Sun Valley, known as America’s first destination ski resort, has always been synonymous with scenic beauty and exceptional culinary experiences since its inception in 1936. While the slopes beckoned, the dining establishments quickly became integral to the Sun Valley experience. Among the many eateries in the Wood River Valley with a rich history, the Pioneer Saloon in Ketchum stands out as a true landmark. But When Did Pioneer Saloon Open In Sun Valley, and what makes it so enduring?
To understand the Pioneer Saloon’s significance, we need to delve into the history of dining in Sun Valley and Ketchum. Several restaurants have graced this valley for over half a century, each contributing to the area’s culinary tapestry. Let’s take a brief tour of some of these iconic establishments before focusing on the Pio.
The Ram, Sun Valley’s original restaurant, has been serving guests since 1937. Its rustic elegance has attracted luminaries like Bing Crosby and Marilyn Monroe. The Ram’s menu is a delightful blend of classic and contemporary, featuring dishes from Hagerman Trout to SRF Wagyu NY Strip. For a nostalgic experience, their heritage menu offers classics like Pork Tenderloin Schnitzel (dating back to 1982) and Stuffed Sole (from 1967), often accompanied by live piano music.
Just a couple of years later, in 1939, The Roundhouse opened its doors, or rather, its gondola access. Perched at 7,700 feet on Bald Mountain, this octagonal restaurant offers breathtaking panoramic views alongside its memorable meals. From Fondue for Two to Braised Lamb Shank, The Roundhouse provides a dining experience that is truly elevated. Their prix fixe menu, especially on weekends, incorporates the resort’s European heritage and even includes a gondola ride, adding to the overall allure.
Sun Valley Roundhouse
The Roundhouse, an octagonal restaurant atop Bald Mountain, was designed as an homage to Averell Harriman, the founder of Sun Valley Resort and chairman of Union Pacific Railroad.
The Kneadery, a local favorite since 1974, offers a different kind of charm in its quirky log cabin setting. This establishment is known for its hearty and comforting menu, ranging from cinnamon rolls to fresh Atlantic salmon. The Cowboy Benny and homemade blueberry bread are just a few examples of its appeal. The Kneadery’s cozy atmosphere, complete with a roaring fireplace and game trophies, makes it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.
Christiania, opening its doors in 1959, quickly became a celebrity hotspot. Actor Gary Cooper frequented it, and Ernest Hemingway even had his own table. The Olympic Bar within Christiania, adorned with memorabilia from owner Michel Rudigoz’s time as the U.S. Women’s Olympic Ski Team Coach, adds to its unique character. Christy’s, within Christiania, is renowned for its lamb shank, a nod to the Wood River area’s sheep farming history.
The Sawtooth Club, another establishment with roots tracing back to 1937, was also favored by Hemingway and legendary actor Steve McQueen. McQueen was known to occasionally step behind the bar himself. While McQueen might have preferred a simple beer, The Sawtooth Club today boasts an extensive cocktail menu featuring regional liquors and specialties like Idaho Lemonade and the Western Old Fashioned. Their award-winning Rack of Lamb and Mesquite-Grilled Filet Mignon are dinner highlights.
Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe enjoyed a meal at The Ram restaurant in Sun Valley Resort during the filming of “Bus Stop” in 1956, showcasing the resort’s early appeal to celebrities.
And now, to answer the central question: when did Pioneer Saloon open in Sun Valley? The Pioneer Saloon, or “the Pio” as locals affectionately call it, opened its doors in 1945. Housed in a building that is over a century old, it quickly became a Ketchum landmark. While it originally opened in 1945, it underwent a significant transformation in 1972. This renovation is so notable that the Pioneer Saloon holds an annual “Pio Days” celebration each November, centered around the theme “Where were you in ’72?”.
Currently owned by Duffy and Sheila Witmer, the Pioneer Saloon retains its authentic Western charm. Stepping inside is like stepping back in time, with its tin ceiling, walls adorned with pioneer artifacts – including bullet boards and a shotgun once used by Hemingway – and trophy animal heads. This ambiance, coupled with its hearty “grub,” ensures its perennial popularity. The menu features timeless classics like Prime Rib, Pioneer beef kabobs, and the famous Jim Spud (a loaded baked potato with teriyaki beef). It’s often said that a visit to Ketchum isn’t complete without experiencing the Pioneer Saloon.
Pioneer Saloon
The Pioneer Saloon in Ketchum, Idaho, is recognized for its rustic Western decor and historical artifacts, making it a beloved local establishment.
In conclusion, while Sun Valley boasts a collection of restaurants with rich histories dating back to the resort’s early days, the Pioneer Saloon holds a special place in Ketchum’s heart. Established in 1945 and revitalized in 1972, “the Pio” continues to offer a unique blend of Western atmosphere and classic fare, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the culinary scene of Sun Valley and seeking an answer to the question, “when did Pioneer Saloon open in Sun Valley?” It’s more than just a saloon; it’s a living piece of Ketchum’s history.
