What’s my favorite part about running Rangebuzz.com? You guessed it: it’s getting to try out new bars and restaurants and then writing about my experiences. I love eating and I am eager to stop in and try something new. Prior to starting this web site, I did not venture out nearly enough and I realized I had been missing out on some awesome places that were a little out of the way. Who doesn’t like a little road trip? It’s a great opportunity to catch up on some conversation or blast some tunes and sing. Road trips always make me happy. So, this week, I’d like to highlight some of the out-of-the-way places that are worth the extra effort.
Big Timber Coffee in Mountain Iron
Ok. It’s really not “out there” like in the country or out on some back highway in Zim, but the point is you may not see it on your everyday ride to work. It’s a little off the main drag, located near the HWY 53 Plaza by Valvoline and Blockbuster—not a big stretch. Seriously, this little coffee shop brews (in my opinion) the best tasting coffee around. Why is Big Timber Coffee SOOO good, you ask? Well, I am BIG into coffee and consider myself a bit of an expert: light roast, dark roast, pure or blends, I love them all. BUT, the quality of the coffee beans and how freshly roasted they are make a huge difference in the flavors that are released when brewed. Additionally, the water purity also plays a role in the taste. Big Timber knows these little trade secrets; they only grind 100% Arabica Beans that are Organic and Fair Trade Certified. Big Timber Coffee’s house blend captures a delicious, full and rich coffee flavor that when it hits your taste buds, you brain just thinks, “Ooh…is that what heaven tastes like? Me want more now!” But if you’re not a coffee fan, that’s ok (although, I don’t understand it). Big Timber offers healthy smoothies, blended frozen drinks, Chai tea, Italian sodas, steamers, and all the lattes, cappuccinos, mochas and specialty coffee drinks you can think of. They also sell fresh baked scones from Mary’s Morsels. The atmosphere feels cozy and intimate. Everything is extremely clean and decorated in an outdoorsy, natural style. BONUS: they have a drive through! Just leave for work 5 minutes early and you’ll start your day with a winning smile. They also are big on loyalty and reward you for coming back. Trust me, you have to give this place a try.
Junction Bar & Grill in Togo
The first time I came to the Junction Bar, I thought, “Wow. This place really is in the boonies”. But the drive there was actually quite fun and thrilling; the highway curves and turns so many times with hills and valleys that if you’re a little daring, like I can be, this cruise can be compared to some amusement park rides. Once you reach the junction of Highway 65 and Highway 1 (hence, the name) you can’t miss it. As I entered the bar, I was impressed with the quaint, rustic, country décor and the warm atmosphere. There’s a fireplace and dining area off the bar that would make this destination perfect for a romantic dinner. And just because it’s in the middle of nowhere, doesn’t mean it doesn’t offer all the amenities you’d expect from a city establishment. The bar offers pool and darts, a jukebox (a cool, classic one where the song choices give you insight to the bar’s character) and a few video games. The Junction Bar & Grill is famous for their 1⁄2 pound Junction Burgers, All You Can Eat Fish Fry on Fridays, and on Saturdays, Prime Rib. They will even cater sandwiches and bring them right to your camp sight! How’s that for service? On weekends, The Junction Bar occasionally offers live music, and Backwoods Karaoke on a couple of Saturdays each month. Personally, I can’t wait to take the family on a ride up to Togo for some outdoor fun and a great meal at the Junction Bar.
Thirsty Moose in Hibbing (or Cherry…depends on your perspective)
At the intersection of Highway 37 and Highway 5, lies a cute little bar and grill: the Thirsty Moose. It’s a small tavern that offers a full menu of sandwiches, burgers, wraps, salads and appetizers. My assistant Kristen and I had lunch there the other day and the food was EXCELLENT. I had a California Burger and it was juicy and very tasty. I hate dried out burgers more than anything, and this one was cooked to perfection. Kristen had the Steak Fajita & Cheese Wrap and she raved about how good it was. Even the coleslaw was far better than average. They offer daily specials and additional specials like Tuesday’s Burger Night and Thursday’s Wing Night. (Click here to see details). The owners are SUPER nice and friendly. Go ahead, take a little drive down Highway 37 and stop in for a beer or a burger.
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