When you think of standout dining destinations, Southeast Idaho probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But during a recent trip through towns like Soda Springs, Pocatello, and Lava Hot Springs, I found myself constantly surprised by the food scene.
From a Mexican-American gem in the middle of Pioneer country to donut shops using Idaho potatoes and burgers served with a side of beignets, the region served up far more than just fuel for the road. Whether you’re a local looking to revisit old favorites or a traveler chasing the unexpected, these spots are absolutely worth the stop.
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Gonzales Mexican American – Soda Springs, Idaho
When you’re out in the middle of nowhere in Idaho’s Pioneer country, you don’t expect to stumble upon a great Mexican restaurant—but that’s exactly what happened in Soda Springs. Gonzales Mexican American stands out not just for its quality, but for its unique menu offering both Mexican and American dishes, each in its own right. Another surprise?
They serve free bean dip alongside chips and salsa—a regional custom I’d never seen before, but definitely appreciated. The bean dip was so good that, even as someone who doesn’t usually like beans, I couldn’t stop eating it—that’s saying something.
The service was great, and I also ended up getting their iconic burrito which was definitely hitting the spot on a day full of exploring the bubbling springs surrounding the city.
Palate Neighborhood Bistro – Pocatello, Idaho [Must-Try]
Out of everywhere I ate in Pocatello, Palate Neighborhood Bistro was hands down my number one spot.
The breakfast burritos were killer, the fries + sry sauce and burger were solid, and honestly, everything I had there hit the mark. What really threw me was that they serve beignets—which I definitely didn’t expect. They weren’t New Orleans-level or anything, but the huckleberry sauce they came with was absolutely to die for. I’d go back for that alone.
The Yellowstone Restaurant – Pocatello, Idaho
The Yellowstone Restaurant in downtown Pocatello is one of those places that just feels iconic. Housed inside the historic Hotel Yellowstone, the whole spot has this old-school charm with high ceilings and vintage touches that make it feel like you’ve stepped into a different era. It’s definitely a marquee restaurant in the area, and it shows.
The food lived up to the vibe, too. One of the standout things for me was the pita chips appetizer—seriously, some of the best I’ve ever had. Perfectly crispy, flavorful, and just super satisfying. It was a great start to the meal.
I also tried the brisket with mac and cheese, and that combo hit the spot. The brisket was tender and smoky, and the mac and cheese was creamy and rich without being over the top. Everything felt well thought out, and the quality was there across the board.
It is on the pricier side, but between the cool atmosphere, solid service, and great food, I’d say it’s worth checking out—especially if you’re in town and want a place that feels a little special.
Himalayan Flavor – Pocatello, Idaho
I didn’t expect to find amazing Indian food in Pocatello, Idaho—but Himalayan Flavor completely surprised us. It ended up being one of the best spots we’ve found for Himalayan and Indian cuisine anywhere. We ordered the garlic naan and chicken vindaloo, and both were absolutely top-notch. The vindaloo had just the right amount of heat and tang, and the naan was perfectly fluffy with a generous garlic punch.
The menu is impressively diverse, featuring everything from creamy tikka masala and coconut korma to Nepalese momos and South Indian dosas. They even offer Himalayan-inspired pizzas and a variety of vegetarian options like saag paneer and aloo gobi. The staff is incredibly welcoming and attentive, and the spice levels can be customized to your preference. If you’re craving an Indian food fix while passing through, this place is a must-visit.
Donut Bros. – Pocatello, Idaho
We did a lot of strolling through downtown Pocatello during our stay, and more than once, we found ourselves popping into Donut Bros. I really loved this place—the owners were super friendly, the service was great, and it just had a welcoming vibe.
The donuts are these little ring-style minis, and what makes them stand out is how they’re drizzled with different sauces and flavorings. It’s not your typical donut shop, and I appreciated that it was something different. They’re the perfect snack when you’re wandering downtown—light, tasty, and easy to grab on the go.
Big Foot Pizza – Pocatello, Idaho
We were craving something easy one night and decided to give Big Foot Pizza a shot—and it totally delivered. This place is super casual, no-frills, and exactly what you want when you just need good, filling pizza. The portions are massive (true to the name), and the crust had that perfect balance of crispy and chewy. It’s not trying to be fancy—it’s just solid, satisfying pizza that hits the spot. Definitely a great option if you’re looking for a laid-back, local pizza joint in Pocatello.
