Saying Goodbye to Some of Missoula's Best Eateries

It’s been a sad few weeks for longtime Missoulians as we’ve seen some of our favorite food places announce their departures. Depending on when you’re reading this, there’s still time for a last meal or two. Here’s our rundown of places we’re sad to see go.

Second Set Bistro

Second Set Bistro was one of Missoula’s hidden gems. You had to know where it was located on the ground floor of the historic Florence building. But what a delicious discovery with a menu that rotated frequently through various ethnic dishes. Street corn, tofu dumplings, steak frites, short rib ragu are all items on the most recent menu. Second Set was a great date night location as it was only open for dinner. Sadly, the restaurant closed on Sept. 9. Au revoir, Second Set. We will miss you.

Sa Wa Dee

Sa Wa Dee, which served Thai and Vietnamese food, has been a downtown staple for almost as long as we can remember. Located on Broadway across the street from the Courthouse, it was frequented by lawyers, office jockeys, college students, municipal employees, and Missoulians of every stripe. After a full and fruitful career, the owner was ready to retire. Never fear, her daughter plans to take over, turning Sa Wa Dee into a food truck with the same great recipes. The restaurant closed Sept. 1.

Burns Street Bistro

We felt quite the blow yesterday when Burns Street Bistro announced on social media they would be closing for good on October 1. Known for their eclectic menu and their hilarious Facebook posts promoting said menu, the casual dining restaurant on the Westside served soups, sandwiches, burgers, wine, and coffee that made Monday feel like Thursday. The restaurant was small, seating was limited, and good times were had. You never quite knew what you were getting at Burns Street, but you were guaranteed to love whatever it was. They even gave fans a clever name — Bistronauts.

CAtalyst cafe & espresso

I saved the most devastating news for last so you would have time to steel yourself. Catalyst, also located in the Florence building, will celebrate its last day on Nov. 22. Catalyst was the best of everything Missoula had to offer. It continued the mid-century/art deco design of the Florence. The owners were kind and interested in all of their patrons, often roving around the restaurants three floors to ask how everything was. It was common to see crowds spilling out into the street as they waited for a seat inside or couples brunching with their dog by their side at the tables on the sidewalk. Owners Jim and Dennis, who have listed the restaurant for sale in the past, decided it’s time to retire. Now pardon us while we weep into our The Heap, which is the name of my favorite dish at Catalyst. It’s made with home fries, peppers, spinach, tomatoes, eggs all cooked and served in an individual skillet. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it.