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

This was a wonderful meal with fantastic service. Trey recommended perfect wine pairings for our meal and it was start to finish, a great experience. The...

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Superb162 Reviews4.6

Aardvark Wine Lounge

304 Pine St, Green Bay, WI 54301

What an awesome concept - unique and innovative. The owner, Jillian, is very friendly and informative. The wines are self-serve: By the taste, half gla...

Superb28 Reviews4.7

Waterfront Warehouse

3322 Sheridan Rd, Kenosha, WI 53140

Menu is pretty well rounded. Something for everyone, but the food is so bland and flavorless. We got our food delivered in like 10 minutes but it had no ...

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Superb92 Reviews4.4

The Chalice

1741 N Main St, Oshkosh, WI 54901

The dining experience was exceptionally delightful. My husband and I made a spontaneous decision to stop for dinner while traveling through the town. He ...

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Superb50 Reviews4.7

A Pig In A Fur Coat

940 Williamson St, Madison, WI 53703

Mediocre, overpriced food. Can't for the life of me figure out why people rave about this place.

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Superb53 Reviews4.5

Oakcrest Tavern

5371 Old Middleton Rd, Madison, WI 53705

This business was recommended for a good burger which is what we chose. And it was. Service was great.

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Superb65 Reviews4.4

The Old Fashioned

23 N Pinckney St #1, Madison, WI 53703

We went for lunch on a Saturday with friends (group of 4) to share a bit of classic Madison food culture while we were enjoying the Capital Square. They ...

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Superb190 Reviews4.4

Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993

7616 W State St, Wauwatosa, WI 53213

My husband and I have been talking about going here for 2 years, as it is nestled right in our little hometown. The atmosphere is so quaint and we could ...

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Superb230 Reviews4.3

Alem Ethiopian Village

307 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Used to love going here when it was a dine in and really glad they still have take out. The food is delicious! Before they opened, I had to drive down to...

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Superb20 Reviews4.8

Original Sobelman’s on St. Paul

1900 W St Paul Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233

A must stop whenever in Milwaukee. Neighborhood tavern where you choose which appetizer you’d like served with your Bloody Mary.

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Superb137 Reviews4.6

1919 Kitchen & Tap

1265 Lombardi Ave, Green Bay, WI 54304

Food was good, beer was cold but you are staring right at Lambeau Field. What could be better!!!

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Good234 Reviews4.2

Prime Quarter Steak House

2610 S Oneida St, Green Bay, WI 54304

My filet was pieces of meat held together with a toothpick. I expected more from Prime Quarter - a filet thick enough that it could be butterflied.

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Superb78 Reviews4.3

Gardina's Kitchen & Bar

448 N Main St, Oshkosh, WI 54901

Best restaurant in Oshkosh because of their fresh locally sourced ingredients, staff is knowledgeable and they have an amazing wine and bourbon selection...

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Superb70 Reviews4.3

Two Brothers Family Restaurant

1930 Rath Lane, Oshkosh, WI 54902

Awesome ?? experience. We arrived earlier than expected to get checked into the hotel right next door. We were also famished from the journey. Long story...

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Superb124 Reviews4.3

La Fogata Mexican Grill

3300 Sheridan Rd, Kenosha, WI 53140

Went after enjoying the eclipse. About 230 pm it was happy hour. 5$ margaritas 6# fried ice cream which was enough for all 4 of us and delicious! Accepte...

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Superb130 Reviews4.3

The Nucleus

405 Water St, Eau Claire, WI 54703

The food was amazing and service was exceptional, the card reader was not able to take my card and one of the servers offered to pay my bill. Literally t...

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Superb110 Reviews4.6

The Informalist

205 S Barstow St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

The wood fired pizza is absolutely delicious. I can't say enough about the crust and toppings. The service was top notch. Will be back. More pizzas ...

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Good94 Reviews4.2

Recently Opened Restaurants

Lavender and Honey Coffee Company

4493 WI-167, Hubertus, WI 53033

Poor0 Reviews0

Taco2Go

17555 W North Ave, Brookfield, WI 53045

Stopped in for lunch. Did takeaway and ordered an enchilada and a tostada with lengua. Fast take out, crispy tostada loaded up. Enchilada in mole sauce h...

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Superb27 Reviews4.7

Turmeric Indian Cafe & Bar

1014 N Van Buren St, Milwaukee, WI 53202

As someone mentioned this place is a great find! Food was delicious, reasonably priced and I loved the Indian take on a cosmos cocktail. Will definitely ...

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Superb92 Reviews4.8

Naf Naf Grill

5003 S 76th St, Greenfield, WI 53220

As a TRUCK DRIVER we have to depend on delivery quote often I spent about $40 dollars and I don't if they were trying to be funny or what tonight be...

