Driving I-90 and in search of the best local food?
From Washington State through South Dakota, this guide has you covered.
What’s a road trip without some tasty treats and road food? I’m always looking for new local food to try when we travel. With a little advance planning, you can avoid the chain restaurants and support local businesses, all while enjoying a memorable meal.
This guide starts in Washington State in the west and takes you east to Wall, South Dakota. Yes, I’m aware that I-90 does not end in South Dakota, but we haven’t driven further east — yet. If that changes, you can be sure I’ll update my recommendations. It’s is a work in progress, so check back for more listings as we continue our travels.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Restaurants come and go, and prices, hours, and selection change frequently. The information posted below was accurate at the time of publication, but is always subject to change. Please click on the restaurant name at the top of each listing or in the “location” section to link to their website for up-to-date information. I have no affiliation with these businesses, but have chosen to list them based on my own positive experiences.
CAMPING
Before we get to all the tasty food, here are a few campground recommendations for my fellow campers, all located conveniently close to I-90. Follow the links below for a full review and photos.
- Kachess Campground, Washington — This large campground alongside gorgeous Kachess Lake in Washington’s Central Cascades is just six miles north of I-90 on the east side of Snoqualmie Pass.
- Quartz Flat Campground, Montana — Quartz Flat offers rest areas and a campground along I-90, 48 miles west of Missoula. The rest areas are sleek and modern, and a good place to stop if you need a break on your long drive. The campground offers spacious sites and is heavily wooded, dampening the noise from the freeway.
- Beavertail Hill State Park Campground, Montana — Beavertail Hill State Park is conveniently located right off I-90, 26 miles east of Missoula. It’s a beautiful, well maintained campground with access to the Clark Fork River. Take note that overnight camping fees for Montana state parks are fairly high if you are not a Montana resident. You may hear some traffic noise due to the campground’s proximity to I-90.
- Belle Fourche River Campground, Wyoming — OK, technically this campground is not located along I-90, but a detour to Devil’s Tower National Monument is well worth your time. Gorgeous Belle Fourche River Campground is roughly 30 miles from I-90, and offers fantastic views of the famous tower.
- Spearfish City Campground, South Dakota — Located in a pretty city park with easy access to Spearfish Canyon, Spearfish City Campground is a great home base for exploring this charming corner of northwest South Dakota.
WASHINGTON
Starting in Seattle, I-90 heads east, following Snoqualmie Pass through the Cascade Mountains.
Beyond the Cascades, the route leads through the arid landscape of Eastern Washington, crossing the mighty Columbia River before reaching Spokane near the Idaho border. From classic drive-ins and diners to modern brew pubs, this stretch of I-90 has plenty to whet your appetite.
SOUTH FORK, NORTH BEND
LOCATION
South Fork North Bend is located in (drumroll, please)… North Bend! It’s about 30 miles east of Seattle off Exit 32 on I-90.
PRICE
Most dishes are $12 and up, with some of the more expensive options over $20. Kids meals are $9 and up.
THE GOODS
South Fork North Bend is a great place to stop after a day spent skiing at the Summit at Snoqualmie, a day hike in the Cascades, or to start your road trip with a hearty breakfast. The menu includes salads, soups, sandwiches, bowls, and more. Pro tip: do not skip the sidewinder fries! They are some of the best in the state. A range of adult beverages are available, as well as a few mocktails.
Order at the counter, then search for a seat — South Fork is popular! Fortunately, there is plentiful seating, both inside and outside. On weekend evenings, you may catch a local band performing. The food is fresh, the vibe is lively, and all ages are welcome.
DRU BRU, SNOQUALMIE PASS/CLE ELUM
LOCATION
Dru Bru has two locations, one at Snoqualmie Pass off I-90 Exit 52 (West Summit) and one on 2nd Street in Cle Elum off Exit 85.
PRICE
Figure on $5 and up for beer. You can also purchase cans to go. The pizza wasn’t available on our visit, so I don’t have pricing.
THE GOODS
We stopped for post-hike beers at Dru Bru in Cle Elum, and were impressed with the beer as well as the spacious indoor and outdoor areas. Dogs are allowed outside, and mini golf and cornhole keep the kids occupied while the adults enjoy their drinks. Since our visit, Dru Bru started serving brick oven pizza, which I’m excited to try on a future trip.
