The Missoula Club, or 'Mo' Club, as it is affectionately (and accurately) known to locals, is a Missoula tradition, harkening back generations in the lore of the town. Even as shops around become modernized, change identity, or even close down, one can always count on a few things at the Mo Club: a quick and very tasty burger, friendly bartenders, and someone to strike up a conversation with.
The Mo Club is first and foremost known for their burgers, made to order on a small square grill located behind the bar, in plain view of customers. They are prepared quickly, to your specifications, even being able to choose your cheese, add bacon, and with all the fixings. Some people would tell you that they are only good with a cold beer, but most people find them satisfying and affordable, day or night. They are filling, as well, with each burger checking in at 1/3 lb. Don't forget about the old-school soda fountain/malt bar, mixing up a treat for those who have a sweet tooth, as well as for the younger ones during the daytime.
Along with cold beers on tap and the usual offering of spirits and mixed drinks, the second most prominent thing you will get at the Mo Club is conversation, usually in the vein of local topics or sports, or when it comes to the Montana Grizzlies, a combination thereof. Even if you go in alone, you can just cozy up to the bar and soon be involved with patrons and the bartenders, discussing a wide variety of items. Many times during the day, people of all ages will be more than willing to strike up a conversation about days gone by.
When you step into the Mo Club, you may not know whether it is 2012 or 1972. Vaulted, molded ceilings scream of days gone by in a fond way, along with the light fixtures that haven't changed in decades. The two-sided bar running down the middle of the establishment provides not only extra seating, but a good divider between the main bar and the entertainment side of the Mo Club, where the pool table and keno machines are located. Even the old neon-light sign on the outside goes back to an earlier, simplier time.
In summary, most people looking for a classy time or upscale accomodations will not favor the Mo Club, but for those in-the-know, the Mo Club is a great place to fill your belly with good food, strong drinks before Montana Grizzly football games, and learn about a little slice of Missoula-cana. Even Bill Clinton stopped by for one of their famous burgers, back in 2008. The Mo Club is located in the heart of downtown, at 139 W. Main St. You can call them at (406) 728-3740, or find them on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Missoula-Club/111557202214560
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