Ishnala Supper Club
Review
Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin Dells, Ishnala Supper Club offers a truly unique North Woods dining experience. Located deep within the forest, the approach to the restaurant is both scenic and captivating, leading guests through lush woods before revealing a beautifully maintained property complete with stunning gardens and a picturesque beachfront setting overlooking Mirror Lake. While the ambiance is undeniably charming, the wait can be long, especially during busy seasons, but it’s a wait worth enduring.
Ambiance:
The venue offers a quintessential North Woods atmosphere, with an elegant yet rustic setting that feels both upscale and cozy. Whether you’re sitting indoors or enjoying the beautiful outdoor views, Ishnala provides a relaxing and picturesque backdrop for a meal. For boaters, there’s even the option to dock and enjoy time on the water while you wait for your table—a perfect way to spend the waiting period. If you don’t have a boat, grab a pitcher of sangria, and the time will pass quickly. However, it's worth noting that Ishnala does not take reservations, so expect a wait—typically 1-2 hours during peak times. Arriving early or planning for the wait can help make the experience smoother.
Salad and Relish Tray:
Ishnala doesn’t offer a traditional salad bar but instead provides a delightful relish tray that includes an assortment of treats such as breadsticks, cinnamon swirls, and dinner rolls. This tray is always a welcome addition to the meal and a nice touch that adds to the overall experience.
Drinks:
The drinks at Ishnala are definitely worth mentioning, particularly their Old Fashioned—a standout. The drink is made with Korbel brandy and muddled to perfection, creating a sweet and balanced flavor that’s hard to beat. One drink may not be enough, so it’s not uncommon to order two, especially since they’re so easy to drink and enjoy!
Meal:
Ishnala excels when it comes to its hearty, flavorful meals:
The baby back ribs are a highlight, with fall-off-the-bone tenderness and perfectly seasoned meat. They’re a true crowd-pleaser and definitely live up to the restaurant’s reputation.
The New York strip steak cooked medium-rare was just as good, tender and juicy, and cooked exactly to my liking, complete with all the traditional fixings.
The au gratin potatoes were comfort food at its finest, tasting like they came straight from Grandma’s kitchen—creamy and delicious.
The fresh salad was a simple, refreshing start to the meal, made even better with homemade blue cheese dressing. The flavors were just perfect, making me look forward to my next visit.
Service:
While the service is good overall, the biggest hurdle is the wait. Ishnala doesn’t take reservations, so during peak seasons, you’ll likely find yourself waiting for a table. However, the long wait is made easier with great drinks and the beautiful setting, allowing you to enjoy the surroundings and keep yourself entertained until your buzzer goes off.
Final Thoughts:
Ishnala Supper Club is definitely a destination worth the wait. The stunning views of Mirror Lake, combined with fantastic food, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere, make it a memorable experience. The baby back ribs and New York strip steak are standouts, and the homemade sides and dressings elevate the meal to a whole new level. If you’re willing to be patient or arrive early to secure a spot, Ishnala will reward you with one of the best supper club dining experiences in Wisconsin Dells. Just be prepared to wait, but know that the food and setting are worth it.
