Missoula Valley, MT October 2019

OCTOBER 2019

MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com

What fills you up?

A PROGRESSIVE DOWNTOWN DINNER

THERE’S A NEW BAR(RE) IN TOWN

FLAVOR & FLAIR

Your reality is someone else’s vacation.

Live the dream.

At First Security Bank we believe in the life you’re building here. It’s something quite special. Something most people dream about. So whether it’s celebrating a major milestone or just a little country drive, we’d like to help you get there. After all, this is the life of a lifetime.

Here’s to paradise. Here for life.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

OCTOBER 2019 PUBLISHER

Mike Tucker | MTucker@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Chelsea Lyn Agro | Chelsea.Agro@LifestylePubs.com MANAGING EDITOR

Erika Fredrickson | Erika.Fredrickson@LifestylePubs.com

Pull up a chair.

THE INSPIRATION FOR THIS ISSUE CAME BY WAY OF A SOFTLY LIT ROOM ON A WEEKDAY.

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Open Lens by Pamela | OpenLensByPamela@Gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Shelby Humphreys, Amanda Krieg, Gabe Semenza, Jill MH Taber CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

I was sitting at a bar counter with a good friend meeting the passersby of the

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Erika Spaulding

evening, most of whom had just got off work. As the last rays of daylight sunk onto the streets outside, the bars' chairs were topped and people filed into the spaces between them.

It was impossible not to listen in on what shakes loose from a typical Missoula day: traffic woes, childcare trouble, talk of the perfect sunny vacation that still remains on golden skin. Stories are all around us, and often spill out over a creative cocktail or a hearty steak.

I know this to be true throughout my childhood. Stories of the day got their time in the spotlight over dinner, which my mother prepared daily around 6 p.m.

CORPORATE TEAM

We were called and each of us chimed in on each others' stories, laughing and

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

sometimes getting misty-eyed. Dinner was a place where we could be heard

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

and filled, literally and emotionally.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Today, my dinner table often looks like that of a rotating list of restaurants. My husband

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

and I wait with a number on our table or we wait with white cloth napkins stretched across our laps. We listen and share and reach our forks across the table to steal bites from each of our plates. Dinner is the place where we take great care of one another, and I hope the stories within this issue inspire you to relish your next feast.

EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Editor Chelsea.Agro@LifestylePubs.com ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER A perfect meal is one that is shared in good company.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY OPEN LENS BY PAMELA 4

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com

Proverbs 3:5-6 Missoula Valley Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Missoula Valley areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Missoula Valley Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE OCTOBER 2019

FEATURES 12 There’s a New Bar(re) in Town Wellness for body and mind.

16 Instrumental to our Community Morgenroth Music Centers is home to your musical needs.

20 A Progressive Downtown Dinner Restaurant hopping is a fun way to shake up the traditional dining experience.

20 16

30 Flavor & Flair The Still Room offers something for everyone.

12

30

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Open House

16

Locally Owned

30 Hops & Vine 34 Lifestyle Calendar 38 Parting Thoughts

GOOD TIMES

Pet Picnic!

Denny Menholt University Honda sponsored the annual Pet Picnic at the Humane Society of Western Montana. Dozens of HSWM alumni reunited with their loving families and all enjoyed aerial arts and food truck cuisine. PHOTOGRAPHY CHELSEA LYN AGRO

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

October 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

9

AROUND TOWN 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. at the Residence Inn by Marriott on N Pattee Street. You'll be able to sign up at TheBridalHaus.com.

11TH ANNUAL CANINE CLASSIC AT PAWS UP On Sunday, October 6, take your dog(s) to the Resort at Paws Up to participate in the annual Canine Classic! Choose from chip-timed half marathon or 5-mile races. Dogs are welcome and encouraged to participate and can do so off leash on these trap-free lands. After the race enjoy a gourmet BBQ lunch prepared by the amazing team at Paws Up, including delicious food, beer,

HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY, EDNOR! Ednor

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Montanas: A Journey in Search of the Soul of the

Humane Society of Western Montana. Sign up at

Treasure State," releases this month. Through inter-

MyHSWM.org.

views, photos, history, and personal observations, Ednor profiles each region and in the process gives a more complete view of the state as a whole. He's

