Lake Delton, Wis. – Nestled above Mirror Lake in Sauk County, Ishnala Supper Club has just completed its 73rd season, solidifying its reputation as one of Wisconsin’s most beloved dining destinations. Owner Bob Prosser says families have been coming for generations, and the steady stream of guests proves the tradition endures.
Long Lines, Loyal Patrons
Open from April through October, the supper club operates roughly 200 days a year. During that time, lines often stretch to 100 people or more. “I heard about the wait, but I also heard about the food and obviously it’s worth the wait,” said Pam Peyer, who traveled from Waukesha. Visitors from Milwaukee, Chicago and surrounding suburbs regularly drive for miles, some waiting up to five hours on busy weekend nights.
Host Isabella D’Ambrosio, now in her sixth season, notes that average wait times hover around two hours, with Saturdays sometimes extending to four hours. “People sometimes think we’re joking,” she laughed, describing the disbelief she sees on newcomers’ faces.
Family‑Focused Service
Prosser makes a point of greeting each guest personally, emphasizing hospitality as a core value. “My thought process is I want everyone to have the best, most enjoyable experience they can get,” he explained. Bartender Dakota Klosky, also in his fifth season, adds that the staff’s consistency keeps patrons returning year after year.
For many, the appeal goes beyond the menu. The restaurant’s perch above Mirror Lake offers a tranquil setting that many describe as “one of a kind.” Jess Kaskov, on a yearly “mom getaway” with friends from the Chicagoland area, says she loves arriving early to sip a cocktail on the beach while waiting for a table.
Old‑Fashioned Legacy
Ishnala tracks its old‑fashioned cocktail sales closely. The record stands at 118,502 drinks sold in 2024. In 2026, the club served 102,336 old‑fashioneds, a testament to the drink’s enduring popularity. “If you get one old‑fashioned at one bar, you’re going to get the same one at another bar, they’re identical,” Prosser noted.
Lajeanne Finke, who traveled from Windsor, joked, “I’m looking forward to an old‑fashioned and maybe another one!” The menu also features a variety of steaks that many guests cite as a highlight of their visit.
Seasonal Rhythm
Prosser advises first‑time visitors to plan ahead, especially for the 2027 season. Wednesday is typically the slowest day, making it the best time for those who prefer a shorter wait. The supper club does not take reservations, so arriving early remains the best strategy.
Ishnala’s final day of the 2026 season was Sunday, October 25. The restaurant will close for the winter and reopen the following April, ready to welcome another wave of families and travelers seeking a taste of Wisconsin hospitality.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
