We all get excited when a new restaurant comes to town, but as residents of the Last Best Place, we also appreciate the classics. There's something comforting about dining at an eatery that's been serving the community tasty food for decades. These are a few of our favorites.
1. The Union Grille, 1 Grand Union Sq., Fort Benton
The Grand Union Hotel is one of Fort Benton's oldest establishments, and it's still as beautiful as ever. The hotel's award-winning Union Grille Restaurant is absolutely outstanding.
2. Double Front Cafe, 122 W Alder St., Missoula
This has been THE spot for fried chicken in Missoula for the better part of a century. The food is always fresh and cooked to order, and it's delicious.
3. Moose's Saloon, 173 N Main St., Kalispell
For over 60 years, this iconic spot has been a place to gather for good conversation and delicious pizza. Even as Kalispell grows and changes, the saloon remains consistent.
4. Walkers Grill, 2700 1st Ave. N., Billings
It's hard to believe Billings' Walkers Grill is almost 30 years old. Conveniently located downtown near hotels and the hospital, it's a favorite stop for visitors as well as locals.
5. Grizzly Bar, 1 Main St., Roscoe
For over 50 years, Montanans have been asking one important question: Where the hell is Roscoe? Technically, the answer is that it's near Red Lodge -- but by now, we all know it's where you'll find the Grizzly Bar, which serves some of the best steaks in the state.
6. Lydia's Supper Club, 4915 Harrison Ave., Butte
Lydia's has been a Butte favorite for over 50 years. Admittedly, some locals feel that the food and service are hit-or-miss, but the majority of their patrons love it... in fact, it was good enough for the late, great, Anthony Bourdain to dine there a few years ago.
7. Sir Scott's Oasis, 204 W. Main St., Manhattan
Unfortunately, Sir Scott's Oasis has permanently closed its doors.For decades, Montanans have been coming from all over the state (along with plenty of out-of-staters) to dine at Sir Scott's Oasis steakhouse. It's a local legend for a reason: They simply know good meat.
8. Missouri River Bar & Grill, Fort Peck Hotel, 175 S., Missouri St.
Since the 1930s, the historic Fort Peck Hotel has been a perfect stop for weary travelers, and the onsite restaurant has been serving dinner (and weekend breakfasts) just as long. The dining room still has most of the original fixtures, including the chairs.
9. The Wagon Wheel Cafe, 316 E Front St., Drummond
If you're looking for some good old-fashioned hospitality (and a hearty breakfast), you can't go wrong with a stop at the Wagon Wheel. They've been a local staple for over 50 years.
10. Hellroaring Saloon & Eatery, Big Mountain Rd., Whitefish
There have been a number of new restaurant openings in Whitefish in recent years, and they're fantastic. But those who have been living or visiting there for decades always pay homage to the classic eateries, like the beloved Hellroaring Saloon, which has been around since 1949.
We hope these tried-and-true eateries will still be serving Montanans for years to come. And if you love a restaurant with some history, check out the Pekin Noodle Parlor in Butte, our state's oldest eatery.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!