Wisconsin Restaurant and Dining Guide

The Badger State's food scene has grown leaps and bounds beyond just cheddar and brats. Who'd have thunk that a place historically anchored in dairy would turn out to have such a killer modern dining scene? With a rich history of European immigrants setting the initial table, it's no shocker that Wisconsin boasts some drool-worthy bites.

Wanna get the real lowdown on Wisconsin food? I've got you. We're about to dive deep into places like Milwaukee, where Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993 stirs up Italian memories, and Madison, where A Pig In A Fur Coat gives rustic dishes a sassy twist. Don't sleep on Green Bay's 1919 Kitchen & Tap, or Oshkosh's comfort haven, Two Brothers Family Restaurant. For those harbor vibes, Kenosha's Waterfront Warehouse is a must-visit, and for a mix of contemporary and classic, Eau Claire's The Informalist has got the goods. But why the buzz about Wisconsin's grub? Maybe it's the combo of old-school tradition mixed with a dash of innovation. Or perhaps it's just Midwestern charm working its magic. Get ready to chow down and find out.

Milwaukee: From Brew City Bites to Global Delights

Back in the day, Milwaukee got its rep as the famed Brew City, boasting a bevvy of breweries and robust beer heritage. Today it's not just about the beer; the city's food scene is on the up and up, seamlessly merging historical depth with fresh culinary innovations.

Let's head over to the Original Sobelman’s on St. Paul. Nestled in a former Schlitz tavern, it's where locals gather for hearty burgers, like The Cool Ranch Burger, packing a punch with habanero cheese and a southwest ranch twist. And if you're looking for a beer buddy, the Al Pastor Burger is a solid pick, boasting habanero cheese with El Rey's seasoned pork.

But Milwaukee's culinary landscape ain't just about beef and beer. Birch, with its open-fire hearth, brings modern Midwestern vibes to the table. Dive into the Chicken Under a Brick, a delightful mingle of Bower’s zucchini and Jerry’s Dragon Tongue Beans, or the Ricotta Cavatelli, infused with Bower’s smoked peppers and Wisconsin Parmesan. Craving some international flair? Alem Ethiopian Village serves up a storm. The Gomen, with its tender collard greens, and the Yebeg Tibs, juicy cubes of lamb, promise a gastronomic trip to the African continent without leaving the Midwest.

But it's not just the food that's the star in Milwaukee. Stroll by the Milwaukee Art Museum, with its A-list collection housed by the lake, and you're in for a visual treat. Motorheads can kick it at the Harley-Davidson Museum, a nod to the iconic American motorcycle brand. And for a breath of fresh air? Mitchell Park Domes offers a serene escape, from desert vibes to a lush jungle setting.

Lastly, for those seeking a taste of Italy in the heart of Wisconsin, Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993 crafts Italian masterpieces. The Zuppa Imperiale, with its delicate gnocchi, and the Strichetti alla Bolognese take you on a quick trip to Bologna, no passport required.

Madison: A Blend of Heritage and Hip Eats

Madison sprouted as a hub of politics and academia, both of which brought diverse palates to the mix. Over time, this cultural melting pot bubbled over with tasty inventions and reinventions. And now Madison’s got a vibe that’ll make any appetite sing.

Take Oakcrest Tavern, for instance. It’s as old-school as they come, whipping up classic American fare. If you're fishing for a recommendation, try the Grilled Mahi Mahi Sandwich. The tenderness of the fish paired with a zesty hint of lemon is pure gold. Or, get the full Midwest vibe with their Walleye Pike Steak, grilled to perfection.

Want a taste of Wisconsin on a plate? Swing by The Old Fashioned. This joint's got the whole shebang – beers, brats, cheese curds, you name it. The Tenderloin is off-the-charts delish. And their Mac & Cheese is the real deal, not just because the Food Network said so. For a dash of Euro charm, A Pig In A Fur Coat hits the mark. Chef Daniel Bonanno weaves in flavors from Spain, France, Italy, and beyond. Check out the Beef Tartare – it's zesty, it’s rich, and boy, does it pack a punch!

