Big Buck Roadhouse

What’s with the lodgification of the outer metro–this idea that if you give your restaurant a northwoods lodge feel, people will believe they are on vacation? The latest entry on the knotty-pine-everywhere scene is Big Buck Roadhouse, which comes complete with a giant portrait of the titular buck. Of course you’d expect a menu full of rich venison and big beefy burgers, and you’d be right, but there are some offerings that go beyond the expected, like the rustic scallop stew and the seared yellowfin tuna, a bright choice amid all those landlubbing animals. The lamb shanks come with a tangy side of cheddar grits and the brick chicken is juicy and tender. Service can be spotty, but with a little more time, they should work out the kinks. 17805 Highway 7, Minnetonka; 952-380-0333