Written by Lauren Hillestad
Whether you're a local or simply visiting, it's easy to make downtown Missoula your go-to for every meal. Breweries, restaurants, food trucks and more offer convenient dining options around every corner. But if you never venture off the beaten path you will miss out on some of the best eats in Missoula. We took a break from downtown living and explored Missoula to find some of our favorite restaurants off the beaten path—check it out!
We love the buzz of downtown life in Missoula, but it feels great to take a breath and slow things down. Florabella sits on Brooks Street just minutes from downtown, and offers a relaxed atmosphere nestled among towering trees in a charming neighborhood. When the weather is nice they open up their patio for a morning coffee or casual lunch break in the sun. As the sun starts to set, Florabella transforms into a date-night destination, complete with a delicious Italian dinner menu.
When you find the perfect deli, you go back time and time again. Make your way out past the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula and you'll find The Trough and adjoining market, The Olde Dairy. Locally sourced goods, a great craft beer and wine selection, and a hearty deli menu make for the perfect pre-picnic pitstop.
You don't want to make the mistake of sticking downtown every time you grab a beer, or you'll miss out on some of Missoula's best breweries. Bayern Brewing is an especially unique destination for craft beer enthusiasts, with top quality lagers and ales inspired by Bavaria, Germany, where the owner and masterbrewer was born and raised. If you're looking for a bite to eat with your next pint, Bayern dishes up Bavarian-inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
The Patio at Rattlesnake Market is a cozy neighborhood restaurant located in the scenic Rattlesnake Valley just outside of downtown Missoula. It serves thoughtfully prepared American-style fare with bistro flair—think steak frites, fresh seafood, burgers and seasonal specials—alongside local beer, wine and a relaxed patio setting that locals love!
Updated: 2/4/26