HALLOWEEN HONDA HOUND COSTUME CONTEST

spent more than 20 years exploring Montana from

On Thursday, October 31, visit Denny Menholt

corner to corner and he's authored two editions of

University Honda on the corner of Brooks and

Montana Curiosities, revised the current edition of

Reserve dressed to impress. That is, have your dog

Montana Off the Beaten Path, and has completed

dressed to impress! Our local Honda dealership is

work on Yellowstone Myths and Legends.

hosting a friendly costume contest for our most love-

HISTORY & HALLOWEEN: WHERE FUN AND HISTORY COME TOGETHER Have you ever made a visit to the Daly Mansion

able pets from 6 to 6: 45 p.m. Sign up at 6 p.m. and prepare for the competition at 6:30 p.m. with a winner announced by 6:45 p.m. Follow Denny Menholt University Honda on Facebook for all the details.

in Hamilton? Just a 45-minute drive from Missoula, the Daly Mansion welcomes visitors to enjoy (or survive!) haunted hayrides on the historic property that will be populated with ghouls, zombies, and creatures normally reserved for your worst nightmares. You can get your screams in on Friday, October 26 and Saturday, October 27 starting at 7 p.m. Rides stop at 10 p.m. Cost is $5 per person. For more information, call 406.363.6004 or visit DalyMansion.org.

WEDDING BELLS ARE RINGING! The Bridal Haus PopUp Boutique Wedding Swap is ready to meet all of your wedding needs, and they're here to share in the excitement of your recent engagement. Come shop hundreds

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MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com.

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

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11

OPEN HOUSE

12

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

ARTICLE SHELBY HUMPHREYS PHOTOGRAPHY ERIKA SPAULDING

A NEW B A R ( R E ) I N T O S ’ E R WN THE

WELLNESS FOR BODY AND MIND

THERE’S A STRONG PULSE HERE IN MISSOULA. From the streaming cars and bicyclists to the energy of thriving businesses and local arts scene, Missoula is thumping to the beat of its own drum. But as of late, that rhythm radiates from a new space on Washburn Avenue called Barre 406.

“It’s Missoula’s pace that brought me here,” said Robin. “The community, the vibe— Missoula has its own rhythm, that’s definitely true,” she added with a smile.

Barre is a fitness format that uses a ballet barre, plus other equipment, to combine exercises from yoga, ballet, and Pilates. “Barre is achievable at any level,” explained Robin. “It’s effective. You hit every muscle in the body within a 50-minute class.”

CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

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OPEN HOUSE

(CON TI N U ED)

“BARRE IS ACHIEVABLE AT ANY LEVEL. IT’S EFFECTIVE. YOU HIT EVERY MUSCLE IN THE BODY WITHIN A 50-MINUTE CLASS.”

Robin strives to make every class accessible to a wide variety of clients.

“I’m not the little, petite girl you see in most classes. I want to make this place open to any shape, any size, any age, and at any level. That’s what’s great about Barre. You can modify to your level on a daily basis. You don’t have to peak out or drop out. It can be part of your daily routine without taking over your life.”

When choosing instructors, Robin envisioned having a team of strong, bright minds that would carry a contagious spirit into their classes.

“I really want to make sure I dive deep into the community. We have several instructors from the University of Montana. They watch to make sure you’re doing the moves safely, but they’re also looking out for smiles, that you’re breathing and having a good time. We’re going to make sure you feel good about being here and happy that you came,” said Robin.

That happiness starts when clients walk through the door. Robin designed her lobby with local products in mind.

“Our furniture was built with reclaimed barn wood by Ryan at Missoula Bench Builder. I love what he did. I just geek out over it.”

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

BARRE 406 2404 Washburn Street 406.203.7003 Barre406.com Mention this article and your first class will be free! Or a week unlimited for $19 and month for $99.

Beyond the lobby, a contemporary space provides all of the professional necessities in one colorful setting. The buttery sheen of the wooden floor contrasts with a flat black ceiling. Gold, blue, and magenta lighting splashes onto the floor, giving the studio an energetic color palette. Then, there’s the stereo.

“I’m a sound snob,” admitted Robin. “So, we have a very good stereo system in there.”

