Three Bear Restaurant

Prime Rib: thick slices, crusty edge, massive portions.

When to come

To dodge waits, breakfast before 7:00 AM or early dinners stay calmer; Saturdays can be busy for breakfast.

Dining

DiningOPERATIONAL★ 4

The Three Bear Lodge dining room wears a rustic, log-cabin skin with Yellowstone character. The Big Game Meatloaf—elk, bison, and beef—shows a crusty edge and a juicy center; Prime Rib slices are thick with a fat cap that melts into the bite. Bison Burger risks dryness when the grill runs hot, while Elk Stuffed Pasta delivers tender elk in a bold sauce. Grab a Huckleberry Lemon Drop from the Grizzly Lounge for a tart, bright finish.

Decorated with logs & lamps, this lodge spot serves steak, burgers, pasta & classic breakfasts.

Quick facts

Establishment Type
restaurant
Cuisine Type
  • american
  • french
  • steakhouse
  • burgers
  • sandwiches
  • breakfast
  • coffee
Meals Served
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Signature Dishes
Big Game Meatloaf; Prime Rib; Bison Burger; Elk Stuffed Pasta

What to order

Establishment Type
restaurant
Cuisine Type
  • american
  • french
  • steakhouse
  • burgers
  • sandwiches
  • breakfast
  • coffee
Meals Served
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Signature Dishes
Big Game Meatloaf; Prime Rib; Bison Burger; Elk Stuffed Pasta
Local Specialties
Local game like bison and elk; Huckleberry cocktails featured
Popular Items
Big Game Meatloaf, Prime Rib, Bison Nachos, Elk Stuffed Pasta
Menu Recommendations
Bison Nachos as starter; Big Game Meatloaf and Prime Rib as mains; Apple Cobbler; Warm Triple Chocolate Cake
Dietary Options
  • Vegetarian options
  • Gluten-free options

Prices & reservations

Price Range Symbols
$$
Price Specifics
Price range: moderate to slightly higher. Menu prices include: Breakfast Buffet $18; Avocado Toast $8; Breakfast Sandwich $11; Triple Stack Pancakes $9; Biscuits & Gravy $12; Angus Beef Ribeye Steak & Eggs $22; Country Fried Steak $22. Overall value: several reviews say the portions are generous for the price, while a few guests feel the quality doesn’t always match the cost.
Reservations Policy
Walk-in is primary; reservations might be advised during peak season.
Typical Wait Times
Walk-ins accepted; waits can occur during busy periods; one report noted waits no more than 10 minutes.
Payment Methods
  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • American Express
  • Cash
Cash Only
No

Hours & seating

Operating Hours
  • Monday: 6:00 – 10:30 AM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 6:00 – 10:30 AM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 6:00 – 10:30 AM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
  • Thursday: 6:00 – 10:30 AM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
  • Friday: 6:00 – 10:30 AM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
  • Saturday: 6:00 – 10:30 AM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
  • Sunday: 6:00 – 10:30 AM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Seasonal Hours
Seasonal operation; typically December 15–March 15 and May 1–October 18.
Closed Days
Open daily; no regular closing days
Happy Hour Times
Happy hour is typically offered Monday-Friday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Boat Club, featuring discounted drinks and appetizers.
Seating Types
  • outdoor
Outdoor Seating
No
Parking Details
No dedicated lot details; parking generally available around West Yellowstone.
Accessibility
No restaurant-specific accessibility details provided; located within a lodge with standard public spaces.

Visit strategy

Best For
  • Families
  • Casual diners
Not Ideal For
Seek refined fine dining or quiet, solo meals
Service Type
Table service
Service Speed
Varies; waits during busy times
Vibe
  • Casual lodge atmosphere
  • Family-friendly
  • Historical exhibits
Noise Level
Moderate buzz
View Type
  • Parking lot view
  • Lodge interior decor
Busiest Times
Saturday mornings; peak season dinners
Best Visit Times
Breakfast before 7:00 AM; or after 9:00 PM for lighter crowds
Tips Advice
  • Get the Bison Nachos as a starter; the chips crackle under cheese and toppings.
  • For mains, Big Game Meatloaf and Prime Rib deliver big portions; pace yourself.
  • Arrive before 7 AM for breakfast or consider post-9 PM dining to bypass peak crowds.

More details

Park Area
West Yellowstone, Montana
Takeout Available
No
Delivery Available
No
Dress Code
Casual
Beverage Program
Full Bar at Grizzly Lounge with beers, wines, and spirits; Huckleberry Lemon Drop
Local Beers
Domestic and imported beers
Signature Cocktails
Huckleberry Lemon Drop
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
Kids' menu available; casual, family-friendly energy
Age Restriction
All ages welcome. Some areas or specific events might have age restrictions, especially in the bar after a certain hour.
Bar Seating
Yes
Seasonal Rushes
Peak in summer; weekends and holidays
Live Music
0
Has Gift Shop
No
Unique Attractions
Historic Three Bear Lodge ambiance with Yellowstone decor
Unique Factor
Western lodge vibe with elk and bison staples in a historic setting
Nearby Facilities
Parking lot, lodge, guest rooms
Best Time To Visit
To dodge waits, breakfast before 7:00 AM or early dinners stay calmer; Saturdays can be busy for breakfast.
The Order Strategy
Skip the generic breakfast patty and go straight for the Big Game Meatloaf—locals swear by the elk, bison, and beef blend. For cocktails, order the Huckleberry Lemon Drop from the Grizzly Lounge.
The Vibe Check
This is a lodge-hotel dining environment: casual, lively, family-friendly; bring the kids and a hearty appetite.
The Crowd Factor
Line forms during breakfast on busy days; arrive early or plan for a wait and consider the Grizzly Lounge for drinks while you wait.
Eat Here If Skip If
EAT HERE IF: you want big, Western-style portions and a kid-friendly vibe. SKIP IF: you seek fine-dining nuances or vegan-only options.
Distance From Park
approximately 28 miles from park entrance
Review Summary
Three Bear serves sturdy Western staples in a rustic lodge. Big Game Meatloaf and Prime Rib deliver weight and warmth; the Bison Burger can come dry when the grill is off; pricing runs higher than some locals expect. It’s a solid choice for a hearty post-park meal with a full bar and family-friendly vibe.

Location

Steak bites with onions and mashed potatoes served at a Yellowstone National Park restaurant.Bear display inside a Yellowstone National Park restaurant showcasing mounted bears and rustic stonework.Restaurant exterior at Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park, with stone walls, glowing string lights, and snow on the roof.Carved wooden cow statue at a Yellowstone National Park lodge entrance with rustic logs and stone walls.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a kids menu?

Yes. A kids' menu is available in a family-friendly setting.

Are gluten-free options available?

Yes, staff accommodate gluten-free needs with attention to safe preparation.

Is there a wait or reservation required?

Walk-ins are common; reservations may help during peak season.

Is the pricing worth it?

Prices skew higher, but generous portions and hearty Western staples balance the value.

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.