It is my opinion that the purpose of a local newspaper is to support local business and inform readers. The food column is an opportunity to provide both and is consistently falling short. With that in mind I take issue with the recent negative review of The Arrowwood Lodge restaurant. Calamari...seriously? With regional appetizer options available why choose seafood as a gauge and then serve up a negative review? We consider The Arrowwood Lodge one of the very best consistent quality restaurants in the area. The main menu is filled with delicious and affordable choices but the $10 early bird special is unbeatable and perhaps the best kept secret! Be sure to arrive Sunday through Thursday and order between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Your $10 dining experience begins with sliced artisan bread accompanied with whipped butter, olive tapenade and roasted garlic cloves. Yum! Next you have a choice of soup-of-the-day or salad (FYI the chicken wild rice soup rivals Black Bear). The crisp, cold, mixed lettuce salad is well presented with fresh flavored dressings made from scratch and topped with shaved parmesan. There are nine different entree choices including a vegetarian option. The various sauces are made in house and fresh vegetables are steamed. We have tried everything at least once and have yet to be disappointed. But wait, there is more! The Arrowwood Lodge early bird special includes chef’s choice dessert. It is always a pleasant surprise, anything from a small red velvet cupcake or homemade ice cream with brownie bites over raspberry sauce or warm apple strudel with real whipped cream. The quality and flavors at The Arrowwood Lodge are hard to beat. $10 well spent.

Meta Phelps

Nisswa