Robin sees a niche for a more relaxed, but still vibrant, version of Barre. She created Barre 406 for anyone who wants a better workout, no matter how their morning started or how they feel.

“Above all, honor your body,” said Robin.

“When you take a class, it floods into the rest of your day. It’s more than the physical benefits.

When you leave class, you walk a little taller and have confidence for whatever you have to walk into that day.”

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LOCALLY OWNED

i n s t r u m e n t a l

t o

o u r

COMMUNITY MORGENROTH MUSIC CENTERS IS HOME TO YOUR MUSICAL NEEDS ARTICLE AMANDA KRIEG PHOTOGRAPHY OPEN LENS BY PAMELA

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

T

HE GREAT CHINESE PHILOSOPHER LAO TZU ONCE SAID, “MUSIC IN THE SOUL CAN BE HEARD BY THE UNIVERSE.” Nobody demonstrates this philosophy better than Gary Bowman, owner of Morgenroth Music Centers. Yes, he owns a store that sells music and instruments, but in no way is that music confined to a brick-and-mortar business.

Gary first started playing the accordion at age 7, then the piano and organ in high school. He put himself through the University of Montana playing in Missoula’s nightclubs. In 1977 Gary went to work for what was then Dickinson Music. Nine years later, he purchased half the business. In 1989 the Morgenroth family bought the business, including Gary’s half. He could have moved on but music is in his soul, so he stayed on as an employee. Twenty-four years later, Gary would buy the entire business back.

Today, Morgenroth is most notably known as the place to go for renting band equipment. They work with schools all across Western Montana to give every student the opportunity to pick up an instrument. September is Gary’s favorite time of year because, he said, “I just love seeing a fifth grader come in with their eyes so big! I remember that feeling.” As he said this his eyes brightened and his cheeks reddened. It’s not hard to see fifth grader Gary.

“Some of those kids grow up to do cool things,” said Gary, like his former customer who now writes television music in Hollywood.

Western Montana’s only full-line music store has so much to offer. Their retail includes pianos equipped with technology like Smart Key that connects online to help students learn their favorite songs. Looking for a music teacher? Just come in and pick up a list of Missoula’s best or ask about violin or piano lessons that are offered in store. Need a repair on your brass instrument or guitar?

No problem. Looking for obscure music? John at the front desk is the print music guru. Not ready to commit to an instrument just yet?

You can rent or rent-to-own. Need sound reinforcement for your school or church? They’ve got you covered.

Gary himself is our beloved Missoula Marathon pianist. It’s no small feat to set up a grand piano on

If this was all Morgenroth Music Centers offered, that would be

uneven lawn in unpredictable weather, but his music

enough, but music in the soul doesn’t stay in a building. Employees

lifts tired bodies and gives them renewed energy.

Steven and Scott play in the Alumni Marching Band with Gary. Jim

Seeing him in a full tuxedo along the river is what so

in repairs plays the saxophone. Marko in sound reinforcement and

many runners look forward to every year. And as if

David in rental accounts both play guitar. John plays piano. Even

playing the piano wasn’t enough, Gary also sings in

Office Manager Mary plays the clarinet. Several of them play in the

the Missoula Symphony Chorale and the Missoula

Missoula Children’s Theater pit orchestra.

Community Chorus.

“Music in the soul” isn’t just about playing, it’s about

doing. In that spirit, Gary serves on both the University’s Advisory Board to the College of Visual and Performing Arts and the board for their Jazz Program. Morgenroth Music Centers offers donations and scholarships to Missoula County Public Schools as well as Missoula Children’s Theater.

When asked what inspires him, Gary enthusiastically replies “Missoula’s music teachers!

Missoula has awesome teachers. School District 1 is nationally recognized.” He goes on to talk about how so many teachers spend their own money on supplies because “they truly want kids playing.

CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

17

LOCALLY OWNED

(CON TI N U ED)

MORGENROTH MUSIC CENTERS

They just get it.” His own former teacher

up a whole new world for them. Donating a

1105 W Sussex Avenue

Molly Morrison continues to inspire him in her

piano to MCT gives both actors and audi-

406.549.0013

“advocacy for helping students” and the way

ence the opportunity to get lost in a different

MontanaMusic.com

she is moved by them.

story. Connecting a student to a teacher

18

Morgenroth Music Centers is not sim-

allows both to grow and learn. Sharing their

ply located on Sussex Avenue. It’s in our

music and their souls with Missoula is how

schools, our theaters, our homes. Putting an

Gary and his staff inspire the rest of us.

instrument into the hands of a child opens

We hear you, Gary. Loud and clear.

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

.

October 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

19

e v i ss e r g o r P A r e n in D n w o t Down

RESTAURANT HOPPING IS A FUN WAY TO SHAKE UP THE TRADITIONAL DINING EXPERIENCE

ARTICLE CHELSEA LYN AGRO | PHOTOGRAPHY OPEN LENS BY PAMELA

20

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

Everything old IS NEW AGAIN, YES?

Following a popular trend in the United Kingdom, the idea of “safari supper” or the

more western phrase, “progressive dinner,” is a dinner party with successive courses prepared and consumed at the residences of different hosts. Typically, the traveling dinner party will enjoy one course at each location.

It was an ideal evening to pursue this plan by way of restaurants so the team at Missoula Valley Lifestyle set out on foot in downtown Missoula for a full dining experience at a few locations.

The menus were hemmed and hawed over, each of us pointing a finger at clever drink names and surprising appetizer pairings. The meals themselves were works of art—decadent and deliciously divine.

And dessert, oh how the stomach expands with sugary words and waffle cones to boot.

Walking between meals brought back memories of school field trips, crossing the street with anticipation and energy, and each full glass was another reason to cheers. In the end we found that maybe life’s big moments are hardly moments at all but rather similar to that of the dining experience—a consistent conversation of warmth, flavor, and emotion.

Go on, dig in.

THE FIRST BITE The Top Hat Restaurant and Bar is not bar food.

In fact, its menu is quite distinguished and it just might have the secret to dressing up chicken and waffles. The setting is classy, sophisticated, and dramatic. If you’re planning on a greasy bite before catching a great band on the venue’s in-house stage, you’ll be in for a pleasant surprise with its locally sourced comfort food and healthy dishes.

The kitchen creates from-scratch pasta dishes and it partners with local businesses for fresh ingredients. All the better? You can have drinks, appetizers, or dinner and a show!

What we ordered: Smoked Kimchi Fries, Chicken & Waffles (with maple rosemary butter? Come on!), and Sautéed Brussels Sprouts.

TOP HAT RESTAURANT & BAR 134 W Front Street 406.728.9865 Visit LogJamPresents.com to snatch tickets to an upcoming show!

CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

21

A PROGRESSIVE DOWNTOWN DINNER

(CON TI N UED)

THE MAIN COURSE 1889 is the main attraction within the new Mercantile Building on Higgins, perfectly situated on a busy corner with walls of windows to let the streets of Missoula serve as the atmosphere. The interior is modern and industrial with nods to Missoula’s yesteryear. The cuisine? Classic American steakhouse with French influence.

We took a seat at the corner table nearest to the street and salivated over the menu items, all of which were simple yet bold, pairing ingredients that would be an absolute risk in the domestic kitchen. But executive chef Mark LeFebvre is confident about this tailored list of options.

“It’s exciting to run a kitchen in a place where you can work so closely with the seasons. And if Montanans get excited about anything, it’s things that are grown in this amazing state,” said Mark.

1889’s doors were newly open to the public at our time of dining and we were lucky to have Mark visit our table several times throughout our meal, taking pride in his position within our city, considering his long, impressive list of previous ventures. One could tell he was right at home in the Garden City with its bountiful resources.

“When your focus is high quality ingredients and exceptional service, it frees the guests to enjoy what we are presenting and, more importantly, each other,” said Mark. And that sentiment was the theme of our evening as an editorial family—being together, filling ourselves with food and conversation.

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

“We wanted to pay tribute to the historical building that once stood in this location,” said owner Melissa Mooney. “And also honor the great state where we live, work, and have raised our two children. 1889 is the year that Montana acquired statehood. We have incorporated this theme into our décor and included two wall sized photographs of the Missoula area in 1889; one looking up Hellgate Canyon and one of downtown

But T here's Always Room

Missoula. We have also used all reclaimed wood from the Mercantile building in our design as well.”