Butterburr’s Restaurant – Pocatello, Idaho
If you’re in Pocatello and craving a hearty, no-nonsense meal, Butterburr’s is the place to go. This local institution has been serving up comfort food since 1980, when Kelly and Sheryl Talbot opened the original location inspired by the character Butterbur from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit . Now at 160 W Cedar Street, the restaurant continues to deliver the same great food and service that have made it a community favorite.
The menu is packed with classic American dishes, from the famous chicken fried steak to the spicy chicken salad, which offers a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors . Breakfast is served all day, featuring favorites like hash browns, eggs, and a variety of breads and muffins.
This is one of those places where you have to save room for dessert—the offerings are just that good. They serve these pastries called ‘twists’ that come in a variety of flavors, and they’re nothing short of phenomenal. I went with the blueberry, and I still have dreams about it.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with friendly staff and a cozy setting that makes you feel right at home. It’s the kind of place where locals gather, and visitors can experience a true taste of Pocatello’s culinary scene.
Arctic Circle – Pocatello, Idaho
Arctic Circle is a regional fast food chain with locations all over the Mountain West, and while the food itself is solidly okay—nothing mind-blowing—it does have a few interesting surprises. I wasn’t expecting to see things like fried pickles on a fast food menu, but hey, props for mixing it up a bit.
But let’s be real—what really made this stop memorable was the Moose Tracks shake. I’m not exaggerating when I say this might be the best fast food dessert I’ve ever had. Like, put it above the McFlurry, the Frosty, the Sonic Blast—this thing just blew them all out of the water. Rich, creamy, packed with pieces of candy, and seriously addictive. I wasn’t prepared for how dang good it would be.
So yeah, go for the curiosity factor with the menu, but don’t leave without trying Moose Tracks. Trust me.
Chuck Wagon Restaurant – Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
If you’re looking for hearty comfort food in a cozy setting, Chuck Wagon Restaurant in Lava Hot Springs is a solid choice. Located right on Main Street, this family-owned spot has been serving up classic American fare for years, and it shows in both the food and the atmosphere.
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We stopped in for breakfast and ordered the pancakes, which were massive—like, genuinely huge. Just a couple bites in and we were already feeling full. It was one of those meals that sneaks up on you in the best way.
But the real surprise for me was the scone.
Now, I’ve had “scones” in other parts of the country—usually dry, dense, muffin-like things—but this was something else entirely. It was more like a piece of fried bread, fluffy and warm, served with a sweet jam sauce. Totally different, and honestly, pretty great. I didn’t expect to be introduced to a new type of scone in the middle of Idaho, but that’s what happened.
The vibe inside is rustic and welcoming, with friendly staff and a steady flow of locals, especially during busy hours. Even when it’s packed, it never feels rushed. Whether you’re winding down after a soak in the hot springs or just passing through town, Chuck Wagon is a great stop for a laid-back, filling meal.
Amazing Glaze Donuts – Pocatello, Idaho [Must-Try]
Amazing Glaze Donuts in Pocatello is one of my favorite donut spots, hands down. What sets them apart is their use of real Idaho potatoes in the dough, giving the donuts a unique texture and flavor that you won’t find just anywhere. Pretty interesting.
This is the place where I discovered the amazing huckleberry donut, and it was a game-changer. The sweet, slightly tart huckleberry glaze paired perfectly with the soft, fluffy donut base. It was unlike any donut I’d had before, and it’s become a must-have whenever I’m in town.
The shop itself has a welcoming vibe, and the staff are always friendly. They offer a wide variety of donuts, so there’s something for everyone. But for me, the huckleberry donut is the standout. If you’re in Pocatello, do yourself a favor and stop by Amazing Glaze Donuts—you won’t regret it.
Chapala Mexican Restaurant – Pocatello, Idaho
Chapala Mexican Restaurant in Pocatello is a solid spot for authentic Mexican food. The menu is extensive, featuring everything from burritos and tacos to tamales and flautas. The chips and salsa also were amazing but you can’t go wrong with the mole or enchiladas.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with friendly staff and a rustic charm that makes you feel right at home. It’s a great place to enjoy a hearty meal with friends or family. If you’re in the mood for Mexican cuisine in Pocatello, Chapala is worth a visit.
Final word
Southeast Idaho may not be a foodie capital, but the culinary treasures tucked away in towns like Soda Springs, Pocatello, and Lava Hot Springs prove that great meals can be found in the most unexpected places. From hearty breakfasts to inventive twists on local favorites, these spots offer something special for every palate. So next time you find yourself passing through, skip the chain restaurants and give these local gems a try—you might just discover your new favorite dish in the heart of Idaho.
Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo. He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio.
