Introducing Our New Restaurant CHAR Craft Steaks
What formerly was known as the Lodge Dining Room at Grand View Lodge is now a new restaurant called CHAR Craft Steaks. The new concept keeps the venue’s classic tradition but adds a new unique spin with a brand-new look and feel. The initial idea of the name change was to give the location an actual identity.
“Many referred to the Lodge Dining Room as the Dining Hall”, explained Grand View Lodge’s Executive Chef Michael Manders. “We wanted to steer away from that name and give the spot a more modern appearance keeping with the classic tradition but with a contemporary flair.”
In December of 2017, The Lodge Dining Room received a facelift. The carpet was torn out, and a dark rustic laminate wood floor replaced it. The booths and chairs were also reupholstered. The upholstery on the booths has a fun, shabby and chic animal print on it. The chairs were reupholstered showcasing a western fabric pulling in the theme from the booths.
The light fixtures were replaced with a more contemporary look. A new sign also was put in place. The sign has the effect as if a flame was wavering inside going with the grill and steakhouse concept.
“CHAR is now a restaurant that will compliment Cru and offer a different family-friendly dining experience for our guests,” stated Manders.
The menu also received a refreshing update. The menu features seven categories: beginnings, soup and side salads, specialty salads, from the grill, field and stream, sides, and it’s famous 25 for $25. The beginnings are a selection of various appetizers which are great for sharing at your table. From walleye wild rice cakes and steak tartare to grilled calamari steak, it is the perfect starter to your meal. “We’ve expanded the menu adding a variety of steak offerings,” explained Manders.
The menu features Certified Piedmontese beef and certified prime black Angus. Piedmontese cattle have a natural genetic structure which produces a “double-muscled” beef that is rich in proteins and nutrients but low in fats. Representing less than 1% of all beef produced, Certified Piedmontese beef is lean and tender and has an impressive nutritional profile.
CHAR also has a selection of various local field and stream options. Of course, we’ve kept our famous Minnesota Walleye from the Lodge Dining Room menu. The walleye is local and comes from Red Lake, Minnesota. It features the Cote Family Crust, broiled or blackened served with broccolini. We get our rainbow trout from Austin, Minnesota. Buying our meat and produce local not only is vital for economic opportunities, but also provides health benefits, helps to reduce environmental impact, and it often tastes better and lasts longer.
Complete your meal with one of our specially selected wines offered at the value price of $25. The 25 for $25 is a CHAR feature you are sure to appreciate.
Our Wine Director Christine Iiannelli recommends The Barnard Griffin Cabernet Sauvignon from Washington off of the 25 for $25 wine menu. Cherry, plum, and cranberry flavors glide across the palate. The wine delivers richness and concentration, nicely offset by a vibrant structure. A touch of mint and hints of dark chocolate and wood spice rise up on the long finish making a great pair with any red meat. Another recommendation of the 25 for $25 menu to pair with one of CHAR’s craft steaks is the Bodega Fina la Estacada Petit Verdot.
CHAR also features Minnesota beer, spirits and a unique selection of Old World, New World, and Minnesota wines. Smoked, seared, roasted or grilled; we let our craft speak for itself.
Try out the new restaurant for yourself. Make your reservation by calling 218-963-2234 or visit gvlfun.com and click the ‘Wine and Dine’ tab.
