Wayback Inn, Eagle Bay

The open, grassy grounds of the Wayback Inn in Eagle Bay projected a very different image from many of the bars we had visited. Having just left the Big Moose Inn, with its lake views and massive deck, the Wayback Inn sparked an image of biker parties sprawled on both sides of the remote road. An outdoor bar was visible in the large, open barn in the distance.

After watching a turkey with her chicks cross the road, we entered the bar and were immediately greeted by the bartender and owner, Laurie Herzstein. When asked if they had any drinks unique to the Wayback Inn, she entrusted the help of a patron and off-duty bartender who mixed up a recent creation she called the Lemon Slushie for Pam while Kim snooped around.

Laurie proudly presented us with a menu, but we had already eaten, and had to turn down the very appealing Crabby Fries. As we took in the surroundings, Laurie gave us more information about the use of their outdoor amenities. They have a big movie screen that they erect in the lot across the street for movie nights. The Wayback Inn hosts the Snow Rats Snowmobile Club, the Fireman's Banquet, and have the occasional chicken barbecue. Clientele includes locals, snowmobilers, firefighters, hunters, bikers and now even bloggers who stop by on their quest for knowledge and cocktails. Football regulars can partake of various games of chance involving spinning the wheel for the Bills or Giants. Nascar enthusiasts can play The Wheel of Caution for drink specials during their favorite season.

As we scribbled away in our notebooks, Laurie's husband, John, joined us and treated us to the Golden Cherry, cherries soaked in Goldschlagers. Very delicious and easy to make at home even for the beginner bartender.

The Wayback Inn is open seven days a week, but occasionally closes in April. The restaurant serves food from 8:30 am until 10 pm or later. They have been in business since 2007 and offer seven rooms for overnight accommodations. Though they claim winter is their best season, summer seemed the best time for us. An ATM machine is available for cash-starved customers.