The Glacier National Park Lodge menu offers a diverse array of culinary delights, showcasing local ingredients and regional specialties. From hearty breakfast buffets to gourmet dinners, the lodge’s dining options cater to various tastes and dietary needs. The Great Northern Dining Room and Empire Bar & Grill provide stunning mountain views while serving up Montana-inspired dishes, including wild game, seafood, and vegetarian options. With a focus on seasonal ingredients and a commitment to quality, the lodge’s menu brings the flavors of Glacier National Park to your plate.
What Are the Signature Dishes at Glacier National Park Lodge?
The Glacier National Park Lodge menu boasts several signature dishes that capture the essence of Montana cuisine:
- Sirloin Steak: A 10 oz cut served with garlic mashed potatoes and peppercorn compound butter.
- Bison Bolognese: A unique twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring rigatoni, pesto ricotta, and shaved parmesan.
- Huckleberry Bread Pudding: A regional dessert favorite showcasing local huckleberries.
These dishes exemplify the lodge’s commitment to incorporating local flavors and ingredients into their menu offerings.
What Dining Options Are Available at the Lodge?
The Glacier National Park Lodge offers multiple dining venues to suit different preferences and occasions:
- The Great Northern Dining Room:
- Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Offers a full and continental breakfast buffet
- Features wild game, seafood, and chef-inspired daily specials
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Casual dining style with no reservations required
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Empire Bar & Grill:
- Casual lunch and dinner options
- Menu includes sandwiches, burgers, salads, and appetizers
- Offers Montana micro-brews and wine
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Provides late-night appetizers and sports viewing
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Triple Divide Coffee Co.:
- Located in the main lobby
- Serves coffee, espresso, teas, and other beverages
- Opens early at 6:30 AM for early risers
Each venue provides a unique atmosphere and menu selection, catering to various dining preferences throughout the day.
What Are the Must-Try Appetizers on the Menu?
The Glacier National Park Lodge menu features several appetizers that showcase local flavors and innovative culinary techniques:
- Brussels & Bacon: Crispy fried Brussels sprouts and pork belly tossed in maple glaze
- Onion Dip with Kettle Chips: Roasted garlic and onion dip served with warm kettle chips
- Hummus of the Day: A rotating selection served with warm pita and fresh vegetables
- Charcuterie Board: An assortment of meats, cheeses, and accompaniments including:
- Soppressata
- Summer sausage
- Brie and gruyère cheeses
- Candied walnuts
- Dried apricots
- Mixed olives
- House-made spicy brown mustard
- Huckleberry compote
These appetizers provide a perfect start to your dining experience, offering a taste of local and artisanal ingredients.
How Does the Menu Accommodate Special Dietary Requirements?
The Glacier National Park Lodge menu is designed to accommodate various dietary needs and preferences:
- Vegetarian Options:
- Curried Cauliflower: A flavorful dish with coconut and ginger curry, bok choy, fried carrot ribbons, and jasmine rice
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Hummus of the Day: A plant-based appetizer option
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Gluten-Free Choices:
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Flourless Chocolate Cake: A delicious dessert option for those avoiding gluten
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Vegan Alternatives:
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While not explicitly mentioned, the kitchen staff can likely accommodate vegan requests with advance notice
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Customizable Dishes:
- Many entrees can be modified to suit dietary restrictions
- For example, the Curried Cauliflower dish can be ordered with or without added chicken
The menu uses clear labeling to indicate gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, making it easy for guests with special dietary requirements to navigate their choices.
What Are the Price Ranges for Meals at the Lodge?
The Glacier National Park Lodge menu offers a range of options to suit different budgets:
| Meal Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Appetizers | $12 – $28 |
| Entrees | $34 – $39 |
| Desserts | $6 – $13 |
Some specific examples include:
- Onion Dip with Kettle Chips: $12
- Charcuterie Board: $28
- Roasted Chicken Breast: $34
- Sirloin Steak: $39
- Ice Cream: $6
- Raspberry White Chocolate Brulee Cheesecake: $13
Children’s menus are available, though specific prices are not listed. The breakfast buffet and à la carte options are also offered, but prices are not explicitly stated.
How Does the Menu Change with Seasons?
The Glacier National Park Lodge menu embraces seasonal changes to offer the freshest and most appropriate dishes throughout their operating season:
- Seasonal Ingredients:
- The menu incorporates locally sourced ingredients that are at their peak during the late spring to early fall season.
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Dishes may feature seasonal produce like fresh berries, local vegetables, and foraged ingredients.
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Rotating Specials:
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Chef-inspired daily specials allow for the incorporation of seasonal ingredients and creative dishes that reflect the time of year.
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Seasonal Operations:
- The lodge operates from late May to late September, aligning with the peak tourist season in Glacier National Park.
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Menu offerings may vary slightly at the beginning and end of the season based on ingredient availability.
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Adaptable Menu Items:
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Dishes like the “Hummus of the Day” and “Vegetable du Jour” allow for flexibility in incorporating seasonal produce.
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Seasonal Beverages:
- The bar menu may feature seasonal cocktails or local craft beers that complement the time of year.
While the core menu remains consistent, these seasonal adaptations ensure that guests can enjoy the best flavors Glacier National Park has to offer throughout the operating season.
What Local and Organic Ingredients Are Featured in the Menu?
The Glacier National Park Lodge menu proudly showcases a variety of local and organic ingredients, emphasizing the flavors of Montana and the surrounding region:
- Montana Coffee Traders:
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Provides locally roasted coffee beans for the lodge’s coffee offerings
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Redneck Meats:
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Supplies high-quality, locally sourced meats for dishes like the Sirloin Steak and Porterhouse Pork Chop
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Birch Creek Hutterite Colony Farms:
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Contributes fresh, locally grown produce used in various dishes
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Huckleberries:
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A regional specialty featured in desserts like the Huckleberry Bread Pudding and as a compote on the Charcuterie Board
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Wild Game:
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Locally sourced game meats, such as bison used in the Bison Bolognese
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Montana Micro-brews:
- Local craft beers served at the Empire Bar & Grill
By incorporating these local and organic ingredients, the lodge not only supports local producers but also provides guests with an authentic taste of Montana cuisine.
How Can Guests Make the Most of Their Dining Experience at the Lodge?
To fully enjoy the culinary offerings at Glacier National Park Lodge, guests can follow these tips:
- Try the Signature Dishes:
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Don’t miss out on specialties like the Bison Bolognese or Huckleberry Bread Pudding
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Explore Different Venues:
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Experience the variety by dining at both The Great Northern Dining Room and the Empire Bar & Grill
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Enjoy the Views:
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Request a table with a view of Dancing Lady Mountain in The Great Northern Dining Room
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Sample Local Beverages:
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Try Montana micro-brews or locally inspired cocktails at the Empire Bar & Grill
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Ask About Daily Specials:
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Inquire about chef-inspired daily specials for unique, seasonal offerings
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Start Your Day Right:
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Begin with a visit to Triple Divide Coffee Co. for a locally roasted coffee
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Plan for Busy Times:
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As seating is first-come, first-served, plan to arrive early during peak dining hours
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Dietary Accommodations:
- Inform the staff of any dietary restrictions in advance for the best possible service
By following these suggestions, guests can ensure a memorable dining experience that complements their visit to Glacier National Park.
References:
1. https://www.visitmt.com/listings/general/restaurant/the-great-northern-dining-room-at-glacier-park-lodge
2. https://www.glaciernationalparklodges.com/dining/
3. https://www.glacierparkcollection.com/lodging/glacier-park-lodge/dining-shopping/