Ep 7. Montana

In season 7 episode 7 of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations, titled "Montana," the globetrotting celebrity chef and author ventures to Big Sky Country to explore the culinary and cultural offerings of Montana. Bourdain begins his journey in Missoula, a vibrant college town nestled in the mountains that boasts a thriving food scene. He samples the local delicacies at some of the city's top restaurants, including a farm-to-table eatery that sources its ingredients from nearby farms and ranches.

Bourdain also gets an inside look at Montana's ranching culture, meeting with a local rancher who shows him the ropes of cattle herding and roping. He learns about the challenges and rewards of life on a Montana ranch and gains a new appreciation for the hardworking men and women who keep the state's agricultural traditions alive.

Next, Bourdain heads to the small town of Butte, which was once a major hub of the copper mining industry. He explores the city's rich history and visits a local distillery that produces a unique whiskey made from a mash of barley and malted rye. Bourdain also meets with a group of passionate Butte locals who are working hard to revitalize their city and preserve its heritage.

Finally, Bourdain makes his way to the stunning backcountry of Montana's Bob Marshall Wilderness, where he embarks on a rugged, multi-day hike through some of the state's most spectacular landscapes. He reflects on the majesty of the natural world and the important role that wilderness areas like this play in preserving the planet's biodiversity.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain showcases Montana's unique blend of frontier spirit, culinary innovation, and natural beauty, offering viewers a tantalizing glimpse into this often-overlooked corner of the United States. Whether sampling bison meatloaf at a local tavern or exploring the vast emptiness of the Montana wilderness, Bourdain's journey through Big Sky Country is a testament to the power of exploration and open-mindedness in discovering the rich tapestry of human experience.