North Shore Hwy 61

The dining rooms at Gunflint Lodge may be located 45 miles up the Gunflint Trail, but Don Kufahl, food manager at the lodge, says that’s part of the appeal.

“The drive is well worth it,” said Kufahl. “We offer two types of dining. The Red Paddle Bistro offers casual dining while Justine’s offers fine dining.”

Both dining rooms, separated only by a wall, are located in the main lodge building and overlook Gunflint Lake. On sunny days, diners can opt to be served on the outside patio.

Walleye chowder, paninis, burgers, salads, wraps, appetizers and other sandwiches are among the selections on the Red Paddle Bistro’s menu. Kufahl works with food distributers to insure that low food costs translate into affordable prices. A typical entrée at the Red Paddle costs $9.95.

However, lower costs shouldn’t be associated with lower quality.

“Everything is made fresh,” said Kufahl. “[Your meal] might take a little longer but it’s being made to order.”

Those looking for fine dining over the dinner hour will find a rotating menu at Justine’s. Every night features a beef dish, a chicken dish, a pork dish, walleye two ways, a pasta dish, and a vegetarian option.

“Most recipes come from the Gunflint Lodge Cookbook, which means they were developed in the late 60s through the mid 90s,” said Kufahl. “We try to stick with our traditional ways of preparing dishes. People who have been coming here for 30 years have certain expectations from their tastebuds when they sit down to eat.”

The signature dish at Justine’s is beer-battered walleye served with a sweet and sour mango sauce. “Walleye is king,” said Kufahl.

Other dishes one might find on the menu are bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin or smoked prime rib. However, if someone wants a dish that isn’t on Justine’s menu on that particular night, Kufahl said they shouldn’t be afraid to speak up.

“If someone really wants a ribeye, we’ll make it for them,” said Kufahl. “For us, it’s all about customer service.”

While Gunflint Lodge guests make up a decent percentage of the lodge’s diners, Kufahl said all meals served at the Lodge are wide open to the public, including breakfast. During summer months, breakfast is served from 7-10 a.m.

Both dining rooms offer a full bar and a rotating dessert menu that always includes something chocolate, a fruit pie, and ice cream, among other options.

Justine’s opens at 5:30 pm, with the last seating at 8:15. While Kufahl recommends people make advance reservations for Justine’s, he said they can find a way to accommodate all diners, reservation or no. The Red Paddle Bistro is open from noon-10 p.m. every day and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.

More information about dining at Gunflint Lodge is available by calling (218) 388-2294.