Vernal is the county seat and biggest city in Uintah County, northeastern Utah, USA. The city boasts several amazing features and fun places to visit. It has a population of over 10,000.
Vernal is popular for its dinosaur fossils and natural gas production, making it a must-visit place in Utah. The stunning scenery offers a kind of experience worth a trip to. However, you must ensure to give your taste bud a sumptuous experience to cap your visit.
Although most Vernal restaurants provide American-style dishes, there are also Mexican and other exotic cuisines to taste.
Here are the best restaurants in Vernal, UT.
Best Restaurants in Vernal, UT
1. Antica Forma
Antica Forma, located adjacent to the Dinosaur Inn, is one of the best Italian restaurants in Vernal, UT. It provides delicious pizzas prepared in a wooden-fired oven to release a special taste. The menu features other varieties of items you would love.
Make yourself comfortable with a pasta Alfredo dish with chicken or mussels in wine. If you prefer seafood, check out the Linguine, comprising shrimp, tomato and caper sauce, tender squids, and mussels. Don’t forget a bite of any of the pizza options is a must and would be more delectable if paired with a fabulous wine or beer.
The restaurant is a popular place, so you should expect to see a good number of people. However, it does not make the service slow. You will also enjoy a cozy atmosphere and the prices are fantastic for the value you receive.
Antica Forma is open on Monday to Saturday, from 11 am – 10 pm.
Address: 251 E Main St, Vernal, UT 84078-2605, Phone: +1 435-374-4138
2. Vernal Brewing Company
Vernal Brewing Company, nestled in the heart of downtown Vernal, is one of the best restaurants in Vernal, UT. It is a brewery and gastro-pub with dining options, from comfort food to local dishes.
If you are looking for an excellent spot to host friends and family to their delight, you are in the right place.
Try their classic pizzas, nachos, or burger with fries if you want a simple meal. Beer lovers will appreciate the drinks here, although there are also non-alcoholic drinks and ice cream. Save space for bread pudding if you love desserts.
The atmosphere is casual, and the décor is perfect for a brewpub. In addition, the food is creatively presented and served to order. It is refreshing to stop and relax for a good meal while sharing some chitchat with other diners or eating quietly.
Vernal Brewing Company is open on Monday to Saturday, from 11:30 am – 9 pm.
Address: 55 S 500 E, Vernal, UT 84078-2736, Phone: +1 435-781-2337
3. Plaza Mexicana
Tucked away in Main Street is Plaza Mexicana, a place to enjoy authentic Mexican offerings. Whether you want it hot or mild, there is something for everyone on the menu, with generous quantities. The atmosphere is unpretentious, and the location is nicely set for easy identification.
Try chips and salsa with salad; it is filling and flavorful. You can also keep it simple with a burger and a glass of cocktail. Other options include different combinations of tacos, burritos, fajitas, guacamoles, and enchiladas.
Be ready to take some leftovers home or share your portion with someone else because of the quantity. The service is great, and the prices are excellent. You are in for a mouthwatering experience as you step in.
Plaza Mexicana is open on Sunday to Saturday, from 10 am – 10 pm.
Address: 51 E Main St, Vernal, UT 84078-260, Phone: +1 435-781-2931
4. Betty’s Café
This is a family-owned and operated café offering homemade food. Betty’s Café is open for breakfast and lunch all day. The food is made from scratch; to order, you must stop in and have a good taste.
The extensive menu features a wide variety of meals with generous portions. Omelets, hash browns, bacon, sausages, fries, toast, and pancakes are good choices to settle for. Dino Burger with bacon, jalapeno, and onion rings or omelet with potato fries and potato is good for starting a beautiful day.
There is also something for your little ones on the menu. So do not leave them out of the fun. Everything is super tasty and served hot. If you add a cup of coffee or chocolate, it will make your experience worth it.
Betty’s Café is surely one of the best places to eat in Vernal, UT. It is open on Sunday to Saturday, from 6 am – 2 pm.
Address: 416 W Main St, Vernal, UT 84078-2510, Phone: +1 435-781-2728
5. Swain Brothers
Swain Brothers, located along Highway 40, is a casual eatery with lots of delicious offers. It is one of the excellent Vernal restaurants.
The restaurants provides a welcoming environment to relax and enjoy your favorite meal while visiting Vernal. The restaurant focuses on quality and uses only the freshest and finest ingredients to prepare mouthwatering meals.
From steaks to seafood, there is much to sample in this restaurant. If you are looking for spectacular food, try the prime rib and coconut shrimp with a glass of wine. The ribeye steak and salad or fries are another irresistible combination to taste. Highlight your presence with a piece of carrot cake for dessert; it tastes heavenly and hits the right spot.
It is always fun coming to Swain Brothers to have a mind-blowing dinner after a long day. Talking with other guests who will happily share great moments is quite easy. The service and price are worth your visit.
