Missoula’s downtown dining scene just got a taste of Eastern Europe. Pelz, a new eatery located inside 3B Bagels at 403 N. Higgins Ave., serves traditional Russian dumplings called pelmeni. The restaurant opened this month, giving residents a fresh, family‑friendly option for dinner or a quick snack.
What Are Pelmeni?
Pelmeni are bite‑sized dumplings made from thin, unleavened dough wrapped around a seasoned filling. They are boiled and traditionally served with butter, sour cream, or a simple broth. Think of them as a Russian cousin to Italian ravioli, but with a distinct flavor profile rooted in Slavic cuisine.
Menu Highlights
Pelz offers three main filling choices:
- Ground beef sourced from Mannix Family Ranch in Helmville.
- Ground pork from Farm to Market Pork in Kalispell.
- A vegetable blend of potato, mushroom, and leek, featuring oyster mushrooms from Swiftcurrent Farms in Stevensville.
Customers can order pelmeni in three portion sizes, making it easy to enjoy a sit‑down meal or pick up a larger batch for the family. A typical order of 50 dumplings—half beef, half pork, plus the vegetable mix—costs $35, offering good value for a hearty, protein‑rich dish.
Local Sourcing Commitment
Pelz emphasizes Montana‑grown ingredients wherever possible. The dough is made with flour from Wheat Montana, and the accompanying rye bread also comes from the same local mill. By partnering with regional farms and ranches, the eatery supports the state’s agricultural economy while delivering fresh flavors to diners.
How to Enjoy Pelmeni
Patrons can savor the dumplings fresh from the kitchen or take home frozen portions to cook later. The restaurant even suggests an “Alaskan Style” serving method, which pairs the dumplings with butter, red wine vinegar, Sriracha, curry powder, cilantro, sour cream, and rye bread for a bold, layered taste.
Hours and Location
Pelz operates Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The shared space with 3B Bagels also offers morning coffee and bagels from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily, making the location a convenient stop for both breakfast and dinner.
Why It Matters for Missoula Families
Beyond adding culinary variety, Pelz reflects a growing trend of locally owned businesses that prioritize regional sourcing and family‑oriented dining experiences. For parents looking for affordable, wholesome meals, the ability to purchase frozen pelmeni means a quick, nutritious option for busy weeknights. The restaurant’s focus on Montana ingredients also reinforces the community’s commitment to supporting home‑grown producers.
Whether you’re a longtime Missoula resident or a visitor exploring downtown, Pelz offers a unique taste of Russian tradition while staying firmly rooted in Montana’s agricultural heritage.
Original reporting: NewsTalk KGVO 1290 (Townsquare) — read the source article.
