Excellent food. Good service. Thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
(5)
Dan C.
If this place is with a 1 hour drive, you need to make the trip. Soup of the Day: Red Curry, Tomato Beef...yum. Special today: Halibut with bbq sauce on a bed of rice, topped with shrimp & cucumber. a side of asparagus & pesto. Since I'm eating alone, is it tacky if I lick the plate? Too bad I can't figure out this App, the pictures I took when they brought my food, captured a beautiful presentation.
(5)
Corie A.
Hands down, the best restaurant in the Bitterroot Valley. I've lived here for 10 years and have been to this restaurant several times and they are spot on every single time. Thank you Spice of Life for being able to keep your prices fair, for using local ingredients, and keeping your quality absolutely phenomenal!
(5)
Pablo S.
Holy crap yes. we were on a road trip and stopped in, SOOOO glad we did. the place is in a cool old building, the vibe and decor and feel of it is just awesome. the food is fantastic, simply fantastic, and i wish i could have eaten more. our server, DJ, kicked ass. we don't know what it's normally like, but it seemed like perhaps on the day we walked in, someone didn't show up for work, and it seemed short handed. DJ was super pleasant and happy, even though it looked like he was running around putting out fires and covering two shifts. he had a great attitude and while he could have made it feel awkward, he was professional and fun and we had a great time. Great food, great atmosphere, great service. I would recommend this place and i would eat here again anytime.
(5)
Bob J.
Very nice, casually elegant restaurant with accommodating staff. We arrived a bit less than an hour before the 2PM closing time with a party of 14. They didn't bat an eye - just smiled and asked us to wait a moment while they arranged some tables. The food was nice, the service quick and attentive. I had the grilled salmon salad. The fish was a tiny bit mushy, but still good, and more than big enough to be a full lunch. Others in our group had various sandwiches, lasagna, salads, etc... and all were happy with their food. This is not common! Well worth the visit - better than most spots open for lunch in Hamilton.
(4)
Jimmy V.
I had a delicious steak -- special of the night -- here. It was very tasty. They have a nice local draft beer list, so I was able to have a beer from the Bitteroot Brewing Company. It is a small place, yet I was able to get a table on a weeknight without a wait. My only complaint -- I wish this place was open on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays for dinner.
(4)
Kathy U.
There are so many great menu items, and every day has a new special. I'm always tempted to try them, actually have a few times, but when i'm there for dinner, there's really only one entree for me - the Jack Daniel's Filet. Very high quality steak served with an unbeatable reduction sauce. Typically a blue cheese dressing fan, I always get the sesame ginger dressing - you can taste the freshly grated ginger. I get a container to go (bringing a canning jar with me next time) and when it's empty, i know it's time for another steak. Super fresh, organic ingredients. I'm going tonight!
(5)
Thelma T.
Have been here a number of times for lunch and dinner. The fare is magnificent, cooked perfectly, attractively presented and I have enjoyed every bite of every meal. The waiter we had was a hoot. He made the experience extra special, with quick wit and superb service while not hovering or interfering with out meal. The atmosphere is inviting and comfortable. Love this place! Couldn't ask for better.
(5)
Anthony D.
Very tasty and fresh ingredients in the sandwiches for Lunch. The BLT is so simple that when I eat a good one I know it. Clean interior with nice decor and friendly people make this spot a must visit in Hamilton.
(5)
Jared D.
This place is truly outstanding. I came to Hamilton on a fishing trip with my uncle and we asked a local guide where we could get some decent food. he recommended Spice of Life, so we gave it a shot. We were both shocked to find such excellent food in this tiny town. We both come from cities with a great deal of good food to choose from (Kansas City and San Antonio), but we both agree this restaurant was one of the most delicious that we'd ever encountered. Our hostess Meghan and our Waitress Eileen were both as kind and attentive as could be, and the chef/owner was humble and gracious when we made a point to go compliment her. The prices seemed a little steep at first glance, but then when you taste the food and compare to what you would pay for the same in a big city, it turns out to be very reasonable. Furthermore, the beer and wine are priced much lower than I'm accustomed to seeing. At the end of the day, my perfectly seared rare 8 oz. beef filet with sweet corn polenta and grilled green beans won me over and I'll definitely be back if I ever find myself back in Hamilton.
