Black Woods Restaurant

Black Woods' three locations in Duluth, Proctor and Two Harbors represent the modern incarnation of the old-school supper club. The architecture feels a lot like something you'd see at the foot of a ski hill, with peaked roofs, soaring windows and Arts and Crafts inspired decor. The mood among the wooden tables and booths is relaxed and clubby, with lots of big bands and Sinatra on the stereo. Don't read any of that as "dated," however. The look is fresh and appealing, and the menu is just as up-to-date. You won't have to worry about getting the bland steak and iceberg-lettuce salad many of us have come to dread at most supper clubs. Black Woods' focus on fresh ingredients and modern preparations should give foodies some challenges in picking a dish from the diverse menu. We chose the pasta Luca Brasi ($16.99), which features diced chicken sauteed with garlic, shrimp, smoked bacon and creamy roasted red pepper sauce. The multilayered flavor left us wanting more, as did the special of tasty sirloin tips braised with a sherry sauce. The menu also offers fish dishes, including a tempting planked salmon glazed with Minnesota maple syrup ($19.99), sandwiches and pizzas from a wood-fired oven.