"The restaurant is spacious and can accommodate a good number of guests, according to their website. The interior is clean, airy, and bright, featuring fantastic views of Lake Michigan. Upon entering, I was warmly greeted by several staff members and taken to my table. There was only one person at the bar, and it seemed that I was the first dining room guest of the evening. My server, Destiny, promptly took my drink order and allowed me to explore the menu.
The menu isn't overly complicated and offers a nice selection of choices, along with a separate menu of daily specials. While the beer and wine list could use some enhancement for a restaurant of this caliber, it suffices. A short while later, Destiny returned, and I ordered the Duck Bacon Sweetcorn Wontons as my appetizer. As I waited, I enjoyed my Bombay Sapphire and tonic while watching the sunset over Lake Michigan.
My wontons arrived a few minutes later. I took the obligatory photos and cut into one, letting the enticing aroma of duck and sweet corn waft up to me. I was already salivating by the time I took my first bite, and once I did, I was transported to a realm of great flavors. I often say that good food isn't hard to achieve, yet many places fall short. Not The Lakeshore, I assure you! After savoring a few wontons, I placed my order for the main course: a 12 oz ribeye, served with garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal grilled vegetables.
My steak arrived quickly, as only one other table had been seated shortly after me. The aroma was inviting, and when I cut into it, it was cooked exactly to my liking. Much like with the wontons, I was drooling before I even took a bite, and that feeling continued after the first taste. The beef flavor was exceptional, complemented by the grilling, making the steak perfect! The mashed potatoes were also excellent—chunky with a hint of garlic. While I prefer my mashed potatoes smooth and creamy for better mouthfeel, these were equally delightful.
The seasonal vegetables included zucchini, squash, and bits of carrot and onion. Unfortunately, I’m not fond of cooked zucchini and squash, so they remained untouched on my plate. I believe there are other seasonal vegetables that could be more appealing.
I've come across many reviews where diners expressed dissatisfaction, but I can't say the same for my experience tonight. The Lakeshore Restaurant Bar is a gem amidst a sea of mediocre dining options. It's not a chain restaurant, which is a major plus for me—support local businesses whenever possible. Overall, I had a wonderful experience, and The Lakeshore was a lovely birthday gift to myself."
