Whitefish Restaurant Week kicks off

Whitefish’s restaurant scene will take center stage in a community-driven event to highlight local culinary talent while supporting affordable housing. Whitefish Restaurant Week, running May 12-16, is presented by Explore Whitefish and will offer diners the chance to enjoy special menus, discover new restaurants, and give back to the community. 

“We are thrilled to bring together our member restaurants, residents, and visitors to continue to support affordable housing through our restaurant members who collect the 1% Community Support Fund,” said Zak Anderson, executive director of Explore Whitefish. 

Since 2022, Explore Whitefish has contributed nearly $450,000 to Housing Whitefish, a nonprofit working to expand affordable workforce housing. The funds support operations, program development, and rental assistance payments. 

“This event is a brilliant opportunity to savor local flavors while supporting a very important cause. Every bite gives back to the sustainability of our vibrant community,” said Chef Earl Reynolds of Herb & Omni, one of the participating restaurants.  

Reynolds has been named a 2026 James Beard Award finalist in the Best Chef: Mountain category, one of the most prestigious honors in the American culinary world.  

With housing prices in Whitefish continuing to rise, many local workers—including those in the hospitality industry—struggle to find stable housing. That challenge directly affects local businesses, particularly restaurants, which rely on a strong workforce to maintain the town’s reputation as a premier dining destination in Montana. 

Daniel Sidder, executive director of Housing Whitefish, said the event is a creative way to connect the community with the issue. 

“Workforce housing is essential to maintaining Whitefish’s unique character and thriving economy,” Sidder said. “Support from events like Restaurant Week helps us continue our mission of ensuring that those who work here can afford to live here.” 

For restaurants, the timing of Whitefish Restaurant Week is just as significant as the cause. The event is scheduled for a time when many small businesses face a seasonal lull. 

Sara Knight, membership director at Explore Whitefish, said Restaurant Week plays an important role in supporting the local dining community.  

“May can be a challenging time for restaurants and other small businesses in town,” Knight said. “Restaurant Week shines a spotlight on the incredible culinary talent we have here while encouraging locals to get out and enjoy their favorite spots before summer arrives. It’s a meaningful way to support the businesses that make Whitefish so special.” 

Organizers encourage diners to make reservations early, as many restaurants anticipate a strong turnout throughout the week. Additional details are available on the Explore Whitefish website. 

Whitefish Restaurant Week is made possible in part through the support of Summit Beverage and Watkins Distributing, whose longstanding partnerships with Montana’s hospitality community help elevate dining experiences across the region. Their sponsorship underscores a shared commitment to supporting local restaurants and strengthening Whitefish’s vibrant culinary scene. 

For more information, visit explorewhitefish.com.