17 Amazing Kalispell Restaurants You Have to Check Out

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Don’t miss these Kalispell restaurants when you’re looking for a bite to eat!

Growing up in Kalispell meant that I got pretty good at finding Kalispell restaurants that I loved. When I was recently back in town, I had a great time checking out some of my old favorites as well as some of the newer options available. As the town gets bigger and bigger, there have been a whole bunch of new additions that have elevated the food game in the area. If you are planning on spending time in the area, these are the spots you are going to want to make sure to check out!

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Kalispell restaurants you need to try

Here’s where you should go in order to try the best Kalispell restaurants–don’t miss these on a Montana road trip!

1. Hops Downtown Grill

121 S Main St

+1 406 755-7687

A Kalispell, Montana staple, Hops Downtown Grill has been among the “places to eat in Kalispell” lineup for decades. Boasting a rustic yet refined menu, Hops (as the locals call it) offers gourmet burgers with unique proteins like bison and elk and appetizers featuring duck wings.

And, if you’re feeling like a little extra aspect of Montana, try the “Hops Huckleberry Burger.” With a compote of local huckleberries, you’ll feel like you just made a trip up on your Glacier National Park itinerary and picked the berries yourself.

No matter if you’re feeling adventurous and wanting to try local yak, or wanting a tried and true, gourmet and delicious burger, Hops has a dish for any type. They even offer a delicious crimson lentil & quinoa burger!

If you’re in downtown Kalispell, I absolutely recommend Hops. Just be sure to call and make a reservation as this is a smaller venue and fills up quickly!

Best for:

✅ Burgers

✅ Location

✅ Beer

2. Scotty’s Bar

2205 U.S. 93 S

+1 406 257-8188

A local favorite among Kalispell restaurants, Scotty’s Bar is one of the most genuine “Kalispell” places to get a bite to eat. Although their menu may appear as common bar food, the execution of their food is spot on – with a comforting grilled taste and massive portions!

The staff is super welcoming, and even if you’ve never been there before, they’ll make you feel as though you’ve lived in the area your entire life.

And, if you’re looking for fare slightly elevated by comparison to burgers, fries, and sandwiches, take a walk through their hallway to the “Winchester Steakhouse.” As a part of the building, the steakhouse functions as a finer dining experience–Montana style–here you can order a gorgeous filet, seafood, and more.

Best for:

✅ Bar food

✅ Steak

✅ Local favorite

3. Bojangles Diner

1319 U.S. Hwy 2 W

+1 406 755-3222

A common spot for breakfast food in Kalispell, MT, Bojangles Diner is a “throwback experience” to the 1950s and feels nearly like a time capsule! A common place for breakfast on the weekends, as a kid I have spent countless Sunday mornings watching the motorized train run along the perimeter of the ceiling while sipping on a strawberry milkshake.

If you’re traveling with children, or looking for a fun diner spot with 1950s dishes like a classic American breakfast, grilled cheese sandwiches, tomato soup, or a “Buddy Holly Burger,” Bojangles is a delightful experience with authentic diner food.

Best for:

✅ Breakfast

✅ Atmosphere

✅ Families

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4. Food for the Soul

011 U.S. Hwy 2 W Suite 200

+1 406 407-6191

An unassuming location and venue itself, Food for the Soul has become a new favorite local spot with a new location downtown.

This Kalispell, MT restaurant offers nitro coffee, breakfast, cold and hot sandwiches, and plates with an authentic Mexican flair.

My favorite dish at Food for the Soul is their Montana Sunrise Breakfast Burrito. With bacon, ham, sausage, eggs, potatoes and cheese, with a topping of their amazing chipotle aioli, you won’t be able to stop once you start!

Best for:

✅ Lunch

✅ Downtown

✅ Local favorite

5. The Desoto Grill

227 1st St W

+1 406 314-6095

The Desoto Grill is a newer addition among Kalispell restaurants, but has quickly risen in popularity among the younger crowds of the area. With an extensive draft beer selection, down-home cuisine, and a rockabilly atmosphere, The Desoto Grill not only is a happening spot for food, but they also host events!

