A few years ago, I was driving back home to Minnesota from a camping trip on Michigan's Upper Peninsula and got on U.S. Route 8, which would take me through some of the prettiest parts of Wisconsin, including the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and all its incredible trails. About half an hour out of Michigan, I approached the tiny town of Dunbar, Wisconsin, and I saw the most wonderful vision: a fantastically retro motel with an attached supper club (and as anybody who's read much of what I've written here knows, I love supper clubs, especially in Wisconsin).
I didn't have time to stop on that road trip, but the name was burned into my mind: Richards of Dunbar Supper Club and Motel. I knew I'd have to visit one day, even though it's six hours from where I live. Well, I recently got the chance when I was tasked with chasing down some waterfalls in Michigan. I deliberately planned an overnight stop in Dunbar and quickly determined that this supper club and retro motel in Wisconsin's Northwoods should be on everybody's must-visit list.
The Richards of Dunbar sign alone is practically a roadside attraction in and of itself. Its multicolored lights and beautiful, mid-20th-century vibe make it a sight to behold: a beacon calling out to weary travelers looking for another era in which to eat and spend the night.
The motel rooms are simple, clean, and affordable. To be frank, it's a perfect place to stay in this remote Northwoods location, but nothing to write home about. I didn't even think to take a photo. Rooms typically hover north or south of the $100-range, depending on the season and events in the area.
Now the supper club, on the other hand, is a whole other story. With the exception on one near-fatal flaw - lack of a relish tray, which it remedies a bit with a salad bar - Richards is all you could ask for in a Wisconsin supper club. The lounge offers up big, strong bourbon Old Fashioneds (the brandy version is the state's official cocktail) that are perfectly mixed and reasonably priced.
The steaks are sizable, cooked to perfection, and served with classic sides. There are also plenty of other menu options, ranging from sandwiches and fish to chicken and ribs. One thing that did surprise me a bit is that, as retro as Richards is, some of the menu items definitely have 21st-century pricing. My tenderloin, for example, came in north of $40! I mention this not to imply that it's unreasonable; I was just taken aback when I compared it to other options on the menu. But, as you probably figured, I ordered it anyway, and it was well worth it.
I can't tell you how happy I am to know that Richards of Dunbar Supper Club and Motel exists, and I can't wait for the next opportunity I have to visit. Check out the Richards Supper Club menu on Facebook (you can even get breakfast in the morning!). For motel reservations, call Richards at (715) 324-5444. Tell us about your favorite retro dining and motels in Wisconsin on our nomination page!
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