The situation required that we partake of some breakfast first and needed a place to go. On our way north, we had observed billboards advertising Norske Nook. It was on the way and timing was right – why not give it a go?
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The Rather Empty Parking Lot
As far as the average temps in northwest Wisconsin are concerned, this was a fairly typical day in January. What wasn’t typical was that Lauren and I were in the area to discuss a possible business deal. For some strange reason, breakfast is usually when we discuss a lot of business… This day would be no different.
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The sign on the door stated something like “We are short-staffed” along with “if you are in a hurry”. Either, or both of those admonishments combined could have given us pause. Should we even go inside? The rather empty parking lot added a bit of apprehension, but we entered anyway.
A very polite host approached and asked: “Two?” I put a muzzle on a normally smarty-pants response of “no, the rest of us are still on the bus in the parking lot,” and simply replied yes, and he led us into the dining room.
Truly a Scandinavian-Rich Menu
Since Lauren and I needed to discuss some business, I was unconcerned by the lack of diners in the dining room. Plus, I was more focused on the breakfast items on the menu placed before me. This was truly a Scandinavian-rich menu. Populated by such items as Norwegian Pancakes, numerous items wrapped inside lefse.
For the uninitiated, lefse is “a traditional soft Norwegian flatbread. Usually made with riced potatoes, it can also include whole wheat flour, butter, and milk or cream, and lard. Cooked on a large, flat griddle.” How do I know? Scandinavian blood flows through family lineage. Made right, lefse is awesome! Usually highlighted in winter holiday dishes, it can be eaten all year ‘round.
Breakfast Order
I had thought Lauren would have gone for the Monte Cristo Benedict (made with sourdough French toast, ham, and Provolone Cheese over medium eggs and drizzled with hollandaise). Surprise! She took a pass on the French toast and ordered the Norwegian Pancakes – Three thin Scandinavian pancakes Plain with whipped cream $9.00. With choice of one topping (blueberry, lingonberry, or strawberry — $3.50 additional). She also asked for the lingonberry topping.
I selected the Corned Beef Lefse Wrap – Scrambled egg, Swiss cheese, and corned beef hash. Wrapped in lefse and topped with Hollandaise sauce $12.80. Normally I would have asked questions about the hash, as it is one of my favorite breakfast items. However, the “real slow roasted corned beef brisket hash” described in another, similar item is what swayed me. I really like good Corned Beef Hash!
Observations
In between bites, Lauren and I both remarked to one another regarding the sparsely populated restaurant. We enjoyed our breakfast. Did it have anything to do with the quality or quantity of the food. From my point of view? I doubt it — quality ingredients and more than ample portions. Do/did we eat at an earlier time than most others in town? How would I know?
The restaurant was clean and well taken care of. The host was very cordial and smiling; also, very professional. Our waitress was also very cordial, professional and attentive. If I were to point out a few things – and that’s what I do – that might be worthy of a second look?
The plating of our meals was good but could have used a splash of color – like a small sprig of parsley or maybe a quarter slice of an orange. Those kinds of added touches really make a difference. The plates were warm but could have been warmer. And, the corned beef hash needs a little help to make it pop. The real ding goes to the cooler near our table where dessert pies are kept. It was very noisy and distracting when it kicked on, making quiet conversation difficult.
In all, we enjoyed Norske Nook. It earns 3½ Zins – I recommend you give it a try.
And That’s a Wrap (pun intended)!
Your Table is Waiting…
Ralph Pancetta
Lauren’s Links & Recommendations
- VisitRiceLake.com – guide to shopping, dining and things to do in Rice Lake, WI
- Recipe for Norwegian Pancakes at OntheLake.net
- Swedish Lingonberry Preserves by Felix (Amazon)
- Nordic Ware Krumkake Iron (Amazon)
