About Herb & Omni
Herb & Omni at 101 Central is a unique multi-level venue in downtown Whitefish that blends fine dining with live entertainment. Housed in a historic building dating to 1905 (originally a saloon, later Casey’s Bar from 1967 to 2022), the space was thoroughly renovated and rebranded in 2023. The ground floor restaurant (“Herb & Omni”) serves upscale, locally-inspired cuisine under James Beard-nominated chef Earl J. Reynolds , while the second floor (“The Second Story”) continues as a live music and event space . Design highlights include preserved hardwood floors, reclaimed timber beams, whitewashed brick walls, and a kelly-green bar nodding to the building’s past . With its “Rooted in Montana, Elevated by Experience” philosophy and a menu catering equally to herbivores and omnivores, Herb & Omni brings a new level of dining and nightlife to Whitefish .
Events and Programming
The Second Story upstairs hosts a busy schedule of live performances and community events. Concert programming ranges from classic tribute acts (e.g. “The Music of Eagles,” “Women Who ROCK,” “Fleetwood Mac tribute,” etc.) to local bands and seasonal shows like holiday parties. In other words, everything from vintage pop and rock tributes to original Americana seems to find a stage here (for example, promotions tout everything “from Vintage Pop to Women Who Rock”). The venue also handles private functions – weddings, corporate events, holiday parties – offering on-site catering and an intimate concert feel. Shows typically have ticketed entry (often $20–$40+ depending on the act) and may include VIP or meet-and-greet add-ons. For example, an Eagles tribute concert (held off-site by a local theater company) offered a VIP after-party at 101 Central for an additional fee . In sum, visitors can expect 1–3 special events per week, including live music most nights, comedy or spoken-word nights, and lively seasonal celebrations. (Check the venue’s event calendar for up-to-date listings.)
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for public performances are sold primarily online or through local box offices. Popular shows often sell out in advance, so it’s wise to purchase early; small events sometimes have tickets at the door if available. Private and corporate events can be booked by contacting the venue’s event team directly. For restaurant dining, Herb & Omni offers reservations (via OpenTable or by phone) beginning at 5 PM each evening. Walk-up table seating is very limited; reservations for weekend evenings especially fill up quickly. Typical ticket prices for concerts range from about $30–50, though prices vary by show and may include packages (for instance, an after-party or dinner package). In one recent example, tribute-concert tickets were $35 with an optional $20 after-party add-on . There is no publicly advertised “house” box office at Herb & Omni; for large events, tickets might also be sold through partner organizations. (Always verify buying options via official channels and avoid unofficial resellers – box offices and the venue’s own site/partners are the safest sources.)
Seating and Layout
The main-floor layout (Herb & Omni restaurant) is an open, industrial-chic dining room with high ceilings. Dining tables are arranged around a central bar with emerald-green accent, and there are also booth and high-top options. The bar area offers stools facing the mixology station with overhead lighting, great for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail. On the street side of the restaurant, large windows and preserved brick walls give a cozy yet refined feel. Upstairs, The Second Story has a rectangular performance space: a raised stage at one end and mostly general-admission floor seating on the main level. Early in the evening or for seated shows, there may be small tables or chairs near the back or sides, but many events encourage stand-up/audience standing or dancing near the stage. VIP tables (if available for a show) are usually placed close to the stage or off to the sides. Sightlines are generally good from the elevated stage, though very large crowds can fill in front. Acoustics have been improved with new sound-dampening drapes on the walls and upgraded stage lighting, making performances clearer and more intimate . (There is no fixed balcony level; seating is mostly on the main floor.)
Getting There and Parking
Herb & Omni is located at 101 Central Avenue in downtown Whitefish – at the corner of Central and 1st Street . This is the heart of Whitefish’s walkable shopping and dining district. If driving, you’ll need to find street parking or a public lot nearby: Whitefish offers free downtown parking (limited to 2 hours on the street and 3 hours in designated lots) to manage traffic . There are three public lots just a couple of blocks away and metered on-street spaces along Central and nearby streets; note that winter rules prohibit parking 2:30–6 AM for snow plows . Rideshare and taxis are options – services like Uber (which now operates in Whitefish) can be scheduled in advance . For tourism transit, the Mountain Climber bus has routes through Whitefish (connects to Kalispell/Columbia Falls) on weekdays , and Amtrak’s Empire Builder train stops daily at Whitefish Depot (Depot St) just a block east of downtown for rail travelers .
