Koehring’s Grand Central House

(if you look really, really close you can see John standing by the stop sign. He was so patient as I ran across the street to snap this picture last night.)

Wednesday nights are set aside for date night for John and I. We are fortunate to have many really good restaurants to choose from in our hometown of Elkhart Lake. But last night we decided to once again try Koehring’s Grand Central House. It is in a neighboring city, only six miles from us. We had tried it years ago, but I didn’t really care for the menu. But I’ve always loved the Victorian atmosphere. So we decided to try it once again. Am I ever glad we did!  The menu is expanded with many great items to choose from.

Formerly a hotel built in 1892 for “traveling gentlemen” it is now a restored Victorian restaurant.  I love what their website says: “Take a step back in time… to a time that was a bit slower, gentler, and kinder.” Yup, that is the kind of place we like to get away and relax to.

John and I tried figuring out when we started date night, but can’t quite remember. It was many moons ago, I guess… or our memories aren’t what they used to be. We used to always go out on the weekends and it’s funny, because then it was all about “being seen and seeing who we would see.” Now it’s all about quiet and time for ourselves. So wish I would have been this way years ago- but I suppose this thing called life is all a process now isn’t it?

We still venture out on a Saturday now and then. When we do, it is usually for a movie and pizza night- I love those nights too! I always request that as my birthday outing.

The restaurant was still decked out in holiday lights and they were even still playing Christmas music as we sat at the bar to chat awhile and then went into dine. I didn’t mind the holiday music and it was actually so relaxing and cozy that I almost started crying (If you know me, I cry easily).  A friend of mine says instead of saying she is sentimental she now says, “I sense deeply.” It fits me perfectly too, so I’ve adopted that saying.

I think it’s important for couple’s to set aside time like this. It does not mean having to go out somewhere, but if that’s what you like, then go for it. I have friends who have popcorn and ice cream every Sunday night and watch a movie together.

It was perhaps one of the most perfect date nights- I love all of our date nights- but this one felt just a little extra special. It made my heart fill with much joy.

So take a step back in time with me… (some of the photos I took and the others are from Koehring’s website)

Christmas lights from the 1950’s hang on Koehring’s Central House. The owner told me he got them for free. I’m soooo jealous! I’d love just one to hang in my writing studio each year.

A peek inside the dining room

Bar area- so much to see and discover everywhere you look!

“Spirit Chief” who greets you as you walk in. Is that spirits as in alcohol or as in the spirit of this chief alive and well in Koehring’s Grand Central House?  I suspect a little of both.

pssst… hey Spirit Chief….. we will be back again real soon!!