Located in the heart of downtown Kalispell, The Desoto Grill has indoor and outdoor seating with the occasional live band or car show. If you’re looking for a funky stop with good Montana barbecue, craft beer, and outdoor seating, The Desoto Grill should be at the top of your list!

Best for:

✅ Atmosphere

✅ Outdoor seating

✅ Home-cooked

6. The Knead Cafe

21 5th St E

+1 406 755-3883

The history behind The Knead Cafe is somewhat unusual for Kalispell restaurants and has generated quite a buzz in the past few years. Originally The Knead, under new ownership ten years ago, The Knead transitioned into The Rising Sun Bistro.

If that sounds familiar, that could be because it was featured on the Food Network’s Restaurant: Impossible! Although The Rising Sun Bistro struggled among other restaurants in Kalispell, MT, its transition back to The Knead has been a successful one and is one of the best restaurants in Kalispell for breakfast, brunch, and lunch.

Best for:

✅ Breakfast

✅ Local favorite

✅ Brunch

7. Brannigan’s Pub

101 East Center Street

+1 406 393-2418

Stop by Brannigan’s Pub (or “Brans” as some locals call it) for an immersive Irish experience. Whether you’re in the mood for pub fare, a Smithwick’s, or a lively atmosphere, Brannigan’s is the perfect spot.

If you’re looking for a pub-style environment that’s nearly always packed with locals, the main bar area on the first floor is a great spot to strike up a conversation with the local at the barstool next to you. But, if you’re more in the mood for a quieter atmosphere, head up the stairs to their authentic loft that also boasts a full bar but less rowdy crowd. And, if you’re planning on hosting an event, they even offer a secluded library area with full service. This is a great spot for big groups or parties!

Brannigans is a great pub to enjoy a Shepherd’s Pie, meet some locals, and drink Irish beer. And, if you’re traveling with your pooch, they even allow pets on their outside deck area! As one of the more friendly and authentic-themed restaurants in Kalispell, Brannigan’s is a must on the list.

Best for:

✅ Beer

✅ Pub food

✅ Downtown

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8. Sykes Diner and Market

202 2nd Ave W

+1 406 257-4304

Serving the community of Kalispell for over 100 years, Sykes Diner and Market is an absolute must when visiting Kalispell. The diner serves down-home breakfast, hot and cold sandwiches, classic diner food, and desserts. And, when you order breakfast from the restaurant, you’ll always get a cup of coffee for 10 cents; the same way that it has been since 1914. Just keep in mind, their restaurant is almost always packed.

If you’re running a little short on time, stop inside the entrance of Sykes where they serve coffee, sandwiches, wraps, and panini. When Sykes Diner says that “nobody goes away a stranger,” they mean it. With some of the best food and service in Kalispell, it’s no wonder Sykes has been a community staple for over 100 years.

Best for:

✅ Breakfast

✅ Desserts

✅ Local favorite

9. Moose’s Saloon

173 N Main St

+1 406 755-2337

Truly the “Crown Jewel” of the area, and one of the best restaurants in Kalispell, MT, Moose’s Saloon isn’t renowned for its class, elevated dishes, or sophisticated atmosphere. And that’s why we love it.

With sawdust covered floors, names of locals and visitors over the past 60 years carved into the walls, the most genuine bartender in the city, Frank, and the best dang pizza you’ve ever had in your life, Moose’s has rightly earned the title of “world famous.”

The moment you step inside Moose’s Saloon, you’ll feel as though you’ve lived in Kalispell and have been visiting Moose’s for dinner on a Friday night your entire life. With an impressive draft beer selection, peanuts to snack on while you wait for your pizza, amazing sandwiches, and pizza options with any topping you could ever think of, you’ll be dreaming of Moose’s pizza long after your trip to Kalispell concludes.

