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

Our clinic arranged for us to have dinner here on November 16th and it was amazing. Extremely attentive staff, excellent meal and not one detail was ov...

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Superb143 Reviews4.6

Aardvark Wine Lounge

304 Pine St, Green Bay, WI 54301

We loved the atmosphere and vibe of this cozy spot. Lexi made the whole experience perfect. She was so knowledgeable and attentive! We will certainly be ...

Superb28 Reviews4.7

Waterfront Warehouse

3322 Sheridan Rd, Kenosha, WI 53140

I've stopped here on a couple of occasions and had really positive experiences every time. As you enter it definitely has pub/bar vibes. I would say...

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Superb216 Reviews4.4

The Chalice

1741 N Main St, Oshkosh, WI 54901

Quaint and cozy little space with a fireplace perfect in the winter! There is a bar area and a small dining area so expect it to be crowded. We wound up ...

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Superb93 Reviews4.6

A Pig In A Fur Coat

940 Williamson St, Madison, WI 53703

Giving this "really liked" status, maybe not quite to "love". Reserving that for the few faves I will go back to regularly. Don'...

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Superb104 Reviews4.6

Oakcrest Tavern

5371 Old Middleton Rd, Madison, WI 53705

Solid Wednesday night fish fry. Perch was on point and the serving size generous. Oakcrest is an institution. A neighborhood and locals joint. Drinks are...

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Superb88 Reviews4.4

The Old Fashioned

23 N Pinckney St #1, Madison, WI 53703

A hot spot in Madison! Everyone from the area told me about this place so obviously I had to stop in. I ordered the spicy burger with a side salad. I got...

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Superb425 Reviews4.3

Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993

7616 W State St, Wauwatosa, WI 53213

Excellent restaurant. Accommodating for a larger group and the tour of Italy style added a lot of great variety. Grateful for the complementary shots to ...

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Superb228 Reviews4.4

Alem Ethiopian Village

307 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202

I loved the beef samosa here. Also I have tried their food and which was a different experience. Also there we tried doro wot and awaze tibz. Doro wot ch...

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Superb21 Reviews4.8

Original Sobelman’s on St. Paul

1900 W St Paul Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233

So we went there last night when we were in town because we had heard such good things we went in. It was a very packed crowd seemed very nice. We sat do...

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Superb247 Reviews4.6

1919 Kitchen & Tap

1265 Lombardi Ave, Green Bay, WI 54304

Our server Nicky was outstanding. We had a large group and never an empty beer. We had cheese curds and beers. Everything was great. It is a nice venue i...

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Good305 Reviews4.2

Prime Quarter Steak House

2610 S Oneida St, Green Bay, WI 54304

I gave the food a 3, some may have given it less, but the grill attendant was young and probably just needs a little more experience and confidence in la...

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Superb100 Reviews4.5

Gardina's Kitchen & Bar

448 N Main St, Oshkosh, WI 54901

Love this place! Our go-to restaurant before attending performances at the Grand Theater.

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Superb87 Reviews4.4

Two Brothers Family Restaurant

1930 Rath Lane, Oshkosh, WI 54902

Food was literally inedible, super salty sandwich. Waiter never checked back with the table, no refills

Parking: Fills up quickly

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Superb196 Reviews4.4

La Fogata Mexican Grill

3300 Sheridan Rd, Kenosha, WI 53140

Friend and I went there last Thursday,I had chimichangas and friend had burritos there was big pieces of chickens inside not shredded like they used to ....

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Superb165 Reviews4.4

The Nucleus

405 Water St, Eau Claire, WI 54703

The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable about their vegan items. The breakfast Sammy was good…only thing was the bagel was more of a soft bun than ...

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Superb141 Reviews4.6

The Informalist

205 S Barstow St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Sadly the informalist lacks both style and substance. Our dining experience was one of my worst in recent years. We were a four top, excited to visit a r...

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Good102 Reviews4.1

Recently Opened Restaurants

Nanglo Momos & Curry

1619 W College Ave, Appleton, WI 54914

I highly recommend this new restaurant. The food is delicious and service friendly. Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. We loved everything we ordere...

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Superb13 Reviews5

IVR Bar

10950 Good Hope Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53224

Visited for Super-bowl Sunday. 1st time here. Ambience is nice. Ordered lemon drop and bloody mary both good. Ordered wings and pizza which were good. Cu...

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Superb46 Reviews4.6

Himalayan Yak

2321 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207

This is a new Bay View favorite for me. The food is amazing, and service is great. If it’s your first time visiting, I’d highly recommend the Dall Ghat T...

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Superb67 Reviews4.6

Franklin Street Tavern

13 N Franklin St, Janesville, WI 53548

What a cute place! Just driving up to it screamed “Cheers”! My husband and I each had burgers (the WWW and Sweet & Savory) which were perfectly done ...

Superb8 Reviews5

Ni Burmese

2140 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207

First off, let me say that I am so jazzed to finally have a Burmese restaurant in MKE. Tonight, my wife and I ventured down to Bayview to check out Ni Bu...

