On the top of a hill, smack-dab in the middle of suburban sprawl sits the same restaurant on the same spot it claimed over fifty years ago. If you think, “this can’t possibly be right,” take faith and keep driving. You’ll see a sign for The Lookout Bar and Grill around the next bend.

Before Maple Grove, MN was the home to every chain-restaurant known to man, the locals were regulars at “The Lookout”. You can still play pull-tabs, listen to a band, or work up the nerve to try karaoke. The restaurant donates money to back to local schools on fund-raising nights and local couples (including two of my friends) have even had the restaurant cater their wedding receptions.

Before writing this review, I took a peek at the online reviews to see what other people were saying about The Lookout food. Known for their chicken dinners and bottomless lunch buffet (don’t be surprised to see the local teamsters union in a booth next to a bunch of suits and ties), you can find traditional burgers and fries as well as a salad bar with iceberg next to mixed greens.

What I was not surprised to find, however, was a common love for the backyard patio. Encased in a fenced-area, the backyard patio has volley ball courts, horse shoe pits, a fire-pit, tables under a giant oak tree, and (drum roll for all the moms) a playground structure. Why every restaurant in the world has not adopted this idea, is completely beyond me. Kids can’t finish the meals delivered on a take-home Frisbee plate fast enough (the “greenest” plate in town). While the self-entertainment is happening, parents enjoy a glass of beer or wine.  I never worry about getting a sun burn, as the oak tree favors those of us without pigment in our skin!

Many a night, we have met up with neighbors, co-workers, or friends…this is a place where one hour turns into three and before you know it the sun is shining more on California than the Midwest. Local coupons are always available for The Lookout (hint: stop at the Maple Grove Community Center just down the road and ask the ladies at the front desk). Or join the eClub online. Plan to print a map the first time you come and remember summertime is the best time of all!

Popularity: 4% [?]