Missoula, Montana is a small town full of culture and a thriving culinary scene. The University of Montana is also one of the primary reasons behind the improvement we’ve seen of the restaurant scene in town. Whether you’re looking to bite into traditional barbecue or try out something new, Missoula is ready to give you the best for your money. We at Roam Student Living know how difficult it can be to decide where you’ll be having your next meal, and that’s why we decided to create our own list of the best restaurants in Missoula. All you have to do is go out there and find your flavor!
The Notorious P.I.G. BBQ
The Notorious P.I.G. is the best barbecue restaurant in Missoula by a landslide. Apart from having a great environment, this restaurant’s delicious slow-cooked meat always puts people in a good mood. The owner has made it obvious that he cares about the community and wants every one of P.I.G.’s customers to experience the best barbecue in the state. It is so important in fact, that the restaurant’s staff gets up early around 3 a.m. to prepare its customers’ lunch. The Notorious P.I.G. is an excellent spot to check out in a small group and enjoy a fusion of the best flavors, rubs, and sauces, outside of your grandpappy’s secret family recipe. Just make sure you check out this spot early because once they run out of barbecue, they close!
Restaurant Style: Barbecue
Location: 247 W Front St, Missoula, MT 59802
Restaurant Hours
- Tuesday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 8 a.m.
- Sunday: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Monday: Closed
Perks
- Outdoor Seating
Local Favorites
- Pastrami
- Ribs
- Tri-Tip Sirloin
Tips & Tricks
Lunch and dinner times tend to be the busiest times of the day at Notorious P.I.G. Try heading over to the spot around 3 p.m. if you’re looking to avoid customer traffic. It’ll also give you a better chance of getting a larger table in case you go in a group.
Bridge Pizza
We couldn’t forget to include the best pizza restaurant in Missoula. Bridge Pizza works closely with other local businesses to craft the freshest pies you’ll find in town. This restaurant also serves some great burritos, hot sandwiches, and pastas for a twist. You’ll also be able to enjoy the gourmet slices of pizza along with your choice of great microbrews or wine. You can always expect a great environment filled with college students and lifelong locals that lighten Bridge Pizza’s mood.
Restaurant Style: Pizza
Location: 600 S Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59801
Restaurant Hours
- Monday – Sunday: 11 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Perks
- Alcoholic Selections
- Happy Hour Food
- Vegetarian Options
Local Favorites
- Brooklyn Pizza
- Buckhouse Pizza
- Chicken Wings
- Maclay Pizza
Tips & Tricks
Bridge Pizza is most popular during dinner time because of the specials. You can always stop by the grub spot earlier in the day if you’re looking for a quick bite.
Paul’s Pancake Parlor
Paul’s Pancake Parlor isn’t just a great breakfast spot, it’s one of Missoula’s favorite restaurants. It features high-quality, large portion, low cost food and beverages that everyone in the community loves. You’ll find over 15 different pancake recipes that will satisfy your morning cravings. Paul’s also features omelets, crepes, and waffles in case you’re craving something different. Paul’s isn’t just a breakfast spot, the restaurant also serves up some classic American foods for lunch and dinner. You can have some cheeseburgers and fries, or order some of the delicious soups on the menu. Whether you go in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’ll love the amazing prices and large portions Paul’s has to offer.
Restaurant Style: Pancakes/Breakfast
Location: 2305 Brooks St, Missoula, MT 59801
Restaurant Hours
- Monday – Friday: 6 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Saturday & Sunday: 6:30 a.m. – 4 p.m
Perks
- Vegetarian Selections
Local Favorites
- Blueberry Pancakes
- Cheese Omelettes
- French Toast
Tips & Tricks
Of course, Paul’s is usually busy during breakfast and lunch times. The customer traffic usually starts to decrease afterwards which makes it easier for you to get a better table and a bit more privacy if you want. No matter what, you’ll always find a friendly atmosphere and large food portions.
Top Hat
Top Hat is the best restaurant in Missoula where you’ll find some fun Montana entertainment and amazing food. From the food to the decor, Top Hat always takes care of its customers right and gives them the most for their buck. The food is always amazing and From acoustic to jazz, Top Hat is known for always having some of the best live music entertainers for dinner throughout the week. Top Hat also has trivia nights and family-friendly nights on Fridays for everyone to socialize and dance to some great music.
Restaurant Style: Gastropub
Location: 134 W Front St, Missoula, MT 59802
Restaurant Hours
- Monday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Perks
- Alcohol Selections
- Happy Hour Drinks
- Happy Hour Food
- Live Music
Local Favorites
- Burgers
- Homemade Tater Tots
Tips & Tricks
We suggest you do your best to arrive early before a music show during dinner time. You’ll be able to enjoy your meal accompanied by some of the best live entertainers in the city. Even if you can’t find time to make it to the live music, try out the unique burgers if you’re looking for something that will fill you up.
Five on Black
This great Brazilian restaurant in Missoula knows how to mix great flavors to share its happiness in a bowl. Every meal served at Five on Black is gluten-free and contributes to a healthy heart diet. Five on Black is also a growing food chain that serves all of its food at affordable prices for the community to enjoy. All of the bowls are customizable and bring a small taste of the South American culture to Missoula. The restaurant’s setup has a modern feel and is a great spot for you to enjoy a meal with your friends.
Restaurant Style: Brazilian Restaurant
Location: 325 N Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59802
Restaurant Hours
- Monday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Sunday: Closed
Perks
- Outdoor Seating
- Vegetarian Selections
Local Favorites
- All Bowls
- Cheese Bread
Tips & Tricks
Don’t hold back on your bowls and make sure you get a healthy portion of all the grains, greens, and proteins you can get. If you take your food to go, we recommend that you have a beer to perfect your meal. You can also ask to taste the locally-made sodas before you buy anything if you’re tired of the industrial products.
Market on Front
Apart from being one of the best restaurants in Missoula, Market on Front is includes an artisan grocery store and coffee shop. Every product used by Market on Front is sourced locally to provide customers with the highest quality possible. Locally sourcing also allows the restaurant to provide affordable products. From burritos to breakfast toast, you’ll find a little bit of everything on the menu, making it a little easier for you to satisfy your cravings.
Restaurant Style: American Restaurant
Location: 201 E Front St, Missoula, MT 59802
Restaurant Hours
- Monday – Friday: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Saturday: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Sunday: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Perks
- Alcohol Selections
- Catering
- Outdoor Seating
- Vegetarian Selections
Local Favorites
- Coffee
- Cuban Sub
- Fruity Bird Sub
- Pastas
- Wine
Tips & Tricks
Early mornings and afternoons are the best times to stop by Market on Front if you’re looking to avoid customer traffic during lunch. Market on Front also has occasional specials so we suggest you follow them on Facebook if you don’t want to miss out!