Unearth The Voyage
Missoula has earned a reputation as one of Montana’s most exciting food cities, and it’s not just because of the delicious dishes. Many of the town’s best restaurants and brewpubs come with stunning views of rivers, parks, and mountains that make every meal feel special. Whether you’re craving wood-fired pizza by the Clark Fork River or perfectly smoked BBQ with a side of community spirit, this city delivers flavor and scenery in equal measure. Here are twelve spots where great food meets unforgettable Montana views.
1. Tamarack Brewing Co. (Missoula)
Situated downtown with sweeping views of Caras Park and the Clark Fork, Tamarack has become the unofficial finish line for river floaters and concert-goers. Two floors of dining space plus outdoor patios mean there’s almost always a spot to grab a table, even on busy summer weekends. House-brewed beers pair perfectly with classic pub fare that hits the spot after a day on the water.
Weekend brunch brings a different crowd, with families and friends gathering over hearty plates and mimosas. The atmosphere stays casual and welcoming, reflecting Missoula’s laid-back spirit. Between the location, the beer selection, and the views, Tamarack captures everything locals love about downtown dining.
2. Top Hat Restaurant
Just one block from the river, Top Hat operates as both a restaurant and a Logjam Presents music venue, creating a unique dining vibe. The menu received a fresh update in spring 2025, but crowd favorites like fish tacos and the Wisconsin cheddar burger remain firmly in place. Seasonal changes keep things interesting, with the kitchen adapting to what’s fresh and available.
Catching dinner before a show has never been easier, and the atmosphere buzzes with energy most nights. Locals appreciate the flexibility—you can drop in for a quick bite or settle in for a full evening of food and music. Top Hat proves that great food and entertainment belong together under one roof.
3. The Old Post
Step into The Old Post and you’ll find a true cross-section of Missoula life—anglers comparing notes, students studying over coffee, and courthouse workers unwinding after long days. This historic downtown spot serves breakfast, brunch, dinner, and cocktails, making it an all-day destination. The beloved patio scene draws regulars who know that people-watching here rivals any entertainment.
Live music adds another layer to the experience, turning ordinary evenings into memorable nights. The menu covers comfort-food classics without pretension, delivering exactly what diners crave. With its welcoming atmosphere and central location, The Old Post feels like the living room of downtown Missoula—a place where everyone belongs.
4. GILD Brewing
Housed in the eye-catching Butterfly Building on the Hip Strip, GILD spreads across three floors with an arcade tucked downstairs for extra fun. The kitchen takes Mexican-inspired drinking food seriously, going so far as to make tortillas in-house from Montana non-GMO corn. That commitment to quality ingredients shines through in every bite, from tacos to loaded nachos.
The brewpub atmosphere stays hip and energetic, attracting a younger crowd that appreciates both the craft beer selection and the playful vibe. Between the unique building, the scratch-made food, and the arcade games, GILD offers something beyond typical brewpub fare. It’s a spot where creativity meets comfort in the best possible way.
5. FINN (at the DoubleTree)
Perched right along the Clark Fork River, FINN boasts what many locals call Missoula’s best waterfront dining experience. The riverside deck offers front-row seats to the water, making it perfect for summer evenings when the sun sets behind the mountains. Wood-fired pizzas arrive hot and crispy, while fresh salmon dishes showcase the kitchen’s commitment to quality ingredients.
Happy hour draws crowds eager to snag a riverside table and sample seasonal cocktails. The restaurant transitions smoothly from lunch to dinner, keeping the energy lively throughout the day. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just soaking up Montana’s natural beauty, FINN delivers an experience that feels both relaxed and memorable.
6. Biga Pizza
When locals talk about pizza in Missoula, Biga’s name comes up first, and for good reason. Award-winning brick-oven pies emerge from the kitchen with perfectly charred crusts and creative toppings that change with the seasons. The Flathead cherry pizza has achieved legendary status, showcasing Montana ingredients in unexpected ways.
