Whether you’re enjoying the largest chain of inland lakes in the world, or just out for a good meal and fun evening, make the Oneida Village Inn in Three Lakes a stop. This mainstay of the downtown area has been part of Three Lakes for almost 45 years and is owned and operated by Jackie Walker. In fact, the building itself was designed by Fred “Cy” Williams, a professional baseball player who played for the Cubs and Phillies during his career.

You could say the Oneida Village Inn is an all-in-one stop not only for locals, but especially for the visitors who come to enjoy all this little town has to offer. Take for instance the 47 room motel. These rooms almost all have TVs, small refrigerators, microwaves and coffee pots. The beds are comfortable, and some rooms are adjoining.

Across the parking lot from the motel is the restaurant. The lounge is inviting with its cool darkness, in addition to a gleaming copper top that serves as the bar surface. Friendly bartenders know how to mix a tasty drink here and most will agree that the grasshoppers served are some of the best around. There are also game machines for the kids as well as two pool tables.

The restaurant is charming and quaint with its plush booths and view overlooking the main drag of Three Lakes. While all the food on the menu is delectable, this establishment is known for its “any way, any day” shrimp specials. Diners can enjoy shrimp prepared in a variety of methods, including deep fried (shell on or off) battered, broiled, BBQ, coconut, scampi and even bacon wrapped.

“We’ve served close to 13 tons of shrimp in the last 14 years,” said Jackie.
Steaks here are also mouth watering, and there is a wide variety of sandwiches, appetizers and side dishes to choose from. The Sunday brunch is very popular, particularly the made-to-order omelets prepared by Charlie. Pizza here gets rave reviews, and the Friday Fish Fry has been a favorite for many years.

The Oneida Village Inn can also host large groups. There is a banquet hall downstairs with seating for 200 guests, and includes a small dance floor as well as a fireplace. About 100 guests can be seated upstairs in the dining area.

Another service provided here is Bistro Catering. These catering professionals know how to make a party or get together fun, and take all the worry and hassle out of preparing for a large crowd. Even pig roasts are possible in the cooker made especially for this purpose, and many choices of side dishes and desserts are also available. Weddings, anniversaries, retirement parties and small intimate gatherings are no problem for Bistro Catering, and these mobile units will travel many miles to cater an event. “We’ve gone as far as Green Bay and Stevens Point,” said Jackie.

The Oneida Village Inn is a great mixture of yesteryear and modern day conveniences for those looking for a good meal or a comfortable place to stay.

“There’s always something fun to do here,” said Jackie. “We invite everyone to come on up and check us out.”

The Oneida Village Inn is located 1785 Superior St. (that’s the main thoroughfare) in Three Lakes. It is open from 8 a.m. to bar closing seven days a week, although breakfast is only served on Sunday, and lunch is only served on the weekends.

For more information, call (715) 546-3373, or visit oneidavillageinn.com.