J. W. Heist Steakhouse was named for the great-grandfather of co-founder Brett Evje, who was a cattle rancher.  The other co-founder, Michael Ochsner is a sommelier, who maintains the wine list.  Opening Jan. 3, 2023, the place is all about wood fire cooking under Chef John Thayer.  It was a fairly large classic steakhouse interior with very low lighting, jazz music in the background, white tableclothes and candles, lots of dark wood, red leather upholstery, brick walls decorated with paintings and animal head mounts.  A large U-shaped bar took up much of one room where you could eat and/or drink.  Interestingly the 2 animal mounts near us were not native Montana breeds.  Service was first rate and the food was pretty good, especially if you’re in a beefy mood. Continue reading →