Missoula’s food scene mirrors its outdoorsy spirit: creative, ingredient-driven, and proudly local.
You’ll find wood-fired kitchens, cozy bakeries, and community-minded breweries that anchor the city’s vibrant downtown.
The Notorious P.I.G.
BBQ Midwestern-style smoke with Montana swagger, The Notorious P.I.G. turns out tender brisket, peppery pastrami, and pulled pork that needs only a nudge of sauce.
Sides matter here—creamy corn bake, tangy slaw, and smoky beans—and portions walk the line between generous and “better share.”
It’s casual, counter-service, and quick enough for a post-hike refuel.
Scotty’s Table
Tucked into the historic Wilma building, Scotty’s Table is Missoula’s elegant-but-approachable staple.
The menu shifts with the seasons, showcasing local produce, responsibly sourced meats, and thoughtful pasta.
Expect dishes like pan-seared trout with herb butter, roasted carrots with labneh and dukkah, and house-made tagliatelle.
The wine list is curated, the service is polished, and the river-adjacent setting feels special.
The Catalyst Café
A breakfast and lunch institution, The Catalyst thrives on scratch-made everything: thick-cut toast, robust coffee, and egg scrambles that actually taste like eggs.
The Garden City Hash layers crispy potatoes with veggies, bacon or sausage, and a perfectly runny egg, while the gluten-free options are legitimately good, not afterthoughts.
It’s a cozy, bustling room with friendly service and zero pretense.
Tamarack Brewing Company
A lively brewpub with a prime downtown perch, Tamarack serves straightforward, satisfying pub fare alongside a wide slate of house beers.
The nachos are colossal and engineered to avoid sog, wings are juicy with creative sauces, and the fish and chips hold a satisfying crunch.
Grab an IPA flight, snag a booth, and watch the world go by—especially fun on Griz game days.
Five on Black
Fast-casual done right, Five on Black builds Brazilian-inspired bowls that are fresh, filling, and customizable.
Start with coconut rice or greens, add feijoada or grilled chicken, layer on vinaigrette slaw, farofa, and chimichurri, then finish with malagueta sauce if you like some heat.
It’s quick, affordable, and proof that convenience food can still be bright and nourishing.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
