Originally published at Edible Bozeman.
I step into the culinary world of Chef Dave Wells at Chico Hot Springs Resort, where he masterfully blends ancient techniques with modern food science. A two-time James Beard semifinalist, Wells orchestrates unforgettable dining experiences, from the cozy Tasting Room’s multi-course feasts to the beloved classics of the historic dining room. His journey—from an adventurous youth drawn to elk hunting and fly fishing to a dedicated chef refining his craft under Montana’s finest—shapes his deep respect for ingredients and tradition. With a mind fueled by a library of cookbooks and a passion for fermentation, Wells transforms local bounty into dishes infused with history, precision, and a touch of culinary magic.