Say Hello to Forksful of Hygge Fun

Searching for hearty, innovative food served up in a cozy Northwoods setting? The Blue Moose Bar & Grill is the place for you! Surrounded by knotty pine and neon, the cozy yet eclectic atmosphere is perfect for all occasions: a romantic dinner for two, family meal for four or a celebration with all your friends. Patrons are drawn to Blue Moose’s well-rounded menu, which offers hearty burgers, sandwiches and entrees, superb soups, tasty appetizers and decadent desserts. Signature items include the creamy spinach con queso, fresh fried walleye, ooey gooey Mac & Cheese Attack and outrageously delicious PBEB burger that’s topped with peanut butter, bacon and a sunny side up egg. When it comes to libations, have the friendly mixologists create for you one of their legendary Long Island teas, mules or martinis.

Our two towns have several one of kind shops offering uniquely grand items galore. For gifts, many with an ND/MN twist, give CURIOUS or Kittsona a try. If you wanna spruce up your home, make Picks your first stop. This quaint store offers up a variety of repurposed gems including furniture, home décor and more. If you’re looking to adorn yourself, RH Standard, Pretty b, Key Bliss, Mainstream, Northern Roots and Eastside’s Simply Boutique offer comfy and cute clothing and accessories to make you look hot in the winter.

Don your favorite flannel, snow pants, jacket, gloves and tuque…then get ready for some under the sundog fun. Sledding or cross-country skiing on The Greenway is always a great way to get some exercise. While our scenic trail system offers more than 20 miles of groomed paths, I find Riverside Park is the best spot for gliding through the snow. Another cool option is a short 17-mile drive east on Highway 2. While at picturesque Turtle River State Park, activities to enjoy are ice fishing, snowshoeing, sledding, skiing and of course, snowman building. When your outdoor adventures are done, make a stop at any one of three Bully Brew Coffee Houses to warm up with a caffeine infused brew and some fresh baked treats.

River Cinema and its adjacent eatery, The Shire Bar & Grill, are perfect for a cozy date night. Start out with a delicious dinner that includes dishes like Perks of Being a (fried) Cauliflower, Hansel & Pretzels with a side of beer cheese dip, Lord of the Wings in traditional or boneless form, Steak on a Plane sandwich, Skywalker Chicken Bacon Ranch wrap and Ninja Turtle Cheesecake. Afterward, head across the hallway and kick back in River Cinema's heated recliner seats while you catch a cute romcom.

Who doesn’t enjoy a little quiet time, on the couch, enjoying great literary works? With everything from Shakespeare and Dr. Seuss to classic novels and coloring books, Ferguson Books & Media is your one-stop shop. In addition to reasonably priced new and used books, they offer both media and toys. The store also plays host to a French Taste Creperie. Make sure to pick up a couple of these luscious creations to enjoy at home.