Matt Vawter is a born-and-raised Colorado native whose culinary identity is deeply intertwined with the high-alpine terroir of the Rocky Mountains. The Chef-Owner of Breckenridge landmarks Rootstalk and Radicato, Matt is the recipient of the prestigious 2024 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Mountain. After spending years refining his technique in Denver’s competitive dining scene—serving as Chef de Cuisine and Partner alongside culinary icon Alex Seidel at Fruition and Mercantile Dining & Provision—Matt returned to his hometown region to build a culinary program centered on the changing seasons and deep partnerships with local ranchers, farmers, and foragers. His cooking seamlessly marries classic French technique with elevated mountain comfort, showcasing a profound respect for the ingredients and communities of the Western Slope.