A recent move to the Bitterroot Valley in Montana, just 25 minutes of south of Missoula, led me to the Mission Bistro in Stevensville. I’ve visited this little spot three times since New Year’s Eve and I just can’t get enough! Located at 101 Church Street – just a mile from Highway 93 just off of the Eastside Highway – you’ll find this brother and sister-run restaurant. Angie and Eric Loessberg, both from Stevensville, operate Mission Bistro. Eric is a professionally-trained chef and Angie has spent years honing her skills in front of the house operations. But, I must tell you about the food. Described as “Northwest cuisine with a touch a french inspiration…” there is something for every palate.

With each visit, I’ve tried something new on the menu. First, it was a New Year’s Eve special. My husband and I decided to celebrate the New Year with a bottle of Balletto Russian River Pinot Noir (2012) and an inspired cheese plate served with local honeycomb, toasted Marcona almonds, and toasted slices of Le Petit baguette. Our entrees, filet mignon and lobster (holiday specials, not on the regular menu), were cooked and seasoned perfectly. Though we had little room for dessert, we indulged in a slice of homemade key lime pie.

The second and third visits were for Sunday brunch, offered from 9 am to 3 pm. Mission Bistro’s brunch menu is both sweet and savory. In addition to what’s on the menu, they offer two quiches – one packed with seasonal veggies and cheese, the other with Kalispell-based Redneck sausage, bacon, and Lifeline Farm cheddar. Both excellent! Since we had ordered one of each quiche during our first brunch visit, my husband was eager to order off the menu. He tried the Stuffed Rosti Potato (pictured) and loved it – simple flavors, combined with great presentation.

Mission Bistro also offers an assortment of homemade muffins and pastries. We tasted the apple turnover, banana chocolate chip muffin, and huckleberry orange muffin over the course of our two visits. All delightfully satisfying.

Reservations are recommended, but not required (call 406-777-6945). There are three seating areas that fill up quickly, so I’d advise reservations unless you don’t mind waiting. Large parties can be accommodated.

Mission Bistro is open Wednesday through Saturday from 5 pm to 10 pm for dinner and Sunday from 9 am to 3 pm for brunch.

Please note that the restaurant is closed from January 26th – February 10th for a refresher after the holidays.

Stuffed Rosti Potato With Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Basil and Mozzarella, Topped With Two Eggs, Served With A Side of Salsa

Sunday Quiche