Celebrity Chef Jess Pryles Headlines Whitefish Food & Wine Festival's Second Year

Live fire cooking expert brings barbecue mastery to Flathead Valley festival running through September 14

Jess Pryles, known as the "Hardcore Carnivore," demonstrates her signature live fire cooking techniques. She will perform at the Whitefish Food & Wine Festival's Grand Tasting Live Stage on Friday, September 12. (Photo courtesy of Jess Pryles)

By Staff Writer
Sep 8, 2025

WHITEFISH — The second annual Whitefish Food & Wine Festival kicks off today with an expanded lineup that includes internationally recognized live fire cook and “Hardcore Carnivore” Jess Pryles, adding star power to the week-long culinary celebration running through September 14.

Pryles, known for her expertise in meat cookery and popular line of seasonings, will showcase her signature live fire techniques at the festival’s Grand Tasting Live Stage on Friday, September 12. Her one-night-only appearance promises dynamic cooking demonstrations highlighting her mastery of barbecue, grilling, and smoked meats that blend Australian heritage with Texas-inspired flavors.

“Attendees can look forward to dynamic cooking demonstrations that highlight Pryles’ mastery of barbecue, grilling, and smoked meats, blending Australian heritage with Texas-inspired flavors,” according to festival organizers.

The celebrity chef addition comes as the festival builds on its sold-out 2024 debut, establishing Whitefish as an emerging culinary destination in Montana’s Flathead Valley. Co-founded by four-time James Beard Award-winning Chef Todd English alongside Whitefish entrepreneur Joe Hess and global event producer Ryan Heil, the festival has quickly attracted national attention.

The 2025 edition takes place at the picturesque Haskill Creek Farms, featuring over 100 wines, exclusive wine pairing dinners, outdoor culinary adventures, and live entertainment throughout the week.

Festival Highlights

Grand Tasting Live Stage — Chef competitions, live demos, and interactive culinary sessions with celebrity chefs, including Pryles’ Friday performance.

Nature-Forward Culinary Excursions — Paddleboarding with wine tastings, scenic hikes with gourmet picnics, and the signature Farm to Foraged to Table dinner under the stars.

Exclusive Pairing Dinners — Collaborative menus from guest chefs and top local restaurants throughout the week.

Grand Tasting Sessions — The weekend centerpiece events feature unlimited tastings, interactive sponsor experiences, and live music, with VIP ticket holders receiving early access.

The festival continues its community commitment through charitable partnerships with DREAM Adaptive Recreation, Underwater Soldiers, and The Whitefish Ski Heritage Museum.

Pryles joins an expanded roster of culinary talent for the festival’s second year, as organizers work to establish the event as a premier destination for food and wine enthusiasts. The 2024 inaugural festival generated over $13.2 million in advertising value equivalent, helping put Whitefish on the national culinary map.

“Last year, we introduced a concept that fused world-class hospitality with the rustic charm and natural beauty of Whitefish,” English said in June. “In 2025, we’re turning up the volume—more flavor, more experience, more adventure.”

Tickets remain available for various festival events. More information is available at whitefishfoodandwine.com.