Discover the Best of Missoula 2021: Celebrating the Winners in Style!

Discover the top businesses, restaurants, and people voted as the best of Missoula in 2021. See who made the list and why!

The Best of Missoula 2021 is finally here, and we are excited to announce the winners! This year's competition was fierce, with hundreds of businesses and individuals vying for the top spot in their respective categories. The winners were chosen based on public votes, and they represent the best of the best in Missoula. From restaurants and bars to retailers and service providers, these businesses and individuals have proven themselves to be the cream of the crop.

Without further ado, let's dive into the winners of the Best of Missoula 2021. We start with the winner of the Best Restaurant category, which goes to the beloved Caffe Dolce. This Italian eatery has been a staple in Missoula for over 20 years, and it's no surprise that they took home the top prize. Their handmade pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas are a crowd favorite, and their outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine on a warm summer evening.

In the Best Bar category, the winner is The Rhino. This cozy neighborhood bar has been a favorite among locals for years, with its laid-back atmosphere and extensive selection of beers and cocktails. Whether you're looking for a place to watch the game or catch up with friends, The Rhino is the spot to be.

When it comes to the Best Retailer category, there's no question that Betty's Divine takes the cake. This funky boutique offers a wide range of clothing, jewelry, and accessories, all curated by owner Betty Kuffel. Her unique sense of style and impeccable taste have made Betty's Divine a must-visit destination for fashion-forward Missoulians.

If you're looking for the best service provider in town, look no further than Missoula Massage Clinic. This locally owned and operated business has been helping Missoulians relax and unwind for over 20 years, with a team of highly skilled massage therapists who specialize in everything from Swedish to deep tissue massage.

Another winner that's sure to catch your attention is the Best Coffee Shop category, which goes to Black Coffee Roasting Co. This local roaster has been making waves in the coffee community for years, with its commitment to ethically sourced and sustainably produced beans. Their coffee is roasted on site, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor.

For those in need of some retail therapy, the Best Boutique award goes to Hide & Sole. This upscale shoe store offers a wide range of footwear, from casual sneakers to high-end designer heels. With a knowledgeable staff and an impressive selection, Hide & Sole is the perfect place to find your next favorite pair of shoes.

When it comes to nightlife, the Best Music Venue award goes to The Top Hat. This iconic venue has been a cornerstone of Missoula's music scene for decades, hosting both local and national acts in its intimate space. Whether you're into rock, folk, or electronic music, The Top Hat has something for everyone.

The Best Brewery award goes to KettleHouse Brewing Co., a local favorite known for its creative beers and laid-back atmosphere. With two locations in Missoula and a third in nearby Bonner, KettleHouse is the perfect spot to grab a pint and enjoy some live music.

For those in need of some self-care, the Best Yoga Studio award goes to Heart Space Health & Yoga. This welcoming studio offers a variety of classes, from gentle restorative yoga to challenging vinyasa flows. With experienced instructors and a supportive community, Heart Space is the perfect place to unwind and recharge.

Last but not least, the Best Local Artist award goes to Monte Dolack. This renowned painter and printmaker has been a fixture of the Missoula arts scene for decades, with his bold and colorful works adorning galleries and public spaces throughout the city. From his iconic wildlife prints to his striking political posters, Dolack's art is a testament to the beauty and complexity of Montana.

Overall, the winners of the Best of Missoula 2021 represent the very best that this vibrant and creative city has to offer. Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, we encourage you to check out these businesses and individuals and experience their excellence for yourself. Congratulations to all the winners!

Introduction

Missoula is a vibrant city in Montana, known for its stunning natural beauty and thriving cultural scene. Every year, the Missoula Independent holds a poll to determine the Best of Missoula winners across various categories. In this article, we will be taking a closer look at some of the top winners from the Best of Missoula 2021 awards.

Best Restaurant: Caffe Dolce

Caffe Dolce is a popular Italian restaurant that has been serving up delicious food in Missoula for over 20 years. The menu features classic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and a wide variety of appetizers and entrees. One of the standout dishes is the Linguine alle Vongole, made with fresh clams, garlic, and white wine. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, featuring both local and international selections.

Best Brewery: Bayern Brewing

Bayern Brewing is a local brewery that has been producing award-winning beers since 1987. Their flagship beer is the Bayern Pilsener, a crisp and refreshing lager that has won numerous awards at international beer competitions. Other popular beers include the Amber Lager, the Maibock, and the Doppelbock. The brewery also has a taproom where visitors can sample their beers and enjoy snacks and appetizers.

