Jackson Hole is known for its rustic ways, its beautiful views, and its outdoor adventures. Did you know, however, that the tastes of Jackson Hole are also unique? In fact, Wyoming has several ranches that raise elk and buffalo and hunters flock here for deer, pronghorn, elk, moose, buffalo and bear tags! And boy, is it good! Healthy, fresh, and eco-friendly, especially if you are a hunter. We also have our local produce for vegetarian and vegans that we will mention towards the end.
To taste this local splendor, there are some excellent choices for both purchasing the meat yourself and dining at a top class restaurant in town. Our top choices for buying game meat would definitely be Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company or Local Butcher. Heed any advice they have about cooking buffalo or elk meat as you definitely do not want to overcook the meat. We would recommend cooking the meat to max medium rare as both these types of meat is very lean and would taste like leather if you went much further.
For a great dining experience, there are a plethora of choices in Jackson Hole. An excellent choice would definitely be the Gun Barrel. This restaurant has a wide assortment of game meat and local fish to choose from and the plates are well sized for the price. While this story is about game meat, the tenderloin medallions in a blue cheese sauce are to DIE FOR!!!
You could also try the Cowboy Steakhouse. The food is superb, the beef is local and grain-raised, the Buffalo is cooked to perfection, and the service is fabulous. The overall dining experience is great.
Lastly, we would recommend checking out the Granary. The food is spectacular and the view isn’t too shabby as well! The Granary offers 180-degree views of the Teton range and often while you are a dining, a moose or a couple of elk will take a sip for a pond just outside of the windows, completing the view. It does not get much better than this.
This is the Wild West and we are mainly about our meats, but we do have some locals produce that is worth mentioning. A farmer down in Pinedale produces Wyomatoes, a Wyoming tomato produced in an organic hot house. These are absolutely delicious and can often be found in Caprese salads in restaurants and at Jackson Whole Grocer and Hungry Jacks. We also have an organic farm, Cosmic Apple, and a year-round greenhouse, Vertical Harvest, that produces excellent produce. These vegetarians options can be found in various restaurants throughout the valley.
The tastes of Jackson Hole melt in your mouth and are easy to find. Buffalo burgers, elk tenderloins, and other game meat are plentiful. You just need to be a little daring and try something new. And be sure to ask for it rare!
