During a recent trip to the UP for Bon Soo we once again visited a legend in rustic 'something for everyone' dining. Antlers has been a legend since 1948. We've dined there several times during trips for Lake Superior State Hockey. https://sooantlers.com/
Located along the river downtown, Antlers has a storied history. BUCKET OF BLOOD AND ICE CREAM PARLOR was the original name of the antlers during the prohibition days and so it had to have a front. The place was closed down, however, when internal revenue agents discovered that it sold only one quart of ice cream a month, and yet took in a profit of $900.00. It’s said that the Bucket-of-Blood then became the first lemonade stand in history which refused to serve minors.
Actually, the history of the venerable saloon goes back more than four generations, six families of owners, with the Kinney family contributing most of the memorabilia that adorn the ceilings and walls, the previous owners, Tony Rogers, Jack Brulle, and Al Lelievere, supplying the legends that surround it, and the current owners, the Szabo family, having purchased the establishment in 2009, now make six families of owners. One story is that the Kinneys acquired all the junk that hangs from the ceiling by barter; local wags point out to visitors that The Antlers had a policy of exchanging money for material goods, thereby operating one of the few “bar-gaming” economies in the world. Anyone who ran out of money on a good binge, so the tale goes, could trade a rifle or another antique for enough loot to get stoned for a while. In a town that has its share of habitual drinkers who also happen to be broke, it seems like a good story. In short, it is everything a good YOOPER EATERY should be.
The atmosphere is classic; Antlers is equal parts museum, hunting lodge, and fever dream. Browse the galleries below for a glimpse at the legendary chaos that makes it unforgettable.
The menu is quite diverse. Appetizers range from cheese curds to Beer Cheese Spread to Poutine, a local favorite. They have an impressive salad selection. The Detroit Dogs, Burgers, and Sandwiches are also quite good.
Of course, the big attraction is the platters and Poutine. Poutine, a beloved Canadian dish, originated in Quebec in the late 1950s. It traditionally consists of French fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. As it gained popularity, various regions began to create their versions, experimenting with different toppings and sauces. Over the years, poutine has evolved from a humble snack to a celebrated culinary staple, with its comforting combination of crispy fries, gooey cheese, and rich gravy transcending borders. Today, it embodies the spirit of regional cuisine, appealing to food lovers seeking both tradition and innovation. Antlers serves them with either BBQ/Chicken, Detroit Coney, or Beef Stroganoff.
The platters include local favorites Baby Back Ribs, Walleye (my favorite), Pulled Pork, and Chicken Tenders. All of these include hand cut fries and fresh slaw. They also offer 'carry out' service.
Barb and I were in the area for Bon Soo, a local winter festival and a bit of gambling at Kewadin so we stopped in to enjoy some good food and camaraderie. On a cold winter night along the water, just getting in here is a blessing. Seating is self-service. Once settled I got my Labatt's Blue Light and we ordered.
Barb and I both ordered the Walleye, it is very good here. Perhaps the best we've ever had.
We both loved our meal. The service was excellent. Total price for our dinner was $60 with drinks. Easy to rate. On a scale of 1-5?
"Hope is a good breakfast, but it is a bad supper"
Francis Bacon
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