Most of the items on Lakes Tavern & Grill’s menu sum up the eatery’s concept with just their description. Take for instance, the Lakes Lobster Grilled Cheese on naan bread, or the or the Cranberry Chipotle Turkey Burger. And though it’s a mouthful to say, their self-penned description—“American contemporary casual upscale dining”—sums up the eatery in every respect, even beyond the food.

A cobalt blue dining room sets the scene for the casual munching to commence. Spotlights embedded in the ceiling cast a comfortable light across cherry-wood tables and booths fit for parties of four. In the bar area, patrons can enjoy the luminous glow of eight big-screen TVs, each broadcasting seasonal college and professional games. On occasion, a live band will grace the stage and belt out songs. If the rabblerousing is too much for larger parties, groups of 10–12 can slip into the Lakes Lounge, where they'll find two leather couches and a 65-inch television perfect for watching footage from some other family’s vacation.