Double Front Chicken Has Been Serving Up Delicious Comfort Food In Montana Since 1935
By Nikki Rhoades|Published November 04, 2019
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
Some know Montana as the Treasure State, and this nickname is particularly appropriate in reference to local dining. While some regions, like the Southern United States, have a reputation for making great comfort food, Montana has much to offer when it comes to home cooking. One of the most delectable diners to visit for comfort food in Montana is hiding in Missoula, and it’s a quaint destination that’s sure to delight. Prepare your taste buds for indulgence at Double Front Chicken.
The building that houses Double Front Chicken was built in 1909, but it would take a few decades before the establishment would serve its famous chicken.
The Double Front gets its name from its dual entrances - one at located at 122 Alder Street and the other at 121 Railroad Street. For the first decade or so of its existence, this cozy little escape operated primarily as a pool hall. During Prohibition, it is thought that it served up forbidden spirits.
By the time Prohibition drew to a close, an era of change swept over this cozy local haunt.
The Double Front became a bar. It was around the mid-1930s when fried chicken was first served at the establishment, instantly enchanting those who tasted the delicacy.
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Though the business has passed through a number of owners and has undergone renovations, it has changed very little at its core.
The appropriately dim atmosphere and general sense of camaraderie hearken back to its days as a pool hall. You can still enjoy a refreshing drink, just as locals purportedly did here during Prohibition. And, of course, you can enjoy the classic fried chicken made from a recipe that has changed very little since 1935.
Even the pickiest of eaters will find something to enjoy at the Double Front. Chicken is obviously a fan favorite, but locals obsess over the breaded mushrooms, mac and cheese wedges, and sweet corn nuggets. For a sneak peek at the menu, click here.
No matter what you plan on ordering, bring a big appetite or plan to take a doggie bag home.
You have to make room for chicken at the Double Front. It's never frozen and is cooked to order, treating your taste buds to the very best flavor in Missoula.
While this establishment has operated under a number of owners over the years, it has remained under the operation of the current family since 1961.
When the Herndon family purchased the Double Front, they brought a new life to it. After renovating the building, they transformed this familiar haunt into the coziest neighborhood diner in town. It continues to entertain locals and tourists alike, all of whom are enchanted by its historic charm.
There's no need to travel far for the best comfort food in the U.S. - it's hiding right here in Missoula!
Double Front Chicken is an absolute treat for the taste buds. It's an ideal destination for families dining out, catching up with old friends, or even a casual date night. Whatever company you crave, you'll find that it pairs perfectly with fried chicken from Double Front.
There is a great deal of flavor hiding right in Missoula. Some even consider it to be the best comfort food in Montana! Next to the chicken, what is your favorite menu item at this old school neighborhood diner?
Double Front Chicken is open daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. For more information, visit the restaurant’s website and follow along on its Facebook page.
