J and L Lakeview Retreat and Restaurant

I've stayed here a few times while passing through. It's about halfway between Toronto and Thunder Bay (ish), and just at the end of the Sultan shortcut, 20 minutes north in Gogama, so for me, it's a very convenient location. I've never stayed for more than a night - only when passing through, as a place to stop for the night. The staff and service are just out of this world at J&L's. We showed up once at 9PM, an hour after they closed up, after a recommendation. We called them from outside the front door and asked about a room for the night. Not only did they get us a room on such short notice, they opened up the kitchen and fed us... we were hungry after a very long drive. You don't find that kind of customer service in most places. I'd give them five stars, but the place could really use a week's work by a handyman. Everything is clean, everything works, but there's little things... like, the knob on the shower being half broken (shower still works), or the venetian blinds being kinda broken (which also work). The yard could use a cleanup. But let me be clear - despite all that, I keep coming back and recommending the place to others. The food and the service are top notch, and that's what really matters to me. I'll keep coming back when I have the opportunity to stay. This place is great. Oh, and you must try the coleslaw and the homefries.

Was very nice and friendly service great food. I was passing through waiting for my train and their was a train station and where very kind to let me kind of hang out their for the day until it arrived very nice people and a beautiful view highly recommend if your passing through gogama

Amazing staff and service. Definitely go above and beyond expectations! I stay there every time I’m in town. Food is great quality and reasonably priced. Rooms are comfortable, though the wifi is not the best. Gorgeous view right on the lake!

Great atmosphere. The staff are friendly and make you feel at home. Was a pleasure visiting with my little one. *Photos of food I posted were cooked by me. I do not work here. Was only helping the kitchen out for a week while visiting a family member who worked there. So I cannot rate anything based on a customers prospective.*

Stopped in for lunch yesterday while snowmobiling & it was fantastic! French onion soup was amazing. even picked up a new pair of snowmobiling boots while there. overall great selection of clothing and goods in the gift shop! Will definitely stop again when we are up in the area.

Went for brunch! It has a pretty great ambience and an outdoor deck overlooking the lake. The wooden ensemble feels homely. They have a great selection of gift items as well along with the restaurant. Recommend for a quick breakfast or brunch if you are in the area. Nancy is always smiling and quick to help

We took a week long Adventure motorcycle ride around Canada railroad trail and back roads. This place was a great overnight stop, great food and accommodations. The owner has some great stories and very friendly. For how few places available within 100s of miles (or Kilometers) this was a true gem for stays.

What an awesome place. Owners and staff are amazing. Was great company for dinner. I really enjoyed my stay here and will totally be coming back next time I'm in town. Great location and rooms where rustic but totally character for up North. Wouldn't want to see it any other way. You have to ask about the pear!!!!!!