Essential Patio Provisions

Whether you’re craving a sun-kissed supper, settling into the shade, or snuggling under a heat lamp, there’s no wrong way to dine outside in Jackson. From the crisp mountain air to the alpine ambiance, every al fresco bite in our stunning corner of the country is savored alongside nature’s beauty. Forget what Guy Fieri said about triple-D; our version of this acronym stands for delicious deck dining. And if eating in the open air is a mandatory part of your culinary criteria, you’ve come to the right page. Below is our top 20 eateries for relishing the outdoors.

Courtesy Calico Bar & Restaurant

Calico Bar & Restaurant
(307) 733-2460 | calicorestaurant.com
Calico’s idyllic exterior — marked by a verdant floral aesthetic, twinkling string lights and an all-encompassing view of the Teton Mountains — provides a note- worthy evening for the whole family. The open-air sanctuary is only outdone by the Italian provisions pristinely designed by Chef Cody Allen. Much of the menu features locally sourced ingredients from the restaurant’s summer gardens cooked in a fruitwood burning oven. Let the kiddos frolic on the spacious lawn while you indulge in the Bruschetta — a medley of marinated tomatoes, fragrant roasted garlic, herby pesto and crostini.

Dornan’s Chuckwagon
(307) 733-2415 | dornans.com/dining/chuckwagon
Tri-tip melt in a teepee, anyone? With its picturesque outdoor seating and grand mountain range backdrop, Dornan’s has Western hospitality written all over it. Since 1948, the Chuckwagon has been a landmark for hungry tourists looking for a post-hike nosh. Align the rugged beauty of the Tetons with hearty cowboy cui-sine, and you’ll suddenly be in the mood for breakfast, lunch, dinner and corn hole. Open June through September, the offerings stretch from sourdough pancakes to in-house smoked BBQ. Don’t pass up the boozy sloshies and ice cream cart.

Gun Barrel Steak and Game House
(307) 733-3287 | gunbarrel.com
While Gun Barrel is widely known for its eclectic Old West fixtures inside — see: the sprawling display of full-mount game trophies and antique cowboy arti- facts — the charming patio makes for an equally memorable meal. Overlook the expansive valleys of Jackson’s landscape while slicing into the superior mesquite-grilled elk loin. For the indecisive diners, the mixed game grill (a generous combination of elk steak, bison prime rib and venison bratwurst) is a great way to sample the best of the best.

Courtesy Jackson Drug & Original Soda Fountain

Jackson Drug & Original Soda Fountain
(307) 201-1275 | jacksondrug.com
If a creamy huckleberry malt gives you all the feels, you’re in good company. Nestled into the northwest corner of the Town Square, Jackson Drug is an institution with a century of history. Originally opened in 1919 as a pharmacy, this beloved eatery and soda fountain now slings classic American lunch counter delights in a retro setting. It’s the canopied terrace that provides some of the best seats in the house, however. The menu exudes nostalgia but embraces modernity with munchies like chewy queso-dipped soft pretzels and crispy Brussel sprouts. Enjoy your local double smash bison burger streetside for some of the best people watching around.

King’s Grill Restaurant
(307) 201-5464 | kingsgrilljh.com
Chill out atop Snow King Mountain while chowing down on a white cheddar and bacon jam burger at King’s Grill. Opened in May 2016, this casual family-friendly restaurant at the Rafferty lift base offers traditional American favorites with a regional twist alongside soaring mountain views. After your al fresco feast of loaded fries, belly up to the outdoor games. Throw in a chocolate milkshake and you’ve got an unforgettable experience for little ones — not to mention mini golf, the Cowboy Coaster, Alpine Slide and a ropes course.

Melvin Taproom & Kitchen
(307) 654-201-0427 | melvinbrewing.com
Crushable craft beer meets mountain vibes at the Alpine, Wyo., Taproom by Melvin Brewing. While the vast interior boasts large community tables and local art, it’s the outdoor space that steals the show. Located just south of Jackson Hole (in an area often referred to as Wydaho), this thriving taproom’s lawn is a sunlit oasis serving up big, bold IPAs and beef barbacoa tacos. Cozy up to a picnic table overlooking the Palisades Reservoir while live music and expertly layered nachos set the tone.

