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Montana is known as the Treasure State—and with good reason. With its unparalleled scenic beauty and diverse landscapes; a plethora of state parks; and an ever-present cultural and historical heritage that permeates everything from its attractions to its cuisine scene; Montana is the perfect summer getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in the unique beauty of this sprawling western state.
And any summer trip to Montana wouldn’t be complete without an epic foodie itinerary—from its big cities and tourist towns to its out-of-the-way places, this stunning state is packed with local flavor, farm-to-table goodness, and big, friendly MT vibes that will please any vacationer’s palate this summer.
Central Feed Grilling Co. Is All Montana Hospitality
Self-described as “Montana’s central gathering place,” the Lewiston gem Central Feed Grilling Co. is a triple threat—a steakhouse/wine bar/craft beer destination that’s all warm, inviting hospitality and signature Montana vibes. With grill-centric signature dishes that shine with authentic charm, Central Feed thrives on its regional and state heritage, that’s evident in everything from the deceptively simple menu to its craft brew selection featuring another local fave (and neighbor!), Big Spring Brewing.
- Address: 220 East Main Street Suite 1, Lewiston, MT
- Hours: Monday through Sunday 11:30 AM-9 PM, dinner available after 5 PM
- Price: $$-$$$+
- Reservations: Yes, call (406) 535-3337
- What To Try: Beef Tenderloin; Firey PB&J Burger; Chicken Wings; Crawfish Poboy
Fresh, Local, And Sustainable Dining At Prerogative Kitchen
With its eco-friendly practices, locally-sourced ingredients, and a commitment to reducing waste, Prerogative Kitchen is sustainable dining at its finest. However, there’s more to this Red Lodge restaurant than its focus on going green; the creative, fresh, and inventive menu has garnered it numerous accolades, including being named a James Beard Foundation Award Nominee in 2022. But what makes this rotating à la carte menu so special is its devotion to delicious dishes that are both classic and inventive; fresh takes on tried-and-true faves whose local flair shines through with every single bite.
- Address: 104 South Broadway, Red Lodge, MT
- Hours: Thursday through Monday 11:30 AM-9 PM; Closed Tuesday & Wednesday
- Price: $$-$$$
- Reservations: No
- What To Try: Smoked Trout Mousse; Bison Ravioli; Hanger Steak; Foot Long Lobster Roll
A Pub With A Patio At Windbag Saloon
Montana’s bustling capital has no shortage of delicious restaurants—however, few have the staying power and gastronomic gravitas of the Windbag Saloon & Grill, whose historic location downtown has long been the heart of Helena. Now a full bar and restaurant, the site was once home to everything from a bowling alley to a burlesque hall, and its unique character remains to this day. A menu packed with pub faves and signature faves, Windbag, is the perfect spot to people-watch in historic Helena while soaking up those good-time MT summer vibes.
- Address: 19 South Last Chance Gulch Street, Helena, MT
- Hours: Monday through Friday 11 AM-12 AM; Friday & Saturday 10 AM-12 AM
- Price: $$+
- Reservations: N/A
- What To Try: Blackfoot River Cheese Curds; Steak Finger Platter; Rocking Racicot Burger; Cold Smoke Pork Chop Sandwich; Funnel Fries
Scenery, Brews, And Bites At Backslope Brewing
Montana has its fair share of craft breweries where visitors can score a great pint—but the stunning outdoor haven of Backslope Brewing may be one of the state’s most scenic. Located in the northwest town of Columbia Falls, Backslope serves up their heady brews and handcrafted menu with the breathtaking Glacier National Park as its backdrop—so be sure to snag a table on the patio to really soak up the fresh MT air and delightful natural ambiance.
- Address: 1107 9th St. West Columbia Falls, MT
- Hours: Open Daily 11 AM-8 PM
- Price: $$+
- Reservations: No
- What To Try: Fried Pickles; Fried Chicken Sandwich with Garlic Parmesan Fries; The Hawaiian Jamm Burger; Bliss Bowl
Get Into The MT Spirit(s) At Enbär Craft Cocktail Lounge
Locally-owned and highlighting a mostly Montana roster of spirits and microbrews, the elevated Enbär Craft Cocktail Lounge is cozily intimate and the perfect spot to enjoy a night out. Situated in the heart of downtown Great Falls, guests can choose between the ambiance-filled lounge or taking their drinks outside to relax, and people watch. Either way, Enbär’s carefully crafted cocktail menu and sumptuous small plates will wow both drink connoisseurs and foodies alike—as will its laid-back, yet elegant, vibes.
- Address: 8 5th Street South, Great Falls, MT
- Hours: Monday through Friday 4 PM-1 AM; Saturday & Sunday 4 PM-1 AM
- Price: $$+
- Reservations: N/A
- What To Try: Fried Artichokes; Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo; Ribeye Steak; The Jüniper (Cocktail); Beltian White (Draft Beer)
Tilt Würks: A Brew House, A Gastropub And A Casino (Oh My!)
The Miles City gem Tilt Würks Brewhouse & Casino has it all: locally brewed, craft beer faves; delicious, hearty fare; and a casino where patrons can try their luck on 20 video gaming machines. Diners will love the home-style menu, while beer fans will dig the local selection at this bustling pub with fun to spare. And don’t forget to step outside and enjoy some time by the fire pit for some serious PM summer vibes—the best way to truly enjoy this one-stop shop of fun in eastern Montana.
- Address: 420 Pacific Ave, Miles City, MT
- Hours: Brewery and kitchen open Monday through Thursday, and Sundays 11 AM-9 PM (kitchen open till 10 PM Sundays); Friday & Saturday 11 AM-10 PM; Casino open daily 9 AM-11:30 PM
- Price: $$
- Reservations: N/A
- What To Try: Tender Tips (app); Outlaw Burger with a side of Pinball Fries; BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese; Full Tilt (Poutini) Sandwich
From the bustling capital city of Helena to its scenic mountain towns packed with small-town charm, Montana is a foodie’s delight. From local, delish dishes to elevated twists on hearty favorites, MT’s restaurant scene is as inviting and eclectic as the state itself. And while great food and fantastic drinks are easy to find in the Treasure State, it’s the ambiance that truly sets a Montana night apart—laid-back meals and sipping sessions basking in the warm, moonlit evenings and clear, starry skies; the best of summer nights in Montana.