Want to get into the most popular restaurants in Montana? You'd better make a reservation to guarantee a spot. It's not just the fancy schmancy places that get booked up across Montana. Notice that the list is comprised of some of Montana's newest hot spots.

Delicious food and good ambiance attracts a loyal following. Throw in some great online reviews along with hoards of tourists vying for good dinner reservations and you've got yourself a tough restaurant to just drop into.

Open Table is one of the easiest ways to make an online reservation. I have also found that the reviews their users make are thoughtful, to the point, and more helpful than many other review sites. So, when you want to search for something specific when it comes to restaurants...this is the site for foodies.

The following list is based solely on frequency of reservations made for restaurants in Montana via Open Table. We decided to list them in no particular order, since the booking rate is so similar among some of the choices. Just trust us...these Montana restaurants are POPULAR. (I made clear notes when I piped up with my personal opinions, FYI.)

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Boxcar Bistro in Missoula, Montana: (875 Wyoming Street, Suite 101, Missoula) Open for dinner Tuesdays through Saturdays, 4pm to 9pm. "Classic and contemporary takes on French dishes, with a Montana spin." NOTE: for such elevated food offerings, I personally think their prices are very reasonable. Just my opinion. It's fancy but relaxed - a place you can get a burger or caviar. Again, just my opinion.

Boxcar Bistro in Missoula via Facebook
Boxcar Bistro in Missoula via Facebook
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Belton Chalet in West Glacier, Montana: (12575 US-2, West Glacier...just outside the western entrance to Glacier National Park) This is the only 'old school' restaurant on the list at the moment. The best description of this beloved place is a direct quote from the restaurant's website: "With an outdoor elevated deck and original 100-year-old fireplace, this is the perfect place for all that Montana summers have to offer. Every evening, our staff lines the balconies to welcome the evening train, just like they did in 1910." The menu is pretty modern and diverse, though. Blistered Shishitos, Red Curry, Coffee-rubbed petite filet, Bison Meatloaf, Drunken Mussels, etc.

Piccola Cucina Ox Pasture in Red Lodge, Montana: (7 N Broadway Avenue, Red Lodge) Phone: 406-446-1212, and you're going to need it. Why? Because it's a little confusing when this wildly popular "sort of pop-up" restaurant is open. Their own website says Wednesday to Sunday from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM, Closed Monday and Tuesday. Anyway, when you DO get in you'll be treated to locally sourced food and seasonally appropriate choices with an Italian flair. NOTE: I have not yet been here myself as of this writing, but every single person I know that has...absolutely loves it.

Piccola Cucina Ox Pasture via Facebook
Piccola Cucina Ox Pasture via Facebook
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Brigade in Bozeman, Montana: (233 E. Main Street, Suite 201, Bozeman) A cool place in the heart of downtown Bozeman. Good option for Happy Hour or a special meal. (Happy Hour is listed as 3 pm to 6pm. $3 oysters and martinis!!!!) Fancy cocktails, that fantastic Happy Hour, private event space, and elevated farm-to-table options. A little on the pricey side but the food is extremely well reviewed and the service was excellent. NOTE: I have only been to Brigade for their Happy Hour oysters and martinis, not a full meal.

Mercantile Steak & KM Bar in Kalispell, Montana: (30 2nd Street E, Kalispell) Think, classic steakhouse vibe. Classy joint that is uber comfortable and really good food. NOTE: One of our Bozeman staffers ate there shortly after they opened and it was one of the best meals they've had in recent memory. You're going to find quality meat, classic sides and sauces. Open Monday through Saturday at 5pm for dinner. Closed on Sundays.

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