Since 1888, people from all over the state have made their way to The Mint Café, a hidden gem restaurant in Wausau, Wisconsin. I am guessing people have even driven from the center of the world for this delicious downtown diner, given that it's only 25 miles away. The café landed on my radar several years ago on a business trip and stuck with me ever since. My first joyful moment of having cheese