When I was eight years old I remember visiting on our way to or from my parent's vacation property. At the time, we had a 1950's Airstream trailer parked on top of sumac covered hill overlooking the lake. The food was a relief from the instant blueberry pancakes we had in the trailer.
Two memorable things for my sister and I were the oil lamp sculpture (similar to this one) and the salad bar with all you can eat chocolate mousse. The last time I was there, in March, 2010, neither was present. Over the years, things have changed a bit. The decor has been updated with country crafts. Little bears and other nick-knacks have taken the place of decorative shot glasses and Curtis Jere-esque sculpture.
One thing that has remained consistent, is the food. Every Sunday The Peak hosts a Smörgåsbord of broasted chicken and meat option. We felt lucky if our family happened upon a chicken and ribs weekend. The chicken is just the way you want it - crispy on the outside and moist in the center.
In March, we dined at the peak on a Sunday morning. I had forgotten about the Smorgasbord, but was soon reminded quickly by the buffet line in the center of the room. Small-towners gathered in droves for chicken and pulled-pork. We sat in the annex (which was added sometime in the late 80s) which is lined with taxidermied animal heads. My friends commented on the good quality of the food. I of course, remembered better - because the Peak for me, as a child, was the ultimate. Afterwords, we visited the graveyard across the street (with grave stones from the late 1800's) and hiked Inspiration Peak - one of the highest peaks in Minnesota.
There are many notable things about the Peak - the owner is from Jamaica and lives in an attached house, you can bring your own bottle and they still serve all varieties of Crush soda - but most importantly, they serve snapping turtle.
Website: www.thepeaksupperclub.com
Ratings (out of 5)
Food | 3.5
Ambiance | 3
Service | 4
Relish Tray | 0
Entertainment | 0
Nostalgia Factor | 5
