Northwestern

Walked in around 3 PM on a Friday, immediately enjoyed the supper club vibe and retro feeling. Staff was not super welcoming, but friendly. Ordered a brandy Old Fashioned sweet to start, with special of the day, a ribeye steak sandwich and French Onion soup. I also got an order of cheese curds as an appetizer. The wait for the drinks and food was very reasonable. The brandy OF is delicious, one of the best I've had in a long time. I wish the same could be said for the food. The French Onion soup came out first, and was the best part of the meal, in that it was decent. The cheese curds are straight out of a Sysco box, and were barely cooked through. When I got the sandwich, it was just a piece of steak on a roll- no additional ingredients, and more concerning, no flavor. Thankfully the prices were quite reasonable. In summary, come for the drinks, but look elsewhere for food.

Enjoyed our first visit to Northwestern Hotel & Lounge - Justin our bartender, a better looking version of Jay Leno was friendly, courteous and patient with us on our first visit. Gladly explaining the menu, etc - he made it a fun visit and the Hemlock sandwiches were delicious. I tried the wild rice soup as well, it was great. This place has some serious history (I'd love to know more) that dates to the early growth of Rhinelander as it is located directly across from the Railroad station (non-operating) as the tracks were removed some 30 years ago. If you're looking for new and fashionable, this isn't the place for you - however, if you want to go where the locals go, eat like the locals, and soak up some of the historic ambiance, then the Northwestern if for you. Give it try, I think you'll enjoy it. Also, if you find out the origin of the name for the Hemlock sandwich - let me know, I'm curious. Enjoy