For those who follow me on X, you know I like to eat at restaurants.
For those who don’t, I post a lot of pictures of food on the internet.
To celebrate the return of University of Wyoming football, I’ve put together a list of my favorite dishes in Laramie (in no particular order). This has been done with thorough research after living here for the past four years.
I believe there’s a dish out there for everybody. Some are just better than others.
J’s Prairie Rose Cafe
There’s certain restaurants that, when the thought of dining there is born, it simply can’t be ignored. Prairie Rose is a prime example.
While it’s famously known for the 7220 burrito that was featured on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” in 2022, its closest sibling, the classic breakfast burrito, simply cannot be beat. We’re obviously not counting carbs for this meal, so throw in a side of white toast to help wipe the plate clean.
Not feeling breakfast? J’s Philly dip is one of the most slept on sandwiches in town. It features sliced sirloin with grilled onions, mushrooms and Swiss cheese with a side of au jus.
There’s just something about an old-school diner writing your receipt by hand on a guest check.
The Railyard
This place takes me back (to Gillette). For those of you who don’t know, I spent three years covering high school sports in the Razor City before moving to Laramie. That’s when I first had the luxury of coming across The Railyard (and Old Chicago, but that’s a different story).
The Railyard offers plenty of unique dishes, including the “Angry Yardbird.” The sandwich includes a fried chicken breast topped with bacon, jalapenos, pepper-jack cheese, chipotle cream sauce and avocado mayonnaise.
The Railyard also has plenty of solid burger choices, including the “Deadhead pub burger” (American cheese, bacon and a fried egg) and the “PB&J burger” (that’s right, a bacon cheeseburger with peanut butter and jelly).
Great location at the intersection of Grand Avenue and South 3rd Street right downtown, too.
Hambone’s Pizza
Hambone’s Pizza slings some of the best pizza in the state with locations in Laramie and Cheyenne. Its menu includes the “Spicy Cluck,” which is a spicy ranch base, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, chicken, bacon and buffalo sauce.
You can never go wrong with the ol’ reliable pepperoni pie, either. The Laramie location recently underwent renovations to its bar, too.
The Crowbar & Grill
This item is a little bananas (I’m not funny at all).
The Crowbar & Grill has one of the smaller menus in town, but the food packs a punch. It offers a “Kingbird” burger, which has peanut butter, bacon, cheddar cheese and bananas. The meal is even better if you upgrade to pad Thai fries as a side.
Born in a Barn
I was in the minority when Born in a Barn got rid of its famous wings. While plenty of locals (and even out-of-staters) were upset with the move, I’m not a big wing guy. I actually prefer the other side of Born in a Barn’s condensed menu.
My personal favorite is the classic Philly cheesesteak. The shaved sirloin steak is topped with house queso, peppers and onions. While I don’t desperately miss the wings, I do miss the peanut butter and jelly sauce that went with them (I like peanut butter, if it’s not already obvious).
The Library Sports Grille & Brewery
The Library has a wide range of offerings on its menu, and plenty of daily specials to go along with it. My favorite item is the relatively new hot-honey pizza, which has a hot honey base, pepperoni, jalapenos and jalapeno cream cheese.
The Library also has quality burgers and beers brewed in house. Another interesting offering: $2 apple pie shots (they’re sweet).
Lovejoy’s Bar and Grill
While admittedly I don’t eat at Lovejoy’s as often as I’d like, I have grown to enjoy its diverse menu. Part of that menu is the pasta section, which provided my favorite dish: pesto chicken pasta.
Lovejoy’s also offers a unique brunch menu. The “Good morning chimichanga” is fantastic.
Fernandito’s Mexican Grill
Fernandito’s might fall more into the fast food category, but it offers one of the best burritos in Laramie. Its California burrito comes with carne asada, sour cream, french fries and cheese.
The restaurant also offers a free salsa bar inside. Pick the green one (trust me).
3rd Street Bar
For a place not known for its food, there’s just something about those chicken tenders. 3rd Street Bar offers mostly fried food options, but sometimes fried food is all you need.
It also offers free snacks during happy hour on weekdays (4-6 p.m.).
Honorable mentions
Here are a few places I left out that could also qualify.
• Breakfast burrito at Daylight Donuts.
• My annual birthday meal: the turf & turf at Rib and Chop House.
• I’ve heard nothing but good things about Sweet Melissa, Buffalo Indian, JSI Grill and Chano’s Village, I just haven’t been yet. They’re on the list.
Best coffee
Flat white at The Range Roasters. Cool vibes and plenty of sunlight.
Closing notes
If any restaurants feel excluded from this list, please reach out. I’m always willing to try new food.
One last thing: Eat local and support local businesses.
Editor’s note: These are personal favorite dishes from Alex Taylor, and do not reflect the overall opinions of the Boomerang editorial and advertising departments.
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