Tucked away on a quiet corner of Washington St. & N. 4th St, 319 Bistro is the kind of place you stumble upon and never forget. This small, intimate mom-and-pop bistro exudes warmth, with mismatched vintage chairs, soft music humming in the background, and walls adorned with local art that feels like a love letter to the community. The menu, an eclectic medley of comfort foods from across the globe, is executed with such care and flair that every dish feels like a story told by someone who loves to feed people.
My visit began with the spinach artichoke dip, a creamy, indulgent starter that struck a perfect balance between earthy spinach and tangy, cheesy goodness. Served with warm, house-made bread that crackled with each bite, it set the tone for what was to come: familiar yet elevated. The French onion soup followed, a masterclass in depth and simplicity. The broth, rich with caramelized onions, was crowned with a golden, bubbling layer of gruyère that clung to the spoon like a warm hug. It was soul-soothing, with just the right touch of sweetness to cut through the savoriness.
The Cuban sandwich was a revelation. The bread, toasted to a crisp golden hue, held layers of succulent roasted pork, ham, and Swiss cheese, with pickles and mustard adding a zesty kick. Each bite was a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, the pork so tender it practically melted. Equally impressive was the Po’boy shrimp sandwich, a nod to New Orleans with its plump, perfectly fried shrimp nestled in a soft roll, slathered with a spicy remoulade that danced on the tongue. The accompanying shredded lettuce and ripe tomatoes added a fresh crunch, making it a messy, joyous affair.
The tuna melt, often a humble diner staple, was transformed here into something extraordinary. The tuna salad was bright with a hint of lemon zest, paired with sharp cheddar that oozed just enough to bind the toasted sourdough without overwhelming it. Every bite felt like a nostalgic nod, yet refined, as if the chef had whispered, “Let’s make this classic sing.”
Dessert was the crowning glory: homemade ice cream that could only be described as pure alchemy. I opted for a scoop of their seasonal flavor, a velvety cashew caramel swirl on my visit, which was churned to a creamy perfection that lingered on the palate. It was the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes and savor in silence.
The service was as warm as the food. The owners, clearly the heart of this operation, floated between tables, sharing stories and ensuring every guest felt like family. The pacing of the meal was flawless, with dishes arriving just as the anticipation peaked. At 319 Bistro the magic lies in its ability to take familiar dishes and infuse them with soul, precision, and a touch of the unexpected. This is not just a meal—it’s a memory. I’ll be back, and so should you!!!
** stars** *Perfect for: Cozy date lunches, solo lunch seeking comfort, or anyone craving an eclectic atmosphere in an intimate setting.*
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Cuban Sandwich, Smoked Turkey Sandwich, Soup of the Day
Richard Finger
This felt like walking into someone's home and having them welcome you as they would an old friend as they prepare and serve you an amazing meal. Charming ambiance - Service like nowhere else - Food that will make you want to return again and again. 5 Stars all the way!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Star Gazer
That has to be some of the best lunch Wausau has to offer. Really hit the spot. And the setting is adorable with lots of cute art. Beautiful ❤️
Barbara Krause
This place has food that I would love to claim as my own. I certainly will be coming back. The atmosphere and the people working there are fantastic also. Don't skip their soups; they are out of this world.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mark Milanowski
First time I have been at the 319 Bistro. Never knew it existed but then again I am from the south side of town and don't go downtown very often. Lovely place! The people were very friendly and kind. The food was great! They offered homemade ice cream after lunch but I couldn't. The Cuban sandwich filled me up! Myself and my friend walked around to look at all the art, jewelry, etc. that was for sale. I look forward to visiting again!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Cuban Sandwich
Mary Petke
Visited only the art department. Karen was a really good hostess.
Atmosphere: 5
Scott
Quaint, funky and friendly
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Shrimp Caesar Salad
Holly Lombardo
Great food
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Smoked Turkey Sandwich
Tania Ramirez
Today was my first time trying 319 Bistro. I moved to Wausau 3 years ago. This place was the most awful I've tried so far, in my opinion. Maybe it was an off day? However, most concerning is that the chef refused to accept that the apple sauce we were served had gone bad, it tasted fermented. My 3 year old spit it out, that's when I tried it and then I had my sister try it. It was bubbling. Unfortunately the chef and manager have a horrible attitude just like their food. P.S. Our waitress was kind and professional.
Food: 1
Christina Schmidt
One of my favorite lunch spots in Wausau! If you haven’t been yet it’s a must! The best sandwich’s and homemade soups not to mention homemade ice cream and desserts! The staff is outstanding and so eclectic and cool! 319 is definitely my favorite!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Homemade Soup, Lemon Meringue Ice Cream Sundae, Cuban Sandwich, Nutty Chicken Sandwich, Cashew Chicken Sandwich with Pasta Salad, Burgundy French Onion Soup
One of the few places you can chill out and have a good meal
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Julie Cosman
This place is amazing and never knew it was there till recently. It completely changed my attitude when I walked in the door. Wonderful staff, beautiful arts and crafts everywhere and the food is amazing did I mention homemade ice cream. This is definitely my go to place.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Tyler Svoke
Great place to play bridge with the rest of your retired friends.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Carrie Russert
Home like atmosphere, very nice staff and great food!!!
