Deer Lake Inn is under new management.
It still doesn’t offer bed-and-breakfast services, but it does serve half-pound hamburgers.
The Dixie Highway restaurant specializes in its burgers, and will soon add a quarter-pounder to its menu.
‘They serve the best burgers in town,? said a customer sitting at the bar this past Friday.
‘We’re known for our burgers,? agreed Rene Blackburn, head cook at Deer Lake for the past three years.
For John Hall, who has owned Discount Marble and Granite on Airport Road for the past 20 years, this is his first venture into the restaurant business.
‘I’ve known Bob (Lalone, Deer Lake Inn’s previous owner) for a long time, and I found out he wanted to sell,? said Hall, who lives in Waterford. ‘This is something I’ve always wanted to get into.?
The new owner is looking to expand Deer Lake ‘out and up,? with 20-foot expansion, deck on the roof, larger bar, and other renovations.
‘I want it to be a nice place up on the hill,? Hall said. ‘I want it to be more restaurant than bar ? a restaurant that serves drinks.?
The menu features fresh vegetables and salads, Icelandic cod, homemade chili and soup, and daily specials, as well as its burgers.
It also offers live entertainment on Fridays and Saturday, featuring a variety of musical styles including classic rock, country, and new wave.
During the week is karaoke, with local DJs Mark on Tuesdays and Linda Kay on Thursdays.
Other activities planned along with renovation work include team sponsorships, pool and Texas Hold ‘Em tournaments, Wednesday ladies nights, and Keno.
‘Anything is possible ? drop off a suggestion,? Blackburn said.
Hall has joined the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce, and plans to get involved in community activities.
‘I’ll get out and meet the people,? he said.
The Deer Lake Inn is named after the historic Deer Lake Inn of the 1800s. The newer version, 7504 Dixie Highway, was always used as a restarant, not an inn.
‘Everyone thinks we’re a hotel, but we’re not,? Blackburn said.
Hours are 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday and Wednesday, 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Tuesday, and Thurs.-Sat. Carryout is available.
‘I can cook anything on the takeout menu within 10 minutes,? Blackburn said.
For more information, call 248-625-7788.