Butte Beat: Exclusively Explore One of Montana’s Favorite Chains

BUTTE, MT - Why do restaurant chains—historically-speaking—have a negative connotation? Equivalent to someone mentioning one of America's favorite (but soul-sucking) department store chains: they're necessary, they're useful, and they're cheap, but talking about them to someone else almost always garners a look of slight disgust. To be honest, I've been there. On both sides. I've been the guy professing how "they have a God-awful restroom" and that I "only go there because it was a work lunch," while following it up with a "but they have a sick happy hour and, honestly, like, some pretty decent food." I've also been the guy who judges that other guy with a harsh lack of self-awareness.

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The place I'm talking about today has successfully challenged these misconceptions about chain restaurants, except the happy hour part. They do have a pretty sweet happy hour. However, they also offer a different environment then what we may be used to; not only from location-to-location but also their atmosphere and undying dedication to local pride of wherever location their building seemingly decided to fall on, probably sent from the food Gods themselves. Can you guess what I'm going on about? Hint: it's owned by two longtime friends and work partners and they're great guys. And it opened in 2008.

That's right, I'm talking about the Montana Club. Serving multiple locations across—and the name gives it away—Montana, the Montana Club is a chain restaurant that honestly doesn't feel like a chain. And you can trust me: I have family in Southern California, the Sacred Land for chain restaurants. But how can these guys do it so differently, so unique, that I was possessed to write such a glowing piece about a Montana staple?

I'll be happy to tell you! Let's start with the food, naturally. I've had a few dishes from the 'straunt already, but I must say that they kill it in the sandwich department. Don't believe me? Maybe you'll believe Chandel, the General Manager of the Butte location who was nice enough to sit down with me and let me ask her amateur questions. Chandel, who's worked with the company since 2011 and worked herself all the way up, told me that the Grilled Turkey, Bacon & Avocado sandwich was her favorite. She was nervous the answer was too basic. She was wrong. There's nothing to be embarrassed about when it comes to sticking with the classics. That's why I literally only listen to Neil Young and no one wants to hang out with me.

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Sticking with the classics they do, that cute lil' Montana Club. In fact, they take it to the next level with their previously-mentioned dedication to the history of their chosen location. With Butte, they go all out. You may have seen my article about the incredible and tasteful painting of Butte's History, but they go even further. The interior is littered with photos, artifacts, and artistic depictions—all various visions of cherished Butte memories. Stepping into the restaurant is like stepping into a time vault, of course without the dust and rats. They even have a wop chop on the menu, which I've covered previously. Yum.

Another reason for the highlight? As if you needed more. They have Lobster Fest going on Thursday (04/11/24) until Saturday (04/13/24). "What's Lobster Fest?" you may be asking. Not very bright, are you? Just kidding. "Never insult the reader," the employee handbook says. Anyway, Lobster Fest—their first since Covid times—is a lobster-themed eating event where food and staff are decked out in all things lobster, including some LIVE lobsters in the facility. No fishing gear required.

That's right, you faithful reader you. The Montana Club demolishes the historically-frustrating experience of some other chains. They throw away the cliche entryways with self-advertising posters slapped all over the windows. They pushed aside of the depressed teenaged staff, front-of-house and back. They rid of the classic chain restaurant waiting area which rivals the energy of one found at a government office. I've been there a few times now, and not ONCE did I hear a cheery rendition of a Happy Birthday song knockoff. If y'all do that though, no disrespect: I'm just hating on other's joy.

All in all, I respect the Montana Club for keeping it local, keeping it lovely, and keeping it delicious. Plus, the atmosphere feels like you're sitting in your grandparents' cabin—complete with archways, wooden beams, and a cozy fireplace. I love it. They also had, no BS, some of the best service I've experienced, especially after the pandemic (which appears to have eradicated good service from most places).

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Make sure to check these guys out next time you want a good time, and especially check them out this weekend if you want lobster. And tell them Devon sent you. They'll have no idea who you're talking about.