McCall, Idaho, is a small mountain resort town just 2 hours north of Boise, Idaho, and is one of my favorite places to visit for the weekend. Since I travel to McCall so often and have been visiting my entire life, I thought I’d finally share some of the best restaurants in McCall, Idaho.
Keep in mind that this is a very small town, so the food selection is pretty minimal, things are a bit rustic, and there can be staffing shortages and all that jazz, but I’ve done my best to list the best ones in town. This includes spots for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner!
Let’s get started! And while we’re at it, let’s be friends on Instagram and TikTok!
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Best Restaurants in McCall Idaho
1. Ruperts at Hotel McCall
Located in the heart of downtown McCall, Hotel McCall is a historic gem with lodging and a great restaurant experience. I love their food so much that I even had my rehearsal dinner here. While McCall can be slim pickings for a rehearsal dinner, this was perfect.
They have views of the Payette Lake and offer a warm and inviting atmosphere. Plus, I think they have some of the best food in town and offer locally sourced and seasonal dishes with a great cocktail and wine selection!
Directions: Ruperts, 1101 N 3rd St, McCall, ID 83638
2. The Cutwater at Shore Lodge
The Cutwater is located inside the Shore Lodge resort and looks out over Payette Lake’s shores. Shore Lodge is a premier resort destination offering beautiful views for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. I actually got married at Shore Lodge, so I’m biased!
The Cutwater is a casual spot known for all sorts of great dishes and stunning views from its patio. For a lighter bite, try The Bar upstairs, where you can get bar food and cocktails with stunning lake views.
Directions: Cutwater, 501 W Lake St, McCall, ID 83638
3. Bistro 45
Bistro 45 is a charming eatery and fun neighborhood gathering place where friends and family can come for their diverse menu featuring paninis, salads, light bites, and changing dinner dishes. In the warmer months, they have a bocce ball court out front.
It’s a wonderful spot to eat lunch or have an elegant dinner outside. They are known for their wine tastings and great wine list.
Directions: Bistro 45, 1101 N 3rd St, McCall, ID 83638
4. The Sushi Bar
I haven’t been here yet because every time I go, the wait is over an hour, and I can never make a reservation! It’s just that popular! I’ve always found it odd that a sushi place is so popular in a landlocked state deep in the mountains, but people love this place.
They serve up fresh seafood and great sushi rolls!! I’m hoping to try it soon.
Directions: The Sushi Bar, 1101 N 3rd St, McCall, ID 83638
5. The Narrows Steakhouse
If you want more of a fine dining experience, this is a great option. The Narrows Steakhouse is also located inside The Shore Lodge focuses on high-quality ingredients, and has earned its reputation as one of the town’s premier dining destinations.
They specialize in steak and seafood dishes. So, this might be the spot if you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a memorable meal with friends and family. Plus, they have views of the beautiful Payette Lake.
Directions: The Narrows Steakhouse, 501 W Lake St, McCall, ID 83638
6. Ragazza di Lago
This is a popular spot by Chef Topple, who has opened up multiple locations in Idaho because people love his food. Ragazza di Lago serves cuisine inspired by the Mediterranean region and has a spot in downtown McCall, right on the water, with outside seating on their deck.
Personally, I think the interior of this entire building needs a design refresh, but the food is still really good. Their sister restaurant is Ragazza di Bufalo, an Italian restaurant in Donnlley, which is also really good.
Directions: Ragazza di Lago, 203 E Lake St, McCall, ID 83638
7. The Clubhouse at Jug Mountain Ranch
For those looking to escape the beaten path, Jug Mountain Ranch is a great spot to try after a round of golf on the golf course! It’s located a bit outside of downtown McCall, but the patio has great views of the surrounding mountains.
They serve various dishes including salads, sandwiches, and clubhouse favorites. The breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape make this a great option for outdoor seating during golf season!
Directions: The Clubhouse, 13834 Farm to Market Rd, McCall, ID 83638
8. Pueblo Lindo Mexican Restaurant
If you’re craving Mexican cuisine, Pueblo Lindo is the place to be. This family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of authentic dishes. From delicious tacos to flavorful enchiladas, Pueblo Lindo is known for its good service and fun bar atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy good times with friends.
Directions: Pueblo Lindo, 1007 W Lake St, McCall, ID 83638
9. My Father’s Place
If it’s your first time in McCall, this is one of the places I always recommend because it’s just that good. It’s been around forever and is a beloved local favorite. They serve the best burgers, french fries, fry sauce, and shakes, and while there is usually a line, it goes fast, and the food is well worth the wait. This is the perfect family-friendly place!
Directions: My Father’s Place, 901 N 3rd St, McCall, ID 83638
10. Steamer’s Steakhouse and Saloon
Situated in the heart of downtown McCall, Steamers Steakhouse and Saloon is the go-to spot for prime rib, steaks, and overall fine dining.
