The Jackson Hole Town Square is on every visitor’s to-do list—an honor that is well-deserved. In the shadow of the Cowboy Bar’s iconic neon sign, the elk antler arches provide a classic photo op and you can hop onto the horse-drawn stagecoach for an old-school jaunt around town. Lining Jackson’s most central location are some of its best shopping opportunities. Whatever you’re looking for from stunning mountain-inspired jewelry to distinctive artwork, Western-inspired toys to unique handmade treasures, the shopping scene on the square won’t disappoint. And when you’re ready for a break? The dining options for lunch in Jackson Hole are just as excellent.
1. Jackson Drug
This longtime Jackson Hole Town Square establishment first opened its doors a century ago in 1919 and moved to its current location in 1937. After changing hands a few times, it ultimately closed in 2001. However, in 2016, the great-grandaughters of the original owner reacquired the building, and like a phoenix from the ashes, Jackson Drug was born again. With a dedication to the character of the original soda fountain, the Gill sisters have made this a rustic, welcoming spot for lunch and sweet treats.
All of the menu’s beef burgers are from the Jackson Hole Hereford Ranch and are served on a locally-made bun. Variations range from classic (melted American cheese) to astounding: the "Hoback Dad" features three beef patties, American cheese, bacon, fried egg, lettuce, onion, and house pickles on brioche.
2. The Bunnery
Just a half-block north of the Jackson Hole Town Square, The Bunnery is a classic lunch locale. Opened more than 40 years ago in a historical cabin, the restaurant is proud to feature wholesome, from-scratch soups, sandwiches and salads. The atmosphere is casual and cozy and the service is always warm.
Standout lunchtime offerings include the Bunnery Bacon sandwich: a homemade mini-baguette with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, grilled onion and bleu cheese. Unique and satisfying, enjoy it with chips, or one of the restaurant’s bright seasonal salads. The Bunnery’s umbrella-shaded deck is the perfect spot to kick back and devour a sandwich and an ice-cold local microbrew beer.
3. Roadhouse Pub & Eatery
Perched across the street from the Square’s most famous elk antler arch, the Roadhouse Pub & Eatery is the ideal lunch locale for the beer aficionado. Owned by the locally-operated Roadhouse Brewing Co., the restaurant has a relaxed brewery-style vibe. The menu includes everything from small nibbles to hearty meals; you’ll find something for every taste. Featuring local Bovine + Swine meat, try either the Kimchi Dog or the Bratwurst. The former is a beef hot dog that boasts a distinctly Korean flavor profile, topped with zingy kimchi, scallion and Gochujang aioli. The latter is Bovine + Swine’s garlic knackwurst, heaped with sauerkraut and stout mustard on a hoagie roll. Either one is a delicious and elevated spin on a classic, and complements any of the Roadhouse Brewing pints very nicely.
4. Snake River Roasting Co. Cafe
Just off of Town Square, Snake River Roasting is open from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Come in for your morning cup of Joe, breakfast, lunch and even mimosas! Linger in the luminous cafe or choose the outdoor patio. The coffee blends are hand-crafted and roasted to order and food is provided by another local favorite, Provisions catering. There are also grab-and-go Charcuterie boards, sandwiches, salads, delicious house-fried chips and house-pressed juices.
5. Silver Dollar Bar & Grill
If you’re looking for the most authentic old-school lunch spot, look no further than the Silver Dollar Bar and Grill in the iconic Wort Hotel. Truly a Jackson Hole Town Square tradition, the Silver Dollar has all the trappings of a Western watering hole. Named for the more than 4,000 Morgan Silver Dollar coins that are inlaid into the bar itself, the establishment has a long and colorful history. It’s a bustling spot, with indoor and outdoor seating, and friendly staff.
For a lunch that’s as unique as the setting, order the Elk Gyros with marinated elk tips, tzatziki, fresh lettuce, tomato and onion served on warm pita. It’s a unique fusion of international fare with deeply local flavor.
6. Code Red
One of the newest eateries on the square is Code Red, a taqueria tucked below Roadhouse. The menu features a la carte tacos — very reasonably priced! — quesadillas, buritos, tostadas, salads and more. Complimenting the delicious Mexican cuisine is a selection of craft beers from Roadhouse Brewing and Melvin Brewing.
The Vuelvea la Vida tostada is a Mexican-style fish "cocktail" that includes shrimp, octopus and mahi mahi. A Kids' Menu is also available with items costing a budget-friendly $5 to $15.
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