Big Sky is divided into three areas—the Mountain Village, the Meadow Village and the Canyon.

In the Mountain Village:

For a memorable meal, try The Cabin Bar & Grill (995-4244; $$–$$$), which specializes in regional cuisine. Leave the kids behind and enjoy an outstanding meal. Peaks (995-8000; $$$), in The Summit, showcases a menu of new Western cuisine in an elegant but casual setting. The pricey breakfast buffet is very good.

M.R. Hummers (995-4543; $$–$$$) aces its baby back ribs, prime rib and steaks, served in nice-sized portions by attentive staff. Huntley Lodge (995-5783; $$–$$$) is fine dining in a rustic lodge setting. It serves a very good, reasonably priced breakfast buffet.

Bambu Bar & Asian Bistro (995-4933; $$) gets crowded quickly with noisy patrons and serves average-quality Asian dishes, including sushi. Dante's Inferno (995-3999; $$–$$$) has slope views and Italian cuisine that's budget-busting for what you get. Black Bear Bar 'n' Grill (995-2845; $–$$) is a casual spot for breakfast or dinner. For a quick lunch, try Mountain Top Pizza Pies ($).

In the Meadow Village:

Lone Mountain Ranch Dining Room (995-2782; $$–$$$), in a stunning log lodge with elk antler chandeliers and a massive stone fireplace, serves first-rate American regional cuisine. Sleigh-ride dinners are offered; call ahead as space is limited.

La Luna (995-3280; $–$$) satisfies cravings for authentic Mexican food, from simple to fancy dishes. Guinness on tap and terrific pesto pizza can be found at Uncle Milkies Pizza and Subs (995-2900; $–$$). Allgoods Bar & Grill (995-2750; $–$$) serves hickory-smoked ribs, chicken, pork, homemade stews and burgers.

For hearty sandwiches, try The Wrap Shack (995-3099; $), Slider's Deli (995-2566; $), and the Hungry Moose Market & Deli (995-3045; $). For breakfast, stop in at the Huckleberry Cafe (995-3130; $), which has the best reputation in town, or the Blue Moon Bakery (995-2305; $), also great for lunch.

In the Gallatin Canyon:

Just about the best resort dining in North America is hidden away in Montana at Buck's T-4 Restaurant (995-4111; $$$–$$$$; top photo). This rustic former hunting lodge plays funky folk or cool jazz while your taste buds bliss away on wild game, hand cut Montana beef, veal and seafood. You can't go wrong with any choice you make—the chef is brilliant in his use of subtle flavors and creative blends. If you're staying at the mountain or the meadow, ride the free shuttle, an old red school bus sometimes driven by the lodge owner.

The Rainbow Ranch Lodge (995-4132; $$$–$$$$; above right), known for elegant dining with fine food, impeccable service and an extensive wine list, overlooks the Gallatin River. An imaginative menu focuses on wild game, fresh seafood, vegetarian entrees and terrific salads. Montana's largest wine collection of over 8.500 bottles is stored in The Bacchus Room, an intimate setting for private parties and wine tastings.

Dining Legend: $$$$–Entrees $30+; $$$–$20–$30; $$–10–$20; $–less than $10.