About TEN
TEN’s story is a Billings Story
Ten at the Northen, a place for great food and better conversation. Once known as the Golden Belle, a restaurant that valued the art of conversation shared over a simple yet delicious meal—a tender steak and a full-bodied wine.
the golden belle
1959-1989
from the Golden Belle to ten at the northern
The Golden Belle was the watering hole for ranchers, farmers, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and the locals, all wanting a great meal with a personal touch. The spot where deals were struck, and connections were made. A vibrant hub where business and camaraderie went hand in hand.
Throughout the 1970s, the Golden Belle was filled with unforgettable moments, from flaming shish kebabs to cherries jubilee. The restaurant was always filled with warmth, with its signature bordello red decor and friendly staff, led by the legendary bartender nicknamed Red. Known for his wit and memorable quotes, Red added a unique charm to the dining experience, making each visit truly special.
“Either order something or get out; you’re wearing out my carpet.” —local celebrity bartender “Red”
In 2009, Mike Nelson purchased the Northern Hotel, which included the Golden Belle. The restaurant—and the hotel—underwent extensive rennovations. Four years later, the restaurant was reopened within the new historic Northern Hotel.
The Golden Belle received a name change and became TEN, a name that represents the value of personal connections. This new name honors a cherished patron of the Golden Belle—Mike’s father, Thomas Edgar Nelson. Mike reminisces on his childhood, dining at the Golden Belle, where he first learned proper table manners and dining etiquette from his parents.
Great food shouldn’t be complicated. Thomas understood this, and his favorite meal was always a prime-cut steak with a glass of red wine. A perfect pairing.
Reopening the restaurant became an opportunity to return to a standard of quality—one built on a language of fine dining and conversation. The Golden Belle lives on in our memories and the stories we share. Perhaps over dinner?
live in the moment
The spirit of the Golden Belle continues at TEN, a place to break bread, share wine, and come together. In a world where days are hurried, calendars are overloaded, and to-do lists never end, TEN is a place where one can pause, catch their breath, and savor the moment over a great meal. Clear your schedule, turn off the screens, and live in the now at TEN.
The restaurant merges classic charm with modern design, featuring velvet accents alongside sleek wood, metalwork, and glass elements—a nod to the original red interior that made the Golden Belle so distinguished.
The menu offers a contemporary Montana twist inspired by European cuisine and a commitment to using locally sourced ingredients when available. Stop by TEN for dinner. We recommend a steak with a glass of wine. Thomas would approve.