Best Outdoor Store: REI

REI is a national chain of outdoor stores that has a location in Missoula. The store offers a wide variety of outdoor gear and clothing, including hiking boots, camping equipment, and kayaks. They also offer classes and workshops on topics like backpacking, navigation, and wilderness survival. REI is committed to sustainability and has implemented various initiatives to reduce their environmental impact.

Best Bookstore: Fact & Fiction

Fact & Fiction is an independent bookstore located in downtown Missoula. The store has a wide selection of books, including bestsellers, local authors, and niche titles. They also host author events and book clubs, making it a hub for literary culture in the city. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about books and can recommend titles based on customers' interests.

Best Art Gallery: Missoula Art Museum

The Missoula Art Museum (MAM) is a contemporary art museum that showcases the work of regional and national artists. The museum has a permanent collection of over 1,700 works of art, as well as rotating exhibitions throughout the year. MAM also offers educational programs for both children and adults, including workshops, lectures, and tours.

Best Coffee Shop: Black Coffee Roasting Co.

Black Coffee Roasting Co. is a specialty coffee roaster located in Missoula. The company sources high-quality beans from around the world and roasts them in small batches for optimal flavor. Their coffee shop offers a variety of espresso drinks, drip coffee, and pour-over coffee, as well as pastries and snacks. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with plenty of seating for customers to relax and enjoy their drinks.

Best Live Music Venue: The Wilma

The Wilma is a historic theater in downtown Missoula that has been hosting live music events since the 1920s. The venue has a capacity of 1,500 and has hosted acts ranging from local musicians to internationally renowned artists. The theater has undergone extensive renovations in recent years, including upgrades to the sound system and lighting.

Best Fitness Studio: The Women's Club Health and Fitness Center

The Women's Club Health and Fitness Center is a gym designed specifically for women. The facility offers group fitness classes, personal training, and a variety of cardio and strength equipment. They also have a spa area with a sauna and jacuzzi. The Women's Club prides itself on creating a supportive and welcoming environment for women of all fitness levels.

Best Hair Salon: Boom Swagger Salon

Boom Swagger Salon is a trendy hair salon located in downtown Missoula. The salon offers a range of services, including haircuts, color, and styling. The stylists are highly trained and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques. Boom Swagger Salon also has a fun and colorful atmosphere, making it a unique and enjoyable experience for customers.

Best Nonprofit: Missoula Food Bank & Community Center

The Missoula Food Bank & Community Center provides food assistance and other resources to families in need in the Missoula area. In addition to providing food, they also offer a variety of programs and services, including job training, financial literacy classes, and a garden program. The organization is committed to fighting hunger and promoting self-sufficiency in the community.

Conclusion

Missoula is home to a diverse and thriving community, as evidenced by the wide variety of winners in the Best of Missoula 2021 awards. From delicious restaurants to cultural institutions to nonprofit organizations, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you are a longtime resident or just visiting, be sure to check out some of these top-rated establishments and experiences.

Best of Missoula 2021 Winners: Celebrating the Best in Local Businesses

Missoula, Montana is a vibrant city that boasts of a thriving business community. From coffee shops to art galleries, there's no shortage of amazing local businesses that make this city unique. In this article, we'll be highlighting the best of Missoula 2021 winners in different categories.

Best Coffee Shop: A Place to Satisfy Your Caffeine Cravings

Coffee lovers in Missoula have spoken, and the winner of the best coffee shop category is Black Coffee Roasting Co. This locally-owned coffee shop has been serving up delicious brews since 2010 and has quickly become a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

Black Coffee Roasting Co. prides itself on sourcing high-quality organic coffee beans from around the world and roasting them in-house to perfection. From a classic cup of joe to specialty drinks like lavender lattes, this coffee shop has something to satisfy every caffeine craving.

Top Fine Dining Restaurant: Experience the Best of Missoula's Culinary Scene

If you're looking to treat yourself to a fine dining experience in Missoula, look no further than Plonk Wine Bar. This upscale restaurant is known for its creative cuisine, extensive wine list, and elegant ambiance.

Plonk's menu features dishes made with locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients, and the chefs are always experimenting with new flavors and techniques. Whether you're in the mood for a juicy steak or a vegan dish, Plonk has something to delight your taste buds.

Best Local Brewery: Savor the Flavor of Craft Beers

Beer enthusiasts in Missoula have spoken, and the winner of the best local brewery category is KettleHouse Brewing Co. This popular brewery has been brewing up award-winning craft beers since 1995 and has become a staple in the Missoula community.

KettleHouse's taproom is a favorite spot for locals to gather and enjoy a cold pint after work or on weekends. With a wide range of beers on tap, including IPAs, stouts, and sours, there's something for every beer lover at KettleHouse.

