Shipwrecked Inn - Egg Harbor Door County WI

The Shipwrecked Inn is a bar with the aesthetic pretensions of being a mid-level restaurant, but without the culinary ambition. It looks like a duck but it doesn't quack that way. Don't get me wrong, I love the place for what it is "Door County's only Micro Brewery". Their beers, all brewed on-premises are pretty good. Their sampler board is a good way for the newbie to become acquainted, for hardcore beerheads like myself, I generally hit their Porter or Captain's Copper.

But in food terms it's very middle of the road. Their chili is good, they make an OK Caesar salad, burgers are acceptable, not great, and Friday Perch below what I expect for the price. It's just an OK place for food, you're not going to leave in disgust but you won't be raving about it either. Which is a shame really. There's a good deal of pride in certain staff members about the place, but I don't think the required level of ambition trickles through from the top. I've heard the same about the Bistro in Carlsville and Coopers Corner in Fish Creek. These are owned by the same people and although they are fairly new, they already have poor reputations for their food.

It's frustrating really. These places should be local magnets just like JJ's in Sister Bay. It wouldn't take much to kick it up a notch or two, it certainly need not impact too much on operating costs to raise the bar a little. But it's the attitude towards Door County dining that seems to exist amongst certain owners - we're going to be busy regardless, let's just do the bare minimum and it won't make a difference to our sales. Hmm....of course there are going to be people who take exception with what I'm saying but it's my opinion and I stand by it.

Checkout the beer at Shipwrecked, enjoy the friendly staff and the great mid-town setting and outdoor seating. Enjoy your bar food and enjoy your stay in Door County.

My Rating -

Food 4/10

Service 8/10

Overall Experience 6/10

Score 18/30

Rooze 2010