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Explore the Best Bars, Italian Cuisine, Controversial Resignation: UM President Seth Bodnar Shocks Community


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Explore the Best Bars, Italian Cuisine, Controversial Resignation: UM President Seth Bodnar Shocks Community

Missoula Eats and Treats
Archives
Explore the Best Bars, Italian Cuisine, Controversial Resignation: UM President Seth Bodnar Shocks Community

Staff
Jan 28, 2026
Quote Of The Day |
"The mountains are calling and I must go." - John Muir |
Missoula’s bar scene pulses with variety and local flavor, drawing everyone from craft beer fans to cocktail aficionados.
Draught Works Brewery stands out for its innovative brews and lively patio, while GILD Brewing's three-level setup—complete with a basement arcade—delivers a playful twist in the historic Crystal Theater building.
Discover The Grotto beneath The Old Post, where imaginative cocktails are served in a candle-lit, stone-arched hideaway.
Classic dive lovers flock to Al & Vic’s, a longstanding favorite for its relaxed vibe and historic prints.
James Bar tempts with elk burgers and patio seating, while Top Hat shines as a hub for live music downtown.
For cider fans, Western Cider offers Montana-made varieties and quirky events.
After outdoor adventures, locals unwind in these welcoming, uniquely Missoula spots—each one capturing the city’s vibrant spirit. Read More... |
Nestled in Missoula's Rose Park neighborhood, Florabella shines as a beloved spot for authentic Italian fare with a modern Montana flair.
Since opening, it transforms from a cozy daytime café offering espressos and baked goods to an elegant evening bistro with wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas.
In 2025, menu updates introduce seasonal ingredients, like zesty seafood bucatini and decadent four-cheese pies, paired with Italian wines from Prosecco to Barolo.
Starters feature citrus olives and burrata, while mains include tender pork and grilled fish, all designed for sharing.
The inviting interior, with warm woods and soft lights, suits date nights or family gatherings.
Florabella fosters community ties through events like cooking classes and holiday activities, including a popular 2024 Halloween cookie session, with more planned for 2025.
Recent expansions, including a French brunch spot downtown, highlight Missoula's vibrant food scene.
Desserts like tiramisu cap off meals, earning rave reviews for quality and hospitality.
This gem captures the city's evolving dining culture, blending tradition with local innovation. Read More... |
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Missoula hotels offer something for every traveler, from riverside luxury to cozy, downtown favorites.
Staying in downtown Missoula puts guests near lively eateries, breweries, and the Clark Fork River.
The Wilma charms with historic flair, while the AC Hotel by Marriott stands out for its modern comfort and mountain views.
River lovers gravitate to DoubleTree by Hilton, coveted for its scenic location and easy trail access.
For a quieter stay near the University of Montana, Staybridge Suites welcomes families and longer visits with spacious, kitchenette-equipped rooms.
Business travelers and visitors passing through favor the convenience of Holiday Inn Express & Suites and Comfort Inn University near the airport.
Unique options like Gibson Mansion Bed & Breakfast and adventure-focused LOGE Missoula reflect the city’s mountain character, ensuring a memorable stay for all. Read More... |
Brought To You By |
SAVE OUR DOGGY 🐶 |
Owning a large dog brings joy through their energy and loyalty, but their size often leads to joint issues requiring proactive care.
As pet trends evolve, large dog joint health remains a top concern for owners facing rising vet costs.
Communities are responding with affordable clinics, like one slated for Lynchburg by late 2026, emphasizing canine arthritis prevention.
Upcoming 2026 veterinary conferences in Orlando and Long Beach will showcase innovations in dog joint supplements and mobility aids for hip dysplasia in large breeds.
Maintain your dog's health by managing weight through diet and gentle exercises like swimming for dog exercise, avoiding high-impact activities.
Incorporate glucosamine for dogs and omega-3 fatty acids pets for joint support, and use orthopedic dog beds plus ramps for home safety.
Watch for signs of joint pain in dogs, such as stiffness or reluctance to play, and seek early vet checks.
Local events in places like San Francisco will promote big dog mobility tips and joint care nutrition.
These steps ensure your furry companion enjoys vitality at every stage. Read More... |
Missoula’s dining scene is undergoing an exciting transformation, as cherished favorites blend with bold new ventures.
In early 2024, Liquid Planet Grille opened a fresh location on Brooks Street, boasting a bigger menu, longer hours, and, for the first time, alcohol service to elevate the experience.
Downtown is buzzing with newcomers such as The Stables Restaurant at 235 W. Main and Montana Gift Corral at 117 W. Front, each adding new flavors and options.
