Tupelo Grille

After a slow start with getting our drinks and App, then having to speak with the manager things flowed much smoothly afterwards. The food had such good flavor, 2 of the dishes had some short comings but the manager helped fix things. Our drinks were solid as well. The manager was very helpful and is definitely the reason we would come back when we are in the area again. They also sent over a free dessert to help celebrate our engagement. It was very sweet of them. They have an area for you to enjoy music and other rooms in case you want a quiet night.

Tupelo Grille sets expectations the moment you step inside. Brick walls, a tight, confidence-forward menu, and a bar that leans hard into moody cigar-lounge energy. Think modern, edgy, downtown speakeasy vibes dropped into Whitefish. The concept is clear: do a few things, do them well, no distractions. We began with biscuits, Brussels sprouts, and scallops. The biscuits were the undeniable win of the night, rich, buttery, and so good we ordered a second round without hesitation. The Brussels sprouts and sliders landed squarely in acceptable territory, fine but forgettable. The scallops, however, missed the mark. They arrived cold, the parsnip “purée” was more chunky mash than silk, and the pineapple gastrique listed on the menu seemed to have gone missing entirely. Hoping the mains would recalibrate the experience, we moved on to a Caesar and the bison entrée. Unfortunately, another misstep followed. I ordered the bison but was served a New York strip instead. I had already taken a bite before realizing it and chose not to send it back, but it set the tone. The sauce lacked character, and the crispy fried root vegetable strips felt more like a garnish looking for a purpose than a proper starch. They read as an afterthought rather than a thoughtful component of the dish. Service mirrored the food experience. Our server was friendly and personable, but disappeared for long stretches, making the evening feel a bit disjointed, especially given the number of small issues that piled up. Tupelo Grille clearly has identity and ambition, and the biscuits alone show what the kitchen is capable of when things align. But between execution issues, missing elements, and service gaps, the experience didn’t live up to its promise. With sharper attention to detail and tighter consistency, this could easily become a standout. For now, it feels like a place still finding its footing.

I went here with a gift card from a guy I used to know. I flew across the USA and I went here for closure. I so badly wanted to hate this place and I didn’t. I loved it. My friend loved it. The drinks were delicious. The inside was tastefully decorated and quiet enough to have a convo. The food was delicious. Order the fried chicken and the elk meatloaf. Even if you hate meatloaf like me - it’s delicious. The calamari as an app was great. The place was lovely and the service was prompt and friendly. Then go across the street and listen to banjos.