Thunderbird Restaurant & Lounge

I'm so thankful I was brought to this restaurant for dinner. If you are looking for delicious food, with a great atmosphere, this is the place for you. I had a lovely experience and will be back.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Prime rib was very good.
Peanut butter sundae was great.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

The Thunderbird in DuBois: A Fading Echo of a Bygone Era

As I pulled into the familiar parking lot of the Thunderbird, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. This place had once been a beacon of fine dining in our little corner of Pennsylvania, a destination worthy of life's most special occasions. I remember the excitement of my pre-prom dinner here, decades ago, when the Thunderbird stood proudly alongside Johnny Garneau's in Clarion and the Gold Eagle in Brookville as the triumvirate of local culinary excellence.

But times have changed, and the landscape of our cherished eateries has shifted dramatically. Johnny Garneau's and the Gold Eagle have long since shuttered their doors, their very structures erased from existence like so many fond memories. The Thunderbird, however, has endured – or has it?

As I stepped inside, the air felt heavy with the weight of years gone by. The once-gleaming decor now seemed tired and worn, a faded reflection of its former self. The buzz of excitement that used to permeate the dining room had been replaced by a quiet resignation, as if the restaurant itself knew it was merely going through the motions.

I decided to order their "Famous" prime rib, hoping to recapture a taste of the Thunderbird's former glory. The cut itself was nice, a glimmer of what once made this place special, but not seasoned well. The accompanying vegetables were a stark reminder of how far the mighty had fallen. Frozen and woefully under seasoned, they were an unacceptable addition to what should have been a standout dish. The lack of care in preparation and seasoning spoke volumes about the current state of affairs.

Our server was attentive and professional throughout our meal. They were knowledgeable about the menu, offering helpful suggestions when asked. The service was prompt, with our orders taken quickly and food delivered in a timely manner. Our server checked on us periodically to ensure everything was to our satisfaction, without being intrusive. Overall, they contributed significantly to making our dining experience enjoyable and smooth.

In a world where trendy farm-to-table bistros and hip fusion restaurants now capture the imagination of young diners, the Thunderbird stands as a bittersweet reminder of a different era. It's a place that exists more in the realm of nostalgia than in the present, clinging to life through the patronage of those who remember its heyday.

As I left, I felt a pang of sadness for what once was and what might have been. The Thunderbird may still stand, but like so many landmarks of our youth, it serves more as a monument to the past than as a vibrant part of the present. In a way, perhaps it's a fitting tribute to those golden days – a place where we can return, if only for a moment, to the time when a night out at the Thunderbird was the height of sophistication in our small-town world.

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 2

Service: 4

It's been a few years since we visited. There was an overwhelming smell that to us was exactly like cat pee. The smell hit you as you walked in. The carpet appeared to be filthy. We have not been back for that reason. I wanted to turn around and leave. We stayed, but the oder made for an unenjoyable visit. There were six in our party.

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 4

Service: 4

Great food & service that’s worth the drive. Recommend the prime rib & the chicken cordon bleu. FYI, the restaurant is in a rural area so cell service is very weak.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Roast Beef, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Cheesecake

The first thing that hits you when you walk in the door is the musty smell and dark, 1970s atmosphere. The staff were so very nice, we decided to stay and try the food. Nothing to write home about, and a bit pricey, but it was OK.

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 3

Service: 5

ThunderBird Restaurant delivers an exceptional experience with their Chicken Fingers and Fries, earning a well-deserved 5 stars. The chicken fingers boast a perfect balance of crispy coating and succulent, flavorful meat, creating a delightful texture contrast. The golden fries, expertly seasoned, complement the dish flawlessly. The portion size is generous, ensuring satisfaction for even the heartiest appetites. ThunderBird's attention to detail extends to their presentation and the quality of ingredients, making this classic combination an absolute standout. The friendly atmosphere and attentive service enhance the overall dining pleasure. A definite must-try for anyone craving a top-notch Chicken Fingers and Fries experience.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Amazing wonderful place

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Roast Beef

Almost $50 for dinner and two drinks and I expect decent food. I’m not sure there was any crab in the crab cakes and I hate when the “vegetable” is from a bag of steamed veggies that probably cost 25 cents. Bread was not even good. The only thing worth eating was the cheese ball. Extremely disappointing. Ambience was only positive. Party of 6 and no one was very happy.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 1

Service: 3

The absolute best restaurant in the area. Don is an amazing cook and the lodge is beautiful. This is me and my husband’s special occasion spot for good reason!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We just had a Great time ' I've heard about the Thunderbird for 20 years and just decided it's time lets go " what a hidden jem. make reservations and get some of Don's prime rib ..... '

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Fantastic prime rib!

Food: 5

Service: 5

Food was great. Service sucked and was rushed the whole time. Mostly all Rude people..

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 1

Recommended dishes: Seafood Trio

Such a wonderful date night! The staff is so kind and caring and the good was amazing. This place is a gem not many people know about. We will definitely be back?

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great place to celebrate a special occasion

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Chicken Cordon Bleu, Seafood Trio, Cajun Salmon, Key Lime Pie