Just as we entertained the thought about setting our napkins down and retreating to the streets in search of our dessert destination, a well-dressed dessert for another table floated by in a waiter’s hands.

Our jaws hung open and we looked to one another for approval in breaking what we assumed to be a progressive dinner rule. Lucky for us, there are no rules in dining. So dessert it is. Explosive flavor, decadent dessert, and a lick-the-plate finish. Have yourself a try.

What we ordered: DRINKS: Dark & Stormy on Draft, Kootenai Collins, Crank Start, Old Fashioned.

DINNER: Prime Ribeye with whipped potatoes and 1889 steak sauce, Prime New York Strip, Flat Iron Steak Frites, Grilled Halibut, Half Chicken, Steakhouse Salad, Chilled Jumbo Shrimp.

DESSERT: Crème Fraiche Panna Cotta, Espresso Chocolate Torte, Cherry Cheesecake.

1889 125 N Pattee Street 406.529.1263 1889Missoula.com BUT THERE’S ALWAYS ROOM...

The Big Dipper is such a staple in our riverside city.

There’s a sweet smell that greets all your senses at once when it’s your turn at the window, enough to make you want to climb over the counter and live in there. What’s best about our progressive dinner is having to walk between meals, or in our case, between desserts. There’s time to stop and enjoy the surfers catching some fun on Brennan’s Wave while perched on the Higgins Avenue Bridge and room to digest before contemplating another sweet indulgence, such as a cone or a cup.

BIG DIPPER ICE CREAM 631 S Higgins Avenue 406.543.5722 BigDipperIceCream.com

CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

23

A PROGRESSIVE DOWNTOWN DINNER

(CON TI N UED)

“When your focus is high quality ingredients and exceptional service, it frees the guests to enjoy what we are presenting and, more importantly, each other” – CHEF MARK LEFEBVRE

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

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MEANINGS BEHIND THE NAMES

Digesting Our City ARTICLE GABE SEMENZA

EVER WONDER HOW MISSOULA’S STREETS WERE NAMED? For the most part, Missoula street names follow conventions used across the country. Early leaders often plucked surnames from local dignitaries and businesspeople, until that well ran dry. Like elsewhere, they turned to national politicians, entertainers, and even woody perennial plants.

But this isn’t true everywhere. Northeast of here, founders named Montana railroad towns by throwing darts at a spinning globe, said Philip Maechling, a Missoula historic preservation projects consultant. You can still visit Zurich, Mont.

Havre is actually a port in France.

Let’s take a stroll through some of our local streets.

HIGGINS “Higgins Avenue bears the name of a Missoula founder, Christopher Powers Higgins,” Philip said.

Higgins was an Irish immigrant, Army captain, and businessman who helped to found the Hellgate Trading Post and later Missoula. According to a Fort Missoula early history account, Higgins and others arrived here in August 1860 with a pack train of 76 animals loaded 26

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

with merchandise and a safe. Higgins married Juliet P. Grant three years later. Juliet was the daughter of Missoula pioneer Richard Grant, for which Grant Creek was named, according to the City of Missoula.

AB HAMMOND Anthony Benoni Hammond was one of Missoula’s most important historical financial figures, Philip said. “He was the brains behind the Missoula Mercantile and Montana Improvement company. He built the Bonner Mill and stole millions of dollars of timber from public land up the Blackfoot.” Hammond eventually left Missoula for the west coast.

According to a 2012 Big Sky Journal article: “Shortly after his departure from Missoula, the town he largely built, the town council voted to rename Hammond Street.” Hammond Street was changed to Gerald Avenue. Gerald and avenues nearby—Ronald, Hilda, Helen, Francis, Maurice, Arthur—are named after Higgins’ children. Hammond’s name, though, is still visible, stamped into the sidewalk at the intersection of Gerald Street and University Avenue.

BROOKS If you’ve ever driven Missoula’s Slant Streets neighborhood, you’ve probably wondered if its developer had a drinking problem. Philip said you can thank George F. Brooks. Brooks, for which Brooks Street was named, was a businessman who is thought to be the engineer of the Slant Street neighborhood, an early effort to develop a town just south of downtown Missoula. The way in which the development’s diagonal streets tie into the north-south grid is so wonky an overhead image of the neighborhood went viral on social media a few years ago.

CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

27

DIGESTING OUR CITY

(CON TI N U ED)

RUSSELL

Madison, Jefferson, Adams, and Washington streets—nods

Like many local streets, Russell Street originally had

to our country’s line of presidents. Stephens Avenue is

a different name. When the Russell Street bridge was

named after frontier lawyer, judge, and legislator William J.

completed in the 1950s, the street took on the name it

Stephens, who moved to Missoula in 1870, according to the

maintains today. Philip said the street is named after CM

book, “Progressive Men of Montana.”

Russell, the Old American West artist known for painting major historical events, such as a mural titled Lewis and Clark Meeting the Flathead Indians.

ENTERTAINMENT On Missoula’s west side, you’ll find nods to literary authors and poets. Cooper Street was named after James Fenimore

POLITICIANS

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Cooper, an author of historical romances set in the American

As a city grows, planners run out of names with local

frontier. Nearby, there’s Hawthorne, Shakespeare, Cowper,

ties. So, they turn to the outside for ideas, and often times

Defoe, and Burns. Near the airport, there’s Potter Park Loop,

to politicians. Van Buren Street is named after Martin Van

a development named after the Harry Potter books. You can

Buren, the country’s eighth president. The presidential trend

travel down lanes named Muggle, Hermione, and Diagon,

continues as you head west from there: Jackson, Monroe,

all references to the fantasy series.

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

making you smile "The staff at Montana Dental Arts is friendly, helpful and efficient. They take the time to answer questions and provide solutions.

Dr. Wilcox is thorough in examinations and communicates in a way the patient can

TREES You’ll often notice themes in groups of streets. If you follow Stephens Avenue northwest until you pass Sacajawea Park, the roadway turns into Orange Street. That street, like many, is

understand. The staff is equally as thoughtful with younger patients and know how to set them at ease. I would recommend everyone to make an appointment with them now!!"

named after a tree.

“What else are you going to do when you run out of local names?” said Jim McDonald, a preservation architect with the firm A&E Architects, chuckling from his North Higgins Avenue office.

West of Orange Street, you’ll notice Cottonwood, Hickory, Walnut, Ash, and Oak streets. In the Lower Rattlesnake, there’s Poplar, Cherry, Willow, Lilac, and Elm streets. “East Pine Street was once home to many of the city’s wealthy,” Philip said.

Providing excellent family, cosmetic & implant dentistry Call Today & Schedule your appointment with

Dr. David Wilcox (406) 728-6068 MontanaDentalArts.com 1920 South Russell Street

October 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

29

HOPS & VINE

THE STILL ROOM 1609 W Broadway Street 406.543.5678 StillRoomMT.com

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

ARTICLE JILL MH TABER | PHOTOGRAPHY OPEN LENS BY PAMELA

FLAVOR & FL AIR

THE STILL ROOM OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

REGGAE BEATS EVENLY FROM THE SOUND SYSTEM. The Cubbies and the Phillies are tied at 1 in the fourth inning. Soft August light filters down from the skylights, illuminating the bar with a natural glow. When we walked into The Still Room, located within the Broadway Inn, I immediately noticed the flower-adorned horned skull perched over 22 beer taps that reminded me a bit of Texas longhorns on the front of a classic Cadillac.

My husband and I visited The Still Room for an

Bison Company, Western Montana Growers’ Co-op,

impromptu date night in mid-August. We chose a

and Montrail Elk—in addition to pretzel buns and

table under the skylights with a view of the Cubs

desserts from Bernice’s Bakery.

game. A few construction workers dotted the long

“We decided to go local because I’m under the

bar, relaxing after a day’s work, possibly on the

philosophy that the back-of-house staff and the

nearby Russell Street bridge. The guys sitting at a

front-of-house staff should really buy into what

table next to ours browsed their smartphones, dis-

you’re selling,” explained Dave Jenks, general man-

cussing routes for the next day’s road trip. Guests

ager of The Still Room. “It’s an economic thing,

shuffled in from the pool on the back patio to grab

too. Here we have a million-dollar-a-year business

some shade and a cold drink.

buying products within 100 miles of our front door.”

