Making a trip to Bemidji, MN? You need to add Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge restaurant and bar to your list.
I spend a lot of my weekends in the Bemidji area. Why? Because I grew up there and most of my family still lives nearby. Even if my family was not there, I would still visit because I love it there.
Only about 3 ½ hours north of Minneapolis, Bemidji is far enough away to feel like you are truly “out of town” but also close enough that you can easily get there for a weekend.
The lakes in the Bemidji area are amazing and there is so much to do especially if you love the outdoors. What does not get enough attention, are the dining options.
There are numerous restaurants and bars that serve everything from upscale Italian at Tutto Bene, to BBQ at Fozzy’s, unique hot dogs at Lucky Dogs, or Thai take-out from Tara Thai.
One of the main local favorites (at least with my family and friends) is Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge.
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Where is Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge?
Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge is located on the north end of Lake Bemidji, in Bemidji, MN. Ruttger’s is a year-round lodge with individual cabins or rooms in the lodge for rent.
While I’ve never stayed there. I can say both The Cove (the bar) and the Dining Room are well worth your consideration.
Is Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge in Bemidji a fancy restaurant?
First, “fancy” is a relative term. That makes this a difficult question to answer. What I can tell you, is of the dining options in Bemidji, Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge is one of the most upscale options.
Living in the Minneapolis St Paul Metro area, however, it is not overly fancy. But it is a common restaurant used for local Prom and formal events.
That is the beauty of a place like Ruttger’s, anything goes, from formal gowns and tux to jeans and a t-shirt, and you will fit right in.
Is there a bar at Ruttger’s?
The Cove, at Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge is the bar. They offer several craft brewery beers including the local Bemidji Brewing. In the warmer months, there is both indoor seating and a rooftop deck with a separate bar.
There is a pool table and ample seating. Both areas serve food from the Dining Room menu.
TVs are abundant and air the current sporting events.
Do they have patio seating?
OK, this is probably my favorite part and why I highly recommend you go to Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge. Yes, they have patio seating!!! And not just any patio, it’s a patio that overlooks and sits along the beach of Lake Bemidji.
The warm breezes off of the lake make it an ideal spot for a nice lunch or dinner outside. The Cove Rooftop bar has amazing views of the lake too. Anyone from the Midwest will tell you how much we love our patio seating. Maybe it’s the long winters or maybe we know how beautiful the great outdoors are but we LOVE our patio seating. Think and act like a local, sit outside any time you can.
Seating on the rooftop bar, The Cove, and Lake Side dining patio are first come, first serve. The Dining Room takes reservations.
What is on the menu at Ruttger’s?
Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge menu includes local favorites, like Red Lake Walleye (fish for those who don’t know) and a wild rice bison burger, to a Mediterranean Lahvosh (cracker-like crust pizza) or Thai Chili Chicken Salad.
I’ve tried many of these options but I LOVE the truffle French fries. Which are French Fries drizzled with truffle oil, parsley, and parmesan cheese. They are so delicious!!!
I also love the Wild Rice Bison Burger and the Maple Bacon Burger. The Wild Rice Bison Burger is made with ground bison (buffalo) meat, portabella mushrooms, and wild rice. The burger is topped with bleu cheese, spring mix lettuce, and a balsamic reduction. It’s amazing.
The Maple Bacon Burger is to die for with beer cheese and bacon jam on a pretzel bun. An amazing combination.
Why you should go to Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge in Bemidji, MN
Not only should you go for the atmosphere but the food is amazing! They have gluten-free substitutions, Beyond Burgers and vegetarian options, and a kids menu. There is something for everyone.
Amazing views, delicious food, and great drinks. Exactly what you need to catch up with old friends, relax with your family, or have a romantic date night.
Happy travels and remember the world is full of adventures all around you.
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