This Montana Favorite Named One Of The Best Diners In The U.S.

Montana is no stranger when it comes to being recognized for award-winning food.

Our restaurants and cuisine have been featured on several different shows, including programs on both the Food Network and The Travel Channel. We're known for things like Huckleberries, Flathead Cherries, and the Porkchop sandwich, not to mention we have the oldest Chinese Restaurant in the country.

So it shouldn't come as a surprise that a local favorite has been recognized as one of the best diners in the United States by Travel and Leisure.

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Montana is filled when several wonderful small-town diners that not only serve terrific food but are also a social hub and in many ways, the heart of the community.  For many, a local diner isn't just a place to eat.  It's a place to make business deals, catch up with local gossip, talk politics, and run into folks you haven't seen in a while.

Of course, some diners are more popular than others.  So before we reveal which local diner was voted not only the best in Montana, but one of the best in the country, let's take a look at a few that have been serving Montanans for generations.

The Western Cafe

Located in Bozeman, the Western Cafe is everything you could want and expect a Montana diner to be.  One of the most popular spots in town, the Western has been serving locals, tourists, and even a celebrity or two for almost a century. It's been said that the best biscuits and gravy in the state can be found at The Western Cafe and their cinnamon rolls and pies are no joke.  It is as Montana as Montana gets, and if you're ever in the area, a must-try.

Ruby's Cafe

Ruby's in Missoula has that old-time diner feel and has even appeared on one of the most popular shows on TV.  The diner was the backdrop for a scene or two in Yellowstone but is even more popular for its food.  Locals have been going to Ruby's for years and they can't seem to get enough.  Ruby's has all of your favorite diner items, including classics like liver and onions.

Ennis Sunrise Cafe

This little gem not only serves up delicious food, but it's probably the coolest-looking diner in the state.  The Ennis Sunrise Cafe is in the heart of downtown Ennis, the cafe features some pretty rustic artwork on the facade of the building and let's just say it screams Montana. With a vast breakfast menu, you're sure to find something you love, not to mention they also serve lunch and dinner.

So which Montana diner took the top spot and was ranked one of the best diners in the United States? It seems that honor goes to a very popular diner in Great Falls.

Roadhouse Diner

The Roadhouse Diner in Great Falls has been recognized by several different publications for simply being one of the best diners in the country. The Roadhouse isn't your typical diner, here you will find burgers, burgers, and more burgers.  Winner of several awards, including best burger in Montana for several years running, The Roadhouse prides itself on using local Montana products like McCafferty Beef Ranch and Great Harvest Bread Company.

Some of the different burgers you will find at the diner include the Winchester, Death By Bacon, PB&J Burger, and the Bundy Burger.  Plus, you can build your own and get as creative as you would like. They also have different varieties of fries, including "Elvis Fries" which includes Cheese Wiz and brown gravy.

They're closed Mondays and Tuesdays and open at 11 am the rest of the week, so the next time you're in the Great Falls area, or you feel like taking a road trip, make sure you check them out.

What's your favorite Montana diner? Let us know by sending us a message on our radio station app.