Everything gets made from scratch here, from the dough to the sauces, reflecting a dedication to craft that media outlets and community members consistently celebrate. The restaurant has become a gathering place where families, friends, and pizza enthusiasts share tables and stories. Biga proves that simple food, done exceptionally well, never goes out of style in a town that values authenticity.
7. Masala
Masala brings authentic Indian flavors to downtown Missoula while championing local agriculture in a way that feels genuinely innovative. The open kitchen lets diners watch as chefs transform organic ingredients from Montana ranchers and farmers into vibrant, aromatic dishes. Seasonal menus rotate based on what’s available, creating a farm-to-table experience with an Indian twist.
Fresh spices and careful preparation result in flavors that satisfy both Indian food veterans and curious newcomers. The restaurant’s commitment to sourcing locally strengthens connections between Missoula’s food community and Montana’s agricultural landscape. Masala demonstrates that global cuisine and local ingredients can come together beautifully, creating something special for everyone at the table.
8. Tagliare Delicatessen
Rock music and Italian sandwiches might seem like an unusual pairing, but Tagliare makes it work with attitude and flavor. Two Missoula locations serve up sandwiches named after famous bands, piled high with quality meats, cheeses, and toppings. Fresh bread arrives daily from Le Petit Outre, providing the perfect foundation for every creation.
The rock-and-roll theme adds personality without overwhelming the main attraction—seriously good deli food made with care. Locals have embraced both locations, making Tagliare a regular stop for lunch or a quick dinner. It’s the kind of place that reminds you great sandwiches don’t need to be complicated, just well-executed with the right ingredients and a little creative spirit.
9. Paul’s Pancake Parlor
Since 1963, Paul’s has been flipping pancakes the size of dinner plates for generations of Missoula families. This locally owned diner delivers exactly what you hope for—fluffy stacks, crispy bacon, and strong coffee served with genuine warmth. The enduring popularity speaks to consistency that never wavers, even as food trends come and go around it.
Weekend mornings bring lines out the door, but regulars know the wait is worth it for diner comfort done right. There’s something reassuring about a place that’s stayed true to its roots for over sixty years. Paul’s Pancake Parlor reminds us that sometimes the best meals are the simplest ones, shared with people we love.
10. The Notorious P.I.G. BBQ
St. Louis-style BBQ meets Montana community spirit at The Notorious P.I.G., where the food tastes as good as the mission feels. Smoked meats arrive tender and flavorful, earning the restaurant top rankings among Missoula’s dining spots. But what sets this place apart is the documented give-back program that donates fifteen percent of Community Day sales to local nonprofits.
Eating here means supporting more than just your appetite—you’re contributing to organizations that strengthen the community. The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone, from BBQ purists to families looking for a satisfying meal. The Notorious P.I.G. shows that restaurants can serve excellent food while making a real difference in their neighborhoods.
11. The Patio at Rattlesnake Market & Cafe
Tucked in the Rattlesnake neighborhood, this café and market carries on a local tradition dating back to 1997. The sunny patio has become a community gathering spot where neighbors catch up over scratch-made meals and locally sourced treats. Everything from the food to the market goods reflects a commitment to supporting Montana producers and keeping things homemade.
The vibe stays relaxed and welcoming, embodying the neighborhood spirit that makes this part of Missoula special. You might come for breakfast and end up browsing local products, chatting with regulars, or simply soaking up the mountain views. The Patio at Rattlesnake Market proves that the best restaurants often double as community hubs.
12. Boxcar Bistro
When the occasion calls for something more refined, Boxcar Bistro in the Sawmill District delivers French-leaning cuisine with Montana warmth. The serious wine program features carefully selected bottles that complement seasonal menu offerings perfectly. Wine dinners and special events add extra appeal for food enthusiasts looking to expand their palates.
Polished service elevates the experience without ever feeling stiff or intimidating—this is special-occasion dining done the Missoula way. The intimate setting encourages conversation and connection, making celebrations feel genuinely memorable. Boxcar Bistro demonstrates that fine dining can maintain sophistication while staying approachable, creating an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable savoring something extraordinary.
