic as one of the World's Only Mountain Lodges™. The ranch also has a restaurant on the grounds called the. Horn and Cantle We serve Montana-style classic dishes with innovative twists in a relaxed atmosphere.
The good news is you don't have to stay at the ranch to dine at Horn & Cantle. The rooms are luxurious and promise a comfortable and quiet respite from the world.
![Lone Mountain Ranch Cabin](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Lone-Mountain-Ranch-Cabins.jpg)
If you want to try some game meat, there's plenty. Choose from elk, bison, venison and wild boar. But you won't want to miss the trout and salmon either.
![Galbi Bison Lone Mountain Ranch](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Short-Rib-Bison-Lone-Mountain-Ranch.jpg)
Start with one of their signature cocktails and stop by the well-designed bar with stunning views. The huckleberry lemonade, made with Montana-made huckleberry vodka, is a must-try. Pro tip: Sit on the balcony for the perfect outdoor experience. Be warned! You'll never want to leave.
![Huckleberry Cocktail at Lone Mountain Ranch](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Huckleberry-Cocktail-at-Lone-Mountain-Ranch.jpg)
Livingston – Paradise Valley
We know you're supposed to love the former advertising executive who left Chicago to run a vacation home in Livingston, Montana. We had the pleasure of meeting Chip Hurt, reminiscing about his old days in advertising, and visiting his latest ventures. Pine Creek Lodge This is not just another place to stay in beautiful Paradise Valley in Livingston, Montana. It has a busy live music venue featuring local performers and a restaurant serving great food.
![Pine Creek Lodge Montana](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pine-Creek-Lodge-Montana.jpg)
We visited for a great lunch, but heard from a few locals that the brunch was great. The menu lists rock and roll items like the Lollapalooza Burger, SXSW Chicken Sandwich, and the Chicago Dog!!
We had the PCL Montana Wagyu patty topped with smoked cheddar, brown sugar bacon, and house-made pickles. You can also fill your stomach with cheese curds, tots, wings, and mac and cheese. There are also plenty of salads and other entrees to choose from.
![Bacon Cheeseburger at Pine Creek Lodge Montana](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Bacon-Cheeseburger-at-Pine-Creek-Lodge-Montana-1024x768.jpg)
There's plenty to eat in Livingstone
While in Livingston we were lucky enough to have time to stop by. Neptune Brewery. Not only do they have so many delicious craft beers on tap, but they also have a beer-centric menu right at the front of the restaurant's bar.
The gourmet bar food menu includes hand-cut Kennebec fries, mussels, calamari, peas and salmon croquettes. But don't forget the burgers, sandwiches, tacos, extra long nigiri, sashimi and maki rolls. Every order that came out of the kitchen looked better than the previous dish. I highly recommend stopping by Neptune Brewery for reasonably priced food ($4-$16) and some memorable, delicious beers.
![Fish Tacos at Neptunes Brewery Livingston Montana](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Fish-Tacos-at-Neptunes-Brewery-Livingston-Montana.jpg)
Chico Hot Springs
Chico may be home to natural hot springs, but it's also a foodie's paradise with local specialties and an incredibly diverse wine list. Located just north of Yellowstone National Park, this unexpected discovery is a must-visit. Dine in the main dining room, poolside grill, or at the bar (who doesn't love a bar?).
![Salon at Chico Hot Springs Resort and Spa](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Saloon-at-Chico-Hot-Springs-Resort-and-Spa.jpg)
From burgers in the bar to fine dining in the main dining room, you'll love Chico's food. Click here to see our full review of Chico..
![Scallops at Chico Hot Springs and Day Spa](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Scallops-at-Chico-Hot-Springs-and-Day-Spa.jpg)
big lumber
Located in the shadow of the Crazy Mountains, this small town of 1800 residents serves big food with its own local style.
While you're in Big Timber, you'll want to visit: Grand Hotel Restaurant It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For lunch and dinner, we offer fine dining with locally raised meats and seafood that arrive fresh daily. There are unique and delicious chef's daily specials, and if you're looking for snacks and bar food, check out the perfectly restored 1890 saloon.
![Elk Sausage and Pretzel Bites Grand Hotel Big Timber Montana Yellowstone Country](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Elk-Sausage-and-Pretzel-Bites-Grand-Hotel-Big-Timber-Montana-Yellowstone-Country-1024x768.jpg)
If you like bakeries (we know you do), check out Big Timber Bakery. Dine in or get takeout at one of the many nearby places where you can hike and enjoy food found in nature. This is a family-run place, so you can taste the care put into the delicious food.
