Sip and Savor Your Way Through Eastern Idaho

Lindley Rust

From international flavors to downhome favorites, get ready to get your fill of wonderful restaurants in Idaho Falls and the neighboring communities throughout Eastern Idaho. Here’s a selection of eateries recommended by locals.

Try These Restaurants in Idaho Falls and the Region

Big Jud’s in Ashton: When you’ve got a big hankering for a hamburger, Big Jud’s is the place to go. It serves one- and two-pound burgers; finish either and get added to the joint’s Wall of Fame (though the meal is only free if you finish the massive two-pounder).

Butter Burr’s Restaurant in Pocatello: Try a traditional diner that serves comfort food for breakfast, lunch and dinner in a casual family-friendly setting. For breakfast, Butter Burr’s is known for its apple pie French toast and crispy hash browns.

Citizen 33 Brewery in Driggs: While taking in the gorgeous sights of the Teton Valley with a drive down Idaho Highway 33, be sure to drop in for fabulous fare and a craft brew at this restaurant. Citizen 33 sources its food and beer from high-quality Idaho ingredients.

Cooper’s Restaurant & Sports Bar in Fish Haven: Cooper’s is nestled on Bear Lake West Golf Course. In good weather, opt for a seat on the patio, which offers to-die-for views of Bear Lake while you lunch. Not an al fresco dining fan? The dining room views are just as stellar.

Curry Pizza in Rexburg: This fusion restaurant is the only Idaho outpost of the Utah-based chain. It offers traditional Indian dishes and Italian pies, but by far the most interesting things on the menu are its specialty pies topped with curry sauce. Try the Tikka Masala or Thai Peanut Curry Pizza.

Elmer’s Restaurant in Pocatello: Check out another popular diner-style restaurant that offers hearty portions of breakfast, lunch and dinner. For early risers, breakfast is served seven days a week beginning at 6:30 a.m., so patrons can start their morning with something sweet like a fruit crepe or something savory like a three-egg omelet.

Homestead Family Restaurant in Blackfoot: Started over 30 years ago, this family-owned restaurant and bakery offers delicious home-style cooking and a friendly atmosphere.

Jakers Bar and Grill in Pocatello & Idaho Falls: This upscale cocktail lounge and restaurant serves American cuisine dishes of steak, seafood, prime rib and gourmet hamburgers. Happy hour is daily from 4 to 6 p.m.

Lil’ Mike’s Bar-B-Que in Rigby: Stop by Lil’ Mike’s for succulent brisket, pulled pork, sausage, turkey or pork ribs by the plate or by the pound. It also offers BBQ nachos or baked potatoes loaded up with your favorite smoked meat. 

Righteous Slice in Rexburg: Righteous Slice in Rexburg is a two-story restaurant that exudes a laid-back atmosphere. Lauded for its award-winning pizzas and specialty shakes, Righteous Slice uses fresh and high-quality ingredients.

Rupe’s Burgers in Blackfoot: This old-fashioned hamburger joint started life as an A&W in 1962. After five decades of ownership and name changes, it still serves an all-American menu headlined by its All-American Burger, a quarter-pound of meat that will fill you up for well under $7. 

Tandoori Oven in Idaho Falls: Tandoori Oven is a popular Indian restaurant in Idaho Falls, known for its authentic cuisine and flavorful dishes. It has been praised for its extensive menu, which features traditional favorites like butter chicken and tikka masala, as well as a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

Teton Thai in Driggs: Hit up this joint for a (mostly) Thai menu with a local touch like pho made with thin-sliced bison instead of beef and panang curry with salmon. The cafe also boasts a more-than-respectable wine list.

The Yellowstone Restaurant in Pocatello: Located in the heart of downtown, The Yellowstone is known for its cocktail selection along with popular dishes like steak, seafood and pasta. Locally raised bison is also sourced from the Shoshone-Bannock Tribe and served on the menu.

Tommy Vaughn’s in Blackfoot: Tommy Vaughn’s is billed as one of the top sports bars in Eastern Idaho, and among its most popular grill options is a fish and wings appetizer. The venue also has a wide range of cocktails served ice cold.

– Kevin Litwin contributed to this article.