Windbag: Good food and a colorful past

For Carroll College students looking to get off campus and spend time downtown, The Windbag Saloon & Grill is one of Helena’s more recognizable restaurants.

Located at 19 S. Last Chance Gulch, The Windbag combines the feeling of a casual restaurant, sports bar, and historic Helena landmark.

The building dates to 1882 and has housed several businesses over the years. The Windbag has operated in the location since 1977, making it a longtime part of downtown Helena. 

The building also has a colorful history that predates The Windbag. The upstairs was once home to “Dorothy’s Rooms,” a brothel first operated by Ida Levy and later by Helena madam Dorothy “Big Dorothy” Baker. Baker was a well-known and well-liked figure in Helena, and her brothel remained in operation until it was closed by police in 1973. The history has become a notable part of The Windbag’s identity and is one of the reasons the restaurant is recognizable to both locals and visitors.

Inside, exposed brick, historic details, and a lively atmosphere give the restaurant a distinct personality. The setting is casual, making it a place where students can stop for dinner with friends, watch a game, or begin a night downtown.

The menu focuses on American pub-style food, including burgers, appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and other casual options. Prices vary depending on the meal, with many of the restaurant’s sandwiches and burgers falling in the mid-teens. Weekend brunch is also available on Saturdays and Sundays.

During my visit, I ordered the buffalo chicken sandwich. The meal included a hearty buffalo chicken sandwich and a side of my choosing and cost about $14. 

The first thing that stood out was the environment. The waitstaff was beyond welcoming and friendly, and the food came out quickly. 

The portion size was perfect for the price, and the overall quality of the food was absolutely perfect. I would order the dish again because it was delicious, a good size, and had a short wait time.

Service was pleasant throughout the visit. The wait time was brief, and the staff was on top of things.

One of The Windbag’s strengths for college students is its location. Because it sits directly on Last Chance Gulch, students can easily walk to other downtown businesses before or after eating.

The restaurant also stays open later than many traditional dining options in Helena, which makes it appealing for students looking for food or a place to gather later in the evening. The Windbag is currently listed as being open until midnight. 

The Windbag is not designed to feel upscale. Instead, its appeal comes from its casual atmosphere, downtown location, and connection to Helena history.

For Carroll students who have not spent much time exploring downtown Helena, The Windbag offers an easy introduction to the area’s food and nightlife. Stop by anytime during business hours from 11 a.m. to midnight.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars.