1. Charlie B's/ The Dino

Charlie B’s is the bar that looks kind of dingy and sketchy so you stay away from it until your one daring friend forces you to go in with them. Then it becomes your favorite place to go. The walls are covered with large portraits of old men. Why? I don’t think anyone really knows, but I like to think they are Missoula guys that have been coming to the bar since they were like 14. There are always a few people there that you can tell have been there since they opened, and might have even slept there the night before, but it’s a cool scene to hang out in. Maybe not for kids, but definitely for college students. The best part is the Dino Café which resides in the back of the bar. It features Cajun food like alligator po’boys and Jambalaya as well as expected bar food, and it is REALLY freaking good. Probably the best bar food in town.

2. Imagine Nation Brewing

One of the relatively new breweries in town, this place is just really cool. It’s perfect in the summer, featuring a large deck area outside that sits right on the Clark Fork. The shelves inside are lined with books, and the large open space inside makes it a great study spot. As long as you don’t have too many beers.

3. Taco Sano

Looking for the best breakfast burrito in town? Look no further. This place is funky and cool inside, and the food is fantastic. There are so many choices and who doesn’t love tots with their tacos?

4. Monk's

Monk’s is another one of those dingy bars that you may be too afraid to enter. Walking down the steep staircase into the abyss can be daunting. However, when you get the courage to go down there, it is one of the coolest music venues in town. It’s like a cave down there, complete with a waterfall flowing behind the bar. They book a lot of really good local bands, and they serve pepperoncini shots, which are interesting and surprisingly good

5. Clyde Coffee

Clyde is somewhat new to the coffee shop scene in Missoula, but it has quickly become one of the best. For a town full of college kids, it is a great place to hang out and study. It’s light and bright, which is good for focusing. Plus it’s conveniently located near campus, and next to Bridge Pizza!

6. Lisa's Pasty Pantry

This place is a pretty well kept Missoula secret. Lisa's is well hidden, but if you find it, it'll soon be one of your favorite lunch spots. The establishment is small, but the authentic pastys are huge. Everything on the simple menu is delicious and will fill your craving for some comfort food.

7. The Old Post

Hidden on a side street downtown, you might not notice this hole in the wall, but next time you want to go out for brunch, this is the spot to be. It's got an old charm, and the food is really good. Come in the morning for a Bloody Mary and an egg stuffed burger.

8. Highlander Brewing

Highlander is a large open space that is really fun to hang out at. Not only is the atmosphere inside cool, but there is a large outdoor seating area and yard. Bring your kids to come play, or bring your dog to come splash around in the creek out back. Stop by after work for a slice of pizza and a beer, and enjoy the sunshine.