The Great Debate: Wyoming’s Best BBQ / Pizza / Seafood Spots Ranked
In Cheyenne, Wyoming’s capital just over an hour southeast of the state’s geographic center, locals and visitors alike flock to The Rib & Chop House for barbecue that captures the spirit of the West. This spot is renowned for its hickory-smoked ribs and slow-cooked brisket, served in a rustic setting adorned with rodeo memorabilia that echoes the city’s cowboy heritage. Dining here is less about flashy sauces and more about the craft of smoke and seasoning, drawing from Wyoming’s ranching traditions. The best time to visit is during their summer patio evenings when the warm air and lingering daylight make for a perfect backdrop to savoring smoky flavors under open skies.
Travel westward about two hours from Cheyenne, near the town of Jackson, the Snake River Brewing Restaurant offers a different kind of feast. Famous for its locally inspired pizzas, this eatery blends traditional Italian techniques with the rugged ingredients of the Rockies. Their signature bison pepperoni pizza, topped with locally sourced meats and fresh mountain vegetables, stands out amid a vibrant, lodge-style interior. The proximity to Grand Teton National Park means you can fuel up here before or after exploring trails like the moderate Jenny Lake Loop, about seven miles of stunning alpine views and serene lake reflections. Autumn is spectacular here, as the aspens turn golden and the crisp air heightens flavors on the palate.
In the heart of Laramie, about 50 miles west of Cheyenne, the historic Downtown District is home to Sweet Melissa’s Café, a beloved spot for seafood despite Wyoming being landlocked. They specialize in fresh, Pacific Northwest-inspired dishes like grilled salmon and clam chowder, spotlighting sustainable sourcing and inventive preparations. The café’s cozy, artsy ambiance offers a welcoming pause after exploring the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site, where you can walk the grounds of this 19th-century penitentiary and reflect on the Old West’s rugged justice system. Late spring and early summer bring a lively downtown farmers market nearby, perfect for pairing a seafood entrée with local craft brews.
Head to Casper, Wyoming’s second-largest city about two and a half hours north of Laramie, and you’ll find The Local restaurant, a standout for barbecue that balances bold flavors with refined technique. Their pit-smoked pork shoulder is infused with a signature dry rub that honors Wyoming’s grilling culture rooted in cattle ranches. What elevates The Local is its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients—Wyoming beef and bison—paired with house-made sides like jalapeño-cheese grits. After a satisfying meal here, you can visit the nearby National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, which offers immersive exhibits on the Oregon, Mormon, and California Trails. Early fall is ideal, with cooler temps perfect for exploring history and then warming up with hearty barbecue.
On the western frontier, a stone’s throw from the small town of Buffalo, about 45 minutes north of Casper, the historic Occidental Saloon offers a unique dive into Wyoming’s frontier past along with a surprising seafood menu. Nestled in the heart of the Bighorn Mountains’ foothills, the saloon pairs its Old West ambiance with fresh trout dishes caught from nearby streams. The cedar plank salmon and trout almondine showcase the fusion of mountain flavors with classic seafood techniques. Visitors here often combine a meal with a trip to the nearby Bighorn National Forest, where the Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark trail offers a short, culturally rich hike amid sacred Native American sites. Summer evenings, with cool mountain air and live music, make dining here especially memorable.
For pizza lovers willing to venture to smaller communities, Rock Springs, approximately three hours southwest of Casper, offers Rock Springs Brewing Company. Though primarily a brewery, their handcrafted pizzas are a highlight, built on thin, crispy crusts and topped with creative Wyoming-inspired ingredients like elk sausage and sage. The brewery’s interior, featuring reclaimed wood and industrial accents, complements the town’s mining history. After a meal, visitors can explore the nearby Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, renowned for its dramatic red cliffs and reservoir. Spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for combining outdoor adventure with a rewarding pizza dinner.
Finally, in the picturesque town of Cody, about two hours east of Yellowstone National Park, the Irma Hotel’s dining room serves up a blend of historic charm and hearty cuisine, including notable barbecue offerings. Founded by Buffalo Bill Cody himself, the hotel’s barbecued ribs and slow-smoked meats come with a rich sense of place, where the Old West meets modern hospitality. After indulging in classic Western fare, visitors can explore the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a world-class museum complex featuring exhibits on frontier life, Native American culture, and natural history. Late spring through early fall is the best time to visit, as warm days invite exploration of both the museum’s treasures and Cody’s lively downtown scene.