Nora’s Fish Creek Inn
(307) 733-7662 | norasfishcreekinn.com
Escape to the enchanting Nora’s Fish Creek Inn for even one bite of the banana bread French toast (as seen on “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives”) and you’ll see what the buzz is about. Tucked amidst the serene beauty of Fish Creek, this treasured destination is a testament to the untamed wonder of Wyoming’s wilderness and has been serving robust breakfast and lunch items at the base of Teton Pass for over 40 years. The patio is a prime venue to grub down, and the tangy Huevos Ranchero live up to their legendary status.

North Grille
(307) 733-7788 | jhgtc.com/dining
The best views in the valley in addition to exquisitely plated New American fare certainly make for a hole-in-one at the North Grille at Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club. The staff is celebrated for their warm demeanor and dedicated efforts to ensure guests feel completely at ease. On top of local mountain cuisine, dazzling desserts and a seasonally rotating menu, the restaurant’s courtyard features glo- rious unobstructed fireside views of the Tetons overlooking the course.

Palate
(307) 201-5208 | palatejh.com
Perched at the peak of East Gros Ventre Butte within the National Museum of Wildlife Art, Palate genuinely embodies the expression “an artful lunch in Jackson Hole.” With the stunning backdrop of Sleeping Indian Mountain, Snow King Mountain, and the National Elk Refuge, diners dig into locally inspired soups, salads and handhelds. Pull up a shaded table and soak in the panoramic views on the patio while feasting on the trout po boi: a seamless fusion of Cajun-dusted Idaho red trout with smoky onion remoulade and homemade pickles.

Courtesy Persephone Bakery Café

Persephone Bakery Café
(307) 200-6708 | persephonebakery.com
French finesse overlaps with wild Wyoming at this European-inspired, James Beard semi-finalist bakery in Jackson Hole. Breathe in the morning air, but mostly the fragrant scent of fresh-baked brioche from the dreamy deck. For the chilly times of year, snag a turmeric latte and a blanket and curl up by the fire pit. Early bird gets first dibs on the artisanal breads and delicate pastries since being a “scratch bakery” means Persephone only sells items baked that day. On the savory side, the BEC croissant with Gruyère and life-changing Shakshuka are top sellers.

RPK3
(307) 739-2738 | jacksonhole.com/rpk3
After an adventure on the mountain, you’ll be ready to refuel at RPK3. This fast-casual kitchen and bar specializes in everything from small bites to hearty favorites and every happy hour indulgence in between. Conveniently located under the Aerial Tram, the ample deck on this lively slopeside spot is an ideal pit stop for coffee cocktails and bison lettuce wraps. Heaters and fire pits are per- petually on standby for brisk afternoons, but the bustling surroundings will help keep you warm.

Snake River Grill
(307) 733-0557 | snakerivergrill.com
Impeccably prepared New American fare plus exquisite desserts in a refined log- cabin setting are the crucial deets on the delightful Snake River Grill. When the weather allows, score a seat on the shady patio, and get ready to devour a wood-fired steak tartare pizza you’ll be dreaming about for weeks. Atmosphere, food and service are equally as flawless at SRG, so it’s no surprise it’s a locals’ favorite for fine dining. Start with the black Périgord truffle gnocchi and Royal Kaluga caviar service because YOLO.

Courtesy Snake River Roasting Company

Snake River Roasting Company
(307) 312-2382 | snakeriverroastingco.com
Stationed in the heart of Jackson Hole’s bustling Town Square, Snake River Roasting Company unveiled their newest gem in the Pink Garter Plaza. Championing artisanal coffee culture, they teamed up with world-class chefs Clark Myers and Chas Baki to curate a breakfast and lunch menu that blends grab- and-go convenience with gourmet goodies. The café’s outdoor space is perfect for savoring an orange zest mocha and the masterfully crafted Filipino Breakfast with crispy pork belly, jasmine rice, cashew furikake sweet soy, and a runny egg.