(5)
Bree I.
This cafe has great dishes with interesting arrays of entrees and ingredients. I got the pesto seafood pasta which was awesome. The people are very friendly and are always making sure you have everything you need.
(5)
Evan B.
I came to Hamilton for business. I pretty much expected that my dining choices were going to be Perkins and McDonalds. In fact the town pretty much rolls up the mat at 8:00 PM. I got back from my trail run and was bummed that I had missed out on the brewpub, but Lo and behold Spice of Life was quite literally the only decent place open. The hostess and waitress were very nice, even though I arrived a half hour before they closed. After some indecisiveness on my part I got the pork tenderloin special, and the soup of the day was the Pozole. Also a very nice Pinot noir. Service was very fast. Food...OMG...the Pozole had that perfect brightness and earthiness so usually lacking when I have had it. The pork, cooked to medium rare to perfection, with these maple glazed pecans. Garlic potatoes and grilled asparagus and squash both cooked to perfection. Very elegant, modern presentation. Have you ever taken a bite, and realized you have just started a meal that you will remember for the rest of your life? Yeah, that good. If you are traveling through Hamilton, you must eat here. I have eaten at Michelin 1 star restaurants that have not been as satisfying as Spice of Life. The decor is subdued, and classic, yet lively. And appears that they have live music some nights. Follow on, I stopped her the next day for lunch, and it was great too.
(5)
Christy S.
Just recently went for a visit with the fam bam and stopped by this place on a Tuesday night. Ordered the Cajun chicken pasta and it was to die for. Everyone that ordered loved their meal which included shrimp scampi, grilled halibut, salmon salad, black bean chili and another chicken salad. Service was impeccable. Going back in June for sure to give it another go. Keep up the great work!!
(5)
Richard A.
This place lives up to its name. It is very eclectic. I had the Jamaica Jerk. Fantastic flavors! Fresh, large portions. I don't remember what everyone else in our party of four had, but each was VERY different and everyone raved about their food. And the price was VERY reasonable. This place is way over the top for a little town like Hamilton. I will go out of my way to come back here, and highly recommend it!
(5)
Kathleen S.
Stopped in for lunch with some friends. The guys had the burgers and thought they were great. I had a BLT and it was good too. Pretty simple straight forward menu, and good food. Nice clean resturant with fun decor. The staff was friendly and helpful.
(4)
K S.
The food was great but the service was *terrible.* The chef could see the terrible service but did nothing about it. Our waitress was really warm and enthusiastic with the locals who came in, to the extent of getting so wrapped up in looking at photos with one customer that she totally ignored us even as we called for her. She seemed angry that we wanted to sit by the window rather than in a dark corner and tromped on the wooden floor past our table like the abominable snowman, shaking our table. She seemed to have no service orientation -- everything was like a burden. It was the lowest tip I have ever left. It's not worth going back, which is too bad, because other waitresses there have had enough professionalism not to ruin a meal.
(1)
Marc R.
We've tried to eat here on previous tours of the valley, but always managed to hit it when it was closed (hours are strange, even for a small town place... double check their website thespiceinhamilton.com ). It was as the other reviews indicate: a good clean place with good food and interesting decor. The missing star is for two things: the "raspberry" cheesecake actually comes with chocolate on it (sent it back), and the cheese they used on the lasagne was a bit too strong for my taste. The other three parties at the table raved about their specialty salads.
(4)
Stephanie W.
Best restaurant in Hamilton, in my humble opinion. Great variety on the menu, terrific flavor and fresh ingredients, amazing service... I can't say enough about how great this place is. One of a kind, and a real gem!!
(5)
Mitch K.
One of the better eateries in the Bitterroot Valley. Menu does not change much at all, but they offer a "Red Plate" special each day which is usually quite good and reasonably priced. This is Montana, so fru-fru food and service is out. What is in is excellently prepared quality meals served on linen covered tables in a cosy cafe-like atmosphere. Nice dinner-appropriate salads and plates served just a little bit differently than you might expect elsewhere. An old bar with the hardwood floor and the wooden bar to your left as you enter. Small waiting area to the right. You can watch the chef cook in the rear area kitchen and there is a cosyness lunch and dinner to the place. Ladies like it alot and lunch is more so clusters of women with a scattering of men. Although casual, like all of Montana, The Spice of Life tolerates and somewhat calls for bressy school dress, so a skirt or ladies (a rarity in Montana) or slacks and a collared shirt for men is appropriate but not mandatory. If you are looking for a calm evening meal in a cosy environment, taste the Spice of Life.
