The Desoto Grill

Imagine a place where the aromas of smoked meats blend with the spirit of old Americana and vintage garage aesthetics. This is exactly the atmosphere DeSoto Grill offers its guests—a unique BBQ restaurant located in the city of Kalispell. It is more than just an eatery; it's a true journey through time, housed in the historic The Forge building, constructed back in 1910.

The establishment occupies the premises of a former blacksmith shop, which is now recognized as a National Historic Landmark in the USA. The restaurant's interior is designed in an industrial style and generously decorated with parts from vintage cars, creating a cozy and slightly nostalgic setting. The grill bar got its name in honor of a legendary 1954 classic car — the DeSoto Powermaster.

People come to DeSoto Grill for the authentic taste of classic American barbecue, prepared here with a creative touch. Owners Shauna and Willie Steele brought their rich experience and passion for cooking here, creating a space where every guest feels like part of a large, friendly family.

If you are planning a visit to DeSoto Grill, it is helpful to have their current contact details on hand. The restaurant is located in the heart of the historic center, and you can easily reach them by phone to check for table availability.

The main reason to visit DeSoto Grill is to taste the dishes straight from the smokehouse. Be sure to try the famous beef brisket, smoked for over 14 hours to perfect tenderness, or the flavorful pulled pork. For fans of unusual combinations, the BBQ nachos and the signature stuffed baked potato, served here with bacon, corn, and a generous portion of meat, are definitely worth a try.

The interior itself is something to explore. You can spend time admiring the collection of vintage automotive decor and original elements of the old blacksmith shop. The spacious, open-plan dining area is perfect for both lively gatherings with friends and quiet family dinners surrounded by history.

In addition to the food, the restaurant offers an excellent drink menu. Here you can discover craft beer from local Montana breweries or order a signature cocktail. Notably, the kitchen actively supports local producers by using farm-fresh products: from milk from Kalispell Kreamery to fresh eggs from local suppliers, making every dish feel truly home-cooked.

Finding DeSoto Grill in Kalispell is quite easy, as the restaurant is located right downtown at 227 1st Street West. The "The Forge" building, where it is housed, is a prominent architectural landmark on First Street West.

For those traveling by car, there are parking spaces available around the downtown area, and navigation systems lead accurately to the restaurant's coordinates. If you are staying at one of the central hotels, a walk to the restaurant is a pleasant way to get to know the city streets.

Public transport in smaller USA cities is limited, so most tourists prefer taxis or rental cars. A trip from any point within the city to the center will take no more than 5-10 minutes. For more precise route planning, you can use the Google Maps link in the contacts section.

The walls that today serve aromatic meats hold memories of a completely different trade. The Forge building was erected in the early 1910s and originally served as a blacksmith shop. It was named after one of its owners, Paris Logan Boyd, and today it rightfully holds the status of a National Historic Landmark, reflecting the region's industrial past.

DeSoto Grill itself opened its doors in the summer of 2015, thanks to the efforts of spouses Shauna and Willie Steele. Willie is a local native whose love for cars and mechanics was inspired by his grandfather, who worked as a mechanic in the city back in the 1920s. This family legacy dictated the unique style of the establishment.

The name of the project was inspired by a classic 1954 car — the DeSoto Powermaster. This car once belonged to Willie's grandfather and is now owned by the Steele family, becoming the symbol and soul of the restaurant. The idea to turn their passion for BBQ into a business came to the couple after a successful experience in wedding catering using a professional Traeger grill.

Today, the establishment is an example of how respect for city history and family traditions can create a successful venue beloved by locals. Every decor element here — from old tools to car parts — serves as a reminder of the times when Kalispell was just beginning its journey as an important transport and industrial hub.

A visit to this establishment is not just a quick snack, but a full immersion into a retro Americana atmosphere. To leisurely enjoy dishes that take hours to prepare and to take in all the details of the vintage interior, guests are recommended to set aside 1.5 to 2 hours.

This time is sufficient to try the signature smokehouse platter, appreciate the local craft beer, and take some great photos against the backdrop of industrial decor and the historic blacksmith building. If you are planning a visit with a large group, it's worth allowing a little more time for socializing and waiting for main courses.

When planning your lunch or dinner, please note the establishment's operating schedule. DeSoto Grill welcomes guests four days a week, providing high-quality service during the workdays.

The restaurant is open from Tuesday to Friday, opening at 11:00 AM and closing at 9:00 PM. It is important to remember that the establishment is closed on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, so those days are better spent exploring other city attractions.

After a hearty meal at DeSoto Grill, it’s worth taking some time to stroll through the neighborhood. The city center is rich in historic buildings and interesting locations that allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of Montana.

Exploring nearby attractions will enrich your trip, offering a look at historic architecture, old locomotives, and cozy city parks located just a few minutes' walk away.