Exquisite! The apple and cheese salad was uniform cut and the flavor perfectly balance. Pure joy in every bite! The pappardelle noodles perfectly cooked and each one was evenly coated with the sauce. Amazing!! The pistachio crème brûlée on point and heavenly. Overall nothing was over salted or overly sweet. Flavors pair well. My server knew the menu very well and explain each dish with poise and patience. She wiped the table in between coarses with a crumb tray and clean white cloth then set me up for the next dish with proper placement. I also observed the staff being courteous and professional with each other. Excellent staff! 100% enjoyed my evening meal!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Roxanne Doerfer
Every meal has been bursting with flavors. Great historical building with a classy interior design.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mitch King
Stopped in while in town and had an incredible experience. Food was delicious, service was fantastic, and such a cool atmosphere. Mia was our server and was so friendly, helpful, and attentive. Would absolutely come back and recommend!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Kate Nelson
Amazing food and service (thank you to our waiter Danny!), but I have to leave a review for the cocktail I had— the matcha martini! Waiter said it was new, but it’s so good. One of the best martinis I’ve ever had, definitely order one here!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Heather Lee
Always a great meal with great service. The lamb shank was delicious as always!
Beautiful restaurant and refined atmosphere. Great food—only downside is portions are on the smaller side.
No reservation system, only a pen and paper wait list. Only way to check position in line is ask hostess in-person. Makes it difficult to kill time with other activities while waiting.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 3
Nick
From the second you even lay eyes on the building, it draws you in. The massive 20th-century brick building, the simple yet enticing sign. The huge floor to ceiling glass windows with red curtains tell you that what you’re about to experience is extraordinary. You are about to have an experience like no other. It isn’t too upfront, flashy, or cartoonish like McDonald's per say. There is an aura of mystery that leaves you curious and eager to go inside and give it a try. You enter through glass doors and step into another world. You are in France or Western Europe in an instant.
The servers wear all black, so they are almost invisible. Ninjas moving around unseen in the background. The focus is on you, the beloved guest. The candle lighting is dim and atmospheric, leaving you relaxed. The red velvet couches, the gold and black walls. The massive 20-foot mirrors on every wall. The ancient Greek statues and beautiful paintings. You are no longer in La Crosse, Wisconsin - but instead teleported to another time far away. You settle into your seat and take it all in.
The menus are small, easy to read, and black and white. There are no pictures of any food, leaving you excited yet curious. The real magic is about to begin. Next, you focus on the audition. The music is classy, almost entirely French or Italian, 19th-20th century. Jazz entities you even further, and the aurora of mystery builds. The music isn’t too loud, so you can still have a conversation with your friends and family. Touch and taste come into play at last. Your server comes to explain the menu in a gentle, sophisticated way. The food starts to come out. Every moment you’ve ever made in your entire life has led up to this moment. The apple salad, grilled lamb spedini, and triple-cooked french fries hit the table. You smell the delicious harrisia marinated lamb skewers immediately, then the fries that have been cooked over a three-day process with horseradish yogurt wafts past your nose. The ecstasy of food.
You delicately pick up a french fry and dip it so gently into the horseradish sauce, then guide it into your mouth. It’s almost too good to be true. The flavors clash in a violent war inside your mouth, the contrast is strong. Then they come together and embrace each other as lovers after a brutal argument. They go together so perfectly, like they were meant to be. Destiny and the fates have aligned on your tongue. You swallow and then immediately yearn for more. Each dish has the same quality of flavor and elegance. You are having an almost religious experience, and you’re only on the appetizers.
Who knew so much joy could be found inside of a restaurant in the Midwest. The entrees and deserts are much the same, so I won’t go into much detail but every single one of your senses have been targeted maliciously by trained professionals with decades of experience. The owners, Joan and Jay have been at this for almost 20 years, working at, helping open, or simply visiting some of the finest eateries around the world. They are masters of their craft, and it shows. Much love to my favorite establishment of all time. If you go, get the spicy Rigitoni, a glass of Nebbiolo red wine, and the chocolate cake for dessert. Of course, anything you get here will be perfect, but trust. Lovechild’s success lies in its ability to design an environment where all five senses work together to tell the same story, one of elegance, calm, and escape. Dining there isn’t just about food; it’s about feeling transported. The sensory cues, though subtle, are the invisible language of marketing - and at Lovechild, that language is spoken fluently.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Tanner Mann
Incredible food. Best steak and pasta I’ve had in a very long time. Worth the wait, we will be back.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mark W
We reserved the red room for our office holiday party, and everything was excellent. The atmosphere, food, and service were outstanding. Highly recommend for large groups or special events.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Shih-Han Chou
We were there at around 4:50pm on a Saturday and were at the 5th waiting list so I will recommend to be there at 4:30pm if you want to get seats in the first round. The first server was great with beautiful smiles and thoughtful suggestions. We were seated at the cocktails room to wait and started with our drinks and starters. Later we were moved to the main room which was by the bar area. The restaurant has good vibes and the food we ordered is on top quality with unique menu and tastes. We were satisfied in general and thought it’s a great choice for us to go there to celebrate a birthday. Will visit again and maybe arrive a little bit earlier.
