To find the best food in America you'll need to travel to small towns across the country. While we certainly love what the big cities have to offer, smaller rural areas with family-owned businesses are the true lifeblood of the United States. And that is undoubtedly true in our state. In fact, the most iconic restaurant in Montana is one that's beloved by both locals and those who visit from around the world. Try it for yourself and we're confident that you'll leave satisfied and happy.
If you're local to Bigfork, you might recall when Echo Lake Cafe first opened its doors back in 1960.
It was first run by Dickie Conley and Betty, his sister. While the cafe has changed hands just a few times, it eventually landed with Bob and Christi Young who purchased it in 1996. The family has been at the helm ever since!
Today, the restaurant looks like the perfect rustic spot to enjoy a meal.
In this case, you may certainly judge a book by its cover because this iconic restaurant in Montana is every bit of that and more.
The space inside is both cozy and bright, with plenty of room for hungry people to dig into a great meal.
Additionally, there's space at the bar which provides a classic diner feel.
Of course, no restaurant can be deemed iconic unless the food is fantastic and that's what you'll find here.
Echo Lake Cafe is open for breakfast and lunch, though the portions are so large you might not even need lunch if you choose to start your day here!
Everything is made fresh, and you can certainly taste the care and quality in every bite.
You'll love the biscuits and gravy with the Cowboy Benedict (pictured here).
The Echo Lake Special is a best-seller and includes their famous veggie potatoes, two eggs, and a choice of toast, an English muffin, or a home-baked goodie.
After visiting a few times you'll undoubtedly have some favorites, but be sure to consider the specials, too. You might get lucky and find yourself with the option of enjoying something like this homemade corned beef hash special.
The meals at this iconic restaurant in Montana are nothing short of spectacular. And, with both savory and sweet dishes, everyone will leave satisfied.
Echo Lake Cafe in Bigfork is open every day. To plan your visit and get excited about the menu be sure to visit the Echo Lake Cafe website. You can also follow them on Facebook. The restaurant can be reached at 406-837-1000.
We love enjoying the first meal of the day at Echo Lake Cafe, but there are plenty of others to try in other parts of the state. Check out these small-town Montana restaurants for the best breakfast of your life!
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