We're getting close to patio season in Montana, but even before we reach that time of year there's still eat-indoors-with-a-view season, which could arguably last all year long.

But eating inside or outside with a view, when that view is water, is usually most enjoyable the closer you get to summer and summer is quickly approaching.

Here are nine waterside restaurants to give you those summer feels in western Montana.

Finn Restaurant

Possibly Missoula's most famous waterfront restaurant, Finn has gorgeous views of the Clark Fork River that can be enjoyed from the patio or inside the restaurant.

Allentown Restaurant

At the Ninepipe's Lodge near Ronan, Montana this restaurant looks out over a pond with views of the Mission Mountains, too. The view is idyllic and serene.

Lindey's Prime Steak House

Located on the banks of Seeley Lake, they're known as "The Place for Steak" but you'll love all of the food and the view.

Falling Waters Bar and Grill, Kwataqnuk Resort & Casino

This resort located in Polson offers an expansive view of Flathead Lake. You'll find the restaurants packed with locals and tourists alike.

The Raven Bar

You can get much closer to the water than The Raven in Woods Bay near Big Fork, Montana. They have a dock right next to the restaurant so you can paddle over from another part of the lake for a bite and then paddle back to where you came from. And if you need a little vicarious living, you can always view their live webcam.

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The Sitting Duck

Also in Big Fork, this Bar, and Grill has the distinction of being one of the oldest bars in Big Fork and also has a place for your boat when you arrive. Not to mention, two levels of outdoor dining.

Saddlehorn Station

This establishment is evolving and according to their website, the latest iteration features weekly food trucks while the permanent building is now home to the Old Faithful Watering Hole. Of course, the whole thing is on the lake, so you're waterside either way.

Boat Club at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Another fantastic lake, Whitefish Lake, offers more incredible water views and fine dining, or for more casual accommodations try the Boat Club Bar or the Tiki Bar & Grill.

The Edge Restaurant

The Edge Restaurant in Hamilton Montana sits near the Bitterroot River and has a patio that has fantastic water and mountain views.

Honorable Mentions

While these Missoula restaurants don't exactly have water views, they are water-adjacent, so we're including them as honorable mentions.

  • Tamarack Brewing
  • Michi Ramen Bar
  • Scotty's table
  • Brasserie Porte Rouge

Do you have a favorite waterside restaurant in western Montana that we missed? Send us a message on our app.

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