2 Best Restaurants in Boulder, Southwestern Utah

On the stunning grounds of the Boulder Mountain Lodge and a frequent James Beard Award semifinalist, this remote eatery—its creative, oft-changing menu is inspired by indigenous, Western range, Southwestern, and Mormon pioneer recipes—is worth the 40-mile drive from Torrey or 25-mile drive from Escalante along scenic Highway 12. The amiable chef-owners (and cookbook authors) source many ingredients they use—in dishes like braised beef with kale, tomatoes, and green-chile polenta; and pappardelle with smoked trout and farm veggies—come directly from their own organic farm or one of the area's sustainable purveyors.

Local cowboys still pony up to the back porch for meals at this laid-back restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking Boulder Mountain and the Aquarius Plateau. The grill serves eclectic contemporary fare like spicy fried chicken sandwiches with coconut-peanut sauce, and seared trout with lemon-herb butter and charred lemon. During the day across the courtyard, Burr Trail Outpost is a funky coffeehouse serving light snacks and showcasing local art, furniture, and crafts.