We haven’t yet checked out the Dru Bru at Snoqualmie Pass, but it’s a prime location for après-ski in the winter. At this location, the Squatch Box food truck offers fancy hot dogs and sides for $9.50 and up
RED ARROW DRIVE-IN, CLE ELUM
LOCATION
Red Arrow Drive-In is loacted on 1st Street in Cle Ellum off I-90 Exit 85.
PRICE
Most burgers and sandwiches are between $7 and $13, with a a few simple options for less. Kids meals cost around $8.
THE GOODS
Red Arrow Drive-In is your classic American burger joint. It offers an extensive menu ranging from beefy burgers loaded with extra toppings to veggie burgers and breakfast burritos. Plus, they have sidewinder fries! If you’re starting to think I have a thing for these enticingly curvy strips of fried potato, you’re not wrong.
While Red Arrow is functionally a drive-in, limited indoor seating is available, and there is a large, shady picnic area. It’s perfect for letting the kids run off a little steam on a long trip, and allowing Fido to get some fresh air. For a quick roadside meal, Red Arrow is an I-90 favorite.
THE RED PICKLE, ELLENSBURG
LOCATION
The Red Pickle is located at 301 N Pine Street in Ellensburg. Take Exit 106 from eastbound I-90 or Exit 109 from westbound I-90.
PRICE
Tacos, sandwiches, and other main meals range from $12 to $22. Cocktails are $10 and up and other drinks (including nonalcoholic drinks) range from $3 to $7.
THE GOODS
Like many road food stops, The Red Pickle offers burgers. But not just any burgers — how about a chorizo burger, or a burger marinated in chimichuri sauce? Or maybe a Philly cheesesteak flavored with Guatemalan spices or fries topped with wasabi? The Red Pickle does fusion, and does it deliciously.
Originally a food truck, The Red Pickle eventually grew popular enough to open its own brick and mortar restaurant. It’s open for lunch and dinner, and offers both cocktails and mocktails as well as food.
FRANK’S DINER, SPOKANE
LOCATION
Frank’s Diner is located at 7750-7998 W Westbow Boulevard in Spokane off I-90 Exit 280.
PRICE
Hearty breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes start around $13.
THE GOODS
If you have kids, brunch at Frank’s Diner will be the highlight of your trip. Heck, even without kids it’s pretty fun. Housed in a historic rail car, Frank’s has been serving Spokane since the 1930s. It’s classic diner food done well. We lucked out with counter seats with a view of the open kitchen, where busy cooks expertly flipped hash browns and omelettes with ease.
I love a diner breakfast, but the lunch and dinner options are also enticing. Please note you may have to wait to be seated during busy weekend times, but if you have the time it’s worth the wait.
MONTANA
For 550 miles, I-90 traverses the great state of Montana. With that many miles, you’re sure to need some good food to keep you going.
Fortunately, the cities of Missoula, Bozeman, and Billings all offer delicious local restaurants and ice cream. Of course, there’s much more to explore in Montana, so be sure to get out there and make some discoveries of your own.
BIGA PIZZA, MISSOULA
LOCATION
Biga Pizza is located at 241 W Main Street in Missoula. It’s easily reached from I-90 using either Exit 104 or Exit 105.
PRICE
Most pizzas are $15 and up, with two sizes available. Sandwiches cost around $14, and salads are between $7 and $14, including some that are hearty meals in their own right.
THE GOODS
With its cozy interior and show stopping pizzas, Biga Pizza is a touch more upscale than most other restaurants on this list. No worries, you can still wear jeans and a Columbia jacket. Biga serves carefully crafted pizza, salads, and sandwiches, so expect to linger and plan your time accordingly. Reservations are accepted. This is a place to stop and treat yourself after a long day of driving.
Biga’s pies go well beyond the standard options. with offerings like Hungarian mushroom or sweet potato, bacon, and maple chipolte. If you have picky kids, no worries; they can still get plain pepperoni. We were impressed with the salads, which come as a blessed relief if you’ve been eating too many burgers on the road.
The Notorious P.I.G., Missoula
LOCATION
The Notorious P.I.G. is located at 247 Front Street in Missoula, close to Biga Pizza. From I-90, take either Exit 104 or Exit 105.
PRICE
Sandwiches and a side are $16 and up. Most plates are $23.
THE GOODS
I can’t claim to be a BBQ expert, but everyone in our family was well-pleased with the succulent meats and sides at the Notorious P.I.G. We all appreciated seasoning our sandwiches to taste with the various BBQ sauces available, and the baked beans and smoked gouda mac ‘n cheese also hit the spot.
