American Restaurants near Bay City

“Our New Year's Eve reservation at Chef Shack was our first time at the restaurant, and not the last. Bay City is a humble blink-and-you'll-miss-it kind of town, so it's easy to find the restaurant. Parking was abundant. Upon entering, we found a cozy but not claustrophobic or loud environment. After waiting a few minutes, we were seated at a table for two with a view of the nearby fireplace.Service was impeccable. Every course was spaced out with precision so that we never felt rushed. NYE was a special event, $125 per person for couples and larger groups. The meal included two glasses of wine, a white from the central California coast and a dry red from New Zealand (if I correctly recall). There were also cocktails available for additional cost. There were four main courses offered, the choice taken by our server just after we were seated: veggie curry, steak, venison, or seafood bouillabaisse. Lisa Carlson of Chef Shack and Chef Nettie Colon were partnered for this night.The first course was a chickpea puff that was like a seasoned cloud. My husband doesn't like chickpeas but even he loved this. The next course was an empanada made by Chef Nettie Colon. Wow. No doubt, the best empanada I've had in my life. The salad was next, and what is usually a mundane side was elevated to delicious artwork. The main courses were next; my husband had the steak, while I had the venison. Both meats were delicious, but I must say, I'm glad I chose the venison because it was something special. I believe it had a cherry reduction on it, and the fruity sweetness added so much to the meat. After that came the dessert. We were each given a house-made scoop of ice cream to enjoy along with four chocolate and vanilla tartlets and a single slice of Benedictine cake to share. Everything was extraordinary.Something I truly appreciate about the meal was the perfect amount of food. We didn't leave feeling sickeningly full, but were 100% satiated.Chef Shack is truly a treasure tucked away in rural Wisconsin. I look forward to visiting again when they reopen in spring!“

“These guys know what service is all about. I rolled in along with 150 others on motorcycles, and the staff did a great job with the spike in customer traffic. Well organized, friendly, clean, and efficient operation. Food was hitting the tables quickly and people were loving it. Looking forward to returning!“

“One of our favorite stops while out riding the Harleys with friends and relatives. The owners and their staff are very welcoming and enjoyable to chat with. After the disastrous fire, we still stopped and had some cocktails, and offered them support on their new rebuilding. Looking forward to this summer to enjoy their hospitality again!“

“Justin you and your team just rocked it!Absolutely fantastic food! Great mix of smokey goodness combined with all the natural flavors of the meats, cheeses and veggies! Would highly recommend!!!Thank you for such a a wonderful food experience!!!!“

“Scarlet Kitchen & Bar is located in the St. James Hotel in downtown Red Wing. There is some street parking, but as this was a sub-zero January night with snow on the ground, we drove into the attached parking garage. It is not a straightforward parking garage but labyrinthine, requiring low speeds and care; judging by the scrapes on the ceiling, more people should pay attention to their vehicle height, too! We found a spot and had a very short, cold walk to an elevator. Scarlet Kitchen is on the first floor.My husband arranged this dinner date for the two of us on my birthday. Everyone was friendly and welcoming, making a point of saying "happy birthday." Our server was Anna. She took great care of us the whole time. We ordered some drinks and the cheese curds to start. These curds were fantastic with a perfect hot squeak. The Sturdiwheat batter was delicious. The housemade cranberry dip was a nice change from what other restaurants serve with curds.My husband ordered the steak and fries. I snagged one of his fries--wow, was it good! Strip isn't my husband's favorite cut, but the meat was perfectly cooked and seasoned for his preference. I ordered the salmon, which was served on pearl barley with vegetables. Everything was delicious--a meal that felt indulgent yet healthy at the same time.Because it was my birthday, the dessert was included for free. I had my choice of the chocolate cake, creme brulee, and hummingbird cake, and I went for the chocolate. While we were waiting for that, my husband requested a whisky listed in the menu, but he was soon informed that they were out.So, the cake. Let me tell you, as a passionate home baker, this thing was GOOD. I could tell it was made fresh in-house. The chocolate and cherries were vibrant. Great frosting. Sweet but not overkill. Seriously, people should go here just for cake.Just as I was reaching for my coat, our server Anna returned. The whisky had been found to be in stock after all, and she offered us a serving on the house. Wow. We sat and enjoyed that before braving the cold.This ended up being the perfect birthday dinner. Excellent food and outright stellar customer service. We'll happily dine at Scarlet again.“

“Good food. Excellent service. Warm inviting. Everyone here is happy. Enjoyed breakfast. You know you’re in a small town when The Price Is Right is playing in the background. Fun place to visit as a tourist but it looked like the locals enjoyed being here too. Thank you for a nice experience.Parking: Plenty of street parking“

“Food was good. Lost a star because the waitress wasn’t super friendly but maybe she was having a bad day so I don’t want to make it seem like I’m dragging her in the mud. Seemed clean and well kept! The plus about this place was they had Grape Pop! I was super surprised because no other restaurant really has it! Just wanted to mention that for other grape pop fans out there!“

“Tried a variety of menu items for a group dinner.Had their original grilled wings and cod fingers from the appetizers. The wings were a hit with our group! Cod fingers didn't look like much but the flavor made up for the appearance. Also the homemade tartar is excellent.For entrees we had a mushroom swiss burger, fried walleye, and the catch of the month which was blackened swordfish.The burger was large, juicy and delicious.The walleye was very good, not boney and well seasoned, again wonderful tartar sauce. Came with soup or salad, we got soup and it was packed with flavor.The catch of the month was a very healthy with fresh veggies and a salad which was perfect for who ordered it in our group.First time eating here, we will be back!Thanks.“

“Just enjoyed a little trail riding and camping after not having been there for several years. New owners are wonderful people and everyone there was friendly and helpful. Food and service in the bar were excellent. SO nice to have a spot to relax and get some food within walking distance from your camper! These people are great and the place is top notch.“

“Cute place. It was bigger than I had thought. They have darts and a pool table. We went for dinner and everything was great. Our server (Matt) was very nice and attentive. We ordered several items.Duck Wontons: fantastic. The dipping sauce had a little tiny zip to it.Onion Rings: perfect. They were beer battered and not too thick.Kids Cheese Burger with Rosemary Fries: Perfect size for anybody that doesn't want a double patty burger.Chicken Parmasan: Good but had red pepper flakes so it gave you a kick.Havana subbed fries for Onion Rings: Delicious. Perfect meat, cheese, mustard and pickle combination.I can't wait to come back and try other interesting options.“