The Loose Caboose

The Loose Caboose is a Coffee Shop in Missoula, MT, located at 3510 S Reserve St. Founded in 1994 by Malcolm Lowe, the business has served the Missoula Valley for over 25 years. It operates five drive-up locations around town and a mobile cart at the Saturday Clark Fork Market. The shop is known for exceptional espresso quality and engaged customer service, offering coffee, drinks, and snacks for families and commuters. It holds a rating of 4.60 based on customer reviews.

Malcolm Lowe moved to Missoula in 1993 after spending ten years as an itinerant troubadour and part-time barista on the west coast. Seeking a business that harmonized with the city’s history as a western rail town, he discovered images of horse-drawn cable cars and a children’s book, settling on the name The Loose Caboose. The original location was eventually hit by a truck; it was auctioned for charity and replaced with a new design that serves as the model for other locations. Expansion continued with a second location on North Reserve in 1998, where Lowe also introduced a mobile cart at the Missoula Farmers Market. This cart, initially powered by a solar system called “The Sol Caboose,” later moved to the Clark Fork Market to access 220 power. Subsequent locations opened along Mullan Road, Broadway, and South Reserve, with newer sites featuring full sewer, water, and bathroom connections.

The business is deeply involved in the community through charity events and donation days. It hosts an annual Caboose float trip and a monthly Cup of Kindness event, typically on the third Tuesday, where 50 cents from every drink sold is donated to a local non-profit. Customers can also purchase e-gift cards for friends and family, with bulk orders available via email. Seasonal offerings include items like Maple Brûlée Cold Foam.

The Loose Caboose maintains a 4.60 rating from its customers, reflecting its standing as a well-regarded local coffee provider.

The Loose Caboose combines its long history in Missoula with a strong community presence, making it a staple for residents seeking quality coffee and a connection to local events.

The Loose Caboose sits on S Reserve St in Missoula, MT, just a short distance from Montana Lil's Casino and Brooks Street. It is also near Lucky Diamond Casino and Providence ExpressCare.

BizScoreAI awarded the business a Content score of 100 out of 100, which means the website has substantial and relevant content that helps search engines show it to more people. The Authority score is 75 out of 100. The business ranks number 3 of 16 Coffee Shop businesses that BizScoreAI has scored in Missoula.