Unbelievably delicious! The staff is very attentive, but not bothersome. Not the least expensive place, but so worth it!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
L J
We have been to Lovechild many times. I am forever fascinated with watching their staff. They run like a well oiled machine. We have celebrated both milestones and enjoyed regular mundane days there. The menu changes regularly, but there are a few staples that we enjoy: triple cooked fries with horseradish sauce, Portuguese donuts, and the butter washed old fashions. I always check the current menu before I go to see what the mains are and will skip if it isn't my preference that time around. I love that they keep the menu updated and also have options for vegetarians. Our adult son is vegetarian and the way they set things up makes it very easy for us to dine as a family.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Yhskj dihs Did
Lovechild – Review
Lovechild in La Crosse delivers an elevated dining experience with a chic, romantic atmosphere and a menu rooted in modern American cuisine with Italian influences. Dishes are thoughtfully crafted with seasonal ingredients—favorites include the handmade pastas, unique starters, and inventive cocktails. The service is warm and attentive, complementing the upscale yet approachable vibe. Perfect for date nights, celebrations, or a refined night out. Expect a bit of a splurge, but the quality and ambiance make it worth it.
We come here often love the food usually. Sometimes its hit and miss, but they change the menu often, so thats to be expected. The brandy old fashions are great along with other drinks. I do wish there was a better description of the food.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Paul Katsion
If you’re a foodie (you know who you are), just go. Arrive before 6:00 to avoid a wait. Reservations are for groups of six or more. Italian fare done with class; lots of class.
Exquisite! The apple and cheese salad was uniform cut and the flavor perfectly balance. Pure joy in every bite!
The pappardelle noodles perfectly cooked and each one was evenly coated with the sauce. Amazing!!
The pistachio crème brûlée on point and heavenly. Overall nothing was over salted or overly sweet. Flavors pair well.
My server knew the menu very well and explain each dish with poise and patience. She wiped the table in between coarses with a crumb tray and clean white cloth then set me up for the next dish with proper placement. I also observed the staff being courteous and professional with each other.
Excellent staff!
100% enjoyed my evening meal!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Every meal has been bursting with flavors. Great historical building with a classy interior design.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Stopped in while in town and had an incredible experience. Food was delicious, service was fantastic, and such a cool atmosphere. Mia was our server and was so friendly, helpful, and attentive. Would absolutely come back and recommend!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Amazing food and service (thank you to our waiter Danny!), but I have to leave a review for the cocktail I had— the matcha martini! Waiter said it was new, but it’s so good. One of the best martinis I’ve ever had, definitely order one here!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Always a great meal with great service. The lamb shank was delicious as always!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Grilled Lamb Spiedini Harissa Yogurt Salsa Verde, Flourless Chocolate Cake with Caramel Whipped Cream
Beautiful restaurant and refined atmosphere. Great food—only downside is portions are on the smaller side.
No reservation system, only a pen and paper wait list. Only way to check position in line is ask hostess in-person. Makes it difficult to kill time with other activities while waiting.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 3
From the second you even lay eyes on the building, it draws you in. The massive 20th-century brick building, the simple yet enticing sign. The huge floor to ceiling glass windows with red curtains tell you that what you’re about to experience is extraordinary. You are about to have an experience like no other. It isn’t too upfront, flashy, or cartoonish like McDonald's per say. There is an aura of mystery that leaves you curious and eager to go inside and give it a try. You enter through glass doors and step into another world. You are in France or Western Europe in an instant.
The servers wear all black, so they are almost invisible. Ninjas moving around unseen in the background. The focus is on you, the beloved guest. The candle lighting is dim and atmospheric, leaving you relaxed. The red velvet couches, the gold and black walls. The massive 20-foot mirrors on every wall. The ancient Greek statues and beautiful paintings. You are no longer in La Crosse, Wisconsin - but instead teleported to another time far away. You settle into your seat and take it all in.
