As we travelled from Ontario back to our home base of Winnipeg, we decided to cross over to the US at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. We were feeling hungry, so we asked around town for suggested local places to grab a bite. Several locals said, “You have to go to The Antlers.” As a rubber duck with a penchant for adventure, I waddled on over, and I can assure you that dining there is quite the experience, bursting with history, character, and, of course, delicious food.
Let me take you back to the beginning. This legendary establishment has quite a storied past, starting off as the Bucket of Blood Saloon during the Prohibition era. Imagine an ice cream parlour making a hefty profit of $900 while only selling a couple of cones in the month… It did not take long before the government caught wind of it, and miraculously, it emerged as a lemonade stand! Talk about a twist in history!
The Antlers has had six families involved throughout its over four generations of heritage. It was exciting to learn about the infamous Kinneys, two Detroit cops, who bartered their way into creating an impressive collection of taxidermy that adorns the walls and ceilings. The Szabo family now carries on this tradition, ensuring that The Antlers remains a family-owned landmark.
Today, Northern Michigan folks gather at The Antlers, share stories, play some cards and lift their glasses to the stories of the past.
Now, let’s talk about the ambiance. Walking into The Antlers is like stepping into a rustic cabin filled with over 200 taxidermy specimens. The impressive collection showcases the passion and dedication that went into the hunt for these eclectic animals. Each mount tells a unique story and adds to the charm of the place—it’s like an adventure waiting to unfold.
It was a little scary at times with polar bears and lions looking down on us from the rafters, but then I saw a friendly swan…he wouldn’t eat me right!?!
And if you’re into ghost stories, The Antlers even had its moment in the spotlight on A&E’s Biography channel when they explored its haunted legends. Just imagine the excitement of dining among tales of the past!
Now, let’s get to the main event—the food!
I had the pleasure of sampling their fish and chips, as well as the classic hamburger and fries. The fish and chips were delightfully crispy and golden brown, served with a side of tangy tartar sauce. Each bite was a delightful crunch that echoed the thrill of a good hunt! The freshness of the fish, paired with perfectly seasoned fries, made for a meal that was simply outstanding.
The hamburger and fries, on the other hand, were a hearty and satisfying option. Juicy and flavorful, it was cooked to perfection and served on a fluffy bun. The fries were crisp and seasoned just right, giving that nostalgic comfort that everyone loves. You really can sense the “Up North” tradition in each mouthful—rustic, homey, and made with passion.
So, if you’re in the area and craving a meal filled with heart, character, and a dash of history, don’t miss your chance to visit The Antlers Restaurant. Whether you’re there for the stories or the scrumptious Northern Michigan cuisine, you’re in for a quacking good time! Grab a table, soak in the ambiance, and don’t forget to try the poutine while you’re at it—just trust me on this one!
NEVER MISS A
