Those who have been coming to Deep Creek Lake for a long time know that one of the original Deep Creek Lake experiences was to dine at Cabin Lodge, a popular “greasy spoon” restaurant that sat on the shores of Deep Creek Lake for many decades.
Last year, Deep Creek Lake entrepreneur and local legend Bill Meagher opened the Cabin Lodge Grill as an homage to the original Cabin Lodge that served some of Deep Creek’s first visitors.
The grill, nestled between Bill’s other businesses, Lakeside Creamery and Copper Kettle Popcorn Factory, honors the past and present by serving great, classic diner fare with modern style. And while the food is amazing, the view is pretty great, too…and is almost the exact same one diners saw at the original Cabin Lodge.
Just like your favorite food truck, Cabin Lodge Grille serves fresh food fast with something for everyone. The selections on the menu are the creation of Garrett County native Chris Noble who helped Bill open the restaurant and brings over 12 years experience to his role. “I enjoy cooking good food because I enjoy eating good food,” says Chris.
The menu features sandwiches, burgers, wraps and a unique variety of sides…something for every member of the family. The most popular item on the menu is the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, a hand-battered chicken breast dipped in their special Nashville hot sauce topped with garlic aioli. The Cabin Lodge Grill Smash Burger is made with fresh, never frozen Angus burger topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, garlic aioli, and white cheddar. Add bacon for even more deliciousness.
Other options include all beef hot dogs, crabby hush puppies, chicken tenders, veggie burgers and more. Their Boom Boom Shrimp Wrap features fresh shrimp in their special “boom-boom” sauce wrapped in a honey wheat wrap. Or try the chicken and waffle specialty, fresh deep-fried chicken in a homemade waffle, made next door at Lakeside Creamery.
The side dishes here are almost as popular as the main events, starting with their cole slaw, made fresh onsite with a pinch of spice for increased flavor. Add some to your favorite sandwich or frank for even more flavor. Homemade Mac ‘n cheese is everyone’s favorite comfort food and Chris’s has fast become a local favorite. Crabby hush puppies made with claw meat and spices are another favorite.
Everyone loves french fries and these are not to be missed. They are hand-cut every day from fresh Idaho potatoes and fried fresh while you wait. Top them with Chris’ cheesy crab sauce and Old Bay and you have a treat like none other.
There is plenty of outdoor seating on the property including two levels of deck seating behind the Popcorn Factory — all with the same incredible view of the lake that visitors have been enjoying for almost a century.
Chris is constantly tweaking the menu and is hoping to add even more delicious items using locally sourced ingredients.
Cabin Lodge Grill is open for lunch daily year-round with extended hours of 11 AM to 7 PM from Memorial Day through Autumn Glory. You can call ahead at 301-750-6662 or order online at cabinlodgegrill.com. You can also view their entire menu online and learn a bit more about the history (and see photos) of the iconic original Cabin Lodge Restaurant.
Check out this new take on a Deep Creek Lake tradition…stop by today for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner, dine outside or take home. Docking is available.
Written by Linda Carr