Discover Montana’s Hidden Culinary Gem: Huge Steaks and Amazing Cocktails

Introduction to Lone Mountain Ranch

Lone Mountain Ranch is known for its popular sleigh rides and warm guest cabins, and in 2022, it is enhancing its food and beverage program.

Exploring Bozeman and Big Sky

Montana, particularly the Bozeman area, attracts visitors from all over the globe. In 2021, Bozeman-Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) welcomed nearly 2 million visitors, marking a record year for what is now dubbed “Montana’s busiest airport.”

Many travelers venture to Big Sky, a skier’s paradise located 45 miles from Bozeman. Big Sky offers year-round activities, from mountain biking and horseback riding to golfing and whitewater rafting, complementing its renowned winter sports.

Culinary Innovations at Horn & Cantle

Beyond its stunning landscape and thrilling adventures, the gastronomic scene is flourishing at Lone Mountain Ranch.

Lone Mountain Ranch is part of the rapidly expanding Auric Road group and has a reputation for its restorative ambiance and family-friendly activities. The ranch boasts a rich history, with a 100-year-old guest ranch that emphasizes hospitality, particularly in its culinary offerings.

Starting in November, the on-site dining venue, Horn & Cantle, welcomed Executive Chef Scott Mechura. With over 20 years in the Gallatin Valley, Chef Mechura is committed to refreshing the ranch’s food and beverage offerings while maintaining the heart and history of the restaurant.

Menu Highlights and Recommendations

At Horn & Cantle, Chef Mechura aims to enhance the dining experience without compromising the restaurant’s authentic frontier-style cooking. Signature menu items to look forward to include:

• Game options like elk, venison, and duck.
• Portean steak cuts, including a 32-ounce bone-in ribeye and a colossal 64-ounce porterhouse.
• Seasonal menu changes that incorporate local vendors offering cheese, honey, lamb, pork, and a variety of produce.

Cocktail enthusiasts can enjoy the Lone Mountain cocktail and pair their meals with a selection of Bordeaux or California wines. Chef Mechura emphasizes a communal dining experience with large shareable cuts, ensuring a memorable meal.

Future Developments at Lone Mountain Ranch

In addition to the exciting menu changes, Chef Mechura and his team are also developing Lytle Bar, an indoor-outdoor space expected to open in late summer 2022. This bar will pay tribute to Clarence Lytle, who homesteaded Lone Mountain Ranch in 1915, further solidifying the ranch’s dedication to its roots and community relationships.