est.1864 Noir Bar & Restaurant

Tucked away from prying eyes in the historic center of Bozeman, est. 1864 (also known as the Noir Bar and Restaurant) is a unique speakeasy-style space. Located in Montana, USA, this establishment draws inspiration from the era of the city's founding in 1864. The interior, designed in dark tones with antique wood, recreates the atmosphere of an old-time saloon while remaining a modern and stylish spot for relaxation.

The venue positions itself as a tribute to the region's history. The walls are adorned with portraits of historical figures, and the overall ambiance is steeped in a "noir" aesthetic. Owners Allison Fasano and Blake Maki consciously chose sincere hospitality and a close connection to the local community over pretension, using products and materials from local suppliers in both the decor and the menu.

est. 1864 is more than just a place for dinner; it is a true portal to the past, where attention to detail and quality service are paramount. With a 4.6 rating, this bar has become a favorite for those seeking a cozy and sexy atmosphere without unnecessary fuss, perfect for a romantic date or a quiet gathering with friends.

Located in the heart of the historic center, this establishment invites guests to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of old Montana. If you have any questions regarding table reservations or menu details, you can contact the restaurant team directly. Below are the current contact details for communication and navigation.

At est. 1864, it is worth starting your evening by exploring the cocktail menu, where every drink is a work of art. Be sure to try the signature The Highwayman with its smoky notes or trust the intuition of the professionals by choosing the “let the bartender create” option. Local mixology masters will craft a personalized drink for you based on your preferences.

The culinary side of the establishment is equally impressive. The chef offers a menu where classic dishes take on unexpected notes: you can order anything from a juicy steak or pasta to an original kimchi burger. All dishes are prepared using fresh local ingredients, emphasizing the authenticity of the kitchen. Beer enthusiasts should check out the taps featuring local brews from Montana's small-batch breweries.

Live music adds a special charm to the place, with local performers often playing acoustic sets. These aren't just background covers, but original creative works that perfectly complement the noir atmosphere. Examining the vintage photographs above the bar and chatting with the owners—who are always ready to tell the story behind a particular antique—turns a simple restaurant visit into a fascinating cultural adventure.

Finding est. 1864 is easy, as it is located at 233 E Main St Basement in the city's liveliest district. The entrance is at basement level, which highlights its concept as a hidden speakeasy. Travelers strolling through the historic downtown streets can easily reach the venue on foot from most central hotels in just 5–10 minutes.

For those who prefer to drive, street parking and public garages are available within walking distance in the city center. If you are arriving from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), a taxi or rideshare trip will take about 15–20 minutes to cover the 15-kilometer distance. For navigation, it is convenient to use Google Maps, looking for the entrance signs on East Main Street.

The name of the establishment, est. 1864, was not chosen by chance: it refers to the year Bozeman was officially founded. The bar's concept is a tribute of sorts to the pioneers, workers, and indigenous people of the region known as the "Valley of the Flowers." The owners aimed to create a place that honors Montana's rugged and romantic history without becoming a typical tourist trap.

Interestingly, before "est. 1864" opened, this basement space was home to a Korean karaoke bar called Happy Box. The new owners, Allison Fasano and Blake Maki, completely redesigned the space in 2023. They successfully transformed the interior into an atmospheric "noir" sanctuary, filling it with antique furniture, a massive wooden bar, and local artifacts carefully collected from across the state.

The walls are decorated with portraits of the city's historical figures, creating a sense of connection across eras. The owners emphasize that their goal was not just to open a profitable business, but to contribute to the preservation of the community's cultural identity. Using materials and interior items with a history allows guests to literally touch Montana's past while enjoying modern service standards.

A visit to est. 1864 typically takes 1 to 2 hours if you plan to stop by for a few cocktails and light appetizers. This is enough time to enjoy the unique interior and the bartenders' craftsmanship.

If you are looking forward to a full dinner featuring signature dishes or want to catch live acoustic music by local artists, you should set aside about 3–4 hours. The cozy and calm atmosphere of the establishment invites leisurely conversation, so many guests prefer to spend their entire evening here.

The establishment opens its doors daily in the late afternoon, making it an ideal spot for an early aperitif or a late dinner. From Monday to Wednesday and on Sundays, the bar is open from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. On more active days—Thursday, Friday, and Saturday—the doors stay open until 1:30 AM, allowing guests to enjoy the city's nightlife.

As operating hours may change for holidays or private events, it is recommended to check for the most up-to-date information on the establishment's official website before planning your visit.

Exploring the surroundings after your visit can significantly enrich your travel experience. The city center offers many interesting locations, from historic buildings to modern art venues, all located just a few minutes' walk away.

A stroll down the main street will allow you to see the architectural heritage of the early 20th century and feel the dynamic rhythm of local life. Below is a list of notable places located nearby: