When spring brings warmer days and summer nears, there’s nothing better than being outside and enjoying the sunshine. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best patios in Western Montana, making it easy for you to grab a bite, quench your thirst and relax under our big blue sky. From upscale dining on a rooftop to classic American fare lakeside, these decks are some of our favorite places.
The Keep
Delight in fine food, wine and spirits with unparalleled views of Missoula at The Keep. This fine-dining restaurant is one of our most architecturally unique settings and sits atop the South Hills with one of the most picture-perfect city views.
Plonk Missoula
If you’d rather be in the heart of downtown, head to Plonk Missoula. Known for their creative cocktails and exceptional wine list, the food is also not to be missed. Once the weather warms up, the rooftop patio is where you’ll find locals and in-the-know visitors. Set among brickwork, greenery and lights, the patio is a hidden treasure.
FINN
On the banks of the Clark Fork River in Missoula, Finn at the DoubleTree by Hilton is known for its fantastic steak, seafood and hand-tossed pizza. On the deck, sit back and relax while watching locals fly-fishing, floating the river and hiking the M.
Caffe Dolce
Hidden in Missoula’s slant streets is a popular neighborhood spot, Caffe Dolce. This vibrant restaurant has one of the most charming patios and is a great place to sit down and stay for a while. Their delicious soups, salads and sandwiches, along with meticulously created pour-over coffee, make it the place to be for breakfast and lunch. Although the restaurant was temporarily closed due to COVID-19, they plan to reopen late spring of 2021 and have added on a bakery, too!
The Raven Bar & Grill
In Woods Bay, The Raven Bar & Grill serves delicious pub grub with an international flair in a Caribbean style and festive atmosphere. Their waterfront deck has unmatched views of the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi—Flathead Lake. The cocktail menu and beer selection are largely sourced from local distilleries and breweries and are best enjoyed lakeside.
Marina Cay Resort
Down the road in Bigfork, choose between fruity cocktails, American cuisine and tacos at the Tiki Bar & Grill or the new MC Steakhouse, both waterfront at the Marina Cay Resort. The Tiki Bar & Grill sits as close to the water as you’ll get, next to Bigfork Bay marina. It’s a fun place to relax, especially on Friday and Saturday nights when there’s live music.
Allentown Restaurant
Allentown Restaurant is situated inside Ninepipes Lodge but is open to the public. It’s the ideal place to stop for lunch after a day of exploring the Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge, the Bison Range, or on your way to or from Flathead Lake. For dinner, choose from steak, seafood, pasta and more. A seat outside on the deck serves up spectacular views of the Mission Mountains set behind a private pond.
The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
Another Tiki Bar and Grill is at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake. The deck is waterfront with incredible views of Whitefish Lake, a laid-back atmosphere and food fresh off the grill. For a fine-dining experience at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake, opt for a meal on the Boat Club deck, the only lakeside restaurant on Whitefish Lake.
Casey’s Whitefish
In downtown Whitefish, check out the Sky Bar at Casey’s Whitefish. With farm-fresh and locally sourced ingredients, their food is not your average bar food. Dinner is served until sunset at the Sky Bar and the bar is open until midnight, so sit back and take in astounding views while savoring the sip.
Bonus
Other noteworthy places to wet your whistle on decks in Glacier Country include Hamilton’s Skalkaho Steakhouse, Big Eddy’s in Thompson Falls, The Stray Bullet in Ovando and Trout Creek’s Lakeside Resort. Plus keep an eye out for the 7R Bar opening soon at Missoula’s new AC Hotel.
Please note: Social distancing is required to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Thankfully, we’ve got plenty of space for social distancing activities and recreation in Western Montana. It’s vital, however, to maintain a 6-foot distance from others, even outdoors. Please be mindful of our communities and small businesses, which have had to adapt to the change and may face limitations this year—always call ahead. We’re all in this together. Take the Tourism Pledge to travel responsibly in Glacier Country.
May 24, 2021
Related: Bigfork, Charlo, Dining, Food, Hamilton, Missoula, Montana, Ovando, Thompson Falls, Trout Creek, Whitefish
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