The Bear Trap Inn
Review
Among the supper clubs in the Land O’ Lakes area, Bear Trap Inn has become our clear favorite. With excellent food, attentive service, and a cozy yet lively atmosphere, this spot checks all the right boxes for a Northwoods dining experience. Bonus: they take reservations, which is a major plus in this area.
Ambiance
The vibe is warm and welcoming, with a well-designed bar area complete with TVs, and intimate dining tables that feature thoughtful, personal touches. It strikes a great balance between casual and upscale.
Relish Tray, Salad, & Soup
There’s no salad bar, but each entrée includes your choice of soup or salad. The house salad was large, fresh, and accompanied by outstanding dressings. We upgraded to the wedge salad, which was definitely worth the extra charge; crisp, flavorful, and generously topped.
Drinks
Old Fashioneds and ice cream drinks were on point—well-balanced, classic, and satisfying. A highlight was the Jerri Lynn, a customer-inspired house specialty cocktail that we’d absolutely recommend trying.
Entrées & Appetizers
We began with the scallops, which were fresh, buttery, and perfectly seared. That said, the bacon and sauce, while tasty, slightly overshadowed the delicate flavor of the scallops themselves.
For our mains:
Bluegill Special: Lightly breaded, flavorful, and well-prepared.
Garlic Filet with Cauliflower Mash: Tender, cooked to order, and complemented by mushrooms and onions served separately in a small crock—an elegant touch.
Chicken Schnitzel: Crispy, juicy, and generously portioned. After trying all three entrées, this one emerged as the standout and would be our top pick for a return visit.
Portions were very generous, and overall execution of each dish was excellent.
Service
Service was quick, friendly, and efficient. The staff was knowledgeable about the menu and made great recommendations.
Final Thoughts
If you're exploring supper clubs in the Northwoods, Bear Trap Inn should be at the top of your list. Between the cozy atmosphere, top-notch cocktails, well-executed meals, and solid service, it delivers on all fronts. We’ll definitely be back.