The Still Room prides itself on a local focus, offer-

There’s always been a restaurant and bar in the

ing a swath of Montana beers as well as meats from

Broadway Inn; Dave met owner, Walt Muralt, “fortu-

local growers—Oxbow Cattle Company, Bitterroot

itously” in the fall of 2016. Dave has over 20 years’ experience in the restaurant industry, coming to Missoula to help Walt renovate and rebrand the restaurant as The Still Room, which was completed in May of 2018.

“This is Walt and I’s baby,” Dave explained. “We’ve grown pretty substantially. For the most part, we’ve almost tripled our business in 2019.”

CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

31

HOPS & VINE

(CON TI N U ED)

The secret to their growth, Dave said, is a commitment to a long-term vision.

“We don’t bite off more than we can chew,” said Dave.

“We’re taking basic steps. We’re not trying to shoot for the middle. We’re constantly trying to improve and we know we are here for the long run.”

One part of the Dave and Walt vision is providing a unique experience for a variety of customers.

“We wear a lot of hats here,” said Dave. “You can come in and order a Bud Light and a burger, or you can find a well-crafted cocktail or a nice wine.”

The Still Room offers what Dave described as a “diverse, abbreviated wine list.” I tried a Chilean Pinot Noir, but also noticed a red blend made in Arizona.

Surprising wine, local craft beers, or standby-staples like Coors Light—all the markings of a restaurant with diverse options. But what might set The Still Room apart is its devotion to a well-made cocktail.

“We wanted to get back to the basics of classic bartending,” said Dave. “Our cocktail list is one of the hidden gems of Missoula.”

No revolting margaritas here: The Still Room uses fresh citrus juices and top-shelf liquors, many of them made

by Montana distilleries, to up the ante on the Missoula cocktail game.

While The Still Room lies a bit off the beaten path on West Broadway, Dave said the big parking lot, as well as expansion by breweries and other restaurants on the Westside, make for a rising tide. By drawing attention to local liquors through tasting nights and special menu offerings, Dave hopes that more Missoulians will be drawn to experience the art of a good cocktail.

“We want to offer a great experience at a reasonable cost,” Dave explained. “We want your visit to The Still Room to be a well-rounded experience.”

32

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

BREAKFAST & BRUNCH • SANDWICHES • BURGERS

Locally Owned & Operated for Over 20 Years

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Now Care Nose to Toes Care Open 7 Days A Week No Appointment Needed October 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

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LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

4 13TH ANNUAL PRAY FOR SNOW PARTY Caras Park

This party brings the winter community together for a night of beer, music, food, raffles and a good time

Pa r a d i s e H a l l E v e n t C e n t e r

Corporate Retreats, Conferences, Holiday Parties, Celebrations QuinnsHotSprings.com 406-826-3150

from 5 to 10 p.m. Proceeds benefit the West Central Montana Avalanche Center. .

5 40TH ANNUAL MCINTOSH APPLE DAY FESTIVAL Ravalli County Museum

Apples and cider and shopping, oh my! Locally famous, the “Biggest Bake Sale Under the Big Sky” is taking place on Saturday, October 5 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. in Hamilton. The Bitterroot will be filled with scents of apple-inspired treats.

5 HOMECOMING FOOTBALL GAME Washington Grizzly Stadium

Watch the Montana Grizzlies take on the Idaho State Bengals for the homecoming festivities. Kick off is at 1 p.m.

12 ROY ORBISON & BUDDY HOLLY THE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL DREAM TOUR UM Dennison Theatre

Sad about missing out on seeing some of the great musicians of all time? Get a taste of what it was like with a production featuring holograms of late superstars backed by live musicians at 7 p.m. Go to griztix.com for tickets.

16 SIP AND BUILD: BONE BOXES Montana Natural History Center

Combine your artistic and forensic sides when you build mini shadow boxes (perfect for Halloween or any time) from the bones of owl pellets. Feel free to grab a glass of wine or beer as Christine Morris guides you through the process. 7 to 9 p.m.

