I always look forward to visiting Helena. Its wonders go beyond its captivating history and breathtaking landscapes; it’s also an adventure into a vibrant culinary realm. This charming city boasts a delightful array of restaurants, each an oasis of flavors, from heartwarming American classics to tantalizing Mediterranean delights and so much more.
From the atmosphere to the versatility of the food they offer, every detail is taken into consideration, making sure that you leave these places happy and satisfied. If you ever find yourself in this amazing place and wish for a delicious meal, here are my personal recommendations that I know will leave you speechless (and full).
1. Steve’s Cafe
Steve’s Cafe is more than just a restaurant; it’s a beloved local institution that has been serving the community for years. Known for its hearty American cuisine, Steve’s Cafe offers a menu that’s filled with classic dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The cafe’s warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with its delicious food, makes it the perfect place to start your day. Therefore, if you want to enjoy your meal someplace that feels like coming home, Steve’s Cafe is the right place for you.
| Menu Highlights | Dish Description |
|---|---|
| Huckleberry Pancakes | These aren’t your ordinary pancakes. Made from scratch and topped with fresh huckleberries, these pancakes are a sweet and tangy delight that’s sure to start your day on a high note. |
| Classic American Breakfast | This dish is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. Perfectly cooked eggs, crispy bacon, and golden toast served with a generous side of hash browns – it’s the quintessential American breakfast that never goes out of style. |
2. Lucca’s
Lucca’s is where the heart of Italy meets the soul of Montana. This high-end Italian restaurant offers a dining experience that’s both sophisticated and intimate. With a menu that changes seasonally, Lucca’s brings the authentic flavors of Italy to Helena, using the freshest ingredients to create dishes that are as beautiful to look at as they are delicious to eat.
Menu Highlights
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Pasta alla Carbonara | This traditional Italian dish is a symphony of flavors. Made with pancetta, egg, and Parmesan, the Pasta alla Carbonara at Lucca’s is creamy, rich, and utterly satisfying. |
| Osso Buco | The Osso Buco at Lucca’s is a testament to the art of slow cooking. The veal shank is cooked to perfection, resulting in meat that’s tender and flavorful. Served with a side of creamy risotto, this dish is a true Italian classic. |
3. Mediterranean Grill
This restaurant offers a blend of Mediterranean, Greek, and Middle Eastern cuisine, this restaurant is a must-visit for lovers of fresh, flavorful food. The dishes at the Mediterranean Grill are vibrant and colorful, reflecting the rich cultures they originate from.
Each bite transports you to a different part of the Mediterranean, making dining at this restaurant a truly immersive experience.
Menu Highlights
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Moussaka | This layered dish is a staple in Greek cuisine. Made with eggplant, potato, and spiced meat, and topped with a creamy béchamel sauce, the Moussaka at the Mediterranean Grill is a comforting and hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. |
| Falafel Platter | The Falafel Platter at the Mediterranean Grill is a feast for the senses. The falafels are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and are served with creamy hummus, fresh salad, and warm pita bread. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the best of Middle Eastern cuisine. |
4. On Broadway
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On Broadway is a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Helena. This restaurant offers a unique blend of Italian and American cuisines, creating a menu that’s both familiar and exciting. The ambiance at On Broadway is elegant yet cozy, making it the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
With its outstanding pasta dishes and a selection of fine wines, the restaurant offers a dining experience that’s truly memorable.
Menu Highlights
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Lobster Ravioli | This dish is a seafood lover’s dream. The ravioli is filled with succulent lobster meat and served in a creamy sauce. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. |
| Grilled Ribeye Steak | The Grilled Ribeye Steak at On Broadway is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. The steak is cooked to your liking and served with a side of roasted vegetables. It’s a classic dish that’s executed perfectly. |
5. Brewhouse Pub & Grill
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The Brewhouse Pub & Grill is where good food and great beer come together. This restaurant offers a wide range of American dishes, from juicy burgers to succulent steaks, all of which can be paired with a beer from their extensive selection.
With its laid-back atmosphere and excellent service, the Brewhouse Pub & Grill is the perfect place to unwind after a long day.