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, guests enter at street level into the Herb & Omni dining room. For dinner reservations, a host or hostess will greet you and show you to your table. During events, staff will check tickets/IDs at a side entrance and hand out wristbands or stamps as needed. The atmosphere inside is stylish and lively: warm wood tones, mood lighting, and modern rustic decor give the space a relaxed yet upscale vibe. Service staff wear neat uniforms (business-casual attire). The ground floor houses the main dining room and bar; to reach The Second Story upstairs, use the dedicated staircase. Both levels have restrooms (the restrooms were moved to the first floor in the renovation ) and generally clean, well-maintained facilities. Coat checks may be available at larger events (ask the door staff), but there is limited storage room for bags. Connectivity: free Wi-Fi may be available (especially in the tasting room), but if working or surfing, note that busy nights can slow web access. Herb & Omni accepts credit cards and has glassware and menu offerings that reflect its fine-dining style – plan for about 1–2 hours for a leisurely meal. Beverages: both alcoholic (local beers on tap, signature cocktails, wine) and non-alcoholic (specialty sodas, mocktails, coffee) are served at the bar and table service; outside drinks are not allowed. The overall vibe is festive and friendly – diners and concertgoers alike say the staff are attentive and the mood is welcoming (if anything, the venue aims to impress without feeling intimidating).
Nearby Amenities
Downtown Whitefish is packed with amenities within easy walking distance of 101 Central. If you want a bite or drink before heading in, options abound. For pre-show dining, neighboring restaurants include popular spots like Abruzzo Italian Kitchen and Loula’s Cafe on Central Ave, or Abruzzo’s sister restaurant Abruzzo on the Lakefront just a few blocks away. For lighter fare, the Montana Coffee Traders or The Whitefish Lake Restaurant (at the golf course) are a short drive. Bars and breweries nearby include the Bonsai Brewing Project (just half a mile east) – a local brewpub known for craft beers and almost-daily live music – and the Great Northern Bar & Grill (Central Ave) for pub food and sports. Cocktail lovers should try downtown’s Spotted Bear Spirits tasting room for house-distilled spirits and mountain lodge ambiance . If you have time to stay overnight, downtown hotels include the Lodge at Whitefish Lake, Whitefish Hotel, and condominiums like 101 Central Suites. Plan to arrive 15-30 minutes early to park or stroll in, as neighboring venues and the beautiful scenic views of the valley can tempt you to linger. After a show, many of these spots stay open late (some bars go past midnight), and there are taxi and rideshare pick up points on Central Ave if you need to head back to a hotel outside walking distance.
What Makes This Venue Special
Herb & Omni is special in part because it revives a beloved local icon with a bold new concept. The building itself – more than a century old – ties the venue to Whitefish history, and the renovation cleverly preserves that heritage. The restaurant’s name and menu make it stand out: “Herb & Omni” explicitly welcomes vegans and carnivores alike, a rare theme for Montana, emphasizing quality vegetables (and locally sourced meats) without compromise . The owners (including local tech investor Mike Goguen) aimed to create a “people above all” culture , and many reviews note that the service is as much a highlight as the food. Combining craftsman-style décor (reclaimed timber, original brickwork) with modern lighting and sound makes both dining and concert experiences feel upscale but personal. In fact, Herb & Omni has quickly become a regional draw – it’s featured in local media as a five-star dining experience for Northwest Montana , and hosts artists who love performing in an intimate venue. The space’s flexibility (one night an upscale dinner, the next a rock tribute concert, another night a comedy show) means it actually offers more variety than a typical restaurant or bar. For the Whitefish community, the venue fills a cultural gap: it’s an all-season, indoor gathering place where locals can enjoy first-class food and entertainment without trekking to the ski resort or into Kalispell. In short, Herb & Omni has quickly earned a reputation as the pulse of downtown Whitefish – a place where local tradition meets bold new ideas .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The ground floor of Herb & Omni is wheelchair-accessible (level entry, adaptable seating) and has an ADA restroom. The second floor is reached by stairs; if you need an elevator or ramp, contact the venue ahead of time (they may offer accommodations or alternative seating). Seating: The restaurant’s tables are configured for parties of two to four; larger parties should request this in advance. Dining before a show: remember that the restaurant closes kitchen service at 9 PM, so for late-evening concerts you may want to eat earlier or grab a quick bite. Dress code: Whitefish is casual but seasonal – evening wear tends toward smart casual. (Try to avoid ski parkas or muddy gear in the dining room.) Idiosyncrasies: Children are welcome at early dinners, but many nighttime events (especially later concerts) are 21+ due to liquor service. It’s best not to bring large backpacks, open outside drinks, or professional camera equipment without permission. We recommend arriving 30-45 minutes early for your booking or show to ensure parking, check-in, and having time to enjoy the bar. If you’re unfamiliar with downtown, use an app or map to locate 101 Central Ave; nearby landmarks include City Hall (a block north) and the Poplar restaurant. Finally, for unforgettable experience: ask the staff about seasonal specials (Montana wines, local trout on the menu) and enjoy the singsong of crowds – many visitors note that the laughs or toasts linger as part of the charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Herb & Omni and The Second Story?