Spur Restaurant & Bar
(307) 732-6932 | tetonlodge.com/spur-restaurant
After undergoing a spectacular makeover last year, Spur continues to be renowned as a top-rated foodie hotspot for modern mountain cuisine. The culi- nary minds behind the curtain flawlessly mingle American West flavors with Alpine European techniques. Newly revitalized, Spur’s après ski scene radiates chic sophistication while maintaining its inviting allure, and eating on the cozy tree-lined patio elevates everything to the next level. Deviled eggs are always a standout to start with and the 307 Fries with braised elk gravy are a must-have.

StillWest Brewery & Grill
(307) 201-5955 | stillwestbreweryandgrill.com
Experience the epitome of Western charm at StillWest, where outdoor dining takes center stage in the middle of Snow King Mountain. Homestyle bar food, a dog-friendly taproom, and a broad lineup of exceptional in-house brews are the standard at this airy hangout. In the snowy months, the mountainside exterior is the place to be to catch skiers flying down the hill, but the truffle fries are deli- cious any time of year. For the best of what StillWest has to offer in one bite, go for the steamed mussels simmered with chorizo, peppers and their Una Más — a crisp Mexican lager perfumed with orange blossom.

Teton Thai
(307) 733-0022 / (307) 699-9783 | tetonthaivillage.com
If basil-spiked green coconut curry, a vibrant leafy landscape, and fun, friendly servers top your list of dining prerequisites — Teton Thai’s outdoor arena will satisfy all your senses in one fell swoop. With just six tables inside, it’s the lush lanai that fills up quickly for lunch and dinner when the temperature is just right. Signature cocktails like the lychee sake martini are an appropriate match for the crispy fried dumplings and tangy, ever-popular pad Thai with tofu and peanuts.

The Blue Lion
(307) 733-3912 | bluelionrestaurant.com
Since its inception in 1978, The Blue Lion has wooed guests with its knowledgeable staff, romantic ambiance, and timeless, French-inspired courses within the quaint confines of a historic downtown Jackson house. For over four decades, it’s remained a cornerstone of Jackson Hole’s culinary landscape and the gorgeous covered patio enhances the appeal. The grilled New Zealand rack of lamb remains king, but starters like crab and cream cheese-stuffed ’shrooms and homemade mud pie for dessert are can’t-miss items. For a memorable date night, book an al fresco table when the live acoustic guitarist can provide the background music for your meal.

Piste Mountain Bistro
(307) 732-3177 | jacksonhole.com/piste-mountain-bistro
Situated on the summit of the Bridger Gondola in Teton Village within Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is Chef Wes Hamilton’s latest epicurean paradise, Piste. Prepare for an elegant array of locally sourced dishes (like the grilled bison tenderloin), optimal for solo enjoyment or sharing with friends. With its floor-to-ceiling windows, the bistro offers an immersive indoor/outdoor vibe. If through-the-glass views don’t do the trick (or you’re waiting on a reservation), pop outside to the first-come, first-serve patio for fresh air and more casual eats.

The Kitchen
(307) 734-1633 | kitchenjacksonhole.com
This Town Square-adjacent restaurant is rooted in contemporary American cuisine, but draws influence from Asian flavors. The Kitchen prides itself on presenting each ingredient in its best light and the imaginative seasonal plates are always the talk of the town. The breezy front porch is a stellar landing zone to unwind in the summer with a boozy libation. Fan favorites of the aforementioned include the Al Pastor with jalapeno-infused vodka, pineapple, and a tajin rim. Pair with an equally zippy crudo or ceviche creation from the raw samplings.

The Silver Dollar Bar
(307) 732-3939 | worthotel.com/silver-dollar-bar
Known for being a great bar with even better food, you’ll find this one-of-a-kind downtown haunt in the historic Wort Hotel. Before you ask — yes, SDB earned its namesake from those 2,032 uncirculated 1921 Morgan Silver Dollars embedded in the bar’s surface. Sunny streetside seating is just one of the many perks of this Western-themed establishment, along with the live music and dancing through- out the week. Regulars rave over the cheesy, bacon-y corn chowder, elk sliders, and smoked trout app.