Regulars, first-timers alike find comfortable eatery in Scotty's Bar

Whether you’re looking for a place to wet your whistle and let your hair down in the evening, a hearty breakfast before hitting the trails or anything in between, Scotty’s Bar in Kalispell has got you covered.

A landmark on the south side of the city, Scotty’s has been serving up more than the average bar fare (along with all your regular favorites) for 29 years.

The owner

The “Scotty” who gave the bar its name opened the business on his 21st birthday, back in 1983, according to his wife and current owner, Karla Levengood.

“My husband, Scotty, passed away nine years ago, but he’s still here in spirit, every day,” she said.

Continuing his tradition of great food and friendly service, Karla and her son Zane can be found in the bar most days, serving customers and running things behind the scene.

The family also owns the Winchester Steak House, so they have a lot of experience in making restaurants successful and offering tasty food.

The Levengoods aren’t the only familiar faces in the bar, either. With a popular burger named after her, bartender Maura O’Halloran has been behind the bar for almost as long as it’s been there.

The vibe and food

“If you remember the TV show ‘Cheers,’ this place is a lot like that,” Karla said. “We’ve got a lot of regulars, and we know them by name, or what they drink. A lot of these people eat lunch here five days a week.”

That vibe extends to strangers, with fast, friendly service with a smile, making regulars and first-timers alike feel welcome.

During the day, the bar is very family friendly and offers everything from breakfast omelets to hand-cut steaks, homemade soup and burgers. In fact, some of that behind-the-scenes work the Levengood family does involves cutting those steaks and feeding their herd of elk. That dedication results in some phenomenal burgers and steaks.

“There’s not a bad item on the menu,” Zane said. “We’ve got fantastic breakfasts, elk and buffalo burgers, but I think the best thing we have is our hand-cut steaks.”

“It’s very hearty and homemade food that we offer here, and it’s pretty healthy, too,” added Karla.

With 10 beers on tap and plenty more behind the bar, there’s something to quench any thirst, and Scotty’s features many local brews, as well as old standbys.

There is plenty of seating at the bar, or at tables throughout the restaurant, and even a patio outside. During the weekend evenings some of the tables get cleared away for live music and dancing later in the night. Scotty’s also offers event planning and catering services, so you can enjoy the food even if you’re not at the bar.

Scotty’s also offers daily specials, soups, salads and more.

The price

Hand-cut boneless rib steak — $24.95

5 oz. Maura Burger — $7.95

8 oz. Elk Patty — $10.95

Scotty’s Bar is located at 2205 U.S. 93 S. in Kalispell. Call 257-8188 for daily specials or information on events and catering. Scotty’s serves breakfast Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. Lunch starts at 11 a.m. daily.