One Montana Bar Brings The Deep Blue Sea To The Mountains

If you're not familiar with U.S. geography, you may not realize that Great Falls, Montana is one of the most landlocked places in the country. That fact has not stopped one restaurant from becoming a tourist attraction with an unlikely aquatic theme and some authentic 1960s vibes.

As part of the O'Haire Motor Inn, which opened in 1962, the bar and restaurant known as the Sip 'N Dip Lounge is already widely recognized for its retro tiki bar theme. If that wasn't kitschy enough, in the mid-'90s, the owners upped the vintage ante by adding live mermaids swimming in a tank behind the bar. If you want a truly camp dining and drinking experience, then this is surely it.

Ambiance is a major part of any night out; for instance, the lighting in a restaurant is important in setting the mood. To that end, the lighting, decor, and other environmental notes at Sip 'N Dip makes diners feel as if they're under the sea. Buoys hang from the thatched ceiling, tiki statues line the walls, and a sign warns patrons not to feed the sharks or tease the mermaids. And, of course, who could forget Piano Pat? Until her death in 2021, visitors could enjoy the sounds of the iconic pianist Pat Sponheim, who became lovingly known as Piano Pat and clocked in nearly six decades of serenading patrons of the Sip 'N Dip. Singer and songwriter Joel Corda is currently in the establishment's coveted regular entertainer spot.

No visit to the Sip 'N Dip would be complete without a Sip 'N Dip Fishbowl, which boasts 10 shots of booze – way more than what you'll find in a standard mixed drink. Or, maybe you're in the mood for a Tiki God cocktail complete with a souvenir glass. If you happen to visit during Mermaid Brunch on the first or third Sunday of the month, you'll also have a chance to sample the "Bottomless Blue Mermosas." Just be careful not to drink and swim and be sure to have a designated diver.

Ironically (perhaps out of respect for the mermaids), the Sip 'N Dip Lounge's regular menu does not currently include fish. However, there's plenty else to eat and diners can order typical Montana fare, such as prime rib or a Montana Dinner buffet that comes complete with cornbread muffins and apple crisp. The restaurant describes the Mermaid Brunch offerings as a "traditional brunch menu." Before heading home, diners have an opportunity to bring home a souvenir from the gift shop. This is where you can buy a "Sip Happens" tee shirt or your very own mermaid tail (typically an item that's been used by one of the performers). With so much fun to be had at the Sip 'N Dip Lounge, we wouldn't be surprised if it ends up on our next list of best themed restaurants to add to your travel bucket list.