Best Fitness Studio: Achieving Your Fitness Goals Made Easy

For those looking to get fit and healthy in Missoula, the best fitness studio award goes to The Women's Club Health and Fitness Center. This women-only gym has been empowering women to achieve their fitness goals since 1986.

The Women's Club offers a variety of fitness classes, including yoga, Pilates, and Zumba, as well as state-of-the-art equipment for strength training and cardio. With expert trainers and a supportive community, The Women's Club is the perfect place to get fit and stay motivated.

Top Hair Salon: Get the Perfect Haircut and Style

If you're in need of a haircut or styling in Missoula, the best hair salon award goes to Sage Salon. This trendy salon is known for its exceptional service, talented stylists, and welcoming atmosphere.

Sage Salon offers a wide range of services, from haircuts and color to bridal styling and extensions. With a commitment to using only high-quality products, you can trust that your hair will look and feel amazing after a visit to Sage Salon.

Best Pet Store: Your One-Stop-Shop for All Your Pet Needs

For pet owners in Missoula, the best pet store award goes to The Pet Emporium. This locally-owned store has been serving the Missoula community for over 30 years and is known for its wide selection of pet supplies, including food, toys, and accessories.

The Pet Emporium also offers grooming services and a self-serve dog wash station, making it easy to keep your furry friend clean and healthy. With a knowledgeable and friendly staff, The Pet Emporium is the perfect place to shop for all your pet needs.

Top Outdoor Store: Get Ready for Your Next Adventure

Missoula is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, and the winner of the best outdoor store category is Bob Ward's Sports and Outdoors. This outdoor store has been outfitting Missoulians for outdoor adventures since 1917.

Bob Ward's Sports and Outdoors offers a wide range of outdoor gear, including camping equipment, hiking boots, and fishing gear. With expert staff who are passionate about the outdoors, you can trust that you'll find everything you need to make your next adventure a success.

Best Art Gallery: Appreciate the Beauty of Local Art

If you're an art lover in Missoula, the best art gallery award goes to the Missoula Art Museum. This non-profit museum is dedicated to showcasing contemporary art from Montana and the surrounding region.

The Missoula Art Museum features rotating exhibits throughout the year, highlighting a diverse range of mediums and styles. With a commitment to supporting local artists and engaging the community in the arts, the museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in contemporary art.

Top Music Venue: Enjoy Live Music and Performances

For music lovers in Missoula, the best music venue award goes to The Wilma. This historic theater has been a cultural landmark in Missoula since it opened in 1921, and it continues to host some of the biggest names in music and entertainment today.

The Wilma features state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, making it the perfect venue for live concerts and performances. With a wide range of acts throughout the year, there's always something exciting happening at The Wilma.

Best Local Store: Shop Local and Support the Community

For those who love to shop local, the best local store award goes to Rockin Rudy's. This eclectic store has been a fixture in Missoula since it opened in 1982 and is known for its unique selection of gifts, toys, and music.

Rockin Rudy's is more than just a store; it's a Missoula institution. With a commitment to supporting local artists and musicians, you can feel good about shopping at Rockin Rudy's knowing that you're supporting the community.

Final Thoughts

Missoula is a city that's full of amazing local businesses, and the best of Missoula 2021 winners are just a small sample of what this community has to offer. Whether you're looking for a great cup of coffee, a fine dining experience, or outdoor gear for your next adventure, Missoula has something for everyone.

By supporting these local businesses, we're not only getting great products and services, but we're also supporting the local economy and helping to build a stronger community. So, next time you're in Missoula, be sure to check out some of these amazing businesses and see for yourself why they're the best of the best.

Best of Missoula 2021 Winners: A Point of View

Introduction

The Winners

Best Breakfast: Catalyst Cafe

Best Brewery: KettleHouse Brewing Co.

Best Live Music Venue: Wilma Theatre

Best Outdoor Gear Store: REI Co-op

Best Veterinarian: Animal Clinic of Missoula

The Pros and Cons

Pros

1. Promotes Local Businesses: The Best of Missoula survey helps promote local businesses and encourages people to support them.

2. Community Engagement: The survey allows Missoula residents to have a say in what they believe is the best in their city.

3. Provides Recommendations: The survey results offer valuable recommendations for visitors and newcomers to the city who may not be familiar with the local offerings.

Cons

1. Limited Participation: The survey only includes businesses and places that have been nominated, which means some worthy contenders may be left out.

2. Subjective Opinions: The survey results are based on subjective opinions rather than objective criteria, which can lead to a lack of diversity in winners.