(4)
Merle Ann L.
My favorite restaurant in Hamilton and the Bitterroot. The food is fresh, homemade, unique, styled and delicious. The staff is wonderful and friendly. You can go casual, or dress up and celebrate with the upscale cuisine. Either way works here. Kids are fine, but it isn't great for large groups as the place isn't big, the tables are small and need to be pulled together. You can do a group, but you will want to make reservations. With groups, it can also get a bit loud. My favorite thing besides the food is the community spirit of this place. For example, Spice of Life owner, Karen Suennen, is a long-time Bitterroot Trout Unlimited (BRTU) supporter. On the monthly BRTU public program night, participants often eat dinner at Spice first, then walk around the corner to the meeting/presentation. Karen donates 10% of the proceeds from those dinners to the club.
(5)
Donna W.
One of my favs in Hamilton! Especially love the soups and bread, for my 10 min quick lunch!
(5)
Matthew C.
I rarely give the "best" rating to anything, whether it be a book, movie, retail outlet, fast food chain, or restaurant. However, Spice of Life is wonderful. And, oddly, in Hamilton, MT -- a small town in the Bitterroot River Valley. All food is local (think Montana), as fresh as possible, and homemade. Nothing canned, boxed, or from Sysco. The French onion soup? Amazingly delicious. Now I want the recipe! Tonight, they happened to feature a local guitar player from MIssoula, MT. Think Kaki King does Christmas. I could have listened to him for hours, but the place was packed, and my server was rather eager to have me leave. (Well, her attitude said as much). I was going to do 4 stars because my server was less than steller, but I also know she was busy. I was sitting alone. And I'm not a local. Everybody in Hamilton knows everybody, so she seemed nicer to those she knew. I was asked once during my entire meal if I needed anything. I was still eating and my beverages were empty -- no offer to refill. When I was done, it was "Will that be all?" No dessert offer (and I would have) or "Thanks for coming." Just my check. I tipped the guitar player very well (after hearing one song). My server? Yeah, I tipped. But not as much as I would have had she been a tad nicer.
(5)
Mike S.
Just a great cafe with amazing taste on every dish.
(5)
Andrew M.
While slumming it at the Stockfarm (thank God for great in-laws), there is really nowhere else to eat. But don't let that fool you, I am a tried and true foody who has eaten at some of the best places on either coast, and the food here is outstanding. For our annual 4th of July trips, we don't just eat here once, we eat here multiple times during the week (yes, like I said there is nothing else really, but let's forget that). Dish after dish is shockingly excellent. If you are in the Bitterroot Valley, this is your best bet hands down. Excellent service, excellent food, great prices (including their wine prices). Love it!
(4)
Molly P.
I literally just finished dinner here. I thought it was mostly really great, all the ingredients were very fresh and the Ginger Dressing is AMAZING! The menu is small but that is usually a good sign that they focus on what they do best. I think they change the menu quite often though. I had a grilled wild salmon, a great garlic bread? it was different and interesting. It almost looked like coffee cake. And a vegetable for around 25$ (no booze) I was impressed by the calaber of this place in the middle of lill old Hamilton. Really great. And the service was as well, I read in an earlier post that the service wasn't as good if your not a local. This was not my experience.
(4)
Doug J.
Always an incredible meal! We've been coming to Spice of Life since they opened and we have never been disappointed. Food and ambiance are great. A must visit for anyone travelling to the Bitterroot Valley. Be sure to order a salad with their delicious ginger dressing.
(5)
Mark M.
The food is wonderful here and it has a unique environment. There is live music generally on the weekends. If you've never tried the spice or are in the area it's definitely worth trying.
(4)
Jessie H.
Delicious! My husband and I both had chicken sandwiches ( the Jamaican jerk and the blue bird). Both were excellent! Our side item was the sake chicken noodle soup. Yum! Staff was very friendly and we got our food pretty quickly. We will visit again if we make it back to Hamilton.