The menus are small, easy to read, and black and white. There are no pictures of any food, leaving you excited yet curious. The real magic is about to begin. Next, you focus on the audition. The music is classy, almost entirely French or Italian, 19th-20th century. Jazz entities you even further, and the aurora of mystery builds. The music isn’t too loud, so you can still have a conversation with your friends and family. Touch and taste come into play at last. Your server comes to explain the menu in a gentle, sophisticated way. The food starts to come out. Every moment you’ve ever made in your entire life has led up to this moment. The apple salad, grilled lamb spedini, and triple-cooked french fries hit the table. You smell the delicious harrisia marinated lamb skewers immediately, then the fries that have been cooked over a three-day process with horseradish yogurt wafts past your nose. The ecstasy of food.
You delicately pick up a french fry and dip it so gently into the horseradish sauce, then guide it into your mouth. It’s almost too good to be true. The flavors clash in a violent war inside your mouth, the contrast is strong. Then they come together and embrace each other as lovers after a brutal argument. They go together so perfectly, like they were meant to be. Destiny and the fates have aligned on your tongue. You swallow and then immediately yearn for more. Each dish has the same quality of flavor and elegance. You are having an almost religious experience, and you’re only on the appetizers.
Who knew so much joy could be found inside of a restaurant in the Midwest. The entrees and deserts are much the same, so I won’t go into much detail but every single one of your senses have been targeted maliciously by trained professionals with decades of experience. The owners, Joan and Jay have been at this for almost 20 years, working at, helping open, or simply visiting some of the finest eateries around the world. They are masters of their craft, and it shows. Much love to my favorite establishment of all time.
If you go, get the spicy Rigitoni, a glass of Nebbiolo red wine, and the chocolate cake for dessert. Of course, anything you get here will be perfect, but trust. Lovechild’s success lies in its ability to design an environment where all five senses work together to tell the same story, one of elegance, calm, and escape. Dining there isn’t just about food; it’s about feeling transported. The sensory cues, though subtle, are the invisible language of marketing - and at Lovechild, that language is spoken fluently.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Incredible food. Best steak and pasta I’ve had in a very long time. Worth the wait, we will be back.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We reserved the red room for our office holiday party, and everything was excellent. The atmosphere, food, and service were outstanding. Highly recommend for large groups or special events.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We were there at around 4:50pm on a Saturday and were at the 5th waiting list so I will recommend to be there at 4:30pm if you want to get seats in the first round. The first server was great with beautiful smiles and thoughtful suggestions. We were seated at the cocktails room to wait and started with our drinks and starters. Later we were moved to the main room which was by the bar area. The restaurant has good vibes and the food we ordered is on top quality with unique menu and tastes. We were satisfied in general and thought it’s a great choice for us to go there to celebrate a birthday. Will visit again and maybe arrive a little bit earlier.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 4
Restaurantji Recommends
Unbelievably delicious! The staff is very attentive, but not bothersome. Not the least expensive place, but so worth it!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We have been to Lovechild many times. I am forever fascinated with watching their staff. They run like a well oiled machine.
We have celebrated both milestones and enjoyed regular mundane days there.
The menu changes regularly, but there are a few staples that we enjoy: triple cooked fries with horseradish sauce, Portuguese donuts, and the butter washed old fashions.
I always check the current menu before I go to see what the mains are and will skip if it isn't my preference that time around. I love that they keep the menu updated and also have options for vegetarians. Our adult son is vegetarian and the way they set things up makes it very easy for us to dine as a family.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Lovechild – Review
Lovechild in La Crosse delivers an elevated dining experience with a chic, romantic atmosphere and a menu rooted in modern American cuisine with Italian influences. Dishes are thoughtfully crafted with seasonal ingredients—favorites include the handmade pastas, unique starters, and inventive cocktails. The service is warm and attentive, complementing the upscale yet approachable vibe. Perfect for date nights, celebrations, or a refined night out. Expect a bit of a splurge, but the quality and ambiance make it worth it.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Portuguese Cinnamon-Sugar Doughnuts Lemon Curd
We come here often love the food usually. Sometimes its hit and miss, but they change the menu often, so thats to be expected. The brandy old fashions are great along with other drinks. I do wish there was a better description of the food.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
If you’re a foodie (you know who you are), just go. Arrive before 6:00 to avoid a wait. Reservations are for groups of six or more.
Italian fare done with class; lots of class.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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