Swain Brothers is open on Monday to Thursday, from 11 am – 9:30 pm, Friday to Saturday, from 8 am – 10 pm, and Sunday, from 8 am – 8 pm.
Address: 1684 W Highway 40, Vernal, UT 84078-4126, Phone: +1 435-781-8700
6. Cafe Rio Mexican Grill
This is a fantastic spot to eat inexpensive food whenever you visit Vernal, UT. Cafe Rio Mexican Grill serves Mexican cuisine with an American twist. The menu is always fresh and served hot; there is always something good to tell.
Guests enjoy the beef or chicken tacos and enchiladas the most. However, other food options like nachos, quesadillas, burritos, pizzas, and salads are all freshly made. Ensure you grab a glass of margarita and sip as you savor the deliciousness.
All items are tasty and best for a starving tummy. The food is not pricey, making it a good place for a casual meal. You can also order takeout if you are not ready for a sit-down meal.
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is open on Thursday, from 10:30 am – 10 pm, and Friday to Saturday, from 10:30 am – 11 pm.
Address: 1205 W Highway 40 Vernal, Vernal, UT 84078, Phone: +1 435-781-8100
7. 7-11 Ranch Restaurant
This is a locally owned restaurant along Main Street with lots of incredible options for food lovers. It is one of the best restaurants in Vernal, UT.
It allows you to eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner in a cozy environment. The food is freshly made and served to order, so you will not be disappointed with your preferred item.
The extensive menu features generous portions of breakfast staples like pancakes, hash brown, omelet, sausages, and scones. Start your day with a light meal of jam and biscuits with a cup of hot coffee. Then, come for lunch and order a cup of mushroom soup with fried chicken steak and veggies. Soft drinks and iced tea are also available to pair with your drink.
You will find this restaurant interesting if you are local because they sell good food and have guests who enjoy striking up a good conversation. You will also enjoy good quality service and friendly servers. Not only that, the food is reasonably priced and rocked with flavor. Nevertheless, they don’t sell wine or beer, if you would love to have one.
7-11 Ranch Restaurant is open on Monday to Saturday, from 6 am – 10 pm.
Address: 77 E Main St, Vernal, UT 84078-2601, Phone: +1 435-789-1170
8. Country Grub
Outside the Highway 40 is nestled Country Grub, serving comfort food in a fun way. It is a place widely recommended by many guests because of what you will enjoy. Right from the door, you are treated as a family while you place your order and grab a seat for fun.
Are you in for an incredible experience? Then, it would be best to have a meatloaf sandwich combo and creamy milkshakes. There are plenty of other options, including sandwiches, tacos, fries, desserts, burgers, salads, and soft drinks. The ingredients are locally sourced to give you that feeling you will hardly derive elsewhere.
Whether on a vacation or a local, don’t hesitate to come to Country Grub and give yourself a nice treat. The place is not fancy, but it has what it takes to provide you with a mind-blowing experience. It is also a good place for your kids to eat, and you can get them a cone of ice cream to smack their lips.
Country Grub is open on Monday to Saturday, from 11 am – 8 pm.
Address: 2419 S 1500 E, Naples, UT 84078-8670, Phone: +1 435-790-3829.
Are you considering more exploration of Utah? Here is our list of things to do in Logan, and things to do in Hurricane for a fun vacation.
9. Dinosaur Brew Haus
Dinosaur Brew Haus, opened in 2003 as an amenity to Dinosaur River Expeditions, is a gastro-pub where you can chill out with friends. The menu features homemade food with an excellent ice-cold beer to wash it down. The servers make it fun with their professionalism.
Feel at home with a plate of BBQ, salad, or hand-cut fries if you are a meat lover. Grilled cheese soup is a must-eat, leaving a lip-smacking experience. Sandwiches, burgers, and desserts are also served in their varieties.
The place gives a small-town feel and is great for local people who love to eat in local restaurants. The warm and welcoming effect it gives leaves you excited after your experience. That is why you will be glad to visit again.
Dinosaur Brew Haus is open on Sunday to Thursday, from 11:30 am – 8 pm, and Friday to Saturday, from 11:30 am – 9 pm.
Address: 540 E Main St, Vernal, UT 84078-2702, Phone: +1 435-781-0717
10. Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
This classic dining area in Vernal, UT, serves comfort food. Step in to have some hearty experience with the most flavorful desserts and steak burgers you could think of. The staff is friendly, and the prices are reasonable.
The best time to visit is a sunny day when one can order tasty ice cream and frozen custard. Excellent steak burgers and fries or cheese curds as sides are worth eating. Everything here is a burst of flavors and served to order.
It is one of the best places to eat because it gives an upscale atmosphere and laid-back vibes. Stop in after work to have a casual dinner before retiring. Your kids will also appreciate tagging along so they can be treated to a luxurious experience.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is open on Sunday to Thursday, from 10 am – 10 pm, and Friday to Saturday, from 10 am – 11 pm.
Address: 2001 W Highway 40, Vernal, UT 84078-4501, Phone: +1 435-781-8777
11. JB’s Restaurant
When looking for a family-friendly restaurant in Vernal, search no more as you step into JB’s Restaurant with pride. It is one of the top restaurants in Vernal, UT.
JB’s boasts classic American comfort food and breakfasts. It is a local place with the finest and freshest meals, which hit the roof of one’s palette.
The extensive menu has over 55 items, each offering a mouthwatering experience. The homemade Mac n cheese is good for your kids, although there are other good choices they can make. Thick slices of Texan toast cooked the way you want and a cup of coffee to begin the day will be an excellent option.
Those who want casual, sit-down dining can come to JB’s Restaurant and have all they crave at a low price. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, a good place for an all-day meal.
JB’s Restaurant is open on Sunday to Saturday, from 6 m – 8 pm.
Address: 475 W Main St, Vernal, UT 84078-2509, Phone: +1 435-789-8722
12. Subway
This prominent local chain is widely present in every neighborhood, serving irresistible flavors. If you want a quick, inexpensive meal in a cheerful environment, consider Subway your next stop. The food is made from scratch and to order, consistently hitting the right spot.
The flavor is bold and consistent, typical of what you can get in any Subway outlet. If you want an amazing breakfast option, go for any egg dishes with a cup of chocolate or coffee. Order your favorite chicken wraps with fresh veggies and a soft drink for lunch. Then, wrap it up with any sandwich of your choice, perfectly cooked.
It feels cozy here with a spacious dining room that releases a relaxed vibe. The restaurant is clean and properly taken care of; you will enjoy stellar service at a great price.
Subway is open on Sunday to Saturday, from 7 am – 9 pm.
Address: 1205 West Hwy 40 Suite A, Vernal, UT 84078, Phone: +1 435-781-0711
13. Denny’s
Among the spectacular Vernal restaurant is Denny’s, a fantastic place to satisfy your appetite. It is popular for serving American classics and all-day meals. The casual atmosphere makes it a good place for a quiet meal.
Order a breakfast of hash browns, bacon, omelet, and mashed potato, nicely seasoned and cooked to perfection. Your afternoon should not go without dropping by for Chicken Parmesan or a tasty burger with lots of veggies. If you prefer a dessert, a milkshake and cake will blend well.
The meal portion is huge and may have some leftovers after being filled. You will enjoy a good meal whenever you come around, with consistent flavors. Tick everything on the menu and relax for a memorable dining experience.
Denny’s is open on Sunday to Thursday, from 6 – 12 am, and Friday to Saturday, from 6 – 1 am.
Address: 2097 W. Highway 40, Vernal, UT 84078, Phone: (385) 501-6411
14. WINGERS Restaurant & Alehouse
If you are looking for a perfect place for your family to hang out, you must visit WINGERS Restaurant & Alehouse. It is designed for children and adults to gather for food and fun. You will find something for your taste bud with a full bar and a huge menu.
Like the name, the restaurant offers wings in three different styles, bone-in, boneless, or naked wings, all giving the same satisfaction. You can have them with a salad or sauce and a glass of local ale or beer.
For your catering needs, you can contact WINGERS; it does not matter whether you are low on budget. Although the restaurant is not upscale, it provides a comfortable place to express your culinary self. It promises a distinct experience right from the door.
WINGERS Restaurant & Alehouse is open on Monday to Thursday, from 11 am – 10 pm, Friday to Saturday, from 11 am – 11 pm, and Sunday, from 11 am – 9 pm.
Address: 2075 W Highway 40 Suite A, Vernal, UT 84078, Phone: +1 435-781-1923
15. Spoofs Coffee Drive Through
Close to the Dinosaur National Monument, Spoofs Coffee Drive Through exists to fill a culinary gap in Vernal. It has been around for a long time as a local coffee shack where you can order hot or cold brews cheaply. If you need to fuel up before heading to the park, you must stop and take in something refreshing.
The drinks are made to order with tasty flavors that can pair with muffins. There is a full list of coffee drinks, so you can go for what you rave about and be served exactly as you desire. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming; you will want to experience it again.
Spoofs Coffee Drive Through is open on Monday to Saturday, from 5 am – 8:30 pm, and Sunday, from 7 am – 7 pm.
Address: 215 W Main St, Vernal, UT 84078-2505. Phone: +1 435-789-1154.
Map of the Best Restaurants in Vernal, UT
To get around during your trip to Vernal, here is a map of the best restaurants in Vernal with markers of the top places to eat in Vernal, UT.
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Plan a Visit to Vernal
Vernal, Utah, is a great place to visit. The goal of Vernal restaurants is to culminate your presence with a well-prepared meal.
When visiting this part of Utah, do not miss a visit to some of the top restaurants it has to offer.
Choose the most suitable restaurant for your appetite and have fun!