Chef Shack Bay City

Our New Year's Eve reservation at Chef Shack was our first time at the restaurant, and not the last. Bay City is a humble blink-and-you'll-miss-it kind of town, so it's easy to find the restaurant. Parking was abundant. Upon entering, we found a cozy but not claustrophobic or loud environment. After waiting a few minutes, we were seated at a table for two with a view of the nearby fireplace.

Service was impeccable. Every course was spaced out with precision so that we never felt rushed. NYE was a special event, $125 per person for couples and larger groups. The meal included two glasses of wine, a white from the central California coast and a dry red from New Zealand (if I correctly recall). There were also cocktails available for additional cost. There were four main courses offered, the choice taken by our server just after we were seated: veggie curry, steak, venison, or seafood bouillabaisse. Lisa Carlson of Chef Shack and Chef Nettie Colon were partnered for this night.

The first course was a chickpea puff that was like a seasoned cloud. My husband doesn't like chickpeas but even he loved this. The next course was an empanada made by Chef Nettie Colon. Wow. No doubt, the best empanada I've had in my life. The salad was next, and what is usually a mundane side was elevated to delicious artwork. The main courses were next; my husband had the steak, while I had the venison. Both meats were delicious, but I must say, I'm glad I chose the venison because it was something special. I believe it had a cherry reduction on it, and the fruity sweetness added so much to the meat. After that came the dessert. We were each given a house-made scoop of ice cream to enjoy along with four chocolate and vanilla tartlets and a single slice of Benedictine cake to share. Everything was extraordinary.

Something I truly appreciate about the meal was the perfect amount of food. We didn't leave feeling sickeningly full, but were 100% satiated.

Chef Shack is truly a treasure tucked away in rural Wisconsin. I look forward to visiting again when they reopen in spring!

I will dream about this beet salad for the rest of my life. Brunch was fantastic!! Best Bloody Marys! Made reservations ahead of time and we were so glad we did!

We loved everything about this quaint and charming place! Our server, Amber was perfect with her timing and explanation of the courses. We made a personal connection with Chef Lisa with the family history of the building. A very special and memorable evening!

Very cozy, beautiful shabby chic decor. The food was great people and owner. Would come back in the future.

This is a destination dining spot you need to go to as the food here is phenomenal. Carrie and Lisa have created something very special here not just a restaurant but also a way of living that integrates the community and culture with the freshest ingredients and delicious food. Tasting menus are on Fridays and Saturdays and as it's prix fixe they know who is coming and can focus on the excellence we saw and tasted. Sundays are brunch days, and if you want you can always grab a drink and a tamale at the bar. Drawing on international travel experiences the eclectic mix of amazing flavors and cuisines give a constantly novel flavor profile. I'd highly recommend the juice pairings as Carrie makes the juices fresh and on the fly per course and each one was fabulous. One of the best meals I've had in a long time, highly highly recommended. The awards and accolades well worth it. If you are looking for a destination dining place, Chef Shack is really worth the drive.