Horn & Cantle at Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Montana: Meet the Chef

Apr 1

Meet the Chef: Horn & Cantle at Lone Mountain Ranch

We sat down with Culinary Director Todd Cosgrove of Horn & Cantle at Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Montana. Horn & Cantle channels old-West charm with a polished saloon vibe—an ideal spot to thaw by the hearth after a day of outdoor pursuits. Slide into a leather booth and sample a local whiskey flight, or sip a Lone Mountain signature like the Big Sky Bramble, a spirited blend of Big Horn bourbon, bright lemon, and house-made huckleberry compote. The menu pairs rustic flair with refined ingredients: saloon staples such as the celebrated H&C Burger share the spotlight with Cedar Plank Mushrooms crowned in tangy local goat cheese.

Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?

Mornings start with a walk with my dog, Lucy - and a serious amount of coffee. I like my coffee with lots of cream and lots of sugar. At the end of the day, I like to keep it simple: a quiet moment to reset, plan for tomorrow, and get ready to do it all again.

Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?

Marco Pierre White has always been a major inspiration. My advice to aspiring chefs is simple: fall in love with hard work. Talent helps, but discipline and consistency are what take you far in this industry.

Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?

Horn & Cantle Restaurant at Lone Mountain Ranch was recently voted Best Restaurant in Big Sky, Montana by Explore Big Sky an achievement we are incredibly proud of. The restaurant’s wine program has also been recognized by Wine Spectator with an Award of Excellence, and Horn & Cantle has previously been nominated by the James Beard Foundation. Earlier in my career, I was honored with Best in State for Private Dining during my time at Park Meadows Country Club in Park City, Utah.

What do you typically cook at home?

Honestly, I don’t cook much at home. After spending all day in a professional kitchen, home kitchens can feel limiting - I’d rather recharge and save that energy for service. However, I can tell you my favorite dish to cook at Horn and Cantle is Bison Short Ribs.

What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?

I don’t follow trends. Trends come and go, but classic techniques executed properly never go out of style, which is what I’m focused on.

What drink do you enjoy most?

Probably a tie between club soda, coffee, and Dr. Pepper.

Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?

I have cooked for celebrities, but I keep those experiences private - discretion is part of the job. However, I can tell you the last major celebrity we cooked for had our signature burger in Horn & Cantle and loved it.

What’s your Instagram so readers can follow you?

Follow Horn & Cantle on Instagram at @hornandcantle.

Why should readers visit Horn & Cantle at Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Montana?

Lone Mountain Ranch offers an experience that feels genuinely transportive. We’re just minutes from downtown Big Sky, but completely removed from it. At Horn & Cantle, we focus on an authentic Montana dining experience with a refined point of view: approachable dishes, strong technique, and a wine program that’s built to match the setting. It’s the best kind of place where the food, the atmosphere, and the hospitality all work together.

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