The Pine Squirrel Bar & Grill — Restaurant in Gaylord

First time and last. Called in a to-go order around 2PM today (8/21/25). Ordered fried pickles, taco salad and a jalapeño popper burger. Arrived about 23 minutes after ordering, greeted 7 minutes later at the bar, asked “what do I need” and responded with “I’m here for a pick up order”. I was told “I’ve got 4 tables in front of you.”. I said no problem and waited 15 minutes before paying and then another 7-8 minutes for the order to bagged/handed off. I was willing to put all that aside as I think they are understaffed as the bartender was busy running around (but saw other employees roaming and who saw me standing at the bar). Took the food home and began to eat. I didn’t realize the burger at the time when I ate the first half (had ketchup with the fries so it was masked I guess?), but when I returned to eat the second half of the burger this evening I noticed the middle was VERY raw (not rare - the difference is clear as day). I called up the location to let them know about the burger (not the other “things” during my visit) and was told “gee, sorry, that’s unfortunate. What kind of cook did you order? Oh medium? Umm. I”m not sure what I can do or my manager. I hope you come to visit us again.” Yeah, that was a bad experience all around and I’d suggest others think about spending their disposable...

We are locals and eat out at least 2x a week. We like to spend our money at locally owned establishments rather than chains. We were here on Tuesday July 14th between 8:30 and 9:45. Let me start with the good, food was good, our server was pleasant and prompt. Now unfortunately the reason we won't be returning. The bar tender was vulgar, and unsanitary. I'm a long way from a prude but it is one thing to drop the f-bomb but.... I quit counting at over fifty times. in a little over an hour. Other comments to some of the female patrons were offensive and his inappropriate touching of the wait staff was not welcome. From a sanitary standpoint he had his mask hanging off one ear...if wearing it at all, frequently stroking his beard and mouth and handling glasses by the rim. This is so disappointing. I hope the management and ownership address the issue but for now we'll be patronizing other locally owned...

Good food, and excellent customer service. I was in town for a conference and my wife and I chose the Blind Squirrel for our dinner. (who wants to go someplace you can visit at home?) We had the veggie pizza, which had a unique variety of toppings and good flavor, and was well cooked (even if whole olives tend to roll off). It had a LOT of garlic, but I'm sure you could request a more modest amount.

The server was attentive, even bringing refills on the excellent hot chocolate.

Unfortunately, I left my hat on the table when we left, and didn't realize it until I had returned home. Fortunately, a phone call to the establishment resulted in the head covering arriving in my mailbox a few days later. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!

If you are visiting Gaylord and looking for a unique eating establishment with an up-north feel, The Blind Squirrel is an excellent choice for you...