Bourdain’s Ode to Lydia’s Supper Club—Butte’s Last Meaderville-Style Supper Club. Tucked into Butte, Montana’s Italian-American neighborhood of Meaderville, Lydia’s Supper Club isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a living piece of local—and gastronomic—history. Established in 1946 by Lydia Micheletti, the club stands today as Butte’s only remaining Meaderville-style supper club, faithfully preserving a festive, multi-course dining tradition that was once the heartbeat of the city.
A Storied Legacy
Lydia Micheletti’s journey into the culinary world began as a teenager, immersed in the rich Italian immigrant traditions of Meaderville. Her early experiences in local eateries helped form a deep understanding of the community’s gastronomic culture. When she opened Lydia’s in 1946, it was a melding of local supper club traditions and her family’s recipes. The legacy, now carried on by Lydia’s grandchildren, remains vibrant and true to its roots.
Did you know? Lydia’s expanded to its current location in 1964, a testament to its enduring popularity. Today, it offers a slice of history, allowing diners to step back into a time when supper clubs were the centerpiece of community life.
Stepping into the 1960s
Entering Lydia’s Supper Club feels like stepping into a time capsule of the 1960s. The vintage décor, marked by rich wooden paneling and ambient lighting, creates a warm and nostalgic atmosphere. Guests are enveloped in an ambiance that echoes the era when supper clubs were central to social life.
Each visit offers a unique blend of nostalgia and culinary delight. The club’s decor and atmosphere pay homage to its storied past, setting the stage for memorable dining experiences. This setting has been preserved meticulously, offering a glimpse into the history of Meaderville’s vibrant community life.
The sense of history is palpable, adding a special touch to every meal enjoyed here.
Bourdain’s “Wacky” Delight
In 2016, Lydia’s Supper Club caught the attention of Anthony Bourdain, who featured it in his show, Parts Unknown. Here, Bourdain enjoyed a multi-course meal, including sweet potato salad, beef tenderloin, and a classic martini. He humorously described the experience as “wacky,” celebrating the generous and eclectic feast.
Bourdain’s visit brought national attention to Lydia’s, highlighting its unique blend of history and hospitality. His delight in the quirky and generous meals reflects the spirit of Lydia’s, where abundance and flavor reign supreme.
The episode remains a cherished memory for Lydia’s, underscoring its place as a cultural landmark in Butte.
The Meaderville-Style Feast
Lydia’s Supper Club is renowned for its Meaderville-style feast, a multi-course dining journey that tantalizes the senses. The meal begins with antipasto featuring salami, cheese, and pickled peppers, followed by a vibrant green salad drizzled with Lydia’s famed Roquefort-style dressing.
The main courses are a hearty affair, with offerings like ravioli, spaghetti, and surf-and-turf options such as veal or halibut. This spread encapsulates the spirit of indulgence, drawing diners into a world of rich flavors and textures.
Desserts like spumoni or caramel-topped ice cream provide a sweet conclusion to the feast. The culinary experience is a tribute to Lydia’s enduring commitment to tradition.
A Nostalgic Dining Experience
Dining at Lydia’s Supper Club is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic journey through time. The ambiance, food, and service evoke memories of a bygone era when meals were leisurely and communal. Guests often feel like they are part of a large, joyous family gathering.
The club’s enduring popularity speaks to its ability to create lasting memories. Each visit is a celebration of community, enhanced by the shared enjoyment of traditional dishes. The atmosphere fosters connections, making every meal a memorable event.
Lydia’s continues to thrive by embracing its rich history, providing a unique space where nostalgia and culinary excellence meet.