Kaden Reynolds
The building is beautiful on the inside. The shop and the restaurant are both very well designed. The food is probably some of the best food I've ever had . Especially the chopped nut chicken salad
A Hidden Gem of Eclectic Comfort at 319 Bistro
Tucked away on a quiet corner of Washington St. & N. 4th St, 319 Bistro is the kind of place you stumble upon and never forget. This small, intimate mom-and-pop bistro exudes warmth, with mismatched vintage chairs, soft music humming in the background, and walls adorned with local art that feels like a love letter to the community. The menu, an eclectic medley of comfort foods from across the globe, is executed with such care and flair that every dish feels like a story told by someone who loves to feed people.
My visit began with the spinach artichoke dip, a creamy, indulgent starter that struck a perfect balance between earthy spinach and tangy, cheesy goodness. Served with warm, house-made bread that crackled with each bite, it set the tone for what was to come: familiar yet elevated. The French onion soup followed, a masterclass in depth and simplicity. The broth, rich with caramelized onions, was crowned with a golden, bubbling layer of gruyère that clung to the spoon like a warm hug. It was soul-soothing, with just the right touch of sweetness to cut through the savoriness.
The Cuban sandwich was a revelation. The bread, toasted to a crisp golden hue, held layers of succulent roasted pork, ham, and Swiss cheese, with pickles and mustard adding a zesty kick. Each bite was a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, the pork so tender it practically melted. Equally impressive was the Po’boy shrimp sandwich, a nod to New Orleans with its plump, perfectly fried shrimp nestled in a soft roll, slathered with a spicy remoulade that danced on the tongue. The accompanying shredded lettuce and ripe tomatoes added a fresh crunch, making it a messy, joyous affair.
The tuna melt, often a humble diner staple, was transformed here into something extraordinary. The tuna salad was bright with a hint of lemon zest, paired with sharp cheddar that oozed just enough to bind the toasted sourdough without overwhelming it. Every bite felt like a nostalgic nod, yet refined, as if the chef had whispered, “Let’s make this classic sing.”
Dessert was the crowning glory: homemade ice cream that could only be described as pure alchemy. I opted for a scoop of their seasonal flavor, a velvety cashew caramel swirl on my visit, which was churned to a creamy perfection that lingered on the palate. It was the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes and savor in silence.
The service was as warm as the food. The owners, clearly the heart of this operation, floated between tables, sharing stories and ensuring every guest felt like family. The pacing of the meal was flawless, with dishes arriving just as the anticipation peaked. At 319 Bistro the magic lies in its ability to take familiar dishes and infuse them with soul, precision, and a touch of the unexpected. This is not just a meal—it’s a memory. I’ll be back, and so should you!!!
** stars**
*Perfect for: Cozy date lunches, solo lunch seeking comfort, or anyone craving an eclectic atmosphere in an intimate setting.*
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Cuban Sandwich, Smoked Turkey Sandwich, Soup of the Day
This felt like walking into someone's home and having them welcome you as they would an old friend as they prepare and serve you an amazing meal. Charming ambiance - Service like nowhere else - Food that will make you want to return again and again. 5 Stars all the way!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
That has to be some of the best lunch Wausau has to offer. Really hit the spot. And the setting is adorable with lots of cute art. Beautiful ❤️
This place has food that I would love to claim as my own. I certainly will be coming back. The atmosphere and the people working there are fantastic also. Don't skip their soups; they are out of this world.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
First time I have been at the 319 Bistro. Never knew it existed but then again I am from the south side of town and don't go downtown very often. Lovely place! The people were very friendly and kind. The food was great! They offered homemade ice cream after lunch but I couldn't. The Cuban sandwich filled me up! Myself and my friend walked around to look at all the art, jewelry, etc. that was for sale. I look forward to visiting again!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Cuban Sandwich
Visited only the art department. Karen was a really good hostess.
Atmosphere: 5
Quaint, funky and friendly
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Shrimp Caesar Salad
Great food
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Smoked Turkey Sandwich
Today was my first time trying 319 Bistro. I moved to Wausau 3 years ago. This place was the most awful I've tried so far, in my opinion. Maybe it was an off day? However, most concerning is that the chef refused to accept that the apple sauce we were served had gone bad, it tasted fermented. My 3 year old spit it out, that's when I tried it and then I had my sister try it. It was bubbling. Unfortunately the chef and manager have a horrible attitude just like their food. P.S. Our waitress was kind and professional.
Food: 1
One of my favorite lunch spots in Wausau!
If you haven’t been yet it’s a must!
The best sandwich’s and homemade soups not to mention homemade ice cream and desserts! The staff is outstanding and so eclectic and cool! 319 is definitely my favorite!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Homemade Soup, Lemon Meringue Ice Cream Sundae, Cuban Sandwich, Nutty Chicken Sandwich, Cashew Chicken Sandwich with Pasta Salad, Burgundy French Onion Soup
Restaurantji Recommends
One of the few places you can chill out and have a good meal
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This place is amazing and never knew it was there till recently. It completely changed my attitude when I walked in the door. Wonderful staff, beautiful arts and crafts everywhere and the food is amazing did I mention homemade ice cream. This is definitely my go to place.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great place to play bridge with the rest of your retired friends.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Home like atmosphere, very nice staff and great food!!!
The building is beautiful on the inside. The shop and the restaurant are both very well designed. The food is probably some of the best food I've ever had . Especially the chopped nut chicken salad
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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