(5)
John H.
Our favorite restaurant in the bitterroot. Great food, service and personality.
(5)
Mike H.
So I was in the Bitterroot valley for my honeymoon, and we decided to go to Hamilton, which people said was pretty cool. It was. And about the only place Yelp had a review of was the Spice of Life Cafe. So there we went. The atmosphere was wicked chill, quiet (it was mid-week at like 5pm). We sat down next to some huge pictures and paintings, framed in some of the gaudiest, most over-the-top gilt frames ever. Our waitress suggested a good local beer (Bitterroot IPA I think?) which she called the best beer in the world, and said she had it shipped to her when she was living out of state. It was, in fact, pretty damn good beer. I had some kind of chicken and tortellini special, which was the absolute bomb. I mean, it doesn't get any better. Tortellini, cheese, chicken, some kind of awesome creamy tomato sauce. . . Mmmmmmm. And it cost, all together, like $25 for the two of us. Boo-ya.
(5)
Michelle E.
I was in Hamilton shooting a wedding and was really worried there wouldn't be any good food in such a small town. I was pleasantly surprised. The food was amazing. I had the noodle salad and a wonderful Pinot Gris from the willamette valley. Everything was delicious!
(5)
Lynn B.
Fresh and fantastic. Everything is very fresh and their salads are fabulous. A must visit on every trip to Hamilton.
(5)
Erin M.
This is by far the best place to dine in the Bitterroot Valley! Their salads are fresh and amazing!! Two thumbs up!!! Great prices too.
(4)
Mike M.
In from Newport Beach, Ca. Heard great reviews of Spice of Life. So far, its the best place I have been to in the Bitteroot Valley. Highley reccomend this place. Staff friendly, food well priced and fresh. Also have beers on tap. Well done guys.
(5)
Matthew L.
Best food I've had in a while. I had a rack of lamb with mashed potatoes and steamed greens, cooked perfectly. The tastes were different but still matched perfectly. ...It brought tears to my eyes.
(5)
David F.
Tried it based on other yelp comments. Salmon chermoula was great. Had the same waitress who recommended the IPA. Everything was good. Best food I've had in the midwest/northwest so far.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : No Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Steve M.
Excellent food. Good service. Thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
(5)Dan C.
If this place is with a 1 hour drive, you need to make the trip. Soup of the Day: Red Curry, Tomato Beef...yum. Special today: Halibut with bbq sauce on a bed of rice, topped with shrimp & cucumber. a side of asparagus & pesto. Since I'm eating alone, is it tacky if I lick the plate? Too bad I can't figure out this App, the pictures I took when they brought my food, captured a beautiful presentation.
(5)Corie A.
Hands down, the best restaurant in the Bitterroot Valley. I've lived here for 10 years and have been to this restaurant several times and they are spot on every single time. Thank you Spice of Life for being able to keep your prices fair, for using local ingredients, and keeping your quality absolutely phenomenal!
(5)Pablo S.
Holy crap yes. we were on a road trip and stopped in, SOOOO glad we did. the place is in a cool old building, the vibe and decor and feel of it is just awesome. the food is fantastic, simply fantastic, and i wish i could have eaten more. our server, DJ, kicked ass. we don't know what it's normally like, but it seemed like perhaps on the day we walked in, someone didn't show up for work, and it seemed short handed. DJ was super pleasant and happy, even though it looked like he was running around putting out fires and covering two shifts. he had a great attitude and while he could have made it feel awkward, he was professional and fun and we had a great time. Great food, great atmosphere, great service. I would recommend this place and i would eat here again anytime.
(5)Bob J.
Very nice, casually elegant restaurant with accommodating staff. We arrived a bit less than an hour before the 2PM closing time with a party of 14. They didn't bat an eye - just smiled and asked us to wait a moment while they arranged some tables. The food was nice, the service quick and attentive. I had the grilled salmon salad. The fish was a tiny bit mushy, but still good, and more than big enough to be a full lunch. Others in our group had various sandwiches, lasagna, salads, etc... and all were happy with their food. This is not common! Well worth the visit - better than most spots open for lunch in Hamilton.
(4)Jimmy V.
