The Eats at Red Cedar
new eatery opens in former Creamery space
Luke Hoppe, photos by Andrea Paulseth |
outside of Downsville. BELOW: Ribeye and sweet potatoes.
As you walk through the front doors of The Red Cedar Lodge, the scent of pine invites you to relax and forget your worries as the excellent staff takes care of you.
Formerly The Creamery, The Red Cedar Lodge is located a mere 30 minutes away in Downsville. It is now under the ownership of sisters in-law Melissa and Dawn Schoeder, who had a slightly different vision for the restaurant. “We wanted to make sure there was something for everyone,” Melissa Schoeder said when asked about the atmosphere of the restaurant, and those words ring with truth. The restaurant features two different bar areas; the ground level area, The Pub, and the downstairs area, Crabby Dad’s Saloon, both of which accommodate an array of events ranging from karaoke to live entertainment (every Saturday night). They also host a weekly open mic night every Wednesday on the patio.
If you’re in the mood for a more formal setting, the dining area – adjacent to the pub – offers cool lighting and a brick fireplace that warms the crisp air in the colder months. The menu boasts an ample selection of items that vary, allowing patrons to choose from a broad range of flavors. Whether it’s the Blue Cheese Crusted New York Strip or their delectable Fettuccine Alfredo, Head Chef Eric Hill will find a way to make your taste buds sizzle. The restaurant prides itself on its fresh and local ingredients and includes them in multiple menu items, including their Beer Battered Cheese Curds. Adults out there can try one of their specialty dessert cocktails for an after-dinner treat.
The Red Cedar Lodge’s second floor hosts four bedrooms, overlooking the beautiful back courtyard, each with its own unique theme, calling to mind romantic weekends or even a wedding reception.
If you can save a little energy before you leave, head over to the nearby Red Cedar State Park Trail, where activities such as biking, skiing, hiking or canoeing are accessible. Or visit the gift shop which highlights “merchandise from the creative and talented folks of the driftless region.”
Red Cedar Lodge is located at E4620 County Rd. C in Downsville. They are open Wednesday and Thursday for dinner, Friday and Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sunday for brunch. You can find them online at Red-Cedar-Lodge.com.