![Big Timber Bakery Cinnamon Rolls](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Big-Timber-Bakery-Cinnamon-Roll.jpg)
big lunch
Their sandwiches and cinnamon rolls are truly big in Big Sky country. Just walk a few more miles and enjoy all the food.
![Big Timber Bakery Reuben Sandwich](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Big-Timber-Bakery-Reuben-Sandwich.jpg)
Another unexpected stop in Yellowstone Country is Tumblewood Teas. As a car guy, I knew we had to stop quickly. Fortunately, I was not new to Tumblewood Teas. Chico Hot Springs, Day Spa, and Homestead Bed & Breakfast all offer tumblewood tea to their guests. We're excited to see others support these local women-owned businesses.
![Tumblewood Tea from Chico Hot Springs](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Tumblewood-Teas-at-Chico-Hot-Springs.jpg)
tea time
Little did I know I was in for a special treat when I had the opportunity to meet founders Riza Gilpin and Laurie Rennie while at Big Timber.
![Tumblewood Tea Big Timber](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Tumblewood-Teas-Big-Timber-.jpg)
Founded in 2009, this woman-owned business serves truly delicious teas. From premium pu-erh teas to custom blends like Bright Montana Morning, Cowboy Creamsicle (yes, Creamsicle flavor), and I'm Your Huckleberry, they're all great.
I must confess that relaxing and talking tea with these women was one of the highlights of Yellowstone Country. Visit their website to learn more about the company and their tea collection. The good news is that you can buy them all online at: TumblewoodTeas.com.
bozeman
Although we didn't spend much time in Bozeman, I can tell you that we need to visit this blooming community again. Walking the quaint city streets and seeing everything happening leaves us hungry for more. This is no ordinary college town.
![Cocktails at Plonk Wine in Bozeman Montana](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Cocktails-At-Plonk-Wine-in-Bozeman-Montana.jpg)
After a long day, we were lucky enough to take some time to enjoy some wine, cocktails and food. Pong Pong Wine. While the wine list is impressive, the cocktail program is also worth a look. We sat on their magical terrace and were immediately transported somewhere else. The gardens, twinkling lights, and artwork make you feel like you're in your own backyard, but someone else is serving you!
![Plonk Wine Bar Bozeman Montana Yellowstone Country](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Plonk-Wine-Bar-Bozeman-Montana-Yellowstone-Country.jpg)
Our final treat in Yellowstone County was breakfast. jam! In Bozeman. Breakfast is served all day at this popular and busy venue. Enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch after your Main Street cruise. Some classic dishes with unique twists make it difficult to choose what to order. May I recommend the Benedict Threesome? You can pick and choose what you like, but I chose chicken and biscuits, crab cakes, and Mia Benedict Italian. They were all delicious and Mia Bene was incredibly delicious. Homemade baked country bread crostini, roasted tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, balsamic reduction and fresh basil. How does it sound? I thought so!
![Jam's Benedict Trio! Bozeman Montana Yellowstone Country](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Trio-of-Benedicts-at-Jam-Bozeman-Montana.jpg)
snacks and treats
One of the things most travelers look for in a new destination is ice cream. Montana's fame belongs to Wilcoxon. Our host swore we had to try Wilcoxson's huckleberry ice cream sandwich. During our trip, we searched everywhere for these damn ice cream sandwiches. Along the way, I tried Wilcoxson's Huckleberry Ice Cream Bars (covered in dark chocolate and really delicious) and Wilcoxson's Huckleberry Ice Cream (pure research). Finally we found the elusive ice cream sandwich in Big Timber. It didn't disappoint. So, be sure to try this local flavor during your trip.
![Wilcoxon's Huckleberry Ice Cream Montana](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Wilcoxsons-Huckleberry-Ice-Cream-Montana.png)
Sometimes locals have favorites that aren't super-local, but are nonetheless favorites. This is the case with Dot's Homestyle Pretzels. These pretzels from North Dakota have been recommended by everyone and are probably the most addictive pretzels we've ever had. With Dot's “gourmet” seasonings, you'll be eating the whole bag before you know it. Available at most grocery stores, you can also purchase the following foods: Amazon also has Dot's Pretzels.
![Dakota's Dot Pretzels](https://foodtravelist.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Dots-Pretzels-from-Dakota-1024x768.jpg)
Certainly, these places and cuisines are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to eating and drinking in Montana's Yellowstone Country. Next time you're thinking of heading to the “Old West” of Montana, bring some stretchy pants and be prepared to eat lots of delicious food and snacks!
To learn more about Montana's Yellowstone Country and plan your visit, check out their website. Visit yellowstonecountry.com.
If you've been to Yellowstone Country, please share your favorite places in the comments below.
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