I was running around Billings yesterday when I noticed construction is well underway for Billings first Panera Bread Company restaurant. Located in front on Win-Co on 24th St. West, this will be the second Panera in Montana. The other is located in Kalispell (the nearest Panera is actually 30 miles closer in Idaho Falls).  I reached out to the corporate HQ for the anticipated opening date and got the company voice mail. If I had to guess, I would say right around the 1st of the year. Here's what it'll look like when it's done:

Credit: Michael Foth TSM
Credit: Michael Foth TSM
loading...

In other food news, today I got a craving for Crazy Mary's Fish & Chips. For those that love fish and chips, this place is awesome. I headed over to 6th Avenue to get my grub on.

Credit: Michael Foth TSM
Credit: Michael Foth TSM
loading...

When I pulled up to the parking, it seemed pretty empty for lunch time on a weekday. That's when I saw this sign taped on the door:

Credit: Michael Foth TSM
Credit: Michael Foth TSM
loading...

Noooooo! Say it ain't so. I creeped Crazy Mary's Facebook page for more info, but details were sparse. It sounds like she normally takes a winter break in late November, but it looks like her break came a little early this year. I'll be waiting for ya in January, Mary.

More From 103.7 The Hawk