If you’re chasing down the kind of place where great Montana craft beer flows freely, the food is hearty enough to fuel a mountain adventure, and the crowd feels like one big happy family — look no further than downtown Missoula’s own Tamarack Brewing Company.
Perched right along the Clark Fork River with views of the beloved Caras Park, this two-story Missoula brewpub has been serving up cold pints and feel-good pub fare since 2011. 🏔️
How Tamarack Brewing Company Won Missoula’s Hearts
It takes more than decent beer to become a beloved institution in a city as vibrant and outdoorsy as Missoula, Montana — and Tamarack Brewing Company has proven it has the whole package. 🍻
The story actually starts a few hours north, back in 2007, when husband-and-wife duo Andra and Josh Townsley, alongside head brewer Craig Koontz, first threw open the doors of their dream brewery in Lakeside, Montana.
By the time Andra explained why Missoula was the obvious next step for expansion — “We love Missoula. And Missoula loves beer.” — it was clear this wasn’t just a business decision.
It was a love letter to a city.
When the Missoula location opened in April 2011, the response was staggering.
Beer production doubled in just the first three weeks, and the team hired an extraordinary 70 front-of-house and 50 back-of-house staff to keep up with demand — a remarkable economic boost for the local community.
The brewery actively courts its Missoula locals with weekly specials: Thirsty Thursday game nights, Wednesday flagship fills at discounted prices, and a mouthwatering weekend brunch that starts at 10 AM on Saturdays and Sundays.
Two-floor seating gives Tamarack remarkable versatility — downstairs buzzes with the energy of a lively sports pub, complete with wall-to-wall TVs perfect for Grizzlies game days, while upstairs offers a more casual, low-key escape for those who want a quieter pint with a view.
Located in the heart of downtown Missoula, Tamarack has built a decade-plus reputation for consistent quality, generous portions, and warm, welcoming service that makes every visitor feel like a regular.
It’s the kind of hidden gem restaurant that locals quietly cherish but can’t help recommending to every out-of-towner who wanders in. 🌟
Food Highlights
Here are some of the most talked-about dishes you’ll want to order on your visit:
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Fish Tacos: Fresh ingredients and notably generous portions make these some of the most widely praised bites in town.
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Railroad Ties: “The best spin on an egg roll” with the perfect dipping sauce, as fans describe them. 🥢
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Baked Brie Salad: Featuring huckleberry vinaigrette, pecans, and arugula — elegant, unexpected, and unforgettable.
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Brie & Blue Burger: A show-stopper of a burger, best enjoyed cooked to a perfect medium rare, paired with Tamarack’s crispy battered fries. 🍟
- Bison Burger: This is the quintessential Montana order, topped with cheddar and beer-braised onions and served with crispy fries.
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Brie Chicken Sandwich: Loaded with a generous cut of brie and juicy chicken, this substantial sandwich is a crowd-pleaser for cheese lovers.
- Pepperoni Pizza: Made with in-house pizza dough that’s “chewy but not heavy” with a standout sauce and fresh toppings.
- Bison Nachos (Half Keg): The portions are legendary — reviewers note the half order alone could comfortably feed six people, piled high with toppings and bison meat.
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Breakfast Burrito (Weekend Brunch): A hearty weekend staple that delivers great value and a satisfying combination of brunch flavors. 🌯
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Mac and Cheese: Creamy, comforting, and featuring a flavorful breadcrumb topping. 🧀
Atmosphere
Step inside Tamarack Brewing Company and you’ll immediately understand why the “Tam Fam” feels like a real family.
Downstairs, the vibe is upbeat and social — TVs everywhere, the buzz of sports fans, and the kind of energy that makes you want to linger over another pint.
Upstairs, the pace slows down to something more relaxed and intimate, with sweeping views of Caras Park and the Clark Fork River framing your meal like a postcard. 🌊
The outdoor patio is a warm-weather gem, and the fact that the restaurant is family-friendly — with highchairs, accessibility features, and even a nearby playground — means absolutely everyone is welcome here.
Bottom Line
Tamarack is a must-visit for its award-worthy craft beer, legendary portions, stunning riverfront views, and a warm community vibe that makes first-timers feel like regulars instantly. It’s downtown Missoula’s beating heart. 🍺🏔️
Address:
231 W Front St, Missoula, MT 59802
📞 (406) 830-3113
🕐 Mon–Thu: 11 AM–9 PM | Fri: 11 AM–10 PM | Sat–Sun: 10 AM–10 PM (Brunch starts at 10 AM on weekends)