Whether you are a beef burger believer or a plant-based patty promoter, Missoula's restaurants, cafes, dives and bistros are ready to serve up the burger of your dreams. We are talking juicy, saucy, local and flavorful. Check out our selections of favorite burgers in Missoula.
Wally & Buck started out as a food truck and is now a full service storefront in downtown Missoula. Their growth and success is tied to the fact that the serve up some seriously delicious burgers. The beef patties come from the local Oxbow Cattle Company, and the produce is as local and seasonal as possible. They also have a rotating selection of fries with unique flavors.
You truly cannot go wrong with the food at Top Hat, and their burgers are no exception. Top Hat sources their beef from Mannix Family Ranch, and all burger selections have creative and tasty sauce options, like raspberry chipotle BBQ sauce and garlic aioli. Be sure to get tots as your side... they (almost) steal the show!
Located on Missoula's Hip Strip, Flipper's has an incredibly loyal following thanks, in large part, to the burgers that are consistently reviewed as "unbeatable" for the price. Flipper's is a locals-only kind of dive that also features ice-cold beer, crispy fries, quick and friendly service and video-casino machines.
For a steakhouse, 1889 grills up a truly unique and mouthwatering burger. Using Bitterroot Bison meat, the burger also features local Daily's bacon and jalapeno jam, gorgonzola cheese, pickled red onion, arugula and garlic aioli on an artisan bun. Pair it with a house-made cocktail or wine from their extensive list, and enjoy alongside one of their sized-to-share sides.
When you are looking to keep it simple and delicious, the Missoula Club is your one stop shop. They have been serving up the same burger recipe since 1890, and you have a few basic decisions to make: single, double or triple, and cheese or no cheese. Other than that, the menu is the classic burger, bagged chips, and beer and cocktails. This is the kind of spot you to kick back and watch the game while throwing peanut shells on the ground. A Missoula classic.
Conflux Brewing Company is more than craft beers—they also have a great menu with awesome burgers. Choose from local Oxbow beef, Bitterroot Bison, or a vegan patty. All options come with toppings and your choice of side. We recommend ordering the poutinized tots and a flight of brews.
Rattlesnake Market & Cafe is a darling gem located up Rattlesnake Drive towards the Rattlesnake Recreation Area. The cafe is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday-Saturday and also features a weekend breakfast. The menu features three burger options: a beef patty from Oxbow Cattle Company, an Impossible Vegetarian Burger, and a weekly burger special.
The Trough and the Olde Dairy are located out of town on Missoula's south end. This quaint cafe is housed in a gas station and convenience store, but don't let that fool you. The rustic atmosphere features solid wood booths and exposed brick, and the menu is extensive. They have five burgers on the menu ranging from a classic cheeseburger to a green chili bison option. Pop in for brunch on Saturday and Sunday and enjoy $2 mimosas.
Burns Street Bistro is located on Missoula's north side and is open for breakfast and lunch. Their menu rotates seasonally, but local burgers are always featured. Choose from a selection of lunch options, or on weekends, opt for their brunch burger, unique and delicious take on the classic burger with a breakfast twist.
Are sliders burgers? We know—it is a contentious topic. That is why we have decided to offer up James Bar's sliders as a great bonus options to accompany Missoula's impressive burger scene. Their "mini gourmet burgers" feature lamb, lobster, bison, beef or vegetarian falafel options. Be sure to get a side order of the sweet potato tots, too, or order a half and half sweet potato fries and regular fries cone. Their dipping sauces are pretty killer too—we recommend the mango ketchup!
(Featured image courtesy of Top Hat/Logjam Presents. Photo by Neubauer Media)