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Good21 Reviews3.5

Ruby Thai

4301 W Wisconsin Ave, Appleton, WI 54913

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Poor0 Reviews0

Diablo’s Taqueria

4301 W Wisconsin Ave, Appleton, WI 54913

Real taqueria in a mall, best option 7 days a week! Lots of tasty protein choices and fair

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Superb13 Reviews4.4

BurgerHaus

W6308 Wally Way, Greenville, WI 54942

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Average2 Reviews3

Happy Hub

100 N Main St, Alma, WI 54610

Was a warm welcome! She was so happy and helpful answering all my questions! Love the vibes in there as well! Will definitely be back!

Superb11 Reviews5

Pat's pub n grub

4509 N Branch St, Wabeno, WI 54566

The food is pretty good. Service is not. They have teenage girls serving with no training or experience. They don't greet you or introduce themselve...

Good2 Reviews4

Luna's Mexican Restaurant

103 Park St, Walworth, WI 53184

Placed a pick up order. Person on phone made it seem like it was a burden that I was calling. Get to restaurant double me order when only wanted one. Mad...

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Good9 Reviews3.6

Gracie's Kitchen

150 Elkhorn Rd, Williams Bay, WI 53191

Cute diner in Williams Bay! The smash burger was excellent and the fries were perfect! My hubby had their French onion soup as well which was also really...

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Superb40 Reviews4.5

T & S Sports

109 N 6th St, Cameron, WI 54822

Superb2 Reviews5

Too Mixed Up

E5480 WI-64, Wheeler, WI 54772

Just a short drive from Menomonie - definitely worthwhile! Best steaks and prime rib around on Saturday nights. Friendly and attentive staff. Ample porti...

Superb33 Reviews4.8

The Rolling Taco Food Truck

New London, WI 54961

Poor0 Reviews0

JOBO’s Lanes

N5250 Co Rd A, Prentice, WI 54556

Very very good fish sandwiches and burgers Very friendly and happy staff. Really nice environment. Great food. The burgers were great tonight. Thank you

Superb3 Reviews5

Recent Reviews

Sheboygan's Family Restaurant

2704 S Business Dr, Sheboygan, WI 53081

Food overcooked, waffle not made right things missing from it. Owner was called. He made excuses uncaring attitude. Husband didn't recieve but a ver...

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Superb236 Reviews4.3

Cinco De Mayo Fiesta

8412 W Morgan Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53228

Ordered vegetarian fajitas, low on guacamole, jipped on hot sauce, low on beans, but for $27.35 a total price gouging-- it's predominantly peppers, ...

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Good207 Reviews3.8

Hardee’s

12613 10th St, Osseo, WI 54758

The person who was closing was fantastic to us as we got there at 845 and she was working on cleaning and gave us great service.I love the hot ham and

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Good132 Reviews3.6

Lebnani house

5051 S 27th St, Greenfield, WI 53221

Great authentic Lebanese food. Everything from the fresh, hot bread to the kebabs to the humus was exquisite. Highly recommend.

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Superb152 Reviews4.7

The Rolling Taco Food Truck

New London, WI 54961

Superb1 Reviews5

Niche Cafe & Wine Bar

715 Hunt Club Ct Unit C, Lake Geneva, WI 53147

Great little place.Great atmosphere, chill vibe, and great selection of crafted cocktails!Heather, the bartender was awesome.

Superb59 Reviews4.7

Six Corners Tap

N3702 Van Treeck Trail, Sheboygan Falls, WI 53085

Played the machines. Had a large jackpot, but it only paid $12 (obviously throttled, was supposed to be much more). Had a nice win in the end, talked ...

Superb58 Reviews4.6

Dairy Queen Grill & Chill

810 2nd Ave S, Onalaska, WI 54650

We brought in 14 family members for ice cream at8:30 pm after a church service. We were all on one ticket. Service was excellent with no mistakes. Great ...

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Average235 Reviews3.1

Jimmy John's

924 Elden Ave, Amery, WI 54001

Jimmy Johns in Amery WI, the driver today 4/11/2024, approached our door and complained about tips and told the customer next time leave a tip. Very rude...

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Drive-Through

Good60 Reviews3.5

Blue Willow Cafe

1111 N 4th Ave, Wausau, WI 54401

We came there because we wanted to give it another try, my sausages looked like days old and wrinkly she did get me new ones but it looked the same, and ...

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Superb269 Reviews4.4

Enrique's grill

3050 Cahill Main, Fitchburg, WI 53711

The food is excellent. Everything is cooked while you wait, it's fresh and authentic. In my book it's the best Mexican food in town.

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Superb76 Reviews4.5

Antioch Pizza Shop - Paddock Lake, WI

24730 75th St, Salem, WI 53168

Recently discovered them. Really good pizza. The thing we love is they really load on the toppings!

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Good50 Reviews3.8

Round Man Brewing Co.

234 Walnut St, Spooner, WI 54801

Chic setting in a quaint and trendy town with tasty beers! The food was fantastic and service was amazing! We'll definitely be back!

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Superb264 Reviews4.5

B's Egg Rolls drive-thru

2810 Plover Rd, Plover, WI 54467

Stopped to get a snack while passing thru, Great service, very nice people! Had the egg rolls and crab rangoon, absolutely delicious!! Would highly recom...

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