- Attraction: Donny’s Glidden Lodge Restaurant
- Location: 4670 Glidden Dr, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://donnysgliddenlodge.com/
Donny’s Glidden Lodge Restaurant stands as one of Wisconsin’s most beloved supper clubs, where the Zellner family has been crafting unforgettable dining moments since taking over the establishment in 1998.
What sets this lakeside gem apart isn’t just its breathtaking waterfront location, but the meticulous attention to detail that goes into every aspect of your visit.
From hand-cut, in-house aged Black Angus steaks to the warm glow of the stone fireplace in the cozy bar area, every element works together to create something truly special in the heart of Door County.
Signature Dishes & Menu Highlights
The Prime Rib Experience: Available Thursday and Saturday nights, the prime rib here is nothing short of legendary. You can choose between the Queen Cut (18oz) or the King Cut (24oz), both served with that perfect pink center that cuts like butter. The meat is so tender and flavorful, it’s become the dish that regulars plan their visits around.
Pan-Fried Walleye: This regional favorite showcases the best of Great Lakes cuisine. The walleye arrives with a golden, crispy exterior that gives way to flaky, perfectly seasoned fish inside. Served with your choice of potato and fresh vegetables, it’s a generous portion that often provides leftovers for another meal.
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Keep Exploring →“Gliddenized” Steaks: For something uniquely theirs, try getting your steak “Gliddenized” – topped with rich Merlot sauce, candied onions, toast points, and Gorgonzola cheese. This signature preparation elevates any cut into something extraordinary and represents the restaurant’s creative twist on classic supper club fare.
Surprising Menu Additions: While you’ll find all the traditional supper club staples, Donny’s throws in some delightful surprises. The seared Ahi tuna comes with avocado mousse and pineapple chutney – unexpected tropical flavors that work beautifully. There’s also grilled lamb chops and blackened Cajun-style yellowfin tuna for those seeking something beyond the typical Midwest offerings.
Soup & Salad Bar: Every dinner includes access to their beloved salad bar, complete with fresh mixed greens, homemade dressings, warm bread, and daily soups. The chicken noodle soup and broccoli cheddar are particularly popular, and you’ll often find unique options like pepper pot soup or German-style sauerkraut soup depending on the evening.
Australian Cold-Water Lobster: For special occasions, the lobster tail is prepared to perfection and pairs beautifully with any of their premium steaks. The quality is consistently excellent, making it a favorite for anniversary dinners and celebrations.
Atmosphere & Ambiance
Rustic Stone Elegance: The moment you step inside, you’re transported to a classic north woods lodge. Massive stone walls, exposed wooden ceiling beams, and hardwood floors create an atmosphere that feels both elegant and comfortable. The architecture has that timeless CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) style that makes you feel like you’re stepping back into a more gracious era.
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Discover MoreUnmatched Lake Views: The dining room’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer arguably the best restaurant views in all of Door County. Whether you’re watching the sunrise paint the water golden or enjoying the dramatic colors of a Lake Michigan sunset, the scenery becomes part of your meal. Window tables are highly coveted, so mention your preference when making reservations.
Cozy Bar Area: The intimate bar features a stunning stone fireplace that creates the perfect spot for pre-dinner cocktails. While the space is small, it adds to the charm – you’ll often find yourself chatting with other diners who are waiting for their tables. The Old Fashioned cocktails here are particularly noteworthy, staying true to Wisconsin tradition.
Intimate Dining Spaces: The restaurant is divided into smaller dining areas rather than one large room, which creates a more intimate feeling. This can mean it gets pleasantly busy and conversational, though some find it a bit noisy during peak times. The stone walls help create excellent acoustics that make the space feel lively without being overwhelming.
Other Considerations
Pricing & Value: Expect to spend around $25-45 per entrée, which positions Donny’s in the mid-to-upper tier for the area. However, the value is exceptional when you consider that every dinner includes the soup and salad bar, fresh bread, and generous portions. The early bird special (4:00-5:30 PM) offers excellent value at $13.95 including soup and salad bar.
Reservation Strategy: Reservations are absolutely essential, especially during peak season and weekends. Book well in advance and specifically request a window table when you call – they can’t guarantee it, but they’ll do their best to accommodate. If your preferred table isn’t ready, you can enjoy the bar area until it opens up.
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Keep Exploring →Timing Your Visit: The experience is best when you can see the lake, so plan accordingly. Summer evenings offer the most spectacular views, while winter visits provide cozy fireside dining. The restaurant is closed Sundays from November through May, but open seven nights a week during the busy season.
Family Considerations: While Donny’s welcomes families, it’s geared more toward a mature dining experience. The supper club tradition encourages lingering over your meal, which might not suit families with very young children. The dress code is smart casual – nice jeans and a collared shirt work perfectly.
Special Touches: Keep an ear out for the occasional surprise – sometimes two servers will perform a romantic a cappella song for diners, creating an incredibly moving moment that makes special occasions even more memorable. The restaurant also offers high-end bourbon tastings for spirits enthusiasts.
Donny’s Glidden Lodge Restaurant
📍 4670 Glidden Dr, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