I’ve heard that popular items can sell out, so recommend stopping by The Notorious P.I.G. for lunch or an early dinner if possible. You can also call in an order ahead of time.
SWEET PEAKS, MISSOULA/BOZEMAN
LOCATION
Sweet Peaks has a few Montana locations, including 223 W Front Street in Missoula and 411 E Main Street in Bozeman. Take Exit 104 or 105 from I-90 in Missoula or Exit 309 in Bozeman. While there are other Montana locations, these are the two near I-90.
PRICE
Plan on paying $2 and up for a kid’s scoop, and $3 and up for a basic single scoop. Sundaes are $5 and up.
THE GOODS
If you have any room left after stopping by The Notrious P.I.G. or Biga Pizza, head over to Sweet Peaks for the best ice cream in town. OK, so I haven’t tried any other ice cream in Missoula or Bozeman, but Sweet Peaks is hard to beat. Their classic flavors include that Montana favorite, huckleberry, and their specialty flavors kick it up a notch when it comes creativity.
Sweet Peaks focuses on local ingredients, including some that are rather unexpected. How about adaptogenic mushrooms as a sundae topping? Anyone? Of course, purists are free to indulge in the basics, with high quality vanilla and chocolate ice cream available. Whatever you choose, it’s worth saving room for a scoop.
WILD CRUMB, BOZEMAN
LOCATION
Wild Crumb is located at 600 N Wallace Street in Bozeman off I-90 Exit 309.
PRICE
Pastries, muffins, and other small treats are $2 and up. Fancier desserts, fresh bread, and whole pies or cakes will be more.
THE GOODS
Wild Crumb is a wildly popular bakery in Bozeman’s hip Mill District. With pastries, bread, and other goodies galore, this is one of my favorite stops along I-90. Pop in for a morning pastry, a loaf of bread to go, or a delectable dessert. At lunchtime, you can also order baguette sandwiches. Expect a line, but don’t worry, it moves quickly.
While seating inside is limited, on sunny days families spread out across the green lawn or grab one of the small outdoor tables. There are a number of other fun shops, galleries, and restaurants to explore nearby if you have time. Take note that Wild Crumb is primarily a bakery, not a coffee shop. You can get a few basic drinks here, including drip coffee, but if you’re looking for a latte, the listing below may well be your next stop…
TREELINE COFFEE, BOZEMAN
LOCATION
Treeline Coffee is located at 624 N Wallace Street in Bozeman’s Mill District off I-90 Exit 309.
PRICE
Coffee drinks are $4 and up. A small variety of other drinks are $5 and up. Pastries are also available.
THE GOODS
Treeline Coffee roasts their beans in house at their Mill District location, which makes for one fine cup of joe. Situated only a block from Wild Crumb, it’s a good stop for any coffee snobs in your group. If you like their wares, you can buy some beans to take home.
In addition to coffee drinks, Treeline offers a few tea options. Locally made jewelry and other items are also for sale. If you’re hungry, a small selection of pastries and breakfast burritos are available, or you can head to Wild Crumb for a bigger selection.
MOUNTAINS WALKING BREWERY, BOZEMAN
LOCATION
Mountains Walking Brewery is located at 422 N Plum Avenue in Bozeman’s Brewery Historic District, which is conveniently close to the Mill District. Take I-90 Exit 309.
PRICE
Beers are $6.50 and up. Most food options are $13 and up, with pizzas $17 and up. Sides are under $10, and kid’s meals are around $10.
THE GOODS
Mountains Walking Brewery is a family-friendly brew pub offering wood-fired pizza, sandwiches, and sides in addition to delicious beer. We were excited for our pizza, and it did not disappoint, with fresh toppings served atop a crispy thin crust. There are some unusual beers on the menu, so if you are an aficionado, consider ordering a flight. If you’re not sure if a beer will be to your liking, ask for a taste before committing to a pint.
In the interest of full disclosure, we experienced an extremely long wait for our food when we visited Mountains Walking Brewery. Fortunately, we were staying overnight in Bozeman and not trying to get back on the road. The brewery was busy and short-staffed that evening, and the wait staff handled it admirably. While I believe this was definitely out of the ordinary, I recommend visiting Mountains Walking when you have time to spare, not as a quick roadside stop.
SOUTH DAKOTA
South Dakota is full of surprises.
