Cowboy’s Lodge and Grille

Pulled Pork Sandwich: smoky bite, Ribs: slow-glazed, Country Fried Steak: cowboy fry.

When to come

Visit in the shoulder seasons or for lunch/dinner during off-peak hours to dodge the summer crowds and long waits.

Dining

DiningOPERATIONAL★ 4.5

The Cowboy's Lodge and Grille sits just two blocks from Yellowstone’s North Entrance in Gardiner, a rugged, family-owned BBQ joint. The Pulled Pork Sandwich delivers a smoky bite, while the Country Fried Steak brings a true cowboy fry with a crisp crust and hot mash potatoes on the side. Ribs arrive slow and glossy with a bold, savory glaze; the 7oz Angus sirloin in the Country Fried Steak cracks with a firm crust under heat. Expect a bustling, casual Western vibe, especially in summer when...

Casual, ranch-style property featuring airy suites & cabins with kitchens, plus a rustic restaurant.

Quick facts

Establishment Type
restaurant
Cuisine Type
  • american
  • bbq
  • burgers
  • sandwiches
Meals Served
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Signature Dishes
Pulled Pork Sandwich; Country Fried Steak; Ribs

What to order

Establishment Type
restaurant
Cuisine Type
  • american
  • bbq
  • burgers
  • sandwiches
Meals Served
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Signature Dishes
Pulled Pork Sandwich; Country Fried Steak; Ribs
Local Specialties
Bison Burger
Popular Items
Pulled Pork Sandwich, Country Fried Steak, Ribs
Menu Recommendations
Pulled Pork Sandwich, Country Fried Steak, Ribs
Dietary Options
  • Empty Handed Hunting Trip (vegetarian burger)

Prices & reservations

Price Specifics
Starters $12–$16; Burgers/Sandwiches $16–$42; Entrees $19–$36
Reservations Policy
Reservations are not explicitly required, but AutoReserve is available to book ahead.
Typical Wait Times
Long waits noted in August 2023; summers are crazy busy.
Cash Only
No

Hours & seating

Operating Hours
  • Monday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Thursday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Friday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Saturday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Sunday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Seasonal Hours
Open year-round with potential seasonal adjustments; daily 11:30 AM–8:00 PM (2025 schedule)
Outdoor Seating
Yes
Parking Details
Free on-site parking
Accessibility
Handicapped Accessible

Visit strategy

Best For
  • Families
  • Park visitors
  • Casual diners
Not Ideal For
Budget travelers expecting large portions for the price
Service Type
Table service
Service Speed
Variable; faster when not crowded but can be slow during peak due to staffing shortages
Vibe
  • Rustic Western
  • Casual
  • Family-friendly
Noise Level
Busy in peak season; lively and bustling during summer
View Type
  • Yellowstone River Bridge vicinity view
Busiest Times
Summer
Best Visit Times
Shoulder seasons or off-peak hours
Tips Advice
  • Order the Pulled Pork Sandwich first for the smoky bite.
  • Visit during shoulder seasons or off-peak hours to dodge the crowds.
  • Takeout is an option if the seating line is long.

More details

Park Area
Gardiner, Montana (gateway to Yellowstone National Park)
Takeout Available
Yes
Delivery Available
No
Dress Code
Casual
Beverage Program
Montana Craft Beers, beer and wine
Local Beers
Phillipsburg Brewing Co., Outlaw Brewing, Big Sky Brewing Co.
Tasting Flights
No
Tours Available
No
Bottle Sales
No
Parking Available
Yes
Dog Friendly Patio
No
Wi-Fi Available
No
Family Friendly
Yes
Family Friendly Notes
Children's menu available; casual, family-friendly vibe; summer crowds may be loud
Age Restriction
All ages welcome
Bar Seating
No
Seasonal Rushes
Summer peak
Live Music
1
Special Events
The Shed can host private events and may feature live DJ sets during summer months at The Beach Bar.
Has Gift Shop
No
Unique Attractions
Rustic lodge atmosphere with local artists' works; proximity to Yellowstone River Bridge
Unique Factor
Family-owned Southern BBQ at Yellowstone gateway with cowboy fare
Nearby Facilities
Parking lot; proximity to the Yellowstone River Bridge; gateway to North Entrance
Best Time To Visit
Visit in the shoulder seasons or for lunch/dinner during off-peak hours to dodge the summer crowds and long waits.
The Order Strategy
Skip the generic burger lineup, get the Pulled Pork Sandwich. For beer, order the Outlaw Brewing selection.
The Vibe Check
This is rustic, casual, family-friendly Post-Adventure HQ; it’s loud enough in peak season but welcoming after a day at the park.
The Crowd Factor
The place gets crowded in summer; consider arriving early or ordering ahead via AutoReserve to minimize wait times.
Eat Here If Skip If
EAT HERE IF: you want authentic cowboy fare after a Yellowstone day. SKIP IF: you need a quiet, quick bite with massive portions for the price.
Review Summary
Texture notes across signature dishes lean smoky for the pulled pork and a hearty, cowboy fry profile for the Country Fried Steak. Long waits and higher prices for small portions were recurring concerns in August 2023, but the restaurant remains a solid Western dining anchor near the park with a lively summer atmosphere.

Location

Yellowstone National Park lodge dining room with steak, mashed potato, and greens on a wooden table.Fried chicken with creamy gravy, green beans, and potato salad served at Cowboy's Lodge and Grille in Yellowstone National ParkInside a rustic Yellowstone National Park lodge dining room with wooden benches, mounted antiques, and warm lighting.Cheeseburger with cheddar and a red onion slice on a bun, served with a side salad in Yellowstone National Park dining venue.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a children's menu?

Yes, a children's menu is available.

Is takeout available?

Yes, takeout is an option.

What are the hours?

Daily 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM; open year-round with potential seasonal adjustments.

Is there live music?

One review mentions live music downstairs.

Freeheel and Wheel

Zebra Mocha or Oat Milk Lavender Latte — bold flavors meet a gear-shop hub in West Yellowstone.

Rawhide Coffee

24oz iced latte with buttered rum + butter pecan—the cult pick.

Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated January 2026. Report an issue.