Photos by Jamie Blotske

Cool Cats Wine Dinner: A Culinary Adventure with Chef Nick Steen Gullings

Good wine. Great food. Cool company

by Stephanie Toews

On March 25th, Simply Local was privileged to attend the Cool Cats Wine Dinner, an extraordinary evening crafted by three-time James Beard Foundation nominee and 2025 semifinalist Chef Nick Steen Gullings of Walkers Grill. This six-course dining experience was anything but conventional, embracing a laid-back atmosphere that celebrated bold, unexpected flavors and exquisite wine pairings.

Nick Steen Gullings, known for his inventive approach to cuisine, drew inspiration from his humble upbringing to curate a menu that seamlessly blended nostalgia with culinary sophistication. Each course was thoughtfully paired with wines from George’s Distributing, enhancing the intricate layers of flavor in every dish.

A Journey Through Flavor

The evening commenced with a luxurious yet playful first course: caviar atop a Ritz cracker, complemented by crème fraîche and chives. This dish's simplicity paid homage to classic snacking, while the Maloof Sparkling Wine added effervescence and elegance, elevating the bite to a refined indulgence.

Next, a refreshing contrast unfolded in the form of salmon lox with apricot, peas, and arugula. This dish danced on the palate, its balance of sweet, savory, and herbal notes enhanced by Smallfry Tangerine Dream Orange Wine, a bold choice that added depth and vibrancy.

The third course took a hearty turn with chicken-fried pheasant, accompanied by Calabrian chile, Castelvetrano olive, and Grand Padano cheese. The crispy, golden-brown exterior concealed tender, flavorful meat, while James Rahn Skin Contact Pinot Gris brought out the dish’s rich and spicy nuances.

A standout of the evening was undoubtedly Nick’s Monte Cristo—an imaginative take on the classic sandwich featuring duck pastrami, raspberry jam, brioche, Gruyère cheese, and even Captain Crunch cereal. This fusion of sweet, salty, and crunchy elements was a playful nod to childhood comfort food, perfectly paired with the smooth Fres. Co Pinot Noir.

For the main course, guests were treated to succulent short rib, served with blackberry and duck fat potatoes. The richness of the beef was beautifully complemented by El Reflejo de Mikeala Bobal Wine, a deep, full-bodied selection that underscored the meal’s robust flavors.

Finally, the evening concluded on a sweet yet complex note with financier cake topped with honeycomb, pineapple, and brown butter. The Luna Hart Grüner Veltliner provided a crisp and slightly acidic finish, balancing the dish’s warmth and sweetness.

A One-of-a-Kind Culinary Celebration

The Cool Cats Wine Dinner apart wasn’t just the flawless execution of the dishes but the spirit in which they were created. Nick Steen Gullings’ ability to merge high-end ingredients with familiar, comforting elements made the experience both approachable and unforgettable.

With each bite and sip, diners embarked on a journey through bold flavors and masterful pairings—one that will never be duplicated but will surely be remembered as a night of culinary artistry at its finest.

To participate in an upcoming monthly dinner series at Walkers, call (406)245-9201 for reservations. The evening will be intimate and unforgettable. Spots are limited and filling up quickly.

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Stephanie Toews

Stephanie is finding joy in the journey of faith, marriage, motherhood, and friendships. Writing is her therapy and one of her favorite creative outlets.

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