Between bites, why not mix in some local sights? You can zen out at the Olbrich Botanical Gardens or get a feel for local flavors at the Dane County Farmers' Market. And don't forget the Wisconsin Veterans Museum, a nod to the brave souls who’ve donned the uniform.

Green Bay: Gridiron Grub Meets Gourmet Gastronomy

Historically, Green Bay's role as a bustling trading post lured a medley of settlers. Today, that legacy lives on, blending old-world charm with modern munchies. Want proof? Green Bay's dining spots are a straight-up touchdown.

For the fans, 1919 Kitchen & Tap nails it. A trendy spot for post-game chit-chat, its Strawberry Salad is the MVP, with a zesty lime-mint vinaigrette twist. And the 1919 Burger? No flags on this play – just straight-up deliciousness. But if you’re in the mood to take the reins, Prime Quarter Steak House has your back. Where else can you grill a whopping 40 oz Beefeater steak yourself? Oh, and don’t snooze on those Broccoli Cheddar Bites. Aardvark Wine Lounge, tucked in downtown Green Bay, serves wine with personality. And with their South African Cheese and Meat Slate you'll swear you've been transported straight to Cape Town.

Now, we all need a breather. Between bites, immerse yourself in the serenity of the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary or get blossomed at the Green Bay Botanical Garden. And for a pinch of local lore, Neville Public Museum's your go-to.

Oshkosh: From Sawdust Days to Savory Nights

Oshkosh, famously dubbed "Sawdust City" during its lumbering prime, has beautifully evolved, and guess what? Its culinary canvas has flourished right alongside its rich history. Back in the day, Oshkosh was all about lumber mills and overalls. Today, it’s spiced up with gourmet delights that would make any lumberjack's jaw drop.

Gardina's Kitchen & Bar is on the frontline of this food revolution. Their Curried Lamb Shank is straight fire, and I mean, coconut curry over coriander rice? Talk about leveling up! Then there's The Chalice, where American comfort meets chill vibes. If you’re fancy a refreshing salad, The Blackened Haddock Salad is where it's at. And if sandwiches are your jam, the Black Forest will make your taste buds do a happy dance. When it comes to some old-school feels, Two Brothers Family Restaurant keeps it real. The Broiled Salmon is as fresh as an Oshkosh morning, and their Spinach Pie is a flaky masterpiece.

Now, between mouthfuls, take a breather at the Paine Art Center and Gardens. Fancy a bit of art with those blooms? And for the high-flyers, EAA Aviation Museum showcases aviation's dope history, perfect for kids and kids-at-heart.

Kenosha: From Mammoths to Modern Munchies

Once a buzzing hub for automobile manufacturing, this lakeside city has seen its fair share of changes. But hey, aren't we all about the good eats here?

Cast your mind back. Imagine mammoths roaming Kenosha's landscapes – okay, maybe not the streets, but certainly in spirit at the Kenosha Public Museum. A dope place to uncover ancient stories, including those of our furry friends from the past. Speaking of blasts from the past, the Dinosaur Discovery Museum isn't just for kiddos.

But I digress – back to the main dish. Let’s take La Fogata Mexican Grill. That Hipster Burrito is not just trying to be cool with a trendy name; it's legit loaded. And in my opinion, French fries in a burrito is genius! Waterfront Warehouse is the spot if you're hunting for a meal as iconic as Kenosha's history. Ever had your chicken stacked? Their Chicken Stack is a game-changer. You get the vibes: warehouse chic, with eats that pack a punch.

Eau Claire: Loggers, Legends, and Luscious Bites

Imagine it: Eau Claire, once a timber town with loggers flexing their muscles, now has another kind of bustling scene – and yes, it’s about the eats! Did you know Paul Bunyan, the legendary lumberjack, is kinda a big deal here? Swing by the Wisconsin Logging Museum and you'll catch the drift. Complete with themed exhibits, it's a light-hearted nod to Eau Claire's rugged roots.

Switching gears, picture yourself savoring the sweet and savory magic of a Strawberry Nutella Crêpe at The Nucleus. And speaking of magic, their Omega Scrambler is lit. Eggs, smoked salmon, and avocado making brunch dreams come true. But if you’re thinking, “Been there, done that with crepes,” Eau Claire’s got something else up its sleeve. Enter: The Informalist. A place where the pizza's got swagger, and the dishes, like their Provencal Pasta and Pork Chop, are no joke. And for real, their late-night menu? A savior for those late-night cravings.

Between bites, take a stroll at the Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market, where farm-fresh goodness and community vibes connect. No middleman, just fresh flavors straight from the source.

Wisconsin Bites: A Flavorful Romp Through History and Diners

From the bustling streets of Milwaukee to the chill vibes of Eau Claire, Wisconsin’s food scene is like a well-aged cheese – rich, varied, and with a dash of sass. Can you feel the historical pulse in Madison's dishes? Or the rustic charm of Green Bay’s grills? And, who could forget Oshkosh and Kenosha, with their dynamic blend of past and present on a plate?

Diving into Wisconsin's culinary scene is like opening a history book. One where legends are served on a platter and modern twists dance with traditional treats. It's an entire experience. Pair an amazing dish with the state's picturesque views and you've got a combo that's straight fire. So, next time you’re feeling a tad peckish and a whole lot curious, why not swing by Wisconsin? Because here, every and every moment is just Instagram gold. Dive in, Wisconsin's waiting!

Must-Try Restaurants in Wisconsin

Birch

459 E Pleasant St, Milwaukee, WI 53202

We chose this place to celebrate a special occasion with family visiting from out of town, but it turned out to be a major disappointment. Our server bar...

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Superb132 Reviews4.5

Aardvark Wine Lounge

304 Pine St, Green Bay, WI 54301

Such a fun Saturday night stop! Sample wines from the dispenser machines in tasting, half glass or whole glass options! Had the fondue which was amazing ...

Superb27 Reviews4.7

Waterfront Warehouse

3322 Sheridan Rd, Kenosha, WI 53140

The service was quick and the food was good. I am slightly disappointed, because they allow dogs onto the property. Not service dogs, just pet dogs. Food...

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Superb176 Reviews4.3

The Chalice

1741 N Main St, Oshkosh, WI 54901

Jackie was are server and she was outstanding! Absolutely! Food was great but she definitely help with the first experience highly rating this. Thank you...

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Superb88 Reviews4.6

A Pig In A Fur Coat

940 Williamson St, Madison, WI 53703

Did the chefs tasting menu and every plate for our group was top notch. The dry aged ribeye, foie gras mousse, and chocolate pudding dessert were my stan...

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Superb99 Reviews4.7

Oakcrest Tavern

5371 Old Middleton Rd, Madison, WI 53705

We've gone here for lunch twice so far. Both times the burgers were amazing. The folks are nice and it was super affordable. Would recommend to anyo...

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Superb83 Reviews4.3

The Old Fashioned

23 N Pinckney St #1, Madison, WI 53703

Amazing food, and a great location. I just wish they wouldn't be as busy as they normally are on weekdays around 10a to 12p, or else me and my grand...

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Superb346 Reviews4.3

Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993

7616 W State St, Wauwatosa, WI 53213

We were celebrating our anniversary and were so grateful that we picked Restaurante Bartolotta! It has been a few years since we have been there and were...

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Superb251 Reviews4.4

Alem Ethiopian Village

307 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Great food. The evening news playing loud on TV did not help the atmosphere. Much prefer music.

Vegetarian options: Great plant bas...

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Superb32 Reviews4.8

Original Sobelman’s on St. Paul

1900 W St Paul Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233

Bloody Mary’s were exceptional! Food was delicious! Service and atmosphere sucked. First, I thought it was gross that a worker was sweeping the carpet wh...

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Superb195 Reviews4.6

1919 Kitchen & Tap

1265 Lombardi Ave, Green Bay, WI 54304

Loved the atmosphere, made a reservation and was able to get in earlier than expected. Our waitress was extremely pleasant and our food was delicious! Th...

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Good296 Reviews4.1

Prime Quarter Steak House

2610 S Oneida St, Green Bay, WI 54304

You choose the piece of meat you want to eat and cook it yourself on a huge grill in the middle of the room! To try! Very good meat.

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Superb93 Reviews4.4

Gardina's Kitchen & Bar

448 N Main St, Oshkosh, WI 54901

Best place to eat in Oshkosh, hands down. Wine selection isn’t bad for Wisconsin. Cool little market in the back. Salads are fresh, apps are good, trout ...

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Superb84 Reviews4.3

Two Brothers Family Restaurant

1930 Rath Lane, Oshkosh, WI 54902

Our Uber driver recommended this restaurant for Sunday brunch so we took his advice. I ordered the Greek Skillet with poached eggs (not every place offer...

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Superb161 Reviews4.4

La Fogata Mexican Grill

3300 Sheridan Rd, Kenosha, WI 53140

Excellent food service every single time, very friendly staff, and clean establishment all around.

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Superb156 Reviews4.3

The Nucleus

405 Water St, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Through the years the quality has decreased and the prices have increased. Initially guaranteeing a living wage for waitstaff was the reason for increase...

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Superb116 Reviews4.6

The Informalist

205 S Barstow St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

First time here, food was excellent, and the drinks were too! Definitely coming again.

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Good96 Reviews4.1

Recently Opened Restaurants

Dundee Mountain BBQ and Brew House

W459 Clement Cir, Campbellsport, WI 53010

Stopped on a Sunday afternoon for lunch. We were headed to the Hamburger Haus when we spotted this place and decided to give it a try. First and foremo...

Superb25 Reviews4.6

Hot Shots Pub

9331 Bolton Dr, Kewaskum, WI 53040

Great bartenders! They were fun and friendly. Drinks were reasonably priced. Great atmosphere. Everything was clean and well maintained.

Superb18 Reviews4.8

Pearl of Canton

46 E Jackson St, Hartford, WI 53027

The place went downhill fast. I could hear the tall blonde waitress yelling at one of the cooks in the back. The food really grossed me out this time t...

Good31 Reviews4.1

Beavers Tail Food and Spirits

W497 County Rd SS, Campbellsport, WI 53010

We enjoyed the friday haddock fish fry. Even though we made a 7pm reservation we didn't get seated till 7:45pm. Thats why i only gave 4 stars. Howev...

Superb5 Reviews4.6

Lucky Shotz

4919 State Hwy 144, Hartford, WI 53027

Went in and sat down. No one came to serve us. Two other tables came in after us and they took their drink orders. Not a good way to start out a newer bu...

Superb116 Reviews4.6

Sol Agave

N112W16344 Mequon Rd, Germantown, WI 53022

Nice restaurant serving good Mexican food. Large portions. I had the Wisconsin steak, thinking it was tacos given the menu layout. It was an actual steak...

Superb75 Reviews4.7

Pine River Smoke Co LLC

249 W Court St, Richland Center, WI 53581

Stopped in for dinner. The ribs were excellent dry rib type- BBQ sauce on the tables. The smoked chicken salad was a flavorful healthy serving of chicke...

Superb19 Reviews4.6

The Kitchen Table Diner

133 N Main St, Pardeeville, WI 53954

Just got back from our first breakfast at The Kitchen Table and it was FANTASTIC!!! One of the best breakfasts we've ever had (and we've had a...

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Good13 Reviews4.1

Los Portales

300 E Front St, Minocqua, WI 54548

Food is good but comes out in minutes so it must be pre-made. Servers are at your table constantly until you order. After you get your food they disappear

Superb99 Reviews4.6

Hoop's Fish & Chips Dockside

207 Wilson Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814

Tasty lunch. They only have deep fried fish, with French fries and a side of Cole slaw. It was quiet when we went, but it gets busy at night. Summer is e...

Superb15 Reviews4.9

The Marigold Room

214 W Main St Suite 2, Cambridge, WI 53523

I was so excited to learn the entire menu is gluten-free!! The build your own bowl with sweet potato and black rice was amazing and the shop couldn'...

Superb11 Reviews5

Juanito’s Pizza

1802 Harrison Ave, Beloit, WI 53511

Pizza was nothing special had to wait 15 minutes to get served then the order took 30 minutes and they brought out my pizza but not my breadsticks. Only ...

Superb25 Reviews4.3

Strongman Smokehouse

N7017 Mackey Crk Rd, Trego, WI 54888

First time visiting - generally the lines & waiting time was wild! Food was phenomenal- beer great, prices excellent & service (Heather) sensatio...

Superb89 Reviews4.6

Engine Room

110 Keller Ave N, Amery, WI 54001

This is a great location, it used to have a Mexican menu but not any more. The menu is constantly rotating and they post offerings on their Facebook page...

Superb2 Reviews5

Forage Kitchen

103 E Silver Spring Dr, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217

Delicious food, prepared in inventive ways and beautifully presented. Our take-away orders are always ready faster than we expect!

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Superb90 Reviews4.9

Recent Reviews

Bougey's Bar & Grill

16760 W Greenfield Ave, Brookfield, WI 53005

Bougeys is like going to a family gathering. Great, friendly bartenders and awesome cooks. Great food and reasonable prices. A must place to visit.

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Superb79 Reviews4.3

The Boathouse

305 W Park Ave, Minocqua, WI 54548

Wait was almost an hour long of a wait from being seated until appetizer and food finally came out. Bruchetta came out on piping hot Italian bread. It wa...

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Good144 Reviews4.1

China Moon Restaurant

1923 E Main St, Little Chute, WI 54140

My local Chinese food place just happens to be the best in town! I love the skinny rice noodles, and they are always perfect! Always friendly and happy s...

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Superb103 Reviews4.5

Bullwinkles at the Galleria

18900 W Bluemound Rd Suite 100, Brookfield, WI 53045

Love it but bring back the Spare Pickles with sandwich The slice hamburger pickles are not that good . But your food id great !!

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Superb238 Reviews4.6

Eggy's Diner

530 W State St, Fox Lake, WI 53933

Really clean, home style restaurant. 50's decor. Decent prices.

Kid-friendliness: Not a stuffy restaurant

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Superb33 Reviews4.5

Branded Steer

1299 W College Ave, Oak Creek, WI 53154

Good place to have a meal. Lots of choices on the menu with reasonable prices. I had the shrimp, which was very good; so were the cheese curds (which wer...

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Good93 Reviews4.1

The Hub - Social Good Brews

303 Water St, West Bend, WI 53095

Absolutely love the many volunteers and staff. Always friendly and welcoming and a cool atmosphere. Always great coffee vanilla latte and Mexican spice m...

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Superb48 Reviews4.9

Amy's Corner Cafe

1127 16th Ave, Monroe, WI 53566

Amys is the only place in Monroe to get a truly good breakfast and lunch. All made with fresh ingredients. No processed foods here. All her lunch sp...

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Superb59 Reviews4.5

3 Mile Corner

N7297 State Hwy 13, Phillips, WI 54555

Was there on Saturday Sept. 7th. Loves this place and never had a problem with anything until today. 4 of us ordered bloody marys because they are deli...

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Superb39 Reviews4.8

China One

821 W Fond Du Lac St, Ripon, WI 54971

food at china 1 in ripon, by far the best within 30 miles of wautoma. food fresh especially vegetables, cooked properly. plentiful. service quick and pri...

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Superb39 Reviews4.3

Dairy Queen Grill & Chill

1600 15th Ave, Union Grove, WI 53182

22min to get waited on and served at the counter. Burger tasted like it came out of a vending machine. And like all fast food nowadays-slow, not good, ex...

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Drive-Through

Good46 Reviews3.8

Dairy Queen Grill & Chill

17440 W Bluemound Rd, Brookfield, WI 53045

I've had good experiences with the exception of tonight the #5 double cheeseburger deluxe was fine but the fries were the lousiest soggy barely warm...

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Average24 Reviews3

Delafield Brewhaus

3832 Hillside Dr, Delafield, WI 53018

I ordered prime rib and I told her I didn't want it bloody. When she brought it out, it was bloody. I returned it and they brought out a better cook...

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Superb132 Reviews4.5

Jorgie's

N3084 County Rd XX, Berlin, WI 54923

Visit Jorgies on a regular basis!! Good drinks! Food is delicious! Super nice family that owns/runs the business. Lovely people!! Wished my family worked...