Herb & Omni’s main dining room seats roughly 100 guests at once (plus bar seating). The upstairs Second Story room is a medium-sized event space that typically holds on the order of a few dozen sitting or up to ~150 standing, depending on setup. (Exact numbers aren’t published, but events there usually feel cozy rather than cavernous.) For private events or large concerts, the venue may close off extra tables to accommodate more standing room.
How can I buy tickets for Herb & Omni events?
Tickets are usually sold online through the venue’s website or event platforms (e.g. Eventbrite) and sometimes at partner box offices. Popular concerts often sell out, so purchasing online in advance is recommended. If tickets remain, limited door sales may be available before showtime – check the event’s page or call the box office listed on the announcement. (For some special events, the Whitefish Theatre Co. or Merie Productions has handled ticketing.) Pricing varies by show (general admission is often ~$30–$40).
When should I arrive and what are typical door times?
For dinner reservations, arrive a few minutes early so your party is ready at the table by your booking time (the kitchen closes at 9 PM). For concerts or shows, doors usually open 30–60 minutes before the performance. Aim to arrive at least half an hour before showtime: this gives you time to park and grab a drink. Late arrivals to seated shows may be asked to wait for a break, so early arrival is especially important.
What are the typical ticket price ranges?
Ticket prices vary with the type of event. Many tribute bands or solo acts charge around $30–$40. Larger touring shows or special events can be higher (some nights approach $50–$60 per ticket). Early-bird or promo pricing might be available for some events. In one recent example, Eagles tribute concert tickets were $35 each . VIP or after-party passes, when offered, add an extra fee (e.g. $10–$20 more).
How do I make a dinner reservation?
Herb & Omni accepts reservations for dinner via its website or traditional phone/email booking. The easiest way is to use an online booking link (e.g. OpenTable) on their site. Parties of 1–6 can typically book most evenings from 5–9 PM. Weekend evenings get busy, so reserve weeks in advance if possible. A confirmation email or text will tell you your table time and party size. If you miss or need to change your reservation, calling the venue at (406) 862-8150 is the best option.
Are there VIP or special seating sections?
There is no fixed VIP section in the restaurant – all dining tables are generally equal. Upstairs, some ticketed events may sell "VIP seating" which usually means a reserved table or couch area close to the stage. These VIP tickets (if offered) cost more but include a guaranteed front-row spot. For regular shows, seating is first-come in general admission areas, so avoid standing directly at the very back if you want a clear view. In the dining room, the seats with the best view are along the large windows facing Central Ave or at the bar counter itself.
How do I get to Herb & Omni? What’s the address?
Herb & Omni is at 101 Central Ave, Whitefish MT 59937 . This is the corner of Central Avenue and 1st Street, right in downtown Whitefish . If using GPS, search “Herb & Omni Whitefish” or that address. It’s easy to spot thanks to the historic brick exterior and large bar windows labeled “101 Central.” The front entrance faces west onto Central Ave.