3. Inconsistent Quality: Just because a business or place wins a category in one year doesn't necessarily mean it will maintain that level of quality in the future.

Comparison Table

Conclusion

The Best of Missoula 2021 Winners

Welcome to the conclusion of our Best of Missoula 2021 series! Over the past several weeks, we have highlighted some of the best businesses, organizations, and individuals that make Missoula a special place to live. From restaurants to outdoor recreation spots, we have covered a wide range of categories to showcase the top performers in each field.

We hope that you have enjoyed reading about these winners as much as we have enjoyed researching and writing about them. Our goal with this series was to provide a comprehensive guide to the best of the best in Missoula, and we believe we have achieved that goal. Whether you are a longtime resident or a newcomer to the area, we hope that you have discovered something new and exciting through our coverage.

Before we close out this series, we would like to take a moment to reflect on what makes Missoula such a special place. The people, the culture, and the natural beauty all combine to create a unique community that is unlike any other. We are lucky to call this place home, and we are proud to showcase the best of what it has to offer.

As we look back on our coverage of the Best of Missoula 2021, we want to recognize the hard work and dedication of all the winners. These businesses, organizations, and individuals have gone above and beyond to provide exceptional service, products, and experiences to the people of Missoula. They are the backbone of our community, and we are grateful for their contributions.

We also want to thank our readers for following along with us on this journey. Your support and engagement have been instrumental in making this series a success. We hope that you will continue to support these winners and all of the amazing businesses and organizations in Missoula.

Before we conclude, we would like to give one final shoutout to the winners of our most prestigious categories. These businesses and individuals truly represent the best of the best in Missoula:

• Best Restaurant: The Pearl Cafe
• Best Outdoor Recreation Spot: Rattlesnake National Recreation Area
• Best Local Band/Musician: Shakewell
• Best Nonprofit: Missoula Food Bank & Community Center
• Best Local Artist: Monte Dolack
• Best Place to Work: Big Sky Brewing Company

Congratulations to all of the winners, and thank you for making Missoula such an amazing place to live, work, and play.

As we wrap up this series, we want to remind our readers that there is always more to discover in Missoula. If you have not already, we encourage you to explore the many businesses, organizations, and outdoor spaces that make this community so special. Whether you are looking for a new restaurant to try or a new trail to hike, there is always something new and exciting to discover in Missoula.

Finally, we want to thank our team of writers, researchers, and editors who worked tirelessly to bring you this series. Their dedication and passion for Missoula is what made this project possible, and we are grateful for their contributions.

Thank you again for following along with us on this journey through the Best of Missoula 2021. We hope that you have enjoyed reading about these incredible businesses and individuals, and we look forward to continuing to showcase the best of what Missoula has to offer in the years to come.

People Also Ask About Best of Missoula 2021 Winners

What is the Best of Missoula?

The Best of Missoula is an annual competition held by the Missoula Independent newspaper to recognize the best businesses, places, and events in the Missoula area. The winners are chosen through a public voting process, allowing local residents to have a say in which businesses and places they believe are the best in various categories.

How are the winners chosen?

The winners of the Best of Missoula are chosen through a public voting process. Residents of the Missoula area are invited to nominate their favorite businesses, places, and events in various categories. The top nominees then move on to the final round of voting, where the winners are chosen by popular vote.

Who can participate in the voting process?

Anyone who lives in the Missoula area can participate in the voting process for the Best of Missoula. This includes residents of Missoula, as well as those living in surrounding areas. Voters must be at least 18 years old and can only vote once per category.

What are some of the categories for the Best of Missoula?

The Best of Missoula includes a wide range of categories, including best burger, best pizza, best breakfast, best coffee shop, best bar, best brewery, best outdoor gear store, best bookstore, best live music venue, and many more. There are also categories for best nonprofit organization, best volunteer opportunity, and best place to work.

Who are some of the winners for Best of Missoula 2021?

Some of the winners for Best of Missoula 2021 include:

• Best Burger: Five on Black
• Best Pizza: Bridge Pizza
• Best Breakfast: Catalyst Cafe and Espresso Bar
• Best Coffee Shop: Black Coffee Roasting Co.
• Best Bar: The Rhino
• Best Brewery: Imagine Nation Brewing Co.
• Best Outdoor Gear Store: Bob Ward & Sons
• Best Bookstore: Fact & Fiction
• Best Live Music Venue: The Wilma
• Best Nonprofit Organization: Missoula Food Bank & Community Center
• Best Volunteer Opportunity: Missoula Aging Services
• Best Place to Work: Providence St. Patrick Hospital

These are just a few of the winners for Best of Missoula 2021. To see the full list of winners, check out the Missoula Independent's website.