I had a delicious steak -- special of the night -- here. It was very tasty. They have a nice local draft beer list, so I was able to have a beer from the Bitteroot Brewing Company. It is a small place, yet I was able to get a table on a weeknight without a wait. My only complaint -- I wish this place was open on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays for dinner.
(4)Kathy U.
There are so many great menu items, and every day has a new special. I'm always tempted to try them, actually have a few times, but when i'm there for dinner, there's really only one entree for me - the Jack Daniel's Filet. Very high quality steak served with an unbeatable reduction sauce. Typically a blue cheese dressing fan, I always get the sesame ginger dressing - you can taste the freshly grated ginger. I get a container to go (bringing a canning jar with me next time) and when it's empty, i know it's time for another steak. Super fresh, organic ingredients. I'm going tonight!
(5)Thelma T.
Have been here a number of times for lunch and dinner. The fare is magnificent, cooked perfectly, attractively presented and I have enjoyed every bite of every meal. The waiter we had was a hoot. He made the experience extra special, with quick wit and superb service while not hovering or interfering with out meal. The atmosphere is inviting and comfortable. Love this place! Couldn't ask for better.
(5)Anthony D.
Very tasty and fresh ingredients in the sandwiches for Lunch. The BLT is so simple that when I eat a good one I know it. Clean interior with nice decor and friendly people make this spot a must visit in Hamilton.
(5)Jared D.
This place is truly outstanding. I came to Hamilton on a fishing trip with my uncle and we asked a local guide where we could get some decent food. he recommended Spice of Life, so we gave it a shot. We were both shocked to find such excellent food in this tiny town. We both come from cities with a great deal of good food to choose from (Kansas City and San Antonio), but we both agree this restaurant was one of the most delicious that we'd ever encountered. Our hostess Meghan and our Waitress Eileen were both as kind and attentive as could be, and the chef/owner was humble and gracious when we made a point to go compliment her. The prices seemed a little steep at first glance, but then when you taste the food and compare to what you would pay for the same in a big city, it turns out to be very reasonable. Furthermore, the beer and wine are priced much lower than I'm accustomed to seeing. At the end of the day, my perfectly seared rare 8 oz. beef filet with sweet corn polenta and grilled green beans won me over and I'll definitely be back if I ever find myself back in Hamilton.
(5)Bree I.
This cafe has great dishes with interesting arrays of entrees and ingredients. I got the pesto seafood pasta which was awesome. The people are very friendly and are always making sure you have everything you need.
(5)Evan B.
I came to Hamilton for business. I pretty much expected that my dining choices were going to be Perkins and McDonalds. In fact the town pretty much rolls up the mat at 8:00 PM. I got back from my trail run and was bummed that I had missed out on the brewpub, but Lo and behold Spice of Life was quite literally the only decent place open. The hostess and waitress were very nice, even though I arrived a half hour before they closed. After some indecisiveness on my part I got the pork tenderloin special, and the soup of the day was the Pozole. Also a very nice Pinot noir. Service was very fast. Food...OMG...the Pozole had that perfect brightness and earthiness so usually lacking when I have had it. The pork, cooked to medium rare to perfection, with these maple glazed pecans. Garlic potatoes and grilled asparagus and squash both cooked to perfection. Very elegant, modern presentation. Have you ever taken a bite, and realized you have just started a meal that you will remember for the rest of your life? Yeah, that good. If you are traveling through Hamilton, you must eat here. I have eaten at Michelin 1 star restaurants that have not been as satisfying as Spice of Life. The decor is subdued, and classic, yet lively. And appears that they have live music some nights. Follow on, I stopped her the next day for lunch, and it was great too.
(5)Christy S.
Just recently went for a visit with the fam bam and stopped by this place on a Tuesday night. Ordered the Cajun chicken pasta and it was to die for. Everyone that ordered loved their meal which included shrimp scampi, grilled halibut, salmon salad, black bean chili and another chicken salad. Service was impeccable. Going back in June for sure to give it another go. Keep up the great work!!
(5)Richard A.
This place lives up to its name. It is very eclectic. I had the Jamaica Jerk. Fantastic flavors! Fresh, large portions. I don't remember what everyone else in our party of four had, but each was VERY different and everyone raved about their food. And the price was VERY reasonable. This place is way over the top for a little town like Hamilton. I will go out of my way to come back here, and highly recommend it!