34

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

CONTINUED >

OCTOBER

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1609 West Broadway • 406.532.3300 www.stillroommt.com October 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

35

18 GLOBAL GAUNTLET: A TRIVIA COMPETITION Hilton Garden Inn

OCTOBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

A trivia competition that also serves

as a fundraiser, the Global Gauntlet

supports the Montana World Affairs Council’s ongoing effort to increase global

awareness

in

Montana

communities and classrooms. Enjoy a sit-down dinner, silent and live

auction, and six rounds of trivia.

Begins at 5 p.m. $250 for two tickets.

19 PUMPKIN RUN Silver Park

Run Wild Missoula hosts the 24th annual family-friendly Pumpkin Run with a 5K and 400 meter dash starting at 10 a.m. Registration open now.

The concept of Sandhill Ridge is to provide custom homes designed for your lifestyle.

25 Acres Open Space with 2 miles of walking trails, Borders State Land, Energy Efficient Homes

Proceeds go to the Muscular Dystrophy Association and University of Montana Kless Revolving Energy Loan Fund..

25 ART SWING AT MAM Missoula Art Museum

20 Minutes South of Missoula in Ravalli County

Celebrate the fall with live music, gallery tours and conversations with exhibiting artists Ellen Garvens, Barbara Weissberger, Lillian Pitt, and Ken Little.

Indulge in catered hors d’oeuvres and

DI S T IN C TIV E C O M M UN ITY, C USTOM HOME S

a no-host bar! $10 adults/$5 students (free for members). 5 to 8 p.m.

31 HOOT & HOWL HALLOWEEN BASH Missoula YMCA

Get ready for a boo-tacular time with the Missoula Y! Wear your favorite family-friendly costume and enjoy

406-777-7164 | TamarackConstruction.com

health treats, spooky activities, a bounce house, photo booth, raffle, and more! This event is free to attend.

36

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

OCTOBER

Give us a call and we’ll be there chop-chop.

call 542-SEED

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CALL 406•728•0285 2831 Fort Missoula Road Missoula, Montana 59804

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October 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

37

PARTING THOUGHTS

A R e c i p e f o r O cto b e r ARTICLE CHELSEA LYN AGRO

OCTOBER CALLS FOR THE BARE NECESSITIES. The chill in the air brings us home and reminds us that there’s much

1

to be enjoyed within our own walls. From homemade pies to the warmth of a fire, autumn is welcomed with open arms.

Ingredients 2

1

Tea Lake Missoula Tea Company offers a worldly look on tea. Take yourself to almost anywhere in the world with a hot cup of tea. Try a “Botanical Blend Tea” like Baked Apple Pie. Visit LakeMissoulaTeaCompany.com or in person at 136 E Broadway.

2

3

Blanket Field and Sage is home to plush Missoulamade blankets, perfect for curling up in a cozy spot. Choose from a wide range of fun designs.

Visit Etsy.com/shop/FieldandSage

4

3

Pie Pick up a scratch made pie at Bernice’s Bakery for the upcoming holidays or just for a family meal. Options include cherry, mixed berry, strawberry rhubarb, raspberry rhubarb, apple, and peach. Seek out their specialty pies at BernicesBakeryMT.com.

4

Candle Wandering Bison is a nature inspired soy candle and lifestyle company. Browse and sniff scents like “Base Camp,” a campfire and whiskey scented candle, or “Trailhead,” which

5

smells like fresh pine. All scents available at TheWanderingBison.com.

5

Book The Missoula Public Library is home to a plethora of literary events and a vast selection of reading choices, perfect for all age levels.

Enjoy classes, book discussions, films, lectures, story time, writing groups, and more. Visit MissoulaPublicLibrary.org for a list of events.

38

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | October 2019

1087 ANGLERS BEND WAY

1046 ANGLERS BEND WAY

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Move right in to this well construction high end 3 plus bedroom, 3.5 bath home with workout room. Open designer kitchen and spacious dining.

If you are Looking for UPDATED and IMMACULATE living on the golf course with East facing mountain views and access to trails, Clark Fork River and recreation. We have your new home. 4 bedroom, 3.5 baths attached garage covered patios.

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