The recently removed Rathskeller is a booming success. Although I don't like some of the design decisions, the renovated bar is smashing, and the overall vibe remains unique and old school. The cocktails are actually better. Really enjoyed a nicely balanced Old Fashioned and the expresso martini was very favorable. Prices are comparable to those of good bars in any city. Service was prompt and knowledgeable. read more

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We've been back several times since my initial review. Service has generally cooled since our first visit. Multiple servers have seemed annoyed that they have to deal with their customers, not just us. Last time we went, we ordered 2 draft beers. That's it. 35 minutes later, no drinks, nobody checking on us, no servers to be found to check on our order. So we took off. It's a cool space, but I'm tired of being neglected when we try to support them. read more

The Rathskeller - Green curry popcorn, chicken skewers, and two tasty cocktails. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Helena, Montana

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Pleasantly surprised that new owner trying to return this historic bar to its speakeasy past. Service friendly and very cocktail-savvy bartender. Interesting & small but very friendly group sipping there. Hope they continue to restore to great legacy of this basement bar in basement of historic Montana Club! read more

Our server really tried her best... I think. She was pleasant. After waiting close to an hour for our drinks, we waited even longer to discover that half our food was unavailable. It also turned out that their kitchen didn't really care what we had ordered and subsequently re-ordered at their request. Their whimsical chefs violated the laws of space and time to create dishes that theoretically may have existed in some distant menu's past, but were not mentioned in the present. We all had a wonderful time at a local brewery afterwards. read more

Kind of phony old time exclusivity based on expensive drinks and musty atmosphere. Not a fun experience, even though the new owner is trying. read more

The bartenders are professional grade complimented with friendly service. The atmosphere is a time warp. Go and keep going.

had no idea this existed, the food, drinks, service all great, best is some authentic cocktails, I had the teddy twain Manhattan

The food selection was slim to none. Service was ok. Staff was friendly and accommodating. Drinks not up to par. Had prime rib sandwich that was good but way too small for the price and hardly any beef. The Thai was not good. Chicken was very tough. Would not recommend Ambiance was ok but sorely lacking read more

The food we ordered came to our table and it was cold. We had the server send it back to be warmed up. The food came back on a hot plate but the food was still cold. It seems these folks know nothing about how to cook and serve food. I would have given them no stars if I could. Do not eat here!!!! read more

You know how some places claim to be a speakeasy? The Rathskeller doesn't claim it, it lives it. Tucked away in the basement of the historic Montana Club, this spot has the kind of moody, low-lit, 'you're getting away with something' vibe that makes every night feel special. I'm not going to lie, I went primarily for the live band, and they absolutely crushed it. The music was so good, I had to stop myself from yelling "FREEBIRD!" just to hear them play another song. It hits different when you're in a cozy, underground lair--it feels intimate, like a private concert. But let's talk about the true criminal offense here: the food. Specifically, the nachos. They need to come with a warning label. These aren't the sad, melted-cheese messes you get everywhere else; these are flavor-packed titans of snack food. They're so expertly layered, you get the perfect bite every time. They are, quite frankly, an absolute marvel. To wash it all down, I ordered one of their smooth, comfortable adult beverages. "Comfortable" is the perfect word, because after one sip, I felt right at home. The drinks are perfectly mixed and go down way too easily. You'll forget all your troubles... and possibly where you parked your car. If you're in Helena and looking for the ultimate night out--great music, next-level food, and killer drinks--sneak down to the Rathskeller. But seriously, don't tell too many people. We need to keep this gem exactly the way it is. Pro-Tip: Wear shoes you can dance in. You'll need them. read more

Had a fantastic experience here. It's in the basement of the Montana Club, so it's nice and dark and is surrounded by vintage decor and history. Service was such a pleasure. They were pretty busy, but servers stopped by right away to apologize for a wait. I didn't have to worry because the bartender came just a few minutes to take my order. We talked about my preferred flavor profile for cocktails, he made a recommendation and it was perfect. Better than perfect, because the glass was so cold which was appreciated on this hot day. May I digress for a minute? We have some of the country's top rated speakeasys where I'm from, who are supposed to do world class "craft cocktails". I've been to several of them, and they're always more interested in herding me toward their idea of what I should want rather than mine. Not so at The Rathskeller and not only did I get an excellent cocktail, but he followed it up with an even better one. The food I ordered was very good as well. I could have stayed here for a week but alas, had to get back on the road. I'll return someday, and in the meantime you go try it for yourself. read more

