WD, I'm kind of into fine dining, and I think Riverstone does very well in food prep and quality. Yes it's expensive, but some people are willing to pay more money for above average food. I think River qualifies, but understand this is personal preference. I usually NEVER order wine at restaurants as I am a collector with wine cellar and the whole nine, so I know what they should sell for and won't pay their 50- 100% markup. I did spend $150 on wine at River Lane Inn Brown Deer, but that was special occasion in Nov.
I know some people don't like to pay for ambience and higher perceived quality, I get that. If you don't want that, there's literally dozens of places around ER for comparable quality burgers and steaks at bar/pubs. Some of those crowds get loud, boisterous and obnoxious so you have to put up with some of that too!
Highhertel, I thought EWR used to be the best for all you can eat walleye, but something has happened there in the last 5 years and I personally think their quality has gone down a bit. I quit going there, even though I love walleye and it's only 6 minute drive from the cabin. I can buy my own walleye from Art's Wild Rice for $8.95/lb. on the west end of town (on HWY 70), and make a far better meal.