Cowboy hats and boots filled three Bozeman-area restaurants on Sunday, Aug. 21, for the 5th Annual Montana Cattle Crawl. This progressive dinner is a project of MSGA’s Young Stockgrowers committee funded by Montana beef producers and checkoff dollars. The purpose of the Cattle Crawl is to promote beef to urban and rural parties by utilizing beef in unique applications. In Bozeman, beef producers and beef consumers gathered together for an informal, festive evening of fine dining and good company.

Weebee’s was the first stop where the chef prepared Asian lettuce wraps and beef s’mores. That’s right…s’mores! The beef had a bit of a spicy kick, which was mellowed out by homemade savory marshmallows. Then the crew saddled up and headed to the historic Gallatin Gateway Inn. There, people enjoyed beef carpaccio accompanied by arugula salad with a truffle vinaigrette. Next, the group trailed out to the Mint Bar and Café in Belgrade. The entrée was a New York Strip two ways: cast iron seared and braised sweet beef with grilled Gallatin Valley baby fennel, parsnip puree, and roasted cauliflower. The Mint’s owner, Jay Bentley, said how grateful he is to have such great beef being produced in Montana and thanked ranchers for all they do.

The Cattle Crawlers returned to Weebee’s for dessert which included a raspberry parfait, orange infused chocolate, and a mini lemon meringue pie. Participants received a complimentary wine glass and transportation for the evening.

All three restaurants featured on the 2011 Montana Cattle Crawl use Montana-raised beef and work closely with local farmers and ranchers to bring fresh Montana products to their customers.

The Young Stockgrowers would like to thank those who participated and the restaurants for putting on such a special event.