The state of Montana has amazing local cuisine in small towns around Glacier National Park and Flathead National Forest. Some of the best restaurants feature homestyle cooking and local ingredients including wild game meat and the state’s official berry – the huckleberry!

Our Goggle Map will help you find these hidden gems and popular spots in big sky county, along with some other favorites.. We love maps because knowing where you are and where you want to go is important!

Glacier National Park- a national treasure

Glacier National Park, established in 1910, spans over one million acres of breathtaking landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, and pristine lakes. Visitors can explore its stunning scenery via the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road or embark on one of the park’s 158 hiking trails to experience its diverse wildlife and natural beauty up close. This park ranks in the top 3 of my all time favorite national parks.

Many people will travel between Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park in the same vacation.  A drive between the two can take up to 8 hours, so having a great place to stop and eat along the way is the key to avoiding “hangry” travelers! Both parks are amazing, and if you have the time, we highly recommend spending several days in both places. Download an itinerary for your journey here.

Great Food in Big Sky Country

From fine dining, cafes to local brew houses and coffee shops, writing about them all here would take forever! Therefore, this article will focus on some of our favorite restaurants that will help you eat your way between the Canadian Border north of the state of Montana to Yellowstone National Park south of the state of Montana.

Whether you’re driving north or south between Yellowstone and Glacier National Park, add these as pit stops along the way! Your stomach will thank you!

Montana Ale House

With over 40 craft beers on tap & creative pub fare, the Montana Ale House has friendly staff and some of the best food in Bozeman, Montana. Located in a former freight house, this is a great spot to stop after a long drive, and there are great happy-hour specials. 

Wild game meat highlighted on the menu include bison and elk. Whatever you choose- don’t forget to wash it down with a famous huckleberry flavored drink. Huckleberry mule, mojito, margarita or creme ale shouldn’t be missed when you’re in the great state of Montana! 

• Address: 611 E Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715
• Parking: Free Parking Lot and Street Parking
• Accessible: Yes
• Family Friendly: Yes

Montana Club

If wild game isn’t your jam, you’ll be happy to know that the Montana Club offers some great vegetarian options. Additionally, you’ll want to try anything huckleberry- as it is the official fruit of Montana. And there are plenty of things to choose – including Huckleberry steak, Huckleberry walnut salad, or several drink options with this tart fruit. 

 If you’re more of a traditional eater, you can find slow roasted prime rib, steakhouse steaks, seafood, sandwiches, burgers, and pasta which you can pair with one of your favorite beers from regional microbrews.  

Their real claim to fame is their Montini Night. This is a weekly event where top-shelf martinis are offered for $7. Time your road trip’s pit stop to land here on Friday from 5:30 PM until closing for a real treat!

• Address: 3540 Harrison Ave, Butte, MT 59701
• Parking: Plentiful and Free
• Accessible: Yes
• Family Friendly: Yes

1889 Steakhouse

Considered an upscale, trendy restaurant, this place isn’t stuffy at all! Modern American cuisine with classic steakhouse elements are featured on their extensive menu. Diners can indulge in expertly prepared dishes like ribeye and dayboat scallops. A warm and inviting atmosphere emphasizes great food and exceptional hospitality. 

• Address: 104 N Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59802
• Parking: Paid Parking 
• Accessible: Yes
• Family Friendly: Yes

The Old Post

For Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch or Dinner, The Old Post is a great place both classic and creative dishes that will delight your taste buds. The atmosphere combines rustic charm with friendly service, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a hearty meal in a relaxed setting. I had the avocado toast for breakfast before making my way north from Missoula to Glacier National Park. It was delicious! 

• Address: 103 West Spruce Street Missoula, MT
• Parking: Behind the main entrance. Can be difficult during peak times.
• Accessible: Yes
• Family Friendly: Yes

Flathead Lake Lodge

For a truly unique experience, stop at Flathead Lake Lodge for a breakfast ride, a lunch ride or a dinner ride. It truly is “Fine Dining with a Western Flare” right in flathead valley. Although this place is open to visitors just passing through, it is primarily designed for guests as part of an all-inclusive experience. Reservations are recommended – especially in the peak season of the summer months. 

I tried the Lunch Ride-which takes riders across the ranch’s diverse terrain. Prior to the ride, lunch was served in an open air cabin overlooking Flathead Lake. Hearty home-cooked meals and local ingredients were served in a picturesque lakeside setting. Guests enjoy not only the delicious food but also the warm hospitality of the staff, who make every effort to create a welcoming and memorable dining experience. 

• Address:150 Flathead Lodge Rd, Bigfork, MT 59911
• Parking: Yes
• Accessible: Accessible parking and entrances. Alternatives to horseback riding are available. 
• Family Friendly: Yes

What to explore more of Montana?

Now that you’ve satisfied your hunger, be sure to explore the highly popular crystal clear lakes in Montana. You can read about them in our blog post, which also contains a map for easy location! Enjoy your travels!