Supper clubs are a staple of the culinary scene in the Upper Midwest. I don’t know about the rest of the country, but we sure do love ’em here in the Land of 10,000 Lakes and our neighboring states. And it seems that the best examples of this particular dining genre are often located in the country, a bit outside of town where there’s ample parking and, sometimes, when there’s still light in the sky, a view. One supper club in Minnesota that’s become a local institution is The Big Fish Supper Club, Up North, outside of Bena. You’ve got to drive a little way to get there, but it’s definitely worth the trip.

The Big Fish Supper Club is an icon that sits on the edge of the Chippewa National Forest, near the southern shore of Lake Winnibigoshish.
Lorie Shaull/Flickr
It's located on U.S. Route 2 between Bena and Cass Lake.
It's pretty hard to miss - it's the only restaurant along this stretch of road that appears to be attached to a giant muskie.
Ali Eminov/Flickr
The Muskie used to be the restaurant, but now the restaurant is located just off the fish's tail. (The structures aren't actually connected to each other).
The Big Fish's dining room offers a cozy, Northwoods atmosphere, with wood paneling and furniture, a stone hearth, and some taxidermy for decor.
Richard Storch/Google Reviews

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The food consists of supper club classics: ribs, steak, chicken, shrimp, and potatoes.
Emily Fleming/Google Reviews
And, of course, there's walleye on the menu.
Emily Fleming/Google Reviews
No worries if you're not up to a full dinner, the restaurant also has a solid selection of burgers, sandwiches, and apps.
Importantly, the bar is cozy and well-stocked. It's popular spot for locals and anglers to stop for a drink or to watch a game.
Richard Storch/Google Reviews
The Big Fish Supper Club and Resort also has several cabins available to rent, if you want to make it your final destination for the night.
The Big Fish Supper Club and Resort, 456 US-2, Bena, MN 56626, USA
Tomas Soriano/Google Reviews
Call The Big Fish at (218) 665-2299 for more details, including availability, accommodations, rates, and availability, about its rental cabins.

Whether you’re coming from Cass Lake or Cokato, I’m sure you’ll find a trip to The Big Fish Supper Club more than satisfying. You can check out the supper club’s website for more information, but you’ll have better luck on The Big Fish Supper Club Facebook page, which is updated more frequently. Despite the size of its namesake muskie, the restaurant, itself, does tend to get busy and fill up, so your best bet is to call ahead (218-665-2299) if you’re hoping to land a spot at this lakeside landmark. The Big Fish Supper Club is a must-stop on any road trip Up North, and it’s a fantastic destination unto itself.

Have you visited The Big Fish Supper Club near Bena? Tell us about your experience in the comments!

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The Big Fish Supper Club and Resort, 456 US-2, Bena, MN 56626, USA