At Seagull Bay, probably the question we get asked the most is: What restaurant in Bayfield, Wisconsin would you recommend? 

Our answers usually include The Copper Trout or The Pier. Of course, The Rittenhouse is legendary and we love others in the surrounding communities like Good Thyme and Dalou’s. But honestly, since losing Maggie’s, the renowned pink restaurant that served our community from the 1980s into the 2000s, there’s been a void. 

Isaac and I have longed for a fresh and inspiring place to eat out and we felt like something was missing in Bayfield’s culinary landscape. That’s why we were so excited to welcome a new restaurant in Bayfield, Wisconsin this winter.

St. James Social, an integrated social lounge, restaurant, and boutique hotel right in the center of town, offers an unparalleled experience. Inventive flavors, impeccable dishes, and culinary expertise converge within a warm, welcoming, and upscale environment, creating an unforgettable night out.

For years, this landmark building had been withering away, until May 2022 when Annalisa and Cody Bermel decided to take on this full historic rehabilitation. Not only have they brought this illustrious building back to life, but at the same time, they have elevated Rittenhouse Avenue, Bayfield’s main street.

A few weeks ago, Isaac, myself, his siblings, and their spouses, all dined at St. James Social. 

Since having kids, our social life has transitioned from spending a night out on the town with friends to cozy family gatherings, kids’ birthday parties, and sporting events. Don’t get me wrong, I love all of it! But getting the chance to spend a night out with the people we love most, without having to chase our children around, is a rare treat. Plus, Isaac’s siblings are highly entertaining!

Our group of six wined and dined at St. James where we shared old stories, laughed till we cried, and marveled at the classy decor. It was a night we’ll remember for some time to come, and we want to make sure you don’t miss out on experiencing St. James Social next time you’re visiting Bayfield.

An Iconic Building in the Center of Bayfield, Wisconsin

St. James Social is located in the center of town across from Andy’s Grocery Store. The building was originally called St. James Hotel when it was built in 1883.

Over the years it’s been home to many businesses. Most recently, it lent its space to The Bayfield Artist’s Guild, The Fat Radish, and G. T. Passerelli’s. But many of the locals remember it as Meyer’s Drug Store. 

Isaac’s grandma remembers going to this building with her siblings to buy penny candy and eat their ice cream while sitting at a counter, much like Mr. Gower’s Drugstore in the Christmas Classic, It’s a Wonderful Life. 

And although it’s been fully renovated, its history and character remain unique. Exposed wood charred from an old fire, a brownstone block foundation, and a style of architecture you only see in buildings from this era exist as distinct features – clearly they just don’t make things like they used to!

It’s this same history, architecture, and charm that breathes Bayfield. And that’s why Isaac and I couldn’t be more excited to see this building come back to life. Plus, we share a similar story with its owners.

Meet the Bermels – Owners of St. James Social

Real-estate developers Annalisa and Cody Bermel are putting their stamp on Bayfield’s main street. They’re the owners of St. James Social. They’re also the baristas, and hoteliers, and will do anything else that needs to be done alongside their staff — something Isaac and I can personally relate to. Oh, and they have some of the cutest helpers by their side, their two daughters, Teagan and Brynlee. 

Since coming to the area, Annalisa, Cody, and their family have been working hard to enhance the Bayfield experience for all. We are so excited to see their dreams come to life and we can’t thank them enough for opening a new, wonderful restaurant in Bayfield, Wisconsin. We know you will love a night out at St. James Social when you come to visit!

St. James Social Is Creating a Stir in Bayfield, Wisconsin

From the moment you pull the brass handle on the carved wooden doors of St. James Social, you’re immersed into the ethereal warmth of century-old flooring freckled with knots, scratches, and a calico of wooden hues.

Steel plates line the wooden beams and pillars. St James’s open ceiling shows you glimpses of the past along with modern plumbing. The corrugated wooden bar with marble top anchors the space, accented by curved mirrors and brass and antler chandeliers.

From loungy seating areas to the eye-catching buffalo art on the back wall, the atmosphere is a beautiful blend of historic elegance and modern-lux.

This one-of-a-kind restaurant in Bayfield, Wisconsin is open daily from 7 am to 2 pm. During this time you can enjoy a cup of espresso or specialty drinks featuring Antler Coffee. House-made pastries, macaroons, and cinnamon rolls hold space in the glass case on the counter. On any given day you can bump elbows with locals working on their laptops, sharing the town gossip, or a group of ladies playing Mahjong.

In the evenings, dinner starts at 5pm with a fun and lively vibe. During the weeknights, people come together and chill on Tuesdays and Thursdays for “Pizza and Vinyl Nights.” These nights you can spin classic records and enjoy wood-fired pizza. And speaking of pizza, The Socialite is one of my favorites and their gluten-free crust is perfection.

On the weekend you can sit back and relax in the sophisticated atmosphere and enjoy delicious entrees like:

• Roasted bone marrow
• Lion’s Mane mushrooms
• Local Pan-Seared Bourbot

Something else really special about St. James is they offer a variety of gluten-free options as well as many mocktails and BLNCD Naturals beverages.

St. James Social is classy, yet light-hearted and welcoming to all who visit.

Welcoming St. James Social: Soon-To-Be Iconic Restaurant in Bayfield, Wisconsin

Our siblings’ night out at St. James Social was a refreshing break from our ordinary schedule. The upscale atmosphere, friendly service, and innovative dishes were a feast for the senses. Plus, the company filled my soul.

I’m so happy to see a restaurant like this come to Bayfield and to share this labor of love of another family-owned business with our guests.

It’s gems like these that make Bayfield a peaceful and fun getaway; the perfect place to relax with your family or spend a romantic weekend with your spouse.

In preparation for your next trip to Bayfield, make sure to download our seasonal adventure guide where you’ll find itineraries that include all of our favorite places, no matter what time of year you visit. In the meantime…

Enjoy the View!

Mollie Isaac, Axel, Ridge, and Banks

QUICK LINKS:

St. James Social