Went for a drink, stayed for a meal. Good Manhattan's & Cosmo's. Food also good. Interesting seating. Encourages groupings with others. Music (WenJ) was excellent not loud for such a tiny space. Loved the old time warm wood, original fixtures . Very cool place. BUT the best part: my husband left his money clip behind. Next afternoon we stopped in to see if found. It was! With the money & hotel key (everything as he left it)! We sincerely thank the employees & the patrons of Rathskeller! Helena is the best! read more

I came here on a Friday night at around 9pm and there was literally only one party in the entire bar. I was even confused that they were closed or I was at the wrong place. This bar is located downstairs from the Montana Club close to Last Chance Gulch. My first drink was the Montana old fashioned ($11) which uses Montana Trapline Rye from Glacier Distilling Company. It's on the sweeter side of an old fashioned because the trapline is already pretty sweet and then the sugar cube on top, but very drinkable. My second drink was the lady germain ($11) which is slightly tart from the lemon but overall very balanced. I came here when it was basically completely empty but this seems like a cool spot when it is packed as well. Apparently occasionally they will also have live music playing which always makes for a good vibe. Also a huge shoutout to my bartenders Rudi and Meggy for being friendly and hospitable to an out-of-towner! read more

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Went to celebrate my husband's birthday and from the moment we walked in, we knew it was not going to be a good experience. Told to seat ourselves by "Kerrie" who would be our server as she was too busy wrapping silverware. It took over 30 minutes to order and we ordered an appetizer first, then our entrees (party of 4). Another 30 minutes and someone else shows up at our table with my entree "who had the Korean rice bowl" WITH the appetizer. I told her I didn't want the entree with the appetizer. Too bad for me. Then I told her I just didn't want the entree after all. Kerrie shows up and said she was getting her manager and I was being "disrespectful". Problem seemed the Montana Club upstairs was very busy and the Rathskeller patrons were an after-thought. NOT my problem. Mediocre food but far worse was the attitude of the servers. Manager comped our appetizer (which is what I ended up having). NEVER again. They took what should have been an enjoyable evening to celebrate a special occasion and made us feel like we were being a bother. Kerrie needs to find a new line of work. read more

I have actually never been here! Their schedule is not accurate it will say it's open online then you drive down there and they are closed I have attempted 3 times and I am over it. read more

My husband and I went to The Rathskeller for dinner. It was about 7:30 pm. There were only two other parties seated in the restaurant. Upon being seated the waiter asked what I would like to drink. I was told if I wanted water I should go to the water station and pour myself a glass. Mind you this is a sit-down restaurant. I asked for iced tea and he told me he'd have to go upstairs to get tea to serve me. We left. We chose The Rathskeller based on Yelp reviews of the restaurant as being a casual place to eat. However it is so casual there is no service. I do not recommend. read more

The Rathskeller - The water station. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Helena, Montana

This place is fantastic! Amazing late 1800's club decor! And, this place is haunted!!! The wait staff is super friendly and the menu is small but has delicious options! I recommend getting the tenders and chips as an appetizer and the classic cheeseburger as your entree! The chips were absolutely fantastic and the same with the side salad. I would get that as an entree if I could!!! And try the fantastic tomato jelly! It tastes like ketchup and is house made! The ranch is great too!! Looking to try the BLT? Please do!!! The shoulder cut bacon is so delicious! Definitely a new dinner spot for me and my family!! read more

Plato's ideal Form of burger must be the Prime Rib Manchego burger at The Rathskeller. It ruined all future burgers for me but I have no regrets now except that I don't live in Helena. It's hard to find real food cooked from scratch while traveling, but we found it here in a cozy old cigar lounge in the basement of the historic Montana Club. It's probably definitely haunted down there, but don't let that keep your taste buds away. read more

My husband and I had a great evening here watching music and enjoying their menu. My husband ordered a burger, which was delicious, and we shared the Asian wings and the chickpea poppers and both were really good. Neither of us drink so I can't say much about that, but it looked like they had a full bar with a lot to choose from. The service was outstanding - seriously both the guys behind the bar were incredibly friendly and helpful. We will be back! read more

We love the food here. Everything is made from scratch and great flavor. It is so nice to see something a little different on a menu to try! Good burger, good appetizer food to all share with a drink. Not a good wine selection. read more