THE LOCAL HELENA

NO SWE AT C A F E 427 N Last Chance Gulch, Helena, MT 59601 (406) 442-6954 The No Sweat Cafe has been slinging out hot, from scratch, breakfast and lunch in downtown Helena for decades. The cafe is proudly old- school and it’s good to know that going in. The kitchen is tiny, one server single-handedly covers the nine tables in the dining room. At the counter, regulars sip hot coffee and chat each other up. Most people here know each other and tables converse warmly from across the room. In the background, the chopping of onions, the subtle clanging of the spatulas on the grill, the hearty laugh, and playful banter of the cooks. The menu is hand-written (not-typed) and lists clever dish names (Tibetan Toad, Ole’ Miss, Stumbo Lost Wages) and everything is absolutely made from scratch. It’s just that kind of place. All customers are treated with old- fashioned hospitality. The owners encourage folks to unplug while dining. They actively ask that you be present in the moment, savor your meal and appreciate your company. No Sweat Cafe offers a unique experience that honors Helena hometown glory. Pro tip: Cash or check only, see we told you, old-school. LOCALS RECOMMEND: Pancakes and Sausage, Huevos Rancheros, Coffee. NO S H C A F E 105 6th Avenue, Helena, MT 59601 (406) 996-1011 Nosh Cafe is a quaint little cafe specializing in waffles, gourmet toasts, intriguing “sammies” and fresh soups and salads. Decorated tastefully with just the right touch of vintage charm, you’ll find old photographs, retro kitchen tools, old-fashioned aprons, funky mismatched antique chairs and, of course, mason jars to drink from.

Everywhere you look, people are so thrilled with their meals, they’re trading bites and offering suggestions to their neighbors. The main thing here is, each table is given an ample amount of time to dine. Lucca’s most often seats by reservation only, although there are times when the lucky few manage to slip in. This means, you may have to plan in advance a little, but, once you do get a table, it is yours. You won’t feel any pressure to rush at all, ever. And, it’s best you don’t. Things are timed perfectly here, from amuse bouche to french- pressed coffee with dessert. Trust me, you’ll want to just sit back and enjoy. LOCALS RECOMMEND: Shrimp Fra Diavolo, Pork Chop with Apple and Rosemary, Tiramisu. T H E M E D I T E R R A N E A N G R I L L 42 S Park Avenue, Helena, MT 59601 (406) 495-1212 The Mediterranean Grill instantly transports you to, well, the Mediterranean from the moment you walk in the door. The walls are brightly painted and display murals of oceanic scenes with European flair. The menu offers a huge variety of traditional Mediterranean fair: think olives, hummus, baba ganoush, falafel as well as a whole host of Mediterranean inspired entrées topped with freshly chopped herbs and a dash of extra virgin olive oil. Exceptionally friendly service, a lively and entertaining open kitchen, a spacious dining room with large windows that allow plenty of natural light to pour in all combine to make this place a local gem. In the warmer months, bask in the gorgeous evening glow of the setting Montana sun while you dine. The patio here is large and gorgeous and who doesn’t love sipping wine and nibbling on fresh Mediterranean fare al fresco? LOCALS RECOMMEND: A gorgeous bottle of Italian red, Mini Lamb Brochettes, Bisara, traditional Turkish coffee with Baklava.

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