Unique Restaurants: Off the Beaten Path

Here in Montana, it's not uncommon to plan an outing around a scenic drive and a good meal. Explore unique shops along the way, stop at historic markers to learn more about our past, take a quick hike, or cast a line into our calm, clear waters. It's a lovely way to spend a day, slowing down and taking the road less traveled.

In Montana's Yellowstone Country, you'll find restaurants in some of the tiniest nooks and crannies, and aside from great food, the journey is half the fun.

 

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One of our favorites is the Happy Hour Bar, situated on Hebgen Lake, just outside West Yellowstone. This little restaurant and bar is kid-friendly, overlooks the lake, and has terrific burgers. The proprietors take a break beginning at the end of October but will open again when the lake freezes and the snow flies, generally mid-December.

In Willow Creek, just down the road from Three Forks, with the Tobacco Root Mountains in the background, Woolzie's Willow Creek Café is known for its ribs, slow-roasted and soaked in Carolina Gold Barbeque sauce. While you're there, stop by Aunt Dofe's Gallery, an art gallery featuring resident artists and rotating exhibits.

On the other side of I-90, Land of Magic Steakhouse in Logan, has been a local favorite for as long as most people around here can remember. They're known for their steaks (special seasoning), but what I love most is the cozy atmosphere, which is always full of locals, any day of the week. The exit is located right near Madison Buffalo Jump State Park, a lovely spot for a pre-dinner walk.



The Old Saloon is an icon in Paradise Valley, where they've been serving visitors to Yellowstone National Park since 1902. It's a lively atmosphere with live music year-round. Also in Emigrant, Follow 'Yer Nose BBQ is a favorite during the summer months. And, both Chico Hot Springs and Yellowstone Hot Springs are great stops for pre- or post-dinner relaxation.

In Wilsall, located in the Shields Valley, The Bank Bar and Vault Restaurant serves 100% locally sourced beef from nearby Muddy Creek Ranch. Consider a stay at Fort Wilsall, log cabin rooms and tipis located within the original Fort Wilsall barricade. It's a quiet area, with spectacular views of the Crazy Mountain Range.



Boulder River Roadkill, now under new ownership, is a family-friendly, rustic bar and grill serving great food. They host live music, seasonal celebrations, and special events, so be sure to check their schedule! It's on the way to Natural Bridge Falls, near Big Timber — I suggest exploring, dinner, and a stay at The Grand Hotel.

Café 191, in Melville, is a pleasant surprise in the middle of rolling farmland. Their home-cooked meals are just what you want when you're looking for comfort food, and their new event center hosts concerts (Clint Black played here last summer!)  — and is available to rent for weddings and events.

MontAsia in Fishtail is a blend of hearty Montana and fiery Asian food. (Meaning, they serve both, and they do it very well.) In 2024, Chef Lee was a James Beard Foundation Nominee for Best Chef in the Rocky Mountain Region. While you are there, be sure to stop at the Fishtail General Store!



And finally, in Edgar, Montana, the Edgar Bar is popular year-round (be sure to make reservations). If you stroll to the edge of town, you'll find Fordhenge, a 16-car Ford art installation that will surely bring a smile.

We hope you enjoy exploring our backroads and restaurants as much as we do!