Moose’s offers dine-in, pizza for pickup, and even a drive-thru. Finally accepting credit cards, when you call in to Moose’s, you’ll be greeted on the phone by a recording of Moose Miller’s voice, forever keeping the history of Moose’s Saloon alive.

Best for:

✅ Pizza

✅ Beer

✅ Local favorite

10. Chi Cafe

264 N Main St #100

+1 406 407-7707

Kalispell food options were once lacking when it came to Vietnamese cuisine, but since the addition of Chi Cafe, locals are now able to enjoy authentic, delicious dishes like Vietnamese Bahn Mi, pork sandwiches, boba, chai, and fruit tea.

Making organic and fresh ingredients their staple, everything that they serve is homemade and healthy. With a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere, Chi Cafe is a wonderful spot to set up your laptop, enjoy a bubble tea, and catch your breath before a busy day.

Best for:

✅ Vietnamese

✅ Downtown

✅ Organic

11. Bonelli’s Bistro

38 1st Ave E Suite C

+1 406 257-8669

A nice little slice of Italy in downtown Kalispell, Bonelli’s Bistro has fresh, healthy, and tasty Italian fare. A common favorite among those who work downtown, Bonelli’s is fast, refreshing, and a great spot for lunch. Whether you’re looking for something lighter like the Insalata Tonno, or a heartier, southern Italian-style sandwich like a meatball sub, Bonelli’s is a great spot among Kalispell restaurants for a healthy, authentic, and delicious meal.

And, if you’ve had an early start to your day, Bonelli’s also serves breakfast from eight in the morning until eleven in the afternoon. With tasty options like quiche, Italian sausage skillet, and scrambles (among many other options), this bistro is a great place to start your day off right.

Best for:

✅ Italian

✅ Downtown

✅ Lunch

12. Blue Samurai Sushi Bar & Grill

23 S Main St

+1 406 890-2583

Relatively new to the lineup of Kalispell restaurants, Blue Samurai Sushi Bar & Grill was an absolutely welcomed addition to sushi lovers of the area. Before Blue Samurai, the closest place to get quality sushi was a twenty minute drive south from Kalispell to Bigfork or a twenty minute drive north from Kalispell to Whitefish.

Blue Samurai’s atmosphere is authentic and immersive with exceptional staff. If you sit at the bar, you can watch their talented sushi chef Rick prepare your sushi. And, if you’re nice, he may even let you in on the best specials of the night.

Whether you prefer plated seafood like salmon or filet mignon, or are a sashimi lover like me, Blue Samurai covers all bases of a Sushi Bar and Grill and covers them well. If you are a sushi lover, I strongly recommend the Surf & Turf roll. It’s the absolute best of both worlds!

Best for:

✅ Sushi

✅ Downtown

✅ Dinner

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13. Heck’s Kitchen

409 1st Ave E

+1 406 730-3020

Located inside of Bias Brewery, Heck’s Kitchen is a great place to grab some tasty brewery fare from their on-site kitchen. Pizza, bowls, burritos, pub nachos, sandwiches, soup, and kids’ meals are some of the staples of Heck’s Kitchen. They really do offer something for absolutely everyone!

Opened not long ago in 2018, Bias Brewing has grown into a common hang out spot for the younger community of Kalispell with great beer and even better food from Heck’s Kitchen. As an all-electric brewery and kitchen (and one of the very few in the state), Heck’s Kitchen gives back to the community of Kalispell by donating over $50,000 to local nonprofits, while providing excellent food, beer, and atmosphere.

Best for:

✅ Beer

✅ Downtown

✅ Unique dishes

14. Scottibelli’s Ristorante Italian

302 S Main St

+1 406 890-7800

An authentic, family owned and operated ristorante italiano in Kalispell, MT, Scottibelli’s is a fun trip to southern Italy.

