Where To Eat In Stanley

One thing about coming to the mountains is for sure, you are going to work up an appetite! Stanley will surprise you with its diversity of great food offerings. Whether you are a rarified foodie or a happy hungry family ready to take down a pizzeria, when you visit us you will eat like a king. Your taste buds will be tickled by both the variety and quality of dining options around town. We are as passionate about the outdoors and good times as we are the food we eat, so check out our eclectic dining scene, and get ready to be blown away.

For a town of just 120-ish people, Stanley’s food scene is remarkably diverse, creative, and elevated—a true reflection of the passion our chefs bring to the table. Here, food isn’t just fuel for adventure; it’s an experience, an extension of the Sawtooth spirit, and a testament to the dedication of those who craft it.

Despite our small size, Stanley boasts a food culture that rivals larger cities, blending locally inspired flavors, high-quality ingredients, and chef-driven creativity. Whether it’s a James Beard-nominated chef crafting a multi-course meal, a pizzeria pushing the limits of classic pies, or a lakeside lodge serving gourmet dishes in a rustic setting, the food in Stanley is a celebration of place and passion.

Our chefs aren’t just cooks—they are storytellers, sharing the essence of the Sawtooths through every dish. Many of them have worked in top-tier restaurants before choosing the mountains as their home. Their dedication is evident in handcrafted pastries, fresh-caught trout, slow-roasted prime rib, and seasonal menus showcasing the best of Idaho's bounty.

Food in Stanley isn’t just good for a small town—it’s exceptional, period. Whether you’re grabbing a quick sandwich before hitting the trails or savoring a fine dining experience under the stars, you’ll find that every meal in Stanley is made with heart, passion, and a deep love for this place we call home.

High Country Inn

Open Winter

Best for: A cozy winter brunch
Winters in the Sawtooths feel like a storybook scene, and the High Country Inn makes it even better. Their seasonal winter brunch is the perfect way to warm up and indulge in a delicious, home-cooked meal before a day of exploring. Many guests come just for the food—it’s that good!

Mountain Village Resort

Open Year-Round

Best for: A classic, hearty breakfast
For a tried-and-true Stanley breakfast, Mountain Village Resort never disappoints. Enjoy eggs and bacon, fresh coffee, mimosas, or their famous cowboy chicken-fried steak. Whether you’re looking for a light and healthy option or a full feast, this spot has something for everyone.

Stanley Baking Co.

Open late Spring - Fall

Best for: Fresh-baked pastries & homemade meals
A Stanley favorite, this charming bakery serves up legendary baked goods, homemade breakfasts, and strong coffee. Whether you're craving flaky croissants, warm cinnamon rolls, or a hearty breakfast plate, Stanley Baking Co. is a must-visit.

Sunbeam Café

Open late Spring - Fall

Best for: A road trip stop with fresh pastries
Heading north or on the road? Make a stop at Sunbeam Café for delicious pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and freshly brewed coffee. This spot is perfect for grabbing a quick and tasty bite before hitting the trails or heading out on the river.

The Sawmill Bistro

Open late Spring - Fall

Best for: A relaxed breakfast with great coffee
A cozy mountain café with a beautiful deck patio, The Sawmill Bistro serves up craft coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and fresh pastries. Whether you’re fueling up for a big day or just sipping a latte with a view, this is a fantastic morning stop.

Limbert’s at Redfish Lake Lodge

Open late Spring - Fall

Best for: A gourmet summer breakfast
If you’re heading south, Limbert’s at Redfish Lake Lodge is a summer breakfast gem. Enjoy gourmet morning dishes in a cozy lodge setting, with views of Redfish Lake making it an unforgettable start to your day.

Mountain Village Resort

Open Year-Round

Best for: Year-round comfort food & prime rib weekends
A Stanley staple, Mountain Village Resort is open for lunch and dinner year-round, serving hearty meals and weekly specials. Friday and Saturday nights feature their Slow-Roasted Certified Angus Beef Prime Rib, served with a creamy peppercorn sauce for an unforgettable meal.

Papa Brunee’s

Open Mid-Winter to Mid-Fall

Best for: Unique pizzas & casual bites
A fan favorite, Papa Brunee’s serves up some of the best pizza in the West! Try their spicy Thai pizza, calzones, subs, and fresh salads, all made with quality ingredients - even gluten-free and vegan options. They also host Thursday Night Street Dances in the summer, offering fun specials during the events.

Stanley Supper Club

Open Mid-Winter to Mid-Fall

Best for: Elevated dining & James Beard-nominated cuisine
For a next-level dining experience, the Stanley Supper Club offers expertly crafted dishes made with care in an intimate setting. Recognized by the James Beard Foundation, this cozy spot is a must-visit for food lovers seeking a refined yet welcoming atmosphere.

Sawtooth Hotel

Open Late-Spring to Mid-Fall

Best for: Patio dining with live music & diverse menu options
The Sawtooth Hotel offers one of the best patios in downtown Stanley, paired with a gourmet kitchen serving vegan, gluten-free, and locally inspired dishes. Their summer lawn concerts make for a magical evening of great food and live music with stunning mountain views.

Kasino Club

Open Mid-Winter to Mid-Fall

Best for: Rotating menu & family-friendly dining
A lively family-friendly spot, the Kasino Club features a rotating menu of comfort classics, with gluten-free options available. Along with Papa Brunee’s, they host the Thursday Night Street Dances in summer, making it a great place to enjoy food, drinks, and community fun.

Limbert’s at Redfish Lake Lodge

Open Mid-Spring to Mid-Fall

Best for: Upscale mountain dining with a Northwest-inspired menu
Located at Redfish Lake Lodge, Limbert’s offers a chef-driven menu featuring fresh Northwest ingredients and a curated Pacific Northwest wine list. Whether you’re staying at the lodge or visiting for dinner, Limbert’s provides an elevated yet cozy dining experience with breathtaking lake views.

Sawmill Bistro

Open Mid-Spring to Mid-Fall

Best for: Hot sandwiches, burgers & fresh salads
Located in the heart of town, Sawmill Bistro serves up hearty burgers, hot sandwiches, and fresh salads perfect for refueling after a day of adventure. Their casual atmosphere and inviting deck patio make it a great spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy a satisfying meal.

Sunbeam Café

Open Late-Spring to Fall

Best for: Grab-and-go lunches & fresh pastries
If you’re heading out on an adventure, Sunbeam Café is the perfect stop for quick, fresh grab-and-go lunches. They also offer delicious pastries and breakfast sandwiches, making it a great choice for those on the move.