Montana is a huge state - the fourth-largest, in fact - and so much of it is a natural wonderland without cities or even too many mid-sized towns to visit. That means that you might be driving a very long time to get to your destination - and a great restaurant on that road trip is like an oasis. Obviously, opening a rural restaurant in Montana is a tricky proposition because of how long it might take to get there, and one that manages to succeed is doing something very right. That's definitely the case for the Oxen Yoke Inn in Utica, a charming western-style saloon that has a great old-school ambiance and a simple but delicious menu that stands the test of time. This place is very popular with weary travelers on the road - but if you ask us, it's worth the trip all on its own.
The Oxen Yoke Inn is far away from any major city, but this humble little saloon feels like it stepped right out of the Wild West. It's a perfect stop when you're on your way to do some hiking in the nearby Helena-Lewis and Clark State Forest.
The Oxen Yoke Inn caters to those who want a no-frills dining experience, with a bar and pool table on hand. But don't worry - the food here is seriously delicious and the rustic environment only adds to the atmosphere.
The menu here trends towards hearty country food. The burgers are the most popular item but don't miss out on the dinner specials - like some of the best chicken-fried steak in Montana.
The daily specials are also worth checking out. One of the most popular is Frybread Tacos, inspired by the Native tribes that have reservations in this area of Montana. You haven't had Western food until you've tried these!
If you happen to be in the area during Christmastime, make sure to drop by - this place is straight out of a textbook Western Christmas story!
Have you visited the Oxen Yoke Inn found in Utica? Let us know about your visit to this rural restaurant in Montana! You can visit the Facebook page of the Oxen Yoke Inn for the latest updates, and the restaurant's page on the Russell County website will give you a closer look at the menu and specials. As you're driving through Montana, make sure to see if any of the small towns you're passing through are hosting fall festivals. And if you need something a little hardier than a car for your road trip, check out RV Share for the perfect family vehicle!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!