Fresh Faces & New Faces

August 2026

Article by Maloree Murphy

Photos by Cherish Linse

A thriving downtown is more than a collection of storefronts and restaurants. It is the heartbeat of a community and a reflection of who we are and what we value. When people gather downtown, they are not just spending money or running errands. They are building relationships, supporting their neighbors, and investing in the identity of the place they call home. When downtown struggles, the whole community feels it. Billings has been having that conversation in earnest lately. The closures have been real, and the concern is legitimate, but so is the momentum quietly building around us. New businesses have been choosing Billings, and that is worth celebrating. Here are a few:

Curry Bar and Grill

119 N. Broadway

The menu offers Indian and Nepalese dishes that range from butter chicken and lamb curry to traditional momo dumplings. (The coconut curry is my personal favorite)

Nisha Thai Kitchen

216 N. Broadway

This family-run restaurant is bringing authentic, fresh Thai food to the Magic City. (Try their specialty Thai drinks, and my personal favorite, the Pineapple Fried Rice)

Rollhouse Bakery

115 N. 29th St.

A scratch bakery in the heart of downtown, Rollhouse has built a loyal following around its handcrafted cinnamon rolls, fresh croissants, and quick-serve breakfast and lunch options made with care every single day. (They have a monthly specialty cinnamon roll, and their French Toast Bake makes my mouth water)

Venture a little off the beaten path and head down State Avenue; you will find that the South Side has plenty of its own momentum. Two newcomers in particular are worth the drive.

El Buen Sazon Tacos y Tortas

4140 State Ave.

This South Side restaurant is built around serving made-from-scratch Mexican food with bold, authentic flavor rooted in recipes passed down through generations. (The Barbacoa is worth the drive, and if you like spice, they have you covered)

The Upper Room

4242 State Ave. (inside VFW Post 1634)

The Upper Room is a comfort-driven kitchen known for its locally sourced beef pasties and a French Onion Smash Burger, all made with Montana ingredients whenever possible. (The Chef’s Beef Ramen is incredible)

Opening a business takes everything a person has. When we choose to spend locally, we are casting a vote for the kind of city we want to live in. And when a business is struggling, the most powerful thing a neighbor can offer is a return visit and a kind word.

Originally printed in the August 2026 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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Maloree Murphy

With a background in nonprofit leadership and communications, she’s passionate about storytelling that connects people and strengthens community. When she's not chasing her toddler, she thrives on coffee and conversation.

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