(5)Kathleen S.
Stopped in for lunch with some friends. The guys had the burgers and thought they were great. I had a BLT and it was good too. Pretty simple straight forward menu, and good food. Nice clean resturant with fun decor. The staff was friendly and helpful.
(4)K S.
The food was great but the service was *terrible.* The chef could see the terrible service but did nothing about it. Our waitress was really warm and enthusiastic with the locals who came in, to the extent of getting so wrapped up in looking at photos with one customer that she totally ignored us even as we called for her. She seemed angry that we wanted to sit by the window rather than in a dark corner and tromped on the wooden floor past our table like the abominable snowman, shaking our table. She seemed to have no service orientation -- everything was like a burden. It was the lowest tip I have ever left. It's not worth going back, which is too bad, because other waitresses there have had enough professionalism not to ruin a meal.
(1)Marc R.
We've tried to eat here on previous tours of the valley, but always managed to hit it when it was closed (hours are strange, even for a small town place... double check their website thespiceinhamilton.com ). It was as the other reviews indicate: a good clean place with good food and interesting decor. The missing star is for two things: the "raspberry" cheesecake actually comes with chocolate on it (sent it back), and the cheese they used on the lasagne was a bit too strong for my taste. The other three parties at the table raved about their specialty salads.
(4)Stephanie W.
Best restaurant in Hamilton, in my humble opinion. Great variety on the menu, terrific flavor and fresh ingredients, amazing service... I can't say enough about how great this place is. One of a kind, and a real gem!!
(5)Mitch K.
One of the better eateries in the Bitterroot Valley. Menu does not change much at all, but they offer a "Red Plate" special each day which is usually quite good and reasonably priced. This is Montana, so fru-fru food and service is out. What is in is excellently prepared quality meals served on linen covered tables in a cosy cafe-like atmosphere. Nice dinner-appropriate salads and plates served just a little bit differently than you might expect elsewhere. An old bar with the hardwood floor and the wooden bar to your left as you enter. Small waiting area to the right. You can watch the chef cook in the rear area kitchen and there is a cosyness lunch and dinner to the place. Ladies like it alot and lunch is more so clusters of women with a scattering of men. Although casual, like all of Montana, The Spice of Life tolerates and somewhat calls for bressy school dress, so a skirt or ladies (a rarity in Montana) or slacks and a collared shirt for men is appropriate but not mandatory. If you are looking for a calm evening meal in a cosy environment, taste the Spice of Life.
(4)Merle Ann L.
My favorite restaurant in Hamilton and the Bitterroot. The food is fresh, homemade, unique, styled and delicious. The staff is wonderful and friendly. You can go casual, or dress up and celebrate with the upscale cuisine. Either way works here. Kids are fine, but it isn't great for large groups as the place isn't big, the tables are small and need to be pulled together. You can do a group, but you will want to make reservations. With groups, it can also get a bit loud. My favorite thing besides the food is the community spirit of this place. For example, Spice of Life owner, Karen Suennen, is a long-time Bitterroot Trout Unlimited (BRTU) supporter. On the monthly BRTU public program night, participants often eat dinner at Spice first, then walk around the corner to the meeting/presentation. Karen donates 10% of the proceeds from those dinners to the club.
(5)Donna W.
One of my favs in Hamilton! Especially love the soups and bread, for my 10 min quick lunch!
(5)Matthew C.
I rarely give the "best" rating to anything, whether it be a book, movie, retail outlet, fast food chain, or restaurant. However, Spice of Life is wonderful. And, oddly, in Hamilton, MT -- a small town in the Bitterroot River Valley. All food is local (think Montana), as fresh as possible, and homemade. Nothing canned, boxed, or from Sysco. The French onion soup? Amazingly delicious. Now I want the recipe! Tonight, they happened to feature a local guitar player from MIssoula, MT. Think Kaki King does Christmas. I could have listened to him for hours, but the place was packed, and my server was rather eager to have me leave. (Well, her attitude said as much). I was going to do 4 stars because my server was less than steller, but I also know she was busy. I was sitting alone. And I'm not a local. Everybody in Hamilton knows everybody, so she seemed nicer to those she knew. I was asked once during my entire meal if I needed anything. I was still eating and my beverages were empty -- no offer to refill. When I was done, it was "Will that be all?" No dessert offer (and I would have) or "Thanks for coming." Just my check. I tipped the guitar player very well (after hearing one song). My server? Yeah, I tipped. But not as much as I would have had she been a tad nicer.
