“We enjoyed experiencing the tavern and seeing Fred Smith’s photos and articles. It has a neat story and different artistic displays that explain Fred Smith as an artist and music lover. He often played his fiddle and mandolin while jingling sleigh bells that were tied to his knees.Look above the bar to see his watercolor portrait that has hung watching over the tavern for decades.We recommend stopping in, having a Fred Smith Lager, and checking the place out. And, if you’re looking for somewhere unique to stay, the upstairs has been renovated into an Airbnb. Guests can stay and also rent the Rock Garden Tavern for an event.“
“Looks and feels like a dive bar. THIS JUST IN! Awesome burgers! They definitely know what they're doing when it comes to burgers. Onion rings and fries were both really tasty as well. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the beef and the taste of the overall burger.-Meister Burger for something simple and delicous-Chicago Blues for somebody that loves fried onions and blue cheese-Onion rings-Fries-Root Beer (Barq's)An all American experience!We sat outside on the patio next to the building. Looked like it was recently renovated patio with some finishing touches still in the works.Owner said he's owned it for 1.5 years. This is definitely a hidden gem for a family if you go early and sit outside. I didn't experience it during any sort of high volume. We were the only customers. Many places suck during low volume times because the all stars typically aren't in the building during that time but we were very impressed.I vote this place should get a visit from Travel Channel's Diners, Drive ins and Dives.We'll be back on our next visit to Phillips, Lord-willing.P.S. I've been a part of the team that runs one of the most famous / successful burger restaurants in the midwest and I was pleasantly impressed by this little bar.Improving the interior would move this to 5 but I may not be their core customer so wouldn't expect them to consider this change to be realistic.“
“We've driven past this place a million times and finally decided to stop. So glad we did! The smash burgers were incredible and huge! We had the curd smash and nut job. It was packed, but our food cane out very fast and the bartender was so incredibly kind! We'll be back.“
“We stopped on a Saturday afternoon after stopping at 3 other local establishments who were closed. They were extremely welcoming and willing to serve 5 adults and 2 kids. The server was a younger gal who was smiley and extremely helpful. The food was great! We had appetizers, burgers and chicken sandwiches and of course drinks. Best bar food I’ve had in a long time. I highly suggest this place!“
“My only complaint with the Midway is their sometimes erratic hours. When they're open, they have great bar food, friendly staff and exceptional tap beer. So few bars understand the importance of proper tap line maintenance and design. Beer at the Midway always is crisp and refreshing and goes down very well. It's one of my favorite stops when visiting our cabin near Prentice. Wait, it is my favorite.“
“What a great Northwoods bar! Good fish fry and a lot of fun people to keep you smiling*it says 10pm close…that’s based on crowd and weather…it will be open until 10 at least, most nights when the crowd is fun it goes way laterPsStop in Thursdays for their Smash Burger on a tortilla ??“