Under-the-Radar Eats in Cable and Hayward

For a true taste of Hayward and its surrounding communities, head to where the locals sip and dine, where the food quality never wavers and these family-owned operations are an integral part of the community. Bonus: you’ll be immersed in spaces flaunting creative flair, such as Birkie race bibs hung on the walls or local performers providing entertainment. These eateries and bars are ready to welcome guests with open arms, and a vibe that’s just like being in their own homes, because they’re that unique.

Sawmill Saloon

During Birkie Week each February—when Hayward hosts the American Birkebeiner, North America’s largest cross-country ski race—this 1930s former lumbering company store in Seeley becomes a beloved stop for skiers. Its pub-like menu satisfies everyone’s palates with not only create-your-own-pizzas and build-your-own burgers but also Friday Fish Fry, Birkie supreme pizza (powered by veggies), burgers, salads and sandwiches, plus seasonal drinks that range from Jameson chai to hot cocoa with a dash of Peppermint Schnapps. The weekends-only breakfast, particularly pancakes topped with blueberries, is a must before an outdoor adventure, from fly fishing to ATVing, no matter what time of year.

Tamarack Farms Winery

This Hayward winery tucked among pine trees is not just a spot to sip wine—you can score amazing BBQ and pizza here, too, to share with our crew. And we’re not talking run-of-the-mill food: the winery’s owner is Famous Dave founder Dave Anderson, known for his national BBQ chain of restaurants. Because it’s a seasonal business, open only between May and October, this means al-fresco dining and sipping. If you’re new to Midwestern wines, then these are worth trying because the grapes are grown locally, then made into wine, resulting in fruit-forward flavor profiles.

The Portage

This Cable bar is a veritable community hub, hosting live music, trivia nights, open mics and more. While the food menu stays true to comfort foods, that doesn’t stop the culinary team from reinventing these staples. For instance, instead of a traditional chili dog, there’s “The Griswold,” topped with jalapenos and named for Clark Griswold’s character in “National Lampoon’s Vacation;” and at least two items are nods to the local landscape: cheese curds with ranch dipping sauce and a wild rice grain burger.

The Rivers Eatery

In 2021, a sixth-generation family in Cable (the Parkers) bought this restaurant concept at The Ideal Market, continuing the founders’ tradition. But the Parkers’ ties aren’t only to the community. They also extend to this very building, as Chris Parker’s grandmother once lived here. Today’s décor features Birkie race bibs on the walls and bikes suspended from the ceiling, and the attached Redbery Books appeals to bibliophiles who want to browse while their order’s being prepared. Pizzas may be the only food item on the menu, but options go deep, spanning 18 specialty recipes you aren’t going to find anywhere else, such as “Marengo,” topped with BBQ, local organic grass-fed beef, mushrooms and three cheeses (blue cheese, cheddar cheese and mozzarella). “Bean boulders” (bean, corn and rice balls spiced with curry) are a meat-free option everyone loves. With 15 beers on tap, a thoughtful wine selection and root beer floats that are a must-order, it’s a favorite casual meet-up spot for both locals and visitors.