Travelers cruising along I-15 often detour for one memorable reason: the bison burgers at The Montana Club Restaurant in Great Falls. This rustic, lodge-like American grill has earned a loyal following with hearty plates, friendly service, and prices that fit a road-trip budget. With a 4.3-star reputation and over 2,500 reviews, it’s a high-odds bet for a satisfying stop.
Here’s the definitive guide to what to order, when to go, and how to get the most from your visit.
Signature Bison Burger: Why It’s Worth the Stop
The Montana Club’s bison burger is the headliner that convinces travelers to pull off Smelter Avenue. Lean, flavorful, and Montana-proud, the patty is charbroiled to retain juiciness without the heaviness of beef. Expect classic fixings—melted cheese, crisp lettuce, tomato, and a toasted bun—with optional upgrades like smoky bacon or sautéed mushrooms.
Reviewers praise its rich, clean flavor and just-right seasoning. Pair it with fries or a house salad to balance the meal. It’s a smart order for those seeking regional taste with familiar comfort. This is the dish that makes quick pit stops become intentional returns.
Bison Alternatives: Meatloaf, Sliders, and Steakhouse Staples
Not feeling a burger? Bison still shines in alternatives like the bison meatloaf, often praised for its robust flavor and creamy sauce. The menu leans into steakhouse comfort—filet mignon, pork chops, and chicken marsala—so mixed groups can all find a fit. Sliders occasionally rotate, though experiences vary; fresh-griddled execution is key. Sides range from garlic mash to baked potatoes and salads.
Portions are generous and plated for appetite. If you’re exploring Montana flavors beyond beef, these bison and steakhouse options deliver variety while keeping the rustic theme intact.
Atmosphere and Ambiance: Cozy Lodge Vibes
Inside, The Montana Club channels a mountain-lodge feel: wood accents, warm lighting, roomy booths, and a casual bar-and-grill energy. Travelers mention it feels welcoming after long miles, with space for families and groups. It’s relaxed enough for post-hike flannels yet comfortable for a nicer dinner. Expect TVs at the bar, a mix of local chatter, and steady music that doesn’t overpower conversation.
The setting complements hearty plates and classic cocktails. Whether you’re celebrating or just refueling, the ambiance adds that Montana sense of place you’ll remember.
What to Know Before You Go: Hours, Price, and Timing
Plan around the daily 11 AM–9 PM hours to avoid a closed door, especially on quieter late evenings. Entrees typically fall in the $20–30 range, aligning with hearty portions and sit-down service. Peak times—Friday and Saturday dinner—can bring waits; call ahead to gauge the queue.
Total dining time often runs 60–90 minutes with appetizers and mains. If you’re on a road schedule, arrive early lunch or late afternoon. The Great Falls location at 907 Smelter Ave NE is just off I-15, making it an easy in-and-out for travelers chasing that bison fix.
Service Realities: What Reviews Say and How to Win Your Meal
With over 2,500 reviews, experiences vary. Many praise friendly hosts and attentive servers; others report slow ticket times during rushes. To improve odds, avoid peak dinner, ask for recommendations, and clarify doneness on burgers or steaks. If water flavor is sensitive for you, request lemon or opt for bottled soda.
Communicate promptly about issues—staff generally works to fix misfires. Most travelers report solid pacing at off-peak hours and better consistency when ordering the house specialties. A little timing strategy turns a good stop into a reliable favorite.
Pairings and Plates: Sides, Starters, and Sweet Finishes
Balance that bison burger with crispy fries, a house salad, or garlic mashed potatoes. Starters like spinach-artichoke dip and hearty soups rotate in popularity—ask which are freshest today. For steak-night vibes, the charbroiled pork chops often earn praise, while chicken marsala is a sleeper hit.
Save room for dessert if you can; crème brûlée and seasonal sweets appear, though availability varies with rushes. Cocktails and Montana beers round out the experience. Thoughtful pairing—rich mains, bright sides, and a clean-finishing drink—makes the meal feel dialed-in and road-trip memorable.
Plan Your Perfect Stop: A Sample 45-Minute Strategy
Short on time? Aim for a late-lunch window to sidestep peak dinner. Order the signature bison burger medium, add cheddar, and choose fries for speed. Pair with a local beer or iced tea, then consider a shareable dessert only if the kitchen isn’t slammed. Set a 30-minute table clock: 10 minutes to order, 15 to eat, 5 to pay.
Ask for the check with your entrees to streamline. You’ll be back on I-15 satisfied, with minimal delay—and likely plotting your next pass-through stop.