This Awesome Restaurant is Easily Montana’s Most Famous

Montana is home to a wealth of incredible restaurants, but unless you live here, chances are you haven’t heard of most of them. A handful have gained national recognition, and some have earned their reputation simply by standing the test of time.

Montana's Most Famous Restaurant

In my experience, some of the best meals in Montana are found in the most unexpected places such as small-town diners tucked away on desolate highways, where appearances can be deceiving. It’s a reminder to never judge a restaurant by its exterior, because behind those unassuming doors, you might discover a truly unforgettable dining experience.

As someone who loves food and never misses a chance to try something new, I make it a point to explore Montana’s lesser-known eateries. One such place I stumbled upon was Buffalo Joe’s Eatery & Saloon in the tiny town of Dupuyer, Montana. On our way back from Glacier National Park, my family and I stopped in for a bite, not expecting much, but we were pleasantly surprised.

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Dupuyer is little more than a blip on the map, home to just a post office and a handful of buildings, yet Buffalo Joe’s serves up fantastic food alongside a hearty dose of small-town hospitality. If you ever find yourself passing through, I highly recommend stopping in for lunch.

What Is Montana’s Most Famous Restaurant?

Ask a dozen Montanans, and you’ll likely get a dozen different answers. However, one restaurant has been serving hungry patrons for over a century and holds a special place in Montana’s culinary history is The Montana Club.

The original Montana Club was founded in 1885 in Helena as an exclusive social club for Montana’s elite. At first, it was a men-only establishment, but it has since evolved into a well-known dining institution. The Helena location is currently being renovated with plans to reopen in 2025. The Montana Club has locations in Missoula, Billings, Great Falls, Kalispell, and Butte.

Whether or not it’s the absolute most famous restaurant in Montana is up for debate, but with its long history and deep-rooted Montana ties, it certainly ranks among the most iconic. If you're looking for a great place to eat in Montana, here are a few recommendations from the Food Network website.