NEWS/EVENTS

The Great Falls Hospital Partners with Local Cafe and Coffee Bar, Buffalo Blanc to Open Coffee/Gift Shop

The Great Falls Hospital, along with Buffalo Blanc, is excited to announce the opening of a gift and coffee shop on the main floor of the Hospital near the front entrance.

Great Falls Clinic Dietary Manager, Gabriel Carbajal says this project began this summer when the Hospital construction neared its completion with the addition of a proposed coffee and gift shop space. Buffalo Blanc was quick to jump on the opportunity and in mid-August an agreement was met, and a partnership was formed. In October, the Hospital took occupancy of the cafeteria and coffee shop spaces on the first floor. Almost immediately the cafeteria began serving daily breakfast and lunch specials as well as staple menu options to patients, guests and staff.

The coffee shop still has some minor construction to complete, but the team at Buffalo Blanc anticipates their first cup of coffee to be poured early in 2025 if not sooner. Sisters and co-owners Tara Tronson and Whitney Sunwall say Buffalo Blanc is not just any old cafe, it is built around the idea of connection. They want to foster an environment where community members can find comfort, comradery and overall, a place that feels like home.

“We’re excited to bring this experience to the Great Falls Hospital,” shares Tronson and Sunwall. “Whether you’re a doctor, a nurse, a patient, or a family member, we want to be that welcoming space where you can take a breath, recharge, and feel seen. For those who might not have the chance to step away from the hospital, we want to create an environment where you can still feel connected to the community, even if just for a moment.”

Carbajal echoes this sentiment and adds that Great Falls Clinic Hospital staff members have been excited about this partnership.

“Overall, the vibe around the hospital is positive and grateful to have a local coffee shop in-house for staff, patients and families,” Carbajal shared. “Being right across from the dining room will be a great place for individuals to grab a coffee, sit in the dining room and maybe grab a bite to eat from our cafeteria. Staff are [excited] for their grand opening.”

An official opening date and grand opening event will be shared when we have more information.

Once the coffee shop is up and running customers can swing by for a cup of joe seven days a week, Monday through Friday between 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM and weekends 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Hours will be reevaluated for expansion based on business needs.

About the Great Falls Clinic:

Proudly serving the Central Montana community since 1917, the Great Falls Clinic got its humble beginnings when four medical leaders came together to create the state’s first group medical practice with only five specialties. Over one century later the Great Falls Clinic has multiplied in size ten times over with specialties ranging from primary and pediatric care to emergency medicine and a diverse surgery team. Local and international medical staffers strive to provide the best health care to the community. The Clinic is committed to delivering compassionate and personalized care to all who choose the Great Falls Clinic and Hospital as their preferred healthcare network.

As a provider-led organization, The Great Falls Clinic and Hospital stays ahead of the curve by incorporating the latest technology and methodology into everyday practices; most importantly, the Clinic prioritizes teamwork and looks to recruit outstanding staff members who embody this value to provide the treatment and care the community deserves.