Montana might be best known for its big skies and iconic parks, but they’re only part of the story. For Sysco Chef Andrew Fulton, who grew up just over the border in Wyoming and now calls Billings home, it’s the people that make this state special. “People welcome you with open arms. There’s a friendliness here that’s hard to find anywhere else,” he says. That warmth isn’t just felt; it’s part of the landscape. In a state where the sky seems endless, the hospitality runs just as deep.
Where Mountains Meet the Menu
Montana’s food scene is rustic Western at its core, with big portions, bold flavors, and beef front and center. But don’t mistake it for one-dimensional. “We love our beef,” Chef Andrew says, “but you’ll find coastal influences too. It’s more diverse than most people expect.”
Montana staples include elk, bison, and ribeye, plus a local treasure: huckleberries. These tart wild berries appear in everything from desserts to barbecue sauce, offering chefs a uniquely local flavor profile. Chef Andrew’s favorite food stops include:
JAKE’S BAR & GRILL (BILLINGS): A longstanding local landmark known for steaks and old-school hospitality. “It’s been around for generations.”
THE DEPOT (MISSOULA): A classic Montana steakhouse with timeless appeal.
METALS SPORTS BAR AND GRILL (BUTTE): Located in a converted historic bank, this downtown gem blends comfort food with local character.
Hidden Gems Worth Exploring
For chefs looking to bring a taste of Montana home—or back to the kitchen—Chef Andrew recommends:
City Vineyard (Billings): Specialty foods, curated wines, and artisan finds
Fishtail General Store (Fishtail): A small-town gem filled with local goods
Huckleberry Haven (Kalispell): The ultimate source for all things huckleberry
Experiences that Feed the Soul
From desert plains to alpine peaks, Montana offers a powerful reset for chefs looking to recharge or find inspiration. Whether you’re soaking in a hot spring, winding through the Beartooth Highway, or visiting the Battle of the Little Bighorn, there’s no shortage of ways to slow down and reconnect. “For me, it’s the outdoors and the people,” says Chef Andrew. “Fishing, hiking, hunting—it’s all part of what makes this place stand out. Just be ready for the high altitude.” Must-see experiences:
- Glacier & Yellowstone National Parks
- Natural Hot Springs (Chico, Quinn’s, and more)
- The Brawl of the Wild: Annual rivalry game between the Montana Grizzlies and the Montana State Bobcats
- Pig Racing at Bearcreek
- Montana Rodeo
- KettleHouse Amphitheater (Missoula): “It’s the biggest outdoor music venue in the state, and the view is incredible.”
- Hiawatha Trail: A scenic trail near the state border, perfect for biking and exploring