Is parking available and how does it work?
Downtown Whitefish offers free parking but with time limits. You’ll find 2-hour metered street parking on Central and adjacent roads, and three 3-hour free lots just blocks away . Most visitors find a spot in one of the nearby lots (for free) and then walk a block or two to the venue. Note that no parking is allowed on city streets between 2:30 AM and 6 AM (for snow removal) . Keep an eye on posted signs. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) and taxis can drop you off right at the door as well.
What public transportation serves the venue?
Whitefish’s local “Trolley” bus (Mountain Climber) provides weekday service linking Whitefish with Kalispell and Columbia Falls . It stops near downtown, but schedules are limited. Also, Amtrak trains (Empire Builder line) stop daily at the historic Whitefish Depot (on Depot St.), just one block east of Central Ave . Parking at the depot is free, and the walk to Herb & Omni is under 10 minutes. In practice, most local visitors drive or take rideshare/taxi, while tourists from Glacier National Park or the ski area often drive via Hwy 93 or ride the Snow Bus during winter ski season.
What should I know about accessibility?
The main dining level of Herb & Omni is wheelchair-accessible with no steps. Restrooms on the ground floor accommodate wheelchairs. However, The Second Story upstairs is only reachable by stairs, so guests requiring an elevator should contact the venue in advance (venue staff can sometimes make special arrangements or provide in-house sights from downstairs). Service animals are welcome, of course. The venue generally tries to be inclusive: staff will pull out chairs or space tables for mobility devices if needed. If you have specific accessibility concerns, it’s best to call ahead to discuss accommodations.
Are children and families allowed?
Yes – families are welcome for dinner service at Herb & Omni. The dining room is kid-friendly (with hearty food portions and booths). During live music events, families can attend earlier shows. However, some evening concerts or events are restricted to ages 21+ (check the event listing). Afterabout 9 PM, most shows are 18+ or 21+ due to the late hours and alcohol service. (No unaccompanied minors are allowed at strictly 21+ shows.) There is highchair availability and space for strollers in the dining area.
What are the venue’s bag and photography policies?
Large backpacks or camera gear may be asked to stay at coat check, especially during concerts. Small purses and daypacks are usually fine. Photography for personal use (phones or small cameras) is generally permitted, but flash photography during performances is discouraged (it can distract performers). Always ask staff if you’re unsure. All outside food and drink are prohibited (you can purchase sandwiches, snacks and full meals inside). Smoking and vaping are not allowed indoors (Whitefish is smoke-free). Generally, follow staff instructions and the venue’s common-sense rules.
What should I wear to Herb & Omni?
There’s no strict dress code, but most guests dress smart-casual. Nice jeans or slacks and a clean shirt are typical. Avoid ski parkas, hats, or very casual gym clothes during dinner service. For concerts, people often dress comfortably but neatly. If you plan to dine and see a show the same night, business-casual attire is a safe bet. In winter the venue is warm inside, so coats or boots can be checked at the front. In short: think polished mountain-town attire, not fancy formalwear.
Does Herb & Omni have coat check or lockers?
For most events, there is a staffed coat-check area near the entrance. Guests can leave heavier coats, hats or bags there for a small fee or donation. During slower evenings, staff will store coats in a secure back area. There are no permanent lockers. If you bring a coat on a cold night, plan to drop it at check-in; holding it at your table can be cumbersome given the crowded setting. Cellphone and small item storage is up to you (no formal lockers), so keep valuables on you or in a locked car.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes – free Wi-Fi is usually available throughout Herb & Omni (both levels). You may need to ask the host or bartender for the network name and password. Keep in mind concert acoustics and lighting may dim Wi-Fi occasionally for shows, so plan on minimal internet use during live sets. If you need reliable connectivity (for work or media), the ground-floor dining room tends to have the strongest signal.
What types of payment are accepted?
Herb & Omni accepts all major credit and debit cards, and cash for small miscellaneous purchases. (It is wise to carry some cash for tips or cover charges.) Most ticket sales are credit-card based online. There is an ATM on-site at the bar for event nights if needed. No cryptocurrency or mobile-only payment is in use as of now. When dining, you sign and tip normally on card or pay cash at end of meal.
