Harkening back to nostalgic times and heartier portions, chefs at the lodge are cooking up mouthwatering family-style feasts. Story by Jeff Spry
The fond dream of a down-home supper on the deck is a short drive out to Camp Sherman where the historic Lake Creek Lodge is serving up classic summer meals under the fir and pines. Harkening back to nostalgic times and heartier portions, chefs at the lodge are cooking up mouthwatering family-style feasts from Wednesday-Sunday at 6pm sharp.
Offerings range from smoked NW chicken and grilled Idaho trout, to tangy St. Louis barbecue ribs and juicy prime rib and come with wedges of fresh-baked focaccia bread, spring salad and warm, mini apple pies for dessert. Wednesday nights are reserved for a surprise Chef’s Choice selection.
Our Thursday meal began with the piercing clang of the camp dinner bell, calling everyone to the wood plank deck and comfortable tables accented by fresh-cut wildflowers. Servers delivered huge bowls and platters of food as the course progressed, each one more impressive than the last. With enough meat for leftovers, the half-chicken was crisp and tender with a smoky-sweet flavor that never overpowered. Manager Michelle Basham attributes it to the brining process and special marinade.
“We brine it with salt, sugar, rosemary and thyme for twenty-four hours then put it in the big smoker,” she said. “We use applewood chips and while it’s cooking it gets sprayed with a mix of bourbon, apple juice and liquid smoke. That gives it the golden brown color and keeps it moist.”
Accompanied by Yukon gold potatoes and a trio of roasted vegetables, the meal was simple, rustic farm fare prepared with care and creativity, its complex flavors surprising and memorable.
“I love the fact we’re using fresh herbs from right outside our kitchen too, and really cool we bring it all right to the table,” she added. “Everybody loves these dinners. We’ve gotten comments like amazing and divine from locals and visitors. We want people to leave full and get a good value.”
The chef team of Basham, Craig Ingram and Marc Farra welcome you to their dining room under the stars. Dinners are $25 for adults, $12.50 for kids under 12 and include a beverage. For reservations please call 800-797-6331.