Full Breakdown
Hops Downtown Grill Featured on America's Best Restaurants
9/21/2025, 11:57:26 AM
Recognition by America's Best Restaurants
Hops Downtown Grill, located in Kalispell, Montana, has garnered national attention by being featured on America's Best Restaurants, a media initiative that highlights exceptional local eateries across the United States. The restaurant's owners, Tim and Dana Phillips, expressed pride in representing their community, with Tim noting the importance of their loyal customer base in sustaining the business. The restaurant, which transitioned from a soup and lunch spot to a fine dining establishment in 2001, has evolved into a specialty burger venue since the Phillipses took over in 2017.
Selection Process and Attributes
America's Best Restaurants selects featured establishments based on various criteria, including local ownership, cleanliness, welcoming atmosphere, and community involvement. Matt Plapp, CEO of America's Best Restaurants, emphasized the role of local patrons in driving community engagement. The selection process allows for nominations from patrons, applications from restaurants, or discoveries by the show's team.
Culinary Highlights
During the filming on August 13, Tim Phillips showcased signature dishes, including the Hops Burn Burger, which features a wagyu patty topped with thick-cut bacon, pickled jalapeños, and huckleberry barbecue sauce. The restaurant's meatloaf, a staple that originated from an ordering mishap, has become a customer favorite, with Tim recalling how they sold 40 pounds of it in one weekend. All dishes are made from scratch, with ingredients sourced from local suppliers, including Bias Brewing's Logan's Lass Scotch Ale and Range Montana for wagyu beef.
Chef's Philosophy and Community Impact
Tim Phillips, who has extensive experience in the restaurant industry, expressed pride in the quality of food and service at Hops. He emphasized the familial atmosphere among staff and the importance of building relationships with customers. “Every night we make more friends and meet more regulars,” he stated, highlighting the restaurant's role in fostering community connections.
Upcoming Episode Release
The episode featuring Hops Downtown Grill is set to be released in November, further showcasing the restaurant's unique offerings and its commitment to quality dining. Hops Downtown Grill operates every evening for dinner and offers lunch on Fridays through Mondays, contributing to the vibrant culinary scene in Kalispell.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Overall, I'm very proud that we were able to represent Kalispell and I’m very proud of the loyal customers and following that has kept us going,” — Tim Phillips, Co-owner and Head Chef
- “Here, you’re getting world class cuisines at home.” — J Russell, Host, America's Best Restaurants
- “I’m very prideful of my food and the people here,” — Tim Phillips, Co-owner and Head Chef
This recognition from America's Best Restaurants underscores Hops Downtown Grill's commitment to quality and community, marking a significant milestone for the establishment and its owners.
