Off the Beaten Track - Dell, Montana

By Donna Poulton

Credit: My-West.com. All rights reserved.

If you find yourself between Idaho Falls, Idaho and Butte, Montana on I-15 and you’re looking for a good place to eat, don’t wait for the big city. Stop in Dell, Montana, population 35. Every time we drive north to visit family we stop in Dell and they’ve never disappointed us yet. This little town is trying hard and they’re doing a great job of making sure that you’ll want to return next time. 

Credit: My-West.com. All rights reserved.

The main attraction is the Calf-A, situated in an old one-room schoolhouse. The Calf-A serves basic fare, their motto being “Good Cookin, Lotsa Lookin.” 

Credit: My-West.com. All rights reserved.

The menu is written on the blackboard, offering home-cooking, deliciously prepared—including their famous homemade pies.

Credit: My-West.com. All rights reserved.

Credit: My-West.com. All rights reserved.

They've served 30,000 people a year, which doesn't surprise us because when we arrived the place was packed. People come from all over the country - and the world.

Credit: My-West.com. All rights reserved.

Credit: My-West.com. All rights reserved.

Other points of interest in Dell include the beautifully renovated Bed and Breakfast at the Stockyard Inn.  The Inn boasts seven themed guest rooms and their gourmet dining experience must be ordered in advance.

Credit: My-West.com. All rights reserved.

The bar is open most days during the summer and winter. On a cold winter night, you might want to call ahead!

Credit: My-West.com. All rights reserved.

For gas, food and the post office there is the Dell Merc just off I-15. ...

Credit: My-West.com. All rights reserved.

Credit: My-West.com. All rights reserved.

Credit: My-West.com. All rights reserved.

They even have an airport!

Credit: My-West.com. All rights reserved.

Dell is a little place. If you blink you can miss it. But stop and support them. You'll be glad you did.