D&T BBQ won first place in the Best Food at the Fair contest at the 2024 Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo.

Chefs Andy Blanton, Michaella Evert and Josh Rutherford, along with students and graduates from the Culinary Institute of Montana at Flathead Valley Community College, served as judges and spent several hours tasting entrees, desserts, drinks and more.

The pulled pork from D&T BBQ with spicy coleslaw and sweet barbecue sauce convinced the jury.

Second place went to Porteus BBQ and third place went to Scandinavian Baking Company.

The judges appreciated Porteus BBQ’s pork nachos with homemade barbecue sauce and fresh coleslaw. Scandinavian Baking Company’s meatballs, sauces and baked goods were praised for their authenticity and connection to old family recipes.

“We spent the day sampling many delicious savory and sweet dishes,” said Rutherford. “I’m impressed by the variety of fresh, homemade side dishes. There’s something here for every taste.”

The Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo will be held at the Flathead County Fairgrounds through Sunday, August 18. For more information on scheduled events, visit www.nwmtfair.com.