Menu Highlights
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Brewhouse Burger | This isn’t your average burger. The Brewhouse Burger is a towering creation of juicy beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, all sandwiched between two perfectly toasted buns. |
| Beer-Battered Fish and Chips | The Beer-Battered Fish and Chips at the Brewhouse Pub & Grill is a crowd favorite. The fish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the chips are perfectly golden and crunchy. |
6. Silver Star Steak Company
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This restaurant is a haven for meat lovers. This restaurant specializes in steaks, offering a variety of cuts that are cooked to perfection. The ambiance at the Silver Star Steak Company is upscale yet comfortable, making it a great place for celebrating a special occasion or a fancy night out.
Its high-quality steaks and excellent service provide a dining experience that’s truly top-notch.
Menu Highlights
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Ribeye Steak | The Ribeye Steak at the Silver Star Steak Company is a meat lover’s dream. The steak is cooked to your liking and served with a side of roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes. |
| Surf and Turf | This dish offers the best of both worlds. A succulent steak is paired with juicy grilled shrimp, creating a combination that’s truly irresistible. |
7. Schooners Bar And Grill
Schooners Bar And Grill is a delightful blend of Italian and American cuisines, offering a dining experience that’s both familiar and novel. With its stunning views and exceptional service, Schooners is a place where every meal feels like a celebration.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty pasta dish or a classic American burger, you will enjoy it, trust me.
Menu Highlights
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Seafood Linguini | A medley of fresh seafood tossed with linguini in a light, flavorful sauce. It’s a dish that brings the taste of the sea right to your table. |
| Grilled Chicken Sandwich | A juicy grilled chicken breast served on a toasted bun with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy sauce. It’s a simple dish, but one that’s packed with flavor. |
8. Cafe Zydeco
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Cafe Zydeco – a slice of the South in the heart of Montana. This restaurant specializes in Cajun and Creole cuisine, offering dishes that are bursting with flavor. From spicy jambalaya to creamy gumbo, Cafe Zydeco brings the vibrant tastes of Louisiana to Helena.
The restaurant offers lively atmosphere and authentic food, which makes a visit to Cafe Zydeco feel like a mini vacation to the South.
Menu Highlights
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Shrimp Po’ Boy | A classic Southern sandwich, the Shrimp Po’ Boy features crispy fried shrimp served on a soft roll with lettuce, tomatoes, and a spicy sauce. |
| Chicken and Sausage Gumbo | This hearty soup is a staple of Cajun cuisine. Made with chicken, sausage, and a mix of vegetables, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. |
9. Ristorante Bella Roma
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This place is where you can experience the true flavors of Italy in Helena. This high-end Italian restaurant offers a menu that’s filled with classic dishes, each prepared with the freshest ingredients.
Ristorante Bella Roma is very elegant and romantic, which makes it the perfect place for couples and a date night. This will make your night even more magical.
Menu Highlights
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Fettuccine Alfredo | A classic Italian dish, the Fettuccine Alfredo at Ristorante Bella Roma is creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious. |
| Osso Buco | This traditional Italian dish features a slow-cooked veal shank served with a side of creamy risotto. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress. |
FAQs:
What is the price range of these restaurants?
The price range varies from restaurant to restaurant, with some being more upscale (like Lucca’s and Silver Star Steak Company) and others being more moderately priced (like Steve’s Cafe and Mediterranean Grill).
What are the payment options?
Most restaurants accept major credit cards and cash, but it’s best to check with the individual place for specific details.
What are the parking options?
Parking options vary by restaurant and location. Some may have private lots, while others may rely on street parking or nearby public lots. It’s best to check with the individual restaurant for specific details.
Which restaurants in Helena are considered cheap eats?
There are several places in Helena that are considered cheap eats. Suds Hut Famous Chicken and Pizza Ranch are a couple of examples.
Do they have a dress code?
Dress codes vary by restaurant. While most casual and moderately priced restaurants do not have a formal dress code, upscale places may require business casual or formal attire.
Final Thoughts
The next time you find yourself in Helena, Montana, be sure to check out these restaurants. Each one offers a unique culinary experience that reflects the city’s diverse food culture.
Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, Helena’s top restaurants of 2023 have something to offer for every palate. Bon Appétit!
