Split Rock Restaurant — Restaurant in Kalispell

Well well well… Split Rock, where have you been hiding?! Let me tell you—after one too many letdowns in this small town (where finding decent food can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt with no map), stumbling upon Split Rock was like striking gold with a side of fries.

We walked in with low expectations and left with full bellies and a new favorite spot. The burger? An absolute masterpiece. Juicy, perfectly seasoned, stacked like a tower of love and calories. I swear it gave me flashbacks to the good ol’ days when food actually tasted like food. Whoever’s back there cooking clearly still believes in flavor and portion sizes that could feed a small village.

Word of warning: these burgers are gigantic. Like, you-will-need-a-strategy-to-eat-this kind of big. Next time I’m bringing a knife, a fork, and a game plan—or just asking them to cut it in half so I don’t go full barbarian trying to tackle it and completely annihilate my diet (which, let’s be honest, I did anyway).

The coleslaw? Light, tangy, crisp—none of that soggy mess that haunts other places. And the service? Sweet, attentive, and actually looked like they wanted to be there. A miracle in itself.

The place is clean, charming, and cute as hell without trying too hard. It’s got that unpretentious “we know we’re good” vibe. Still can’t believe we hadn’t noticed it before. Maybe the food gods were waiting for the right moment to bless us.

Last night’s dinner elsewhere had us leaving our plates behind and heading home to eat toast. But Split Rock? This is redemption, honey.

First visit, yes. Last visit?...

My experience at Split Rock was… well, split.

It started off strong—the host greeted us warmly and quickly set up a table for my mom and me. We were given the option to sit outside (which was quieter), but we chose to stay indoors, even though it was a bit loud.

The hostess was upfront and let us know the kitchen staff was under stress, so food might take a little longer. I appreciated the heads-up. Despite that, our server was attentive, and our food arrived sooner than expected.

I ordered the fish and chips, and they were great—crispy, beer-battered, and flavorful. My mom got the Reuben and also really enjoyed it.

The drinks, though, were just okay. I had an Old Fashioned, and my mom tried the Huckleberry Mule. Neither of us loved them. That said, the restaurant does offer drink pairings with food, and they have an impressive selection of Montana beers, plus spirits sourced from within the state. So if you're looking for a locally-driven experience, Split Rock delivers on that front.

All in all, while the service and food were solid, the drinks fell short, and the atmosphere inside wasn’t quite our vibe. I personally wouldn’t return—but I wouldn’t discourage others from trying it out. Especially if you’re curious about Montana-made beverages and supporting a newer spot...

Split rock has been around for a few years but I’ve just recently discovered it. They serve breakfast all day (until closing which I think is 2:30 or 3 pm) and it’s pretty affordable.

I will say, I have had better breakfast, but I unfortunately always have to get it to go because I’m rushing to work. Anyone who has gotten egg sandwiches to go know they’re never as good as dining in due to being unavoidably steamed in the to-go box - so I do take some of the blame for it not hitting a 10/10.

Lunch, however, is some of the best in Kalispell. I have only tried a few menu items because I now get the Chicken Caesar Wrap - every time. It is seriously amazing. Delicious, thinner dressing which is how I like it. Real hearty chunks of chicken breast and crisp full bright green lettuce. I’d recommend getting it with a salad, their fries are home cut (good fresh but again, I always get things to-go) and the soups are often floating in butter (super yummy but less healthy obviously)

Parking does kind of suck, super limited when you’re in a rush but that’s no fault...