Lakeside Skillet is a quaint diner located in the Benjamin Harvey building at the outlet of Harveys Lake. During the 1940’s, a time where the Lake reached a new zenith as a summer resort, over 150,000 tourists would visit the Lake during the summer season. Two new restaurant facilities were added as the decade began. A quarter century of family dining service was begun by Herman Kern at his outlet restaurant and existed from 1941-1965, aHe was the first Mayor of Harveys Lake, created the Harveys lake Rod and Reel club and was a noted Baritone.

Once the trolley became popularized in the early 1900’s, thousands of Valley residents would begin to rush the trolley cars at Public Square from day break to dusk. From Memorial Day to Labor day beginning in the 30’s, eager crowds would arrive and be in awe of the new Roller Coaster at the Picnic Grounds. Midnight dances at Sandy Beach featured Phil Cusick’s Radio Nine known as “The Sweetest Band in Radio Land” and Gordon Gebler’s Music Masters from New York City held a band contest with Matzer’s Californians. Strollers along the Lake road could stop for snacks at Gildea’s and Johnson’s, which were popular stands near the Picnic Grounds.

Later in the 40’s drive-in theaters at Sandy Beach and Sam Slomowitz became quite successful. By ‘49 an early owner of a television, John Hanson, placed an antennea on top of the Roller Coaster but the lead-in was too long for the Hanson home for good reception. In the 50’s, special events like a Lady of the Lake beauty contest was hosted at The Lions Club and spectacular powerboat races were held at the Lake.

Stop into Lakeside Skillet to continue the legacy of the Lake, whether you’re a local in the area making your daily stroll in or beginning your day for breakfast before a day out on the water with your family. Our menu often features fun celebratory features throughout holidays with a creative selection everyday along with your beloved diner classics.