Russell's Fireside Dining Room
Dine in a historic hunting lodge with stunning views of Lake McDonald, savoring local fare and iconic huckleberry pie.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Russell's Fireside Dining Room
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dine in a historic hunting lodge with stunning views of Lake McDonald, savoring local fare and iconic huckleberry pie.
Reservations Recommended
Book ahead or expect waits, especially during peak times. Limited seating means reservations are key.
Don't Miss Local Flavors
Try the huckleberry pie and bison burger with huckleberry aioli for an authentic taste.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
$$$
Address
288 Lake McDonald Ldg Lp, West Glacier, MT 59936, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Lodge Ambiance
Experience cozy, upscale dining in a rustic hunting lodge atmosphere with stunning views of Lake McDonald.
Iconic Huckleberry Pie
Indulge in the must-try huckleberry pie, a local favorite that draws praise from diners.
Local Fare & Unique Dishes
Savor delicious local cuisine, including unique items like bison burgers and lamb shanks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reservations Recommended
Book ahead or expect waits, especially during peak times. Limited seating means reservations are key.
Don't Miss Local Flavors
Try the huckleberry pie and bison burger with huckleberry aioli for an authentic taste.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
For a quieter experience and fewer crowds, consider visiting during less busy times.
Ask Staff for Recs
Friendly servers like Dana or Travis can offer great menu and lodge history insights.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reservations Recommended
Book ahead or expect waits, especially during peak times. Limited seating means reservations are key.
Don't Miss Local Flavors
Try the huckleberry pie and bison burger with huckleberry aioli for an authentic taste.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
For a quieter experience and fewer crowds, consider visiting during less busy times.
Ask Staff for Recs
Friendly servers like Dana or Travis can offer great menu and lodge history insights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Russell's Fireside Dining Room offers a unique ambiance within the historic Lake McDonald Lodge, complemented by stunning views. While some find the food overpriced for its quality, others praise signature dishes like the huckleberry pie and bison burger. Service can be inconsistent, but the historic setting and friendly staff often make up for minor issues.
"Great location. Very popular place. Very busy at lunch. Extremely long line to sit when lunch opens BUT they have plenty of seating so the line goes fast. There warm Huckleberry pie a la mode is absolutely a must get. I got there Huckleberry elk burger which had a fantastic combination of fixings that complimented everything really well. The charcuterie board was also fantastic, which included bison pastrami and smoked duck as well as some really great pickled onions and pickles. The Huckleberry tea was so good I had to check their gift shop to see if they sold it there. Unfortunately they sold all flavors but that one."
Erik Covert
"Nice dining room with good decor. We came in a big group with the red bus tour. The line got backed up, which is fine, and we got into the dining room about 15 minutes later. I had the house salad, which was good but took my server telling me a couple different times that he was bringing it before he did. The burger and fries were good but a little dry for the burger patty. I had to eat quickly because we were late to get back on the bus. Good meal and lunch isn't too expensive. I wish I had more time to enjoy."
Brandon Eddy
"The food was typically delicious. We had one or two minor temperature problems in our five nights of dining. The huckleberry pie is not to be missed. The fingerling potatoes at dinner and the home fries at breakfast are amazing. The staff are incredibly friendly but especially Allyson, Jax, and Stephanie"
Jennifer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating and high demand, especially during peak seasons.
The huckleberry pie is a standout. Other popular choices include the bison burger and lamb shank.
No, you can come straight from the trails. The atmosphere is cozy and upscale but casual.
Prices are considered high, with some guests finding them expensive for the portion sizes and quality.
While not explicitly listed, it's advisable to inquire with your server about available dietary accommodations.
The huckleberry pie is a popular item, but availability can vary. It's best to order it early.
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Guide to Glacier National Park
Dining options in the park include fine dining at Russell’s Fireside Dining Room at the Lake McDonald Lodge or the Ptarmigan Dining Room at the Many Glacier Hotel. Visitors can also grab a casual meal at several cafes and grills at the lodges and hotels in the park. Five camp stores located throughout the park offer groceries for visitors who wish to make their own meals.
A Guide to Glacier National Park - Plan a Trip for 2022
At Many Glacier Hotel, enjoy a sit down meal at Ptarmigan Dining Room, grab a quick coffee and bite to go at Heidi’s Snack Shop or enjoy a casual meal as Nell’s or the Swiss Lounge. If you find yourself in Apgar, check out Eddie’s Cafe. This family-owned and operated eatery serves hearty breakfast, lunch and dinner all season long.
Ultimate Guide to Glacier National Park
Russell’s Fireside Dining Room is located in the Lake McDonald Lodge area and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant features a historic hunting atmosphere and serves an array of cuisine, including incredible local dishes. Guests enjoy the food, drinks, and rustic style of Russell’s Fireside Dining Room.
How to Experience Western Montana and Glacier National Park
Russell’s Fireside Dining Room, the fine-dining restaurant the Lake McDonald Lodge, is running a casual takeout operation, Russell’s on the Run, during the pandemic. Their bison burger smeared with huckleberry aioli is the move, eaten outside with a view of the crystal lake, lilac mayo dripping down your fingers.
Stay at Lake McDonald Lodge
Located near Lake McDonald, Russell’s Fireside Dining Room offers a unique dining space that recalls the building’s hunting lodge origins. Breakfast selections include a full breakfast buffet as well as a lighter, continental buffet option. Lunch and dinner selections, focusing on local fare.
Glacier National Park Itinerary
Russell’s Fireside Dining Room, located inside the Lake McDonald Lodge, is a favorite of visitors. As the name suggests, you will experience a cozy, upscale meal. There is no need to dress up, however; you can come straight from the trails to dinner.
A Local’s Guide to Glacier National Park
Check out Eddie’s Cafe, Russell’s Fireside Dining Room, Jammer Joe’s Grill & Pizzeria, and Lucke’s Lounge, to name just a few. You can also pack a picnic lunch with Grab N Go options from Under Canvas.
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