Savor Western cuisine & More in Johnson County, WY
Discover the Best Places to Eat in Buffalo & Kaycee, Wyoming
From the rolling plains of the Old West to the towering granite peaks of the Bighorn Mountains, Johnson County, Wyoming, is a mosaic of stunning landscapes and unbridled outdoor adventure. And while the region is known for its deep Western history and striking natural beauty, it also offers a variety of restaurants with Western cuisine and comfort food.
DOWNHOME DELICIOUS
Johnson County is saturated in Old West charm. For happy wanderers, outdoor adventurers, and family travelers alike, there’s excellent grub waiting around every corner. Start your epicurean journey in Buffalo, Wyoming — the town that inspired the hit book and television series Longmire.
Here, visitors can hang their hats at The Historic Occidental Hotel, or “Ox” as the locals call it, and imbibe in some of the finest food and spirits in the country. For a filling breakfast or lunch, check out The Busy Bee Cafe. Open since 1927, the longtime local favorite is mere feet from the Occidental’s entrance and sits beside idyllic Clear Creek. Known for its biscuits and gravy, french toast, and bison burgers, the Busy Bee is a must-visit before embarking on any Western adventures.
The Occidental Saloon serves up steaks, appetizers, burgers, and entrees in a classic Western atmosphere where live music is often on the menu. During the summer season, round off a full day of play with a world-class steak from The Virginian — also located in the Occidental. This warm and welcoming western restaurant is known for both its beef and buffalo steaks. Make a reservation to grab one of the private window seats for a romantic meal out.
For another uniquely local dining experience, head over to Tom’s Main Street Diner across the street from the Occidental. This Wyoming classic diner specializes in no-nonsense breakfast options, prepared as ordered, and served quickly. Though the menu selection is short and sweet, the dining options are hearty and affordable. Don’t be surprised if you catch a local cattleman or two fueling up for the day with a hearty helping of eggs, toast, bacon, and piping hot coffee to boot.
Also on Main Street, Rosie’s Americana Cafe serves up classic breakfast food and healthy yet filling lunch options. Stop in for soup, salad, or a loaded potato or mac-and-cheese layered with protein and tasty sauces. The diner atmosphere has a retro vibe from the 20th century.
Creekside Family Fun Center also serves up a hearty breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu includes meats from the smoker, soups, sandwiches and more. In addition, it’s a great family stop with miniature golf and other activities.
Are you in a rush? Just passing through? Make a pitstop at the Dash Inn. Just as the name suggests, food is served quickly here. Merely “dash or drive-in” and order from a vast array of wings, burgers, and more. With a drive-thru window and casual seating inside, it’s the perfect place for a quick, local meal.
For a memorable dining experience, check out Pie Zanos for tremendous salads, wood-fired pizzas, and creative pasta dishes. This restaurant in the historic downtown was featured on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives” in December of 2023. As it says on the DDD website: “From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel the cozy, no-frills vibe of a hole-in-the-wall gem. The smell of wood smoke drifting from the oven and the sight of fresh ingredients stacked in the open kitchen tell you immediately that you’re in for something special.”
Pie Zanos also was featured in this November 2025 feature by Forbes to celebrate unique pizzas during National Pizza Month.
Another recognized eatery is the Bozeman Trail Steakhouse, which offers some of the best elk, beef, and bison in Wyoming. This family-friendly steakhouse is sure to fill your belly and leave your taste buds singing for more. Though the food is hearty and delicious, the atmosphere sells the place. The meatloaf and elk burgers are guaranteed to satisfy and are among the reasons Bozeman Trail was featured on America’s Best Restaurants. After a tasty meal, pick up some locally made souvenirs and gifts at the onsite gift shop.
TASTY ALTERNATIVES
For a different kind of delicious, check out the new Buffalo Thai Kitchen on Main Street. The restaurant serves authentic Asian food in a prime location in downtown Buffalo. Pad Thai, lo mein, and fried rice are just some of the offerings on the menu.
Those seeking a Mexican flair can stop in at Albertanos — home to some of the best carne asada burritos, lengua tacos, and breakfast burritos. Guests are encouraged to bring their appetites — the portions are generous. Located in the Quality Inn on Hart Street, Albertanos is open from breakfast to dinner.
Another tasty alternative to Western cuisine is The Breadboard, serving up some of the best subs, wraps, and salads in the West. With an array of hearty and fresh, vegetarian, and gluten-free menu items to choose from, this lovely little cafe is a great place to stock up on goodies for your next backcountry picnic or day trip.
Also known for its sandwiches is the Sagewood Cafe. Fuel up for a day of adventure with their artisan sandwiches, warm soups, and freshly baked pies. And afterward, check out the onsite gift store to pick up unique souvenirs.
OUT AND ABOUT
The views and chews don’t stop in Buffalo. Adventure deeper into Johnson County and discover equally delicious meals throughout. Nestled amidst the Bighorn Mountains, guests can dine on huge portions of Western fare in the fresh mountain air. Enjoy enormous breakfast, lunch, and dinner portions at South Fork Lodge Restaurant & Bar. Order a slice of their homemade pie, relish the unparalleled views, and peruse the gift shop.
Mosey less than an hour south of Buffalo down I-25 and visit the quaint western town of Kaycee, Wyoming. With a modest population of nearly 300 people, Kaycee is as small-town Old West as they come. But don’t be deceived, what this community lacks in populace, it makes up for in wholesome, delicious cuisine.
At the Invasion Bar and Grill enjoy some of the best burgers, fried chicken, or gravy fries with an ice cold beer. In addition to the tasty food, guests can also enjoy darts, a jukebox, and karaoke.
Wander a bit down the road, and visit the Country Inn. This little cafe offers reasonably priced food and great coffee. Check out their Sunday buffets for unbeatable prices and a vast selection of fresh and delicious options.
Cowlick Creamery in Kaycee offers rotating soups and sandwiches along with bakery treats and coffee drinks.
The new Bunkhouse Bakery in Kaycee does breakfast and lunch with a unique focus. The kitchen offers up one incredible and filling special for breakfast and lunch each day. Make sure to check the updates on the Facebook page so you don’t miss out on a delicious meal. Or just show up and be surprised and delighted at the same time.