Good4 Reviews4.2

Mint Asian Kitchen

1380 W Mequon Rd, Mequon, WI 53092

This place is SO cute! The service was outstanding, even though my group ended up being really big. The staff was friendly and understanding, and I absol...

Superb123 Reviews4.7

Relish Supper Club

N116W15841 Main St, Germantown, WI 53022

Fabulous food, service and atmosphere. You MUST try this restaurant, guarantee you’ll be back many times!! A++++

Superb162 Reviews4.6

NEW MAHARAJA INDIAN CUISINE AND BAR

1009 W Park Ave, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729

I have been here twice in the last two weeks and I will be going back next week! The food is absolutely delicious not too spicy and not too mild. I&#...

Superb52 Reviews4.6

Monarca Mexican Bar & Grill

2410 Roosevelt Rd, Marinette, WI 54143

Best Burrito I have had north of Green Bay. In north east Wisconsin.
Service was great, food came quick. Reasonable price.

Superb9 Reviews4.3

Biggby Coffee

920 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Experienced a great chai from Biggby will definitely be returning to try other things. I did notice while my visit that one of the employees smelt rather...

Good6 Reviews4

Buona

393 N Edwards Blvd, Lake Geneva, WI 53147

Thank you Provie, Michael, and Syivia. I might not have spelled the names right my apologies. This is my 5th visit and love coming here! Somewhere betwee...

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Superb98 Reviews4.6

Joey's Diner

290 W Main St, Waukesha, WI 53186

I love this place so much 🥺 The owner and staff are so kind, the food is always amazing and the root beer float is delicious. As an autistic adult, I’m s...

Superb182 Reviews4.9

Taqueria Mexico

31 Meadowview Dr Suite B, Lake Delton, WI 53940

Our experience here was absolutely phenomenal! Super helpful staff, delicious food - huge portions at reasonable prices. A great mix of unique and famili...

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Superb145 Reviews4.9

Koi Poke & Ramen

2101 S Oneida St ste 200, Green Bay, WI 54304

Good selection of ramen, poke and apps. The tonkatsu pork was tasty and smoky, the poke was good (small portions of protein though). The chicken katya wa...

Superb23 Reviews4.3

Dairy Queen Grill & Chill

7730 S Lovers Lane Rd Suite 100, Franklin, WI 53132

I got the burger/ fries food was cold and the fries tasted old.I got sick right after eating it.

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Good12 Reviews4.2

Recent Reviews

Last Chance Grill and Bar

58 E John St, Markesan, WI 53946

The food is off the charts and staff is very friendly. They have one of the best fish fry's around.

Superb15 Reviews4.6

River's Bend Resort

W2614 Fox Ln, Montello, WI 53949

Our experience here, both camping and enjoying the restaurant and amenities has been truly great. Wouldn’t think of having Friday fish fry any...

Good31 Reviews3.6

La Catrina Restaurant & Tortilleria

310 N Wisconsin St # F, De Pere, WI 54115

Wonderful job/experience allowing our family to have a birthday party. Everyone really enjoyed themselves and your food.

Superb68 Reviews4.5

OSAKA HIBACHI .RAMEN .THAI

100 E Madison St, Watertown, WI 53094

We have eaten at this place several times and it has been good. we were there on Feb. 18 for my wife's birthday. The dinning room was not heated, so...

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Superb158 Reviews4.5

The Art Bar & Boutique

114 W Huron St, Berlin, WI 54923

What a fun place. The cocktails are unique and served with a smile. The entire atmosphere is warm yet electric. Can’t say enough good about my ...

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Superb2 Reviews5

Punjabi Rasoi - Indian Restaurant

975 Energy St, Baldwin, WI 54002

It doesn’t get more real deal authentic North Indian than this. The flavors are what you would find in a roadside or late-night spot in the northern part...

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Good106 Reviews4.2

Shotskis

1295 White Pine Dr, Eagle River, WI 54521

My kids have been there multiple times and then today they said kids are not allowed.

Superb19 Reviews4.6

Mayflower Restaurant

414 Military Ave, Green Bay, WI 54303

Portions are big. I couldn't taste anything, literally tasteless. I ordered Double Delight with cashews which is chicken and shrimp but all I ate wa...

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Good54 Reviews3.9

Chili John's Cafe

223 Front St, Beaver Dam, WI 53916

Great food! I tried the Chili and a tuna sandwich on sourdough and enjoyed my meal. My brother had the bacon melt and chili fries, and my husband had a b...

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Superb44 Reviews4.6

Boriken Mart Food Truck

5205 Lee Ave, Weston, WI 54476

I LOVE this place! Maria makes the best empanadas and she even has vegetarian and vegan options which can be hard to come by around here. The guava/cream...

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Superb1 Reviews5

Hookers Bar & Grill

W7615 County Rd F, Shiocton, WI 54170

Have had excellent food. Haddock Plain is some of the best in the area. Recommend this Bar and Grill Strongly.

Superb18 Reviews4.6

Valley Fish & Cheese

304 S Prairie St, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821

Great place!! Their snapping turtle jerky is awesome! Super friendly people and always have a wonderful selection!! I'm sorry to hear this is their ...

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