Popular food trucks Mexican Moose and Stuffed 406 have teamed up for a permanent spot at 221 W. Broadway, bringing their culinary flair indoors.
Yet, Missoula says farewell to longtime favorites—Burns St. Bistro closed after 12 years, and Sushi Hana Downtown served its final rolls on New Year’s Eve 2024.
New chapters await, with Wingstop arriving in May 2026 and Mazevo Coffee set for a September 2024 debut.
Missoula’s culinary spirit remains as vibrant as ever. Read More... |
Craving BBQ done right?
The Notorious P.I.G. smokes meats daily, starting at 4 AM, and serves them fresh until they sell out - making every bite a testament to care and flavor.
Located in downtown Missoula, this spot blends Southern pit-barbecue traditions with Montana ingredients to deliver a menu that keeps locals coming back again and again. |
Missoula’s lively dog park scene offers pet owners abundant chances for exercise and connection, but safety relies on responsible habits and knowledge of local rules.
Before heading out, assess if your pup is truly ready: reliable recall, basic obedience, and comfort around other dogs are musts.
For dogs who are shy or reactive, start with structured walks before any off-leash adventures.
At the park, watch for relaxed, playful dogs and avoid tense atmospheres.
Stay engaged—monitoring play and offering breaks helps prevent overstimulation.
Optimal visits last 30–45 minutes; longer stays may heighten injury risks.
Missoula requires dogs to be leashed except in designated areas like MRL Park Dog Area and Fort Missoula Regional Park—always check signs before unleashing.
Recent safety concerns, from reported poisonings to river dangers, underscore the need for vigilance.
By staying aware and following regulations, you help preserve Missoula’s welcoming parks for all. Read More... |
Many women once defined strength as pushing past limits. They showed up despite exhaustion, took on extra burdens, and rarely asked for help—wearing this as a badge but often facing burnout. Now, there’s a quieter, more sustainable strength gaining recognition. True well-being emerges when “strength” shifts from pure endurance to mindful awareness. It means noticing when your body craves rest, when emotions need gentle attention, or when your heart seeks real connection rather than independence. Physical strength isn’t always about intensity—a tough workout one day, gentle movement or guilt-free rest the next. Mental strength has evolved too; it’s not about masking frustration, but making space for all feelings and knowing when to step away from digital pressures. Emotional strength means being honest about what drains or fulfills you and allowing vulnerability. Redefining strength is an act of self-respect—choosing alignment and compassion over perfection. Read More... |
Simple meals are making a strong comeback as busy households turn away from complicated recipes toward approachable, flavorful dishes.
Using quality ingredients—like fresh vegetables, rich olive oil, and well-seasoned proteins—lets the natural flavors come through, reducing the need for elaborate preparations.
Cooking simply encourages patience, allowing foods to caramelize or rest, so their true taste can develop without being masked by too many sauces or steps.
This minimalist style not only reduces kitchen stress but also shortens grocery lists and minimizes cleanup, making dinnertime more enjoyable and less of a chore.
Classic favorites—like pasta with olive oil, roasted chicken, or vegetable soups—remain household staples because they deliver deep satisfaction with only a handful of components.
Focusing on simplicity brings meals back to what matters: nourishment, comfort, and genuine connection at the table. Read More... |
The University of Montana community is adjusting to the surprise resignation of President Seth Bodnar after eight impactful years.
Reactions among students and faculty are mixed, with many expressing uncertainty about the university’s future direction.
Bodnar’s energetic presence—often seen handing out pizza during Griz football games—became a campus tradition and source of school spirit.
Some students admit they might not feel an immediate impact, while faculty note that leadership changes can bring lasting shifts over time.
During Bodnar’s tenure, UM reversed a decade-long enrollment decline, achieved record retention and graduation rates, and earned prestigious R1 research status.
His departure letter hinted at future service, sparking rumors of a potential U.S. Senate bid but offering no confirmation.
As the search for new leadership begins, the UM community remains hopeful for continued progress. Read More... |
Interesting Facts |
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Q/A Questions |
Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Missoula, Montana? A: Hiking, fishing, and whitewater rafting are popular outdoor activities in Missoula. Q: What is the weather like in Missoula, Montana during the winter? A: Winters in Missoula are cold with snowfall, and temperatures can drop below freezing. Q: Are there any major events or festivals in Missoula, Montana? A: The River City Roots Festival and the International Wildlife Film Festival are popular events in Missoula. |
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