With dishes ranging from pizza and calzones to gnocchi and linguine, Scottibelli’s southern Italian charm shines through in every dish. The menu is carefully crafted by Head Chef Watson Taylor to offer an authentic Italian meal from start to finish.

When dining at Scottibelli’s Ristorante Italian, you’ll not only feel as though you’ve been transported to Italy, owner Renato and his daughter Gabriela will make you feel like family as well.

Best for:

✅ Italian

✅ Downtown

✅ Wines

15. Bonjour Bakery

45 Heritage Way

+1 406 309-2961

One of the cutest bakeries in Kalispell, Bonjour Bakery serves light fare such as croissants, soups, salads, and cupcakes. Executive Chef Mario Valdez of the Flathead Valley and his partner Chris Reynolds own Bonjour Bakery and have truly transformed and elevated what was once a much smaller scale and less popular bakery.

Chef Valdez was formally trained in New York City’s esteemed International Culinary Institute and brings his Argentinean flair to Bonjour Bakery, making this spot truly a unique facet of the area.

Best for:

✅ Desserts

✅ Salads

✅ Coffee

16. Alley Connection

22 1st St W

+1 406 752-7077

A long time resident among Kalispell restaurants, Alley Connection is the number one stop for locals looking for authentic Chinese. Also located in downtown Kalispell, Alley Connection integrates Chinese decor with the industrial nature of the downtown area, creating an immersive, yet familiar experience.

Food is always delivered quickly, fresh to order, and is downright delicious. If you’re looking for a quicker lunch, or the best Chinese takeout during your stay in Kalispell, I absolutely recommend Alley Connection. “Kiet’s Lunch” is a common fan favorite for lunch and their Ginger Beef absolutely hits the spot for dinner. If you are planning on staying in some of the Kalispell hotels downtown, this is the perfect spot to eat!

Best for:

✅ Asian

✅ Downtown

✅ Service

17. Buffalo Hill Golf Club

1176 N Main St

+1 406 756-4551

Newly renovated and under new management, Buffalo Hill Golf Course is the newest top spot for lunch and dinner among Kalispell restaurants. With the addition of a full patio off of the clubhouse, an outdoor tiki bar, and frequent live music, Buffalo Hill Golf Course has one of the best outdoor atmospheres in Kalispell.

The chef has recently updated the course’s menu, with hearty breakfasts and elevated wraps, sandwiches, soups, and salads for lunch. And, during the summer months, Buffalo Hill Golf Course hosts a barbecue every Friday from five to eight in the evening with rotating entrees like prime rib, salmon, filet and more. It’s also one of the best things to do in Kalispell, MT that I would recommend.

Whether you’re looking for a fun atmosphere to grab some lunch and hit some golf balls, or for a beautiful dinner featuring sophisticated dishes, Buffalo Hill Golf Course will be sure to provide.

Best for:

✅ Lunch

✅ Outdoor seating

✅ Live music

Where to stay in Kalispell, MT

If you want easy access to a number of the things to do in the Flathead Valley and Kalispell restaurants, then here are a few places I recommend staying at. Check these out for your trip to Kalispell!

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⭐BEST FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS: TRAVELODGE KALISPELL⭐

⭐BEST FOR COUPLES: KALISPELL GRAND⭐

⭐BEST FOR FAMILIES: RED LION INN KALISPELL⭐

⭐BEST FOR INSTAGRAM: DESTINY LANE HIDEAWAY⭐

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Conclusion: the best restaurants in Kalispell

The vibrant culinary scene in Kalispell perfectly complements the outdoor adventures offered by the surrounding Flathead Valley. With a diverse array of restaurants showcasing local flavors, farm-to-table ingredients, and dishes inspired by global cuisines, Kalispell’s dining options will satisfy the appetites of even the most discerning foodies.

Have you ever made it to any of these Kalispell restaurants? Let me know in the comments!

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