Frank Kerstetter
After 40 years of cooking, I consider myself a lucky man because I still love what I do every day. The saying might seem a little cliché but it has held true for me all these years: “You will never work a day in your life if you love what you do”.
I started at age 16 as a dishwasher. In 1981, I graduated from the Culinary Institute of American. I was the Chef de Cuisine at Papillion Café in Cherry Creek, Colorado. During this time Papillion was chosen by Gourmet Magazine as one of the "10 Best Restaurants of the West." I also worked Pastry/Sous Chef at Mirabelle in Beaver Creek and had dishes featured in Bon Appetite Magazine. I have been with Forrester’s since 2006.
Resumes & dates are nothing without learning from those who have motivated, inspired, mentored and taught. Over time, I’ve developed what I’ve learned into my own distinct style. My first Chef Jean Jacques Gage (Picots Place) taught me what a sense of urgency meant and that great cooking was in the finesse. Culinary School taught me how to be a true professional and to respect the profession. My time with Pierre Luc (MirabelleRestaurant) taught me how to work hard and that if cooking was truly easy, everyone would be doing it.
Radek Cerney (Pappillion) showed me how to organize myself as an executive chef and to also see the importance of presentation on a plate; creating the "wow" factor that truly engages the diner with each dish served.
Jon Mendoza (Viand) helped me shift from the old school culinary mentality into the world of contemporary cooking, while always looking at everything through fresh, young eyes.
Heroes along the way for me have been Jeremiah Tower, Alfred Portale, Thomas Keller, Marco Pierre White and Emeril Lagasse. All have had a big influence on my evolution as a chef and my overall career. However, there are also countless Chefs and cooks I have worked with over time who have provided me the greatest inspiration. I learned so much from such a wide variety of brilliant people.
The kitchen is my workshop. I love coming to work to a clean and organized kitchen each day. I’m proud to walk into the shop with all its plates, pans, tools, mixers, knives, cutting boards, stoves, griddles, ovens and gadgets. Just being in the kitchen is exciting and it never gets old. I find solace, peace and affirmation in the environment. I completely lose myself in the creative process.
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"I always try to schedule a trip to Nick Forrester’s Bighorn River Resort!"
As a professional fishing guide, I get paid to fish all over the world. When it comes time to plan a personal vacation, I always try to schedule a trip to Nick Forrester’s Bighorn River Resort!- Ed Beattie -
"Great Getaway"
My 12 year old son and my husband had the chance to spend time here for 4 nights and 5 days. They came back with wonderful stories about the fishing, the food, and their wonderful hosts. Great pictures were sent back to us in New York. They hope to return soon. Hopefully, next time, our daughters and I will join them for a full family trip!- Y. B. -
"It was an awesome trip"
I spent six days with my dad at Forrester's in mid-October 2017. The original intent was to split the time between upland hunting and fishing. We were so impressed after our first day of hunting, we altered our plans to hunt as many days as possible. Having brought my 3 year old red setter all the way from Minnesota, I was a bit nervous about how she'd handle the big Montana terrain. I'm happy to report she did awesome, and truly made the trip extra special. Our hunting guide was very helpful and worked with me to get my dog hunting well. It was an awesome trip. I hope this review helps for anyone bringing a dog. We had multiple moments where we had to pinch ourselves. That's how good the entire experience was.- Guest -
"Great hunting. Great Fishing!"
Great hunting. Great Fishing! Choose either, you will not be disappointed.- John Havlicek -
"Great place to relax"
Great place to relax; go with the refuge foundation.- Patrick M. -
"Fly-fishing and Cuisine Wonderland"
We have visited Forrester's many times over the years and always experienced great fishing, knowledgeable and fun guides, cozy cabin accommodations, and exquisite cuisine. Nick and Francine and their staff are all wonderful hosts. We love to fish, and the fishing has been the main reason for our visits.- Chris S. -
"The quality of the hunting and fishing are world-class"
The three trips that I had experienced with you at Forrester’s are some of the finest memories of my life. The quality of the hunting and fishing are world-class…the bottom line is that I can’t wait to come back again!- Johnny Miller -
"This is the place to be!!"
We had a great time during our stay at Forrester's. The cabins are comfortable and clean and the main lodge is beautiful and a great place to relax at the end of the day. We had two different guides, both knowledgeable and patient. The food is incredible..each day tops the last, including wonderful coolers packed for a day on the river. The hosts are experienced, available and intent on insuring that you have what you need and that you have a great time. Highly recommend this lodge!!- Edwd
Where Every Moment is Exceptional
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Unparalleled LuxuryExperience the epitome of luxury at Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, where every detail is meticulously curated to provide guests with a lavish and unforgettable retreat amidst the stunning landscapes of Montana.
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Culinary ExcellenceIndulge in the finest cuisine at Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, where our expert chefs create culinary masterpieces using locally sourced ingredients, promising a gastronomic journey that delights the senses.
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Tailored ExperiencesAt Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, we specialize in crafting personalized adventures, ensuring each guest enjoys tailored excursions tailored to their preferences and skill levels.
Book Your Stay
Visit our world-class Montana hunting & fishing lodge!
Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, perched above Montana's Bighorn River, offers unparalleled luxury hunting and fly fishing experiences amidst breathtaking vistas, private riverbanks, and deluxe accommodations, making it the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking unforgettable adventures in the untamed Montana foothills.
Fort Smith, MT 59035 Map & Directions