Take Spearfish Canyon with its red-walled cliffs laced with waterfalls, and the nearby town of Spearfish, an unexpected Mecca for ice cream lovers. Or head to Rapid City, where chemistry ignites when creative brews and food trucks meet. OK, maybe I’m being a little over the top, but the South Dakota I-90 food scene has a lot to offer.
LEONE’S CREAMERY, SPEARFISH
LOCATION
Leone’s Creamery is located at 722 1/2 Main Street in Spearfish, South Dakota, off I-90 Exit 12.
PRICE
Ice cream scoops start at $3.50 and sundaes start at $5.50.
THE GOODS
This is it… for ice cream nirvana, look no further than Leone’s Creamery. Who knew this small South Dakota college town would be home to possibly the best ice cream we have ever tasted? Leone’s perfectly creamy, richly flavored ice cream is made in small rotating batches of eight flavors. When one batch runs out, a new flavor takes its place, which means you never know exactly what delights await when you walk through the door.
Leone’s does the classics, like vanilla and chocolate, but also loves to experiment. Who would have thought tarragon and olive oil ice cream could pair so beautifully with salted caramel sauce? And the roasted banana… wow! This vegan flavor was so good we had to get a scoop after asking for a taste, even though we’d already polished off our original order.
By now, you get the picture. We love Leone’s, and recommend it to any ice cream lover passing through Spearfish. With frozen treats like popsicles and ice cream sandwiches in addition to straight up ice cream, Leone’s is a worthy road trip destination unto itself.
DOUGH TRADER PIZZA, SPEARFISH
LOCATION
Dough Trader Pizza is located at 543 W Jackson Boulevard in Spearfish off I-90 Exit 12.
PRICE
Pizzas cost around $20 and up. Side salads are $7, and larger salads are twice the price. Drinks start at $2.50. Special note: Dough Trader Pizza is cash only.
THE GOODS
Dough Trader Pizza’s dough is made with their own sourdough starter, which lends a terrific flavor to their pizza crust. Their toppings are hearty and generous. This place is a family favorite; my kids thought it was some of the best pizza they’ve ever had (and believe me, they’ve had a lot of pizza).
The outdoor patio at Dough Trader is a great option on sunny days, offering a sweeping view overlooking Spearfish and the surrounding hills. Just don’t forget your cash, as Dough Trader doesn’t accept credit cards. And as delicious as this pizza is, don’t forget to save some room for ice cream at Leone’s!
BLACKBIRD ESPRESSO, SPEARFISH
LOCATION
Blackbird Espresso is located at 503 N Main Street in Spearfish off I-90 Exit 12.
PRICE
Brewed coffee is just $1.25. Other drinks, including a variety of coffee, tea, and other options, start at $2. Most breakfast items cost between $5 and $10.
THE GOODS
Blackbird Espresso looks like many trendy coffee shops these days, but the prices are refreshingly low (for this Seattleite, at any rate). It’s good, too. With fresh roasted coffee and a nice range of simple breakfast treats, it’s a welcome stop for a light breakfast or lunch.
It’s also a solid choice for a healthy meal, with açaí bowls, veggie bowls, and oatmeal on the menu in addition to baked goods and waffles. Offering both indoor and outdoor seating, Blackbird Espresso is a relaxing spot to recharge before heading out on the road.
LOST CABIN BEER CO., RAPID CITY
LOCATION
Lost Cabin Beer Co. is located at 1401 W Omaha Street Suite 03 in Rapid City. Take Exit 55 or Exit 57 from I-90.
PRICE
Expect most beers to cost $4 or $5 and up. Food truck costs vary.
THE GOODS
Lost Cabin Beer Co. offers a wide range of beer. Whatever style of brew you prefer, you’re bound to find something to like at Lost Cabin. While the brewery doesn’t serve food of its own, a food truck graces the parking lot most days of the week, featuring anything from Japanese to Mexican fare. We enjoyed some delicious Vietnamese food on our visit, but sadly I’m not sure if that truck is still in operation.
The brewery is kid- and dog-friendly, as long as everyone behaves themselves. They also have a stash of boardgames on hand, which is always a great way to keep the kids entertained. For beer lovers and their families, a stop at Lost Cabin is a must when passing through Rapid City.
I hope you enjoyed a delicious drive down I-90.
If you have favorites of your own, please share them in the comments. And as always, keep on exploring, both at home and afar!
