The Pacific and Inland Northwest hide plenty of meaty treasures beyond salmon and smoked steelhead. From Montana prairies to Puget Sound, these restaurants—each stamped with a seal of approval on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives showcase wild game, grass-fed proteins, and veggie sides that make paleo eaters feel right at home. Whether you’re after an elk burger, slow-smoked brisket, or a chili rich with regional game, plot your next high-protein adventure at one (or all) of these restaurants.
1. Dirty Oscar’s Annex — Tacoma, WA
This quirky gastropub just off 6th Avenue leans into bold, game-centric specials while keeping the atmosphere casual for flannel and sneakers. House-infused spirits, locally foraged produce, and a commitment to scratch cooking helped Dirty Oscar’s Annex land on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. The kitchen’s rotating roster of wild proteins—think boar, elk, and bison—pairs nicely with simple roasted veggies, making it an easy win for paleo diners.
2. Roadhouse Diner — Great Falls, MT
Locals pack this retro-styled joint for inventive burgers from Montana-raised game and beef. The owners grind meat in-house daily, then top patties with house-made condiments and crunchy veggies rather than sugary sauces. When Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives stopped in, the crew raved about the kitchen’s dedication to local ranchers and no-shortcuts prep—ideals that keep paleo purists happy without sacrificing flavor.
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3. The Burger Dive — Billings, MT
Don’t let the classic lunch-counter decor fool you—this Billings favorite pushes burger boundaries with free-range bison, elk, and other regional meats. The Burger Dive earned its moment on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives thanks to a from-scratch ethic that covers everything from spice rubs to pickles. Order a protein-style burger wrapped in lettuce, and you have a Northwest paleo plate that still feels indulgent.
4. Podnah’s Pit BBQ — Portland, OR
Texan-born pitmaster Rodney Muirhead brought authentic oak-smoked barbecue to Portland, and Guy Fieri featured it on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. The low-and-slow approach coaxes deep flavor from grass-fed beef and heritage pork, while a rotating board occasionally features game specials like venison. Skip the cornbread if you’re strict paleo; the stellar smoked meats and tangy pickled veggies make a complete plate.
5. Slim’s Last Chance Chili — Seattle, WA
A little gritty and a lot friendly, Slim’s Last Chance Chili earned its reputation and a spot on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives by simmering pots of chili that sometimes spotlight regional game such as elk or buffalo. The kitchen keeps the bean-to-meat ratio low, letting slow-cooked protein take center stage. Paleo dinners can pass on the cornbread and still leave completely satisfied.
6. Arctic Roadrunner — Anchorage, AK
Anchorage’s self-proclaimed “home of the burger” made its national TV debut on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, but the menu extends far beyond beef. Wild Alaska salmon and halibut play starring roles, grilled to let the pristine flavor shine. Order your fish without the bun and load up on a side of slaw, and you’ve got a paleo feast that captures the essence of the Last Frontier.