(5)Mike S.
Just a great cafe with amazing taste on every dish.
(5)Andrew M.
While slumming it at the Stockfarm (thank God for great in-laws), there is really nowhere else to eat. But don't let that fool you, I am a tried and true foody who has eaten at some of the best places on either coast, and the food here is outstanding. For our annual 4th of July trips, we don't just eat here once, we eat here multiple times during the week (yes, like I said there is nothing else really, but let's forget that). Dish after dish is shockingly excellent. If you are in the Bitterroot Valley, this is your best bet hands down. Excellent service, excellent food, great prices (including their wine prices). Love it!
(4)Molly P.
I literally just finished dinner here. I thought it was mostly really great, all the ingredients were very fresh and the Ginger Dressing is AMAZING! The menu is small but that is usually a good sign that they focus on what they do best. I think they change the menu quite often though. I had a grilled wild salmon, a great garlic bread? it was different and interesting. It almost looked like coffee cake. And a vegetable for around 25$ (no booze) I was impressed by the calaber of this place in the middle of lill old Hamilton. Really great. And the service was as well, I read in an earlier post that the service wasn't as good if your not a local. This was not my experience.
(4)Doug J.
Always an incredible meal! We've been coming to Spice of Life since they opened and we have never been disappointed. Food and ambiance are great. A must visit for anyone travelling to the Bitterroot Valley. Be sure to order a salad with their delicious ginger dressing.
(5)Mark M.
The food is wonderful here and it has a unique environment. There is live music generally on the weekends. If you've never tried the spice or are in the area it's definitely worth trying.
(4)Jessie H.
Delicious! My husband and I both had chicken sandwiches ( the Jamaican jerk and the blue bird). Both were excellent! Our side item was the sake chicken noodle soup. Yum! Staff was very friendly and we got our food pretty quickly. We will visit again if we make it back to Hamilton.
(5)John H.
Our favorite restaurant in the bitterroot. Great food, service and personality.
(5)Mike H.
So I was in the Bitterroot valley for my honeymoon, and we decided to go to Hamilton, which people said was pretty cool. It was. And about the only place Yelp had a review of was the Spice of Life Cafe. So there we went. The atmosphere was wicked chill, quiet (it was mid-week at like 5pm). We sat down next to some huge pictures and paintings, framed in some of the gaudiest, most over-the-top gilt frames ever. Our waitress suggested a good local beer (Bitterroot IPA I think?) which she called the best beer in the world, and said she had it shipped to her when she was living out of state. It was, in fact, pretty damn good beer. I had some kind of chicken and tortellini special, which was the absolute bomb. I mean, it doesn't get any better. Tortellini, cheese, chicken, some kind of awesome creamy tomato sauce. . . Mmmmmmm. And it cost, all together, like $25 for the two of us. Boo-ya.
(5)Michelle E.
I was in Hamilton shooting a wedding and was really worried there wouldn't be any good food in such a small town. I was pleasantly surprised. The food was amazing. I had the noodle salad and a wonderful Pinot Gris from the willamette valley. Everything was delicious!
(5)Lynn B.
Fresh and fantastic. Everything is very fresh and their salads are fabulous. A must visit on every trip to Hamilton.
(5)Erin M.
This is by far the best place to dine in the Bitterroot Valley! Their salads are fresh and amazing!! Two thumbs up!!! Great prices too.
(4)Mike M.
In from Newport Beach, Ca. Heard great reviews of Spice of Life. So far, its the best place I have been to in the Bitteroot Valley. Highley reccomend this place. Staff friendly, food well priced and fresh. Also have beers on tap. Well done guys.
(5)Matthew L.
Best food I've had in a while. I had a rack of lamb with mashed potatoes and steamed greens, cooked perfectly. The tastes were different but still matched perfectly. ...It brought tears to my eyes.
(5)David F.
Tried it based on other yelp comments. Salmon chermoula was great. Had the same waitress who recommended the IPA. Everything was good. Best food I've had in the midwest/northwest so far.
(5)