Favorite eating establishments, that is! In addition to having world class recreation across every season and stunning scenery, Jackson Hole has a vibrant food scene. If there is an underlying theme to my go to places it is “Good Things Come in Small Packages.” The places I return to time and again are not too small but not too big – they are just right.  They are not fancy and some are really just food trucks that don’t move.

Here are my current picks in alphabetical order (there is no other way I could rank them):

Bin22

A local favorite that features small plates including house made fresh mozzarella, Bin22 has a wide variety of dishes with something to please everyone.  The Spanish Salad, Arancini (pictured above) and Gulf Shrimp are my top three dishes, but you really cannot go wrong. Be sure to save room for pretzel chocolate caramel tart if you have a sweet tooth like mine. In addition to the excellent options for wines by the glass, you can buy a bottle from their wine store and enjoy without a corkage fee.

Bodega

As its name implies, Bodega is a grocery store, albeit a little unusual.  Inside you will find staples, an excellent butcher counter, frozen specialty items from the chefs at Il Villagio Osteria and other Fine Dining establishments and a well stocked wine and beer selection. However, what makes it worth the trip for me is the amazing fried chicken sandwiches featured at it’s adjacent food truck — a new addition for this summer season. Order any one of the five featured sandwiches which are served on grilled buns from Persephone (see below) and park yourself at one of the picnic tables in the meadow.  Friends swear by their corn dogs and Mexican corn, as well, but I never have room after indulging myself.

Persephone

What began as a bakery that sold amazing bread and outstanding cinnamon buns at the farmer’s market in the summer and grocery stores year round, expanded a few years ago into what may be the single most popular eating establishment in Jackson.  (Since being featured on TripAdvisor and other sites, the lines at Persephone are literally out the door and down the block during peak tourist season.) Located in a charming old building just off the town square, Persephone serves breakfast most of the day and lunch. It’s also a great place for coffee or tea and one of the justifiably famous pastries. Their deck and garden seating is a favorite location for just about everyone, and they will pack food to go for those who want to take a picnic to the park or elsewhere.

Pica’s Taqueria

Freshly made tortillas and killer margaritas are just two of the items that set Pica’s Taqueria apart from the other Mexican restaurants in Jackson Hole.   When I land back in Jackson after being away, it is often my first stop for their fabulous tortilla soup or chicken posole along with tacos al pastor. They have a wide range of traditional dishes and some of the best chicken enchiladas anywhere. Pica’s is extremely family friendly and a great lunch or pre-movie dinner place.

Street Food @ the Stagecoach

Another relative newcomer, Street Food is a local favorite for its eclectic menu, and relaxed vibe. Located at the bottom of Teton Pass in the small town of Wilson, it is strategically located for hikers, mountain bikers and cyclists who often convene there pre or post ride. There are picnic tables outside adjacent to a “beach” volleyball court and lawn where dogs and children play. My usual order is either the Lamb Burger (with hand cut fries) or Mahi Mahi Tacos, but everything I have tried is delicious, so it comes down to time of day and state of mind.

N.B. – for a small (blink and you will drive through it) community, Wilson has a number of other places worth checking out including Nora’s Fish Creek Inn (James Beard Winner in 2012) and Pearl Street Bagels (just don’t ask for them toasted).