About
Connie's Restaurant & Saloon is such a fun place. I was looking for someplace new to drink for a meal and didn't want the same boring thing. I found some great reviews about Connie's Restaurant & Saloon, so I decided to visit, and I have to say, it's an experience.
The food was really good, and I found that the people here are even better. Everyone seemed to be so positive and upbeat, which was a nice surprise.
Connie’s has been owned and operated by a local family for over 25 years. Its timber-clad interior creates the true saloon vibe, but it is also fully appropriate for kids. It has a large selection of beer and wine and a pub grub-style menu.
This is very much a community-oriented location, and a lot of the success that they seem to have is credited right back to the community. That's the type of place you want to support!
What's interesting is that there's more here than just a restaurant. For example, Island Park Fitness Center is under the same roof. They are also noted for their small shop. That's a cool little combination to enjoy!
You cannot make reservations, so you do have to make sure you get here early to get the prime rib. It was sold out when we visited, which means it is well worth it.
Vibe
Truly a rustic but modern feel, Connie's Restaurant & Saloon is an excellent choice for those looking for a charming, relaxed location with some fun music in the background.
It's not dark and dingy but, instead, beautifully designed.
The people were so willing to talk and chat, but they were also busy, so they were on the move constantly. I found the location to be very upbeat and welcoming, and even though I had never been there before, it was a great experience that would bring me back plenty of times again.
Connie's Restaurant & Saloon: Menu & Drinks
I came in for dinner and found the menu to have lots of options to choose from. Every dinner entrée is served with pasta, including fettuccini or spaghetti, or fries. They also provide cornbread with the meal, and it has a nice sweet honey taste to it.
Then you can choose your entrée. Options include ribeye, St. Louis ribs, and prime rib, among others. I decided to try the Stuff Steak. It is a huge hamburger that is then filled with goodness, including mild green chilies and cheese. The cheese is melted everywhere. I had mine topped with grilled onions, and you can also add mushrooms if you like.
They also offer pre-order meals. I didn't get to try this, but you can choose from several of their entrees, and they will get it ready to go for you. You have to order ahead for them, though. I was reading their options and found that they offer a huge pan of mac and cheese that you can then add bacon to if you like. You can also get a roasted half chicken and ribs like this.
Local Tips
- When you want good food that is not going to be super expensive in Island Park, I suggest coming to Connie's Restaurant & Saloon!
- They offer takeout, too, which I saw several people getting to take back to their campsite. It was a great idea.
- There's a shopping area here that also offers a wide range of eclectic items, and you just have to look and find out what there is to take home with you.
- It wasn't loud or crowded, but I have heard that the wait can be long if you do not call ahead for the weekends.