Sun Valley Restaurants: Top 5 for Travelers Who Want Local Flair
Dining out is on many favorite things to do lists, and these top Sun Valley restaurants make it hard to resist. From small breakfast spots to formal dining, these restaurants are known for delicious food and great service. When in Ketchum – the city adjacent to Sun Valley Resort – stop by these dining hot spots.
Top 5 Sun Valley Restaurants for Local Flair
The Kneadery
Start the day off with a hearty breakfast at The Kneadery. Open for breakfast and lunch, this restaurant is known for locally sourced ingredients and friendly service. The Kneadery serves breakfast all day, and the menu includes their famous Benedict and country frittata.
For lunch, pick from the Kneadery burger, sandwiches, soups and salads, all made with local and seasonal ingredients. Along with a fresh menu, the restaurant also serves organic fair trade coffee, cocktails and half bottles of wine. The Kneadery has been open for more than 40 years showcases rustic style.
Cristina’s Restaurant
Cristina’s is another top spot for breakfast, brunch or lunch. This restaurant/bakery also offers take out and catering. Owned by Cristina Ceccatelli Cook, a Tuscan native, Cristina’s serves Italian-inspired flavors and dishes.
Breakfast items include Colazione, morning pastries and specialty egg dishes, as well as traditional favorites, such as pancakes and fruit bowls. The lunch menu features antipasta, specialty pizzas, sandwiches and full plates. Pair the meal with fresh-squeezed lemonade or an Italian soda.
Pioneer Saloon
Step back to the early pioneer days when horse-drawn wagons filled the streets. History and American favorites pair well at Pioneer Saloon. Once a casino in the 1940s, and now among the top Sun Valley restaurants, find a menu and extensive wine list. Pioneer Saloon is known for premium cuts of steaks, but foodies can also choose from seafood, sandwiches and local favorites, such as the Jim Spud.
The restaurant’s wine list received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence and features dozens of flavors from all over the world. Make the most of the dining experience by admiring the natural woods and period décor, creating a genuine saloon atmosphere.
Grumpy’s
Get your pub on at Grumpy’s, a local favorite Sun Valley restaurant known for burgers and beer. More than 35 years ago Grumpy’s opened and has been featured on a Rachel Ray lunch segment and USA Today.
The menu is simple: burgers, hot dogs, seafood and daily specials. Tuesday is rib night, and make sure to order brews. As the only original Grumpy’s, the restaurant prides itself on casual, friendly service and a laid-back vibe. Don’t forget to talk to locals and buy souvenirs, too!
Enoteca
A restaurant and wine bar, Enoteca offers flavorful dishes using house-cured meats, artisan cheeses and even local honey. Its menu provides a selection of appetizers and dishes, ranging from vegetarian friendly to Idaho trout and lasagna.
Enoteca opens for dinner only, and try one of their wood fire pizzas, which use sauces made in-house and locally sourced produce. Online reviewers say it’s a great place for dinner or having a drink with friends. Also, reservations are recommended, or go early to beat crowds.
After spending all day on the slopes, read about the best Sun Valley apres ski spots.