Wyoming is no stranger to long stretches of empty highway with little company save for miles of prairie grass, sagebrush, and the occasional pronghorn. Here, smack dab "in the middle of nowhere" isn't just a turn of phrase - it's an accurate description of many of our state's most unique eateries, like the Spotted Horse Bar and Grill. But off-the-beaten-path isn't as lonely as it sounds; in fact, patrons of the Spotted Horse will find plenty of company, an abundance of quirky decor to admire, and some mighty tasty burgers to enjoy en route to the next stretch of sagebrush.
Although the official address of The Spotted Horse Bar and Grill will say that this out-of-the-way watering hole is in Gillette, zoom in a little more and you'll quickly realize that the aptly-named bar actually sits on the outskirts of Recluse, WY: a barely-there community that does have a post office, believe it or not.
But more accurately, the bar gets its moniker from the even more remote "town" it's located in: Spotted Horse (population: 2).
Take a wild guess as to who those two people are!
Dating all the way back to 1924, the bar fully embraces its remote location "between nowhere and somewhere" and makes for a fantastic pit stop for a cold, refreshing drink, a hot meal, and a few rounds of pool.
Specifically, the burgers are pretty fantastic!
You won't find them dolled up with lavish accoutrements, but these locally-raised, grass-fed, all-meat patties are miles above your typical bar fare.
Of course, you'll find plenty of other tempting menu items as well.
That menu also includes pizza, refreshing beers on tap, hot fries, and a variety of specials.
There's a lot of history around here, although it might not seem like it.
The Spotted Horse is a well-loved pit stop for local bikers and truckers, and a fantastic hot spot for local events.
And we couldn't possibly mention The Spotted Horse without echoing other diners' singing praises of the owners themselves. Friendly customer service doesn't even begin to describe how welcoming and down-home the atmosphere is here!
And speaking of atmosphere…there's a lot to love about it!
Eclectic antiques, collectibles, creative displays, and plenty of kitsch make for a healthy dose of nostalgia and a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
Look up high, look down low…every corner has something to ogle.
And the pool table is a great spot for small-town chit-chat.
Altogether, the Spotted Horse Bar and Grill is sure to become your new favorite hole-in-the-wall bar in the middle of nowhere!
Worth the drive? Absolutely! And we know plenty of others who feel the same. Grab a t-shirt or a beer cozy while you're here and give the Spotted Horse Bar and Grill a follow to stay on top of updates and special events (like the annual pig roast!).
What are some of your favorite middle-of-nowhere dining finds hidden around Wyoming? Give them some love so we can check them out.
Whether you're a resident or a visitor, don't be a stranger while you're traveling through! Stick around for a bit. Nearby Buffalo, WY has plenty of history dotting its streets as well. When was the last time you visited?
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