Celebrity chef Todd English hopes to put the lesser-known Rocky Mountains resort town of Whitefish on the culinary map with the launch of the inaugural Whitefish Food and Wine Festival. Located in northwest Montana, Whitefish has become a popular destination for wealthy individuals seeking a more low-key escape from the glitz and glam of places like Aspen. English believes that Whitefish has a vibrant food culture, attracting talented chefs who have worked for big names like Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Daniel Boulud, and Eric Ripert.
As part of the Whitefish Food and Wine Festival, renowned chefs Boulud and Ripert are scheduled to host separate events in November as part of the “Modernist Dinner Series” organized by the Culinary Institute of Montana. This event showcases the growing culinary scene in Whitefish, which has seen increased popularity during the pandemic as more affluent individuals have purchased second homes in the area. The town’s charm lies in its locally-owned restaurants and diverse culinary offerings, making it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors.
Executive chef Andy Blanton, who has been a key figure in Whitefish’s culinary scene for over two decades, views the town as a resort destination with a strong emphasis on local dining establishments. Whitefish is becoming known for its legitimate chefs and restaurant operations that have expanded to cater to a growing number of tourists. One of the town’s major draws is the lack of corporate entities, creating a more authentic dining experience that showcases local talent and ingredients.
The Whitefish Food and Wine Festival, organized by English in partnership with Axcess Entertainment and entrepreneur Joe Hess, aims to showcase the culinary diversity of Whitefish and its surrounding areas. The festival features a range of events, including grand tastings and culinary activities such as a trip up Big Mountain. Local ingredients like huckleberries, a popular fruit in Montana, are prominently featured in many dishes, showcasing the region’s unique flavors and produce.
Despite Whitefish’s rise as a culinary destination, it does pose some challenges for visitors, such as the need to bring bear spray when picking huckleberries on Big Mountain due to the presence of grizzlies in the area. However, these risks are seen as part of the town’s charm and natural beauty, adding to the allure of Whitefish as a destination for food and nature lovers alike. English plans to continue expanding the festival in future years, with a larger budget enabling more top chefs to participate and showcase their talents.
Looking ahead, English emphasizes the importance of promoting young culinary talent and supporting the growth of events like the Whitefish Food and Wine Festival. By showcasing the culinary offerings of Whitefish and bringing together both acclaimed chefs and up-and-coming culinary professionals, the festival aims to elevate the town’s status as a culinary destination in the Rocky Mountains. With the support of chefs like English, Blanton, Boulud, and Ripert, Whitefish has the potential to further solidify its place on the culinary map, attracting food enthusiasts from around the country and beyond.