The restaurant’s rustic, yet cozy ambiance, and extensive wine list ensure a memorable dining experience, whether you’re visiting for a rehearsal dinner or a special night out. This is a popular spot for steak and seafood in town.
Directions: Steamers, 308 E Lake St, McCall, ID 83638
11. Salmon River Brewing
Salmon River Brewing is a popular brewery in McCall known for its craft beers and classic-style beers. Their taproom is also their dining room and it’s quite large with a family-friendly and relaxed atmosphere. They even have a rooftop where you can sit and enjoy food and brews overlooking Payette Lake.
Directions: Salmon River Brewing, 411 Railroad Ave, McCall, ID 83638
12. Cafe 6 Three 4
This is a fun little cafe in an old gas station that has quickly become a local favorite. They have hearty breakfast bowls, great sandwiches, salads, and coffee! They are known for having friendly service in a cozy little atmosphere. It’s a great spot to order a quick breakfast and coffee at the counter.
Directions: Cafe 6 Three 4, 500 N 3rd St, McCall, ID 83638
13. Brunchette on the Lake
If you want to have brunch somewhere with outdoor seating in a fun ‘Instagrammable’ environment, this place might be right for you! They have bottomless mimosas, a large menu, and big portions. Come for the views, stay for the mimosas. 😉 This would be a great place to come with a bachelorette or bridal party! See my Boise bachelorette guide here!
Directions: Brunchette on the Lake, 317 E Lake St, McCall, ID 83638
14. Frenchies
Frenchies on 3rd is a delightful little spot that focuses on serving the flavors of France. They have an inviting atmosphere and serve authentic French cuisine and Creole/Cajun options. This has quickly become a local treasure as it provides a unique dining experience in McCall.
Directions: Frenchies, 319 N 3rd St, McCall, ID 83638
15. Stax
Stax has made its way to a lot of towns in Idaho because of its popular salads, sandwiches, and soups. Their portions are quite large and their sandwiches are just so good! I love coming here as a quick spot to grab a sandwich in town or to take one to go for a hike or picnic!
Directions: Stax, 600 N 3rd St, McCall, ID 83638
16. KB Burritos
KB Burritos is also an Idaho staple. Ever since they got popular in Sun Valley, they’ve been popping up in different places around the state. This is a great place to grab a burrito or get fast food Mexican food. They also have great breakfast burritos if you want to buy them for a group takeout order.
KBs is definitely a great spot for a grab-and-go option, but you can also dine in!
Directions: KB’s McCall, 616 N 3rd St, McCall, ID 83638
17. Fogglifter Cafe
Fogglifter Cafe is a beloved coffee shop known for its quality ingredients and fantastic customer service. Whether you’re grabbing a cup of coffee on the go or sitting down for breakfast, you’ll be treated to delicious, homemade options in a cozy environment. It’s a good place for a casual grab-and-go breakfast!
Directions: Fogglifter Cafe, 1003 N 3rd St, McCall, ID 83638
18. Stacey Cakes Bakery
This is the perfect spot to grab breakfast! Not only do they have cakes and baked goods, but they offer coffee, soups, English muffins, quiches, cinnamon rolls, and other breakfast/lunch foods.
Directions: Stacey Cakes, 136 E Lake St, McCall, ID 83638
Other Options and Honorable Mentions:
- Ice Cream Alley – This is technically not a restaurant, but hey, it’s one of the best spots to be in McCall in my personal opinion. Located on West Lake Street, Ice Cream Alley is a delightful spot to satisfy your sweet tooth. Indulge in various ice cream flavors and take a leisurely stroll while enjoying your frozen treat. The gorgeous views of Payette Lake make this a perfect place for a post-dinner dessert.
- The Spot (in McCall) – This is a new food truck park located on the main road in McCall.
- McCall Farmers Market
- Brundage Mountain Resort – If you want some grub on the slopes, there’s really nothing better than the Smoky’s Bar and Grill at Brundage Mountain Resort. Get yourself some chili, pizza or burgers, and beer; it’s the quintessential grubby ski restaurant.
- Tamarack Resort – While technically not in McCall, it’s in Donnelley; there are plenty of restaurants around this ski resort as well to eat, like The Rendezvous at Tamarack and The Reserve for more upscale dining.
Looking for a coffee shop? Try Wild River Java, Mountain Java, North Fork Coffee Roasters, or Payette Dream Coffee House.
Wrapping Up
McCall, Idaho, may be a small resort town, but there are still some great places to eat, and it’s only growing! In fact, it’s grown over 200% in tourism in the last 10 years, according to the McCall Chamber!
Whether you’re visiting for McCall’s Winter Carnival, staying in a cabin in McCall, camping at Ponderosa State Park, or at one of the resorts, these are all great options when you want to grab some good food. With various restaurants offering good food, great service, and stunning views, dining in McCall can be a great experience.
As you explore McCall and its surroundings, I recommend taking advantage of the outdoor seating options during the warmer months to soak up views of Payette Lake. From the heart of downtown McCall to the shores of Payette Lake, these restaurants offer something for everyone!
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