If you happen to be in Gardiner Montana, that most likely means you’re here visiting Yellowstone. I’m unsure that anyone would really visit this small town unless you’re here for the National Park. Not that I’m turning down this town because there’s a lot to do here such as river rafting, enjoying the small town life, and the occasional wildlife right in front of you. Many tourists come to Gardiner Montana to stay at the local motels because the North entrance to Yellowstone is not too far.
There’s a hidden gem in Montana when you drive 7 miles north of Gardiner off the 89 highway. “G” and I stumbled upon Lighthouse restaurant because our friend “T” noticed an ad for this restaurant in one of the visitor’s center in the park.
It definitely seemed like it was a long drive but only because we’ve been on the road literally all day and we were ready to get our grub on. It was around a little before 5 and noticed a few people already waiting. The restaurant opens at 5:30 so we patiently waited. Then it was time for us to get seated and we sat at the back of the restaurant with a lot of nautical decorations on the walls. When you look around you will feel like you’re in a ship.
Lighthouse restaurant was opened in memory of a man who was a sailor and the items in the restaurant was actually his belongings. This restaurant serves up traditional American eats as well as some Asian fusion.
You will notice there’s a lot of historical nautical items inside the restaurant such as the paintings, lamps, drawers, chairs, tables, mirror, and a lot more.
If you want something refreshing then their homemade pink lemonade is a must. It’s not like your typical lemonade because it’s not watered down. It’s actually a little thick so it makes it really tangy and sweet.
As appetizer, we ordered the truffle mac ‘n’ cheese which is a big must! The cheesy goodness will win your heart.
I ordered the Spicy Szechuan Chicken plate. The Szechuan sauce is a bit spicy and brings out the flavor of the bell pepper, carrot, celery and the rice. Shrimp is also an option instead of chicken.
You can’t go wrong with the Bengal Beef. Top round steak is slow roasted with thinly sliced onions, bell peppers, carrots, celery, with a savory soy sauce and is then served over rice.
For the adventurer, the 1/2 pound bison burger is the way to go. Plus what better place to eat a bison burger than Montana! There’s bison everywhere so you know you’re getting the best quality.Also if you’re craving a lot of fries you’ve come to the right place.
Make sure you pay in cash because you will be offered a free warm cake!! There’s a lot to choose from such as red velvet, peanut butter, Oreo, chocolate, and vanilla.
Just imagine you’re dining inside a ship.
Be sure to check out this restaurant when you’re visiting Yellowstone.
Lighthouse Restaurant is located at 752 Hwy 89 S Gardiner, MT 59030 that serves up American cuisines. They are Open May 21st through September 21st every year.
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