Dine Big Sky
Looking for a place to eat in Big Sky? You've come to the right place.
Here are our recommendations
Riverhouse BBQ
This is the place. If you are looking for a family-friendly good time, Riverhouse is a must. Anytime someone visits or comes to town, this is where we take them! The atmosphere is lively but laid back, safe for all ages, and the food is simply fantastic, making this a local favorite with no competition. There is a family dining room, a large bar area, and an outdoor seating area on a deck overlooking the Gallatin River. If that's not enough, during the spring and summer months, there is a huge grass patio area, with fire pits, plenty of space for kids to run around, and an outdoor bar fitted with swings that you can sit in while enjoying the view of the river. They host events in a large grass area right along the river, just a few steps down from the main restaurant. There is always a good beer list, cheap cocktails, and great BBQ. We recommend trying the Pretzel Sticks, Fried Pickles, Dry Rubbed Wings, and the Mac & Cheese (with toppings of your choice) to start. You can order individually, or family style, which is usually what we do. The family platter with ribs for four, will be more than enough for 6 grown adults, trust me, we've tried many times, but always have lots of left overs. It's hard for anyone to choose a favorite, that's why we love the platter, it comes with a little bit of everything. The Fried Chicken is incredible, light and crispy, and the brisket and pulled pork are definitely worth writing home over. We cannot recommend this place enough. It is definitely LOCAL, and the vibe is SUPER relaxed, so don't go expecting anything fancy. There are paper towels at the tables, and food comes in plastic baskets lined with parchment, so go with the right attitude, and leave your fancy shoes at home!
Lotus Pad
After a long day out on the slopes, freezing your tush off, drinking sweet hot chocolate, surrounded by ice, you might be feeling like you need some spice... and we know just the place. Croix and I generally can't agree on spice levels. I like things to burn, and his delicate palette can't handle that kind of abuse. So make sure when you meet your waiter, you specify just how much heat you can handle with their Spice Rating Scale, and they will make your dishes to your liking. We recommend, like most places in Big Sky, to make a reservation, as this place is small, especially if you want to sit on the outdoor patio, right along Town Center Drive. The host stand is on the backside of the building, near the parking lot, not on the Town Center side. Once you are inside you will see they have the most impressive selection of unique Pocky (the coconut, and the almond are to die for, and of course the cookies and cream). We recommend the Papaya Salad, Drunken Noodles, Pad Thai, Cashew Chicken, and the Curries. The Crying Tiger and Spicy Pork Belly are also very popular. It's not a complete experience without some drinks! We suggest the Coconut Margarita, Japanese Gin Fizz (if you are a fan of matcha), and the Lotus Tea (if you like Thai tea, and who doesn't???). You can try a Japanese Whiskey Flight, or choose from a nice list of Sakes and Nigori Sakes. Snow Maiden seems to be very popular around here! Just remember, you never pour your own sake :)
Blue Buddha Sushi
Yes, there is a sushi spot in Big Sky- and it's fresh! We may be far from the ocean, but that doesn't get in the way of this sushi being delicious. The restaurant itself is big, lots of places to sit, cool artwork, and plenty of outdoor seating with fire pits. The menu is impressive, and the staff is super friendly. Obviously, sushi is one of those cuisines where everyone has their own specific preferences and food allergies, so I can make a few suggestions, but I know most of us have our favorites and non negotiables when it comes to sushi. As far as starters go, the Shishito peppers are well executed and come with an incredible dipping sauce, so I would suggest giving them a try. We also enjoy the Spicy Crunchy Lobster Roll (Blue Buddha's version of the classic crunchy roll, and the Volcano Roll, which is baked (and delicious). They have a pretty good beer selection and of course, a sake menu!
The Hungry Moose
A grocery store with a poorly kept secret - Amazing Sandwiches! We LOVE The Hungry Moose, for more reasons than one... not only are their deli sandwiches to die for, but they have plenty of grab and go items as well, some refrigerated and some in a hot case (salads, soups, sandwiches). They have a selection of locally made desserts, including cheesecakes and ice cream, and are able to take requests for events or special occasions. For being a small store, they have a truly incredible wine selection, and great beer offerings, in packs and by the can. You can also pick up limited grocery items and browse the super cute gift shop. We highly recommend the ice cream if you have access to a freezer during your stay, or are brave enough to try and eat the pint in one serving! I'd love to see someone try. At this time of year, the deli counter's hours are hit and miss, but they always have the to go options if you get there early enough. In the warmer months there are tables outside, and a park to sit in just across the street.
Pinky G's Pizza
I love me some freaking pizza, you guys. It's one of those foods that is in a category all its own. I could eat pizza everyday, anytime, hot or cold. So needless to say, Pinky G's was the first place we ate on our first night in Big Sky. After a long day of moving boxes and Costco shopping, pizza just hit different. Since knowing Croix, I haven't been able to enjoy pizza without a side of wings and a bowl of ranch, they have become a necessity. So, we have not only had the pizza, but also the wings (both BBQ and Buffalo) and they both have a seal of approval from us. We have also ordered the chicken tenders tossed in buffalo sauce, and believe me when I say the chicken tenders were a complete game changer. I'm not sure we will ever order Pinky G's pizza without them ever again. The pizza is medium crust. You know, not thick and not thin, not too doughy and not too crispy.... right in the middle, and I kind of love it. They have plenty of beer to choose from, and also offer indoor, bar, and outdoor seating. We have eaten Pinky G's pizza on multiple occasions now, and we are never disappointed. That being said... it has some competition in this town, as there happens to be three other places also popular for pizza... But that begs the question, with pizza, can you really go wrong? and the answer is a big fat "no"
The Rocks Tasting Room
Easily one of the busiest places in town, The Rocks is popular amongst locals and visitors alike. Not only does it have a massive appeal just in the name, but once people find out that their liquor tasting experience can be coupled with a delicious meal, well... there's always a wait. Offering soups, salads, charcuterie, flatbreads and Pho, there is something for everyone. The food is great, and well presented, the alcohol selection top notch, and the atmosphere nice and laid back, while also making you feel a little fancyyy. There is also a liquor store you can shop as well. The Rocks isn't open super late, so this is more of a lunch, afternoon, or early evening experience. If you can, make a reservation, or be prepared to wait. And a little extra tip, in the the off season, it's one of the only places open for lunch with sit down service. The owners are super kind, and it's popular for a reason, so go give it a try. We think you'll love it.
Ousel & Spur Pizza CO.
The second pizza place on the list, Ousel & Spur is more *high class*... it's definitely a fancier vibe than Pinky G's, but the prices are lower on majority of the pizzas. Weird. Their menu also boast some great pasta dishes, and Italian inspired desserts & entrees. This restaurant is one of the first things you'll spot as you drive into Big Sky Town Center, as it is as central of a location as you can get, right next to the movie theater. Right on the corner, with a view of the community fire pit and Lone Peak Mountain, you'll enjoy thin crust style pizza, people watching, and string lights strung up across "Main Street" (as we like to call it). The pizza is very good, and we would recommend it over Pinky G's if you want an atmosphere that's a little less of a bar/pizza parlor vibe. Like if you want some pasta and a glass of wine with your pizza... Go to Ousel & Spur Pizza CO.
Choppers Grub & Pub
A place for everyone in your family or group. Lots of space, games, casino, and a menu that includes not only options for the kiddos, but 70 beers (16 on tap), and 40 wines. Their offerings range from classic appetizers like wings and nachos to soups and salads, and they have a ton of sandwiches and burgers to choose from, as well as other entrees such as tacos or steak. Choppers is located in Town Center, next to The Rocks Tasting Room and The Hungry Moose. Their casino offers video poker, and they also have multiple pool tables. It really is a great spot to go after a long day on the slopes, where everyone will be able to have some fun, spread out, and see some cool bikes on display.
Blue Moon Bakery
The very first place I had a meal when we first came to Big Sky. The reason? The vibe was welcoming, the setting was quaint, and the amount of people going in and out of the bakery meant it had to be great. I will start by saying this review might be bias, because I'm obsessed with bread, baked goods, and pizza, all of which Blue Moon Bakery does very well. They are known for two things: moon bagels and pizza. I know, another pizza place. Big Sky loves their pizza and so do hungry skiers. Bread & cheese? Yes, Please. Bread & cream cheese? Double Yes, Please. Their moon bagels are unique and here's why... there is no hole in the middle of the bagel, instead it's braided across the top, and the bagel is much thinner than a regular bagel making the moon bagel crispier and making you feel a little less ashamed about starting off your morning with carbs and fat. Thumbs up from me. They have a small assortment of cream cheeses, we love the cheddar jalapeño, it has actual pieces of sliced cheddar cheese in it. These bagels are delicious, but if you don't get there early enough you will miss them. For lunch they also have a large sandwich and salad menu, both of which are also classic bakery good. Then there is the pizza, which we have not yet tried, but they are getting orders as early as 10:30AM, and we have heard from many people that it's amazing. For research purposes we will have to try it, I will update! There is indoor seating upstairs above the bakery, and there is a covered porch out front with multiple tables. It's adorable and the food is great, so go give them a try.
ACRE
Calling all you brunchy people... this place has a small but mighty menu of breakfast and lunch options. Their main aim is to serve food made with locally sourced ingredients, and to keep things healthy (besides the huckleberry pancakes... is it even possible to say no to pancakes? or is that a me problem?). They have an all day coffee shop, with everything from your classic lattes and cappuccinos, to matcha, chai, and beet root lattes. They also have a kids menu for all the parents with picky eaters. ACRE also has lots of alcoholic options if you want to get boozed up at breakfast... no one is judging, this is a vacation town, so you do you, bud. You will find everything from breakfast burritos and avocado toast, to Bison bolognese on their menu. They have indoor and outdoor seating, and are located right smack dab in the middle of Town Center Avenue, so you can't miss them.
By WOM Bistro
Otherwise known as, By Word of Mouth Bistro, is open from 11:30am-6pm, with Happy Hour from 3-6pm. They are known for having great food with great presentation, friendly staff, and Big Sky's Best Burger. They have a large list of Montana Beers, and their location in Big Sky is in the original neighborhood, both of which will make you feel the Montana spirit, and surely right at home. They have a really great menu with something for everyone including shared plates like Serrano lime chicken wings, sweet chili calamari, poutine, and tuna katsu. If you aren't going for "Big Sky's best burger" you can enjoy one of their many salad or panini options, a bistro steak, poke bowl, or french onion soup. You will enjoy mountain views, support a local business, and eat well at this very popular spot.
The Wrap Shack
I'll start by saying the name is deceiving. It's Mexican food! Tacos and burritos... hell yes. Wrap Shack makes all of their own sauces and salsas fresh, offer plenty of protein and topping options, and aim to make sure you leave full (their burritos are huge). They also offer salad bowls or bowls with a rice and bean base, and have dressings and sauces like Italian, Buffalo, Caesar, and Blue Cheese for anyone trying to go the more classic salad route. They have "Mexi Ranch" that is bomb, AND Mole Sauce AND Queso! Should I just stop there??? If you plan on ordering for a larger group, they ask that you call or email ahead of time. I feel like I could have just stopped at "Mexican food"... I've said enough. Try them out!