Nestled in the heart of Idaho’s panhandle sits an unassuming (but completely amazing) restaurant: the Snake Pit, a.k.a the Enaville Resort. Just far enough off of I-90 to feel miles away from the beaten path, this amazing bar and grill isn’t just delicious, remote, and lively; it has also gained a stellar reputation as the oldest restaurant in Idaho and one of the oldest in the entire Northwest. With a history that lengthy, you’d better believe that this 125-year old establishment has quite the story to go along with its rustic location in the middle of nowhere — and it’s totally worth the drive to experience it for yourself.
Tucked away on Coeur d'Alene River Rd. in Kingston, this historic restaurant has a truly unique location and history.
While the Snake Pit is seemingly miles away from anything besides endless trees and a few hidden residences, it's just a few short minutes away from the river's edge. It's the perfect rustic setting for an eatery so full of western charm.
Dating all the way back to 1880 when loggers and miners flooded the Silver Valley, one could walk into this rustic treasure and see rowdy, famished diners packed three-deep.
While the Snake Pit has had its ups and downs over the last century, it's just as lively and welcoming today as it was back then when Wyatt Earp sat perched on his own bar stool.
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The inside is a fantastic mix of old-time saloon meets Northwest lodge.
This seasonal special comes and goes because, "sometimes the bulls don't cooperate," but snap a photo of yourself enjoying one of these Northwest delicacies and you might just find yourself in their Hall of Fame.
The Snake Pit is conveniently close to recreation opportunities, so the majority of locals are aware that this historic beauty is hiding right near the river.
The Snake Pit is truly one of those historic gems that makes Idaho so unique, and definitely worth a trip. So in remembrance of the departed prospectors and miners of the Gem State’s early days, or indeed in tribute to the likes of Wyatt Earp and other western greats, stop on by and give their famous “oyster” delicacies a try! If you dare…
If you’ve ever eaten here, we’d love to hear your stories. What other remote locations do you love to visit in Idaho?
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