About Us
The Bungalow Inn has been a cherished part of the Lakeland community for years. Originally starting as a bar and gas station in 1930, the establishment has evolved into a beloved supper club serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Our mission is to provide a welcoming atmosphere where guests can “Stop, Relax, and Enjoy Life.” We are proud to host local events and create a space where memories are made. Current owners of 14 years Sandra and Leo Yurek invite you to come visit and see why The Bungalow Inn is a local favorite.
The History of The Bungalow
The stories past of the Bungalow began in 1931. Highway 12 [now I-94] passed right by the front of our building and the toll bridge to Hudson, Wisconsin was just up the road. The original owners Milbert and Lilly Clymer sold Phillips 66 gasoline and food for weary travelers at what was then called “The Station:’ They kept the place open around the clock; the attendant sleeping inside, would wait to serve the bell-ringing late hour patrons.
In the years that followed, with prohibition still in effect, bootleg whiskey and illegal slot machines offered a fun time for everyone – that is if you knew Milbert and Lilly well enough. The busiest days were Sundays. After church the 3.2 beer was spiked with Everclear and the bootleg whiskey flowed freely. A hidden room was discovered years later which probably hid moonshine and slot machines as they never knew when they might get raided. After all, a proprietor wanted to satisfy his customers, this was The Depression, and times were tough.
During the Gangster Era of the early 30’s Milbert and Lilly saw many, including Babyface Nelson, Alvin Karpis, Ma Barker and her boys and even John Dillinger would stop by on his way to his hideout near Rhinelander, Wisconsin, called “Little Bohemia:’ Back then, St. Paul was a haven for bad guys. The St. Croix River Valley, the building, highways and bridges have all changed quite a bit since those days …
In 2000, Jack and Jan sold Bungalow Inn to Bill Eisenmann, a kitchen-man from Chicago, and his wife, Karen. The Eisenmann’s added their personal touches to the high-quality food that is the staple of the Bungalow’s business. In 2010, the Eisenmann’s sold to Leo and Sandra Yerek, lifelong residents of the St. Croix River Valley and frequent patrons of the Bungalow. Leo and Sandra have brought music back to the Bungalow and expanded the gambling options to include bingo every Saturday during the fall and winter months.
The Bungalow has become a roadhouse destination for hungry travelers an area residents alike. The crowd is still gambling, the booze is still flowing and the steaks, chops and walleye dinners are better than ever. Outpoll continues in the tradition of Milbert and Lilly Clymer that started over 80 years ago … To ensure a good time and pleasant atmosphere for our hungry friends and travelers. Be your pleasure food, drink, gaming, or music.
Thank you for becoming a part of the Bungalow history.