The state of Montana is rich in magnificent mountains, spectacular forests, and breathtaking plains. When confronted with the state’s stunning landscape, it’s possible to almost forget about one of its other defining characteristics: its delectable food. Our local farms and ranches provide the incredible ingredients necessary to create many of Montana’s beloved delicacies, creating a culture that prizes quality meals. I’ve compiled a list of Montana’s ten most well-known menu items, to ensure you’re getting the most out of the Treasure State’s treasured recipes.   

Bison Burger
Bison have been one of Montana’s most enduring food sources, from their significance in local Native American culture to their modern presence in many of the state’s restaurants. While this majestic animal’s meat can be found in a variety of forms, one of the most popular variations is as a burger. A meal that can be found in many locations around the state, a bison burger is something every local and tourist should try at least once. Heralded as a healthier, more sustainable alternative to beef, bison meat is often described as ‘tender with irresistible undertones of sweetness.’ 

Blackened Trout 
One of the most popular year-round activities in Montana is fishing, a pastime that popularizes a variety of fish-related recipes in homes and restaurants. Trout is one of the state’s tastiest fish species, and can be found in diverse dishes around the region. The heavily spiced blackened trout recipe is one of the most well-known, and for good reason. The dish’s bold flavor profile pairs perfectly with its flaky texture, creating a meal that’s truly irresistible. You can even support the health of Montana lakes while enjoying a mouthwatering meal; the Salish and Kootenai tribes are known for blackening the invasive trout species found in Flathead Lake, a dish that can be found seasonally at the Bozeman Co-op and Town & Country.

Huckleberry Ice Cream
When Montana’s hot summers have you wishing for a refreshing treat, look no further than the state’s iconic huckleberry ice cream. As Montana’s official state fruit, huckleberries find their way into countless sweet and savory recipes. One of the most popular dessert variations is ice cream, which can be found at almost every local ice cream shop. Whether you like yours in a cone, cup, or shake, you’re sure to find all these options and more at locations throughout the state. 

Barbeque 
As one of the most barbeque-loving states in the nation, Montana is littered with award-winning BBQ spots. In 2022, Montanans Googled  phrases such as “BBQ restaurant,” “ribs,” and “brisket” more than residents in any other state, and it’s no secret as to why. With access to prime meats, and a culture that prizes the process of barbeque cooking, Montana is known for its unique take on the genre. Using notable meats such as elk and bison alongside classics such pork, the state sets itself apart in its delicious take on a classic cooking style. BBQ restaurants are plentiful throughout Montana, so be sure to take advantage of the many mouthwatering opportunities to try some for yourself.

Elk Steak 
Many Montanans find themselves eating a significant amount of elk every year; the local appreciation for hunting means that game meat is plentiful. One of the most common ways restaurant-goers will see the animal prepared is as a succulent steak. This lean alternative with a beef-like flavor is a crowd favorite in the Treasure State, featuring a variety of options regarding cut, seasoning, and the inclusion of bone. Whether you’ve hunted the animal yourself or purchased the meat from an establishment, make sure to give elk steak a try.

Pasties 
A dish deeply entwined with Montana history, Butte’s cherished pasties are a meal both delicious and culturally impactful. Back in Butte’s mining days, the working-class Irish population brought these compact pastries filled with meat, vegetables, and seasoning to the budding town. They were an instant hit with miners, as they were easy to make and bring for lunches on the job. Although the recipe has evolved through the years to be slightly different from the traditional Irish original, the “Irish Butte” meal has remained a staple of the area since the 1800s. Today, restaurants all over the state are selling iterations of the dish, and the pasty has remained a major cultural touchstone in the Butte community. 

Montana Chicken 
Flocks of chickens can be seen wandering the property of almost every Montana farm, so it’s no surprise that chicken is one of the most widely used meats in the area. The fresh, local cuts of meat that can be found at many stores and restaurants lend themselves to the high quality of the state’s chicken dishes. Although chicken recipe variations are plentiful around the region, many people don’t know that there is a specific recipe named after our glorious state. This technique calls for oven-baked chicken coated in a tart, sweet sauce often served over rice. Several versions of the recipe are available online, and the incredible meal is something every Montanan should try.

Flathead Cherry Pie
The region around Montana’s stunning Flathead Lake is perfect for growing cherries, and the fruits have become synonymous with the state’s culture. With their prime season landing between late July and early August, Montana summers are full of irresistible cherries in all their forms. Whether you’re eating them by themselves or in one of the countless recipes that call for their sweet flavor, Flathead Cherries are something everyone should enjoy throughout the summer. One of the most popular desserts including them is Flathead Cherry Pie, a recipe that’s easy to make at home or find in many Montana bakeries. 

Steak 
Steak may be a national classic, but don’t underestimate the uniquely appetizing versions native to Montana. With some of the highest quality beef in the United States right in our backyards, there’s a reason this state’s steak has a leg up on its competitors. Bozeman and many other Montana towns are full of dearly beloved steakhouses, including the classic Ted’s Montana Grill, J.W. Heist Steakhouse, and Copper Whiskey Bar & Grill located in downtown Bozeman. Try these establishments and more for the perfectly juicy steak of your dreams. 

Rocky Mountain Oysters 
Don’t let their name fool you — these traditional delicacies are far from your typical salt-water mollusk. This dish is made of deep-fried bull testicles, which are coated in flour, salt, and pepper, and are served with a variety of special sauces. The now-unusual meal has historical ties to ranching in the 1800s, when cattle ranchers would often find themselves with an abundance of the organ after castration. The perfect challenge for adventurous eaters, Rocky Mountain Oysters have been described as gamey, with a rubbery texture. Although the popularity of this meal is (predictably) on the decline, locations such as Stacey’s Old Faithful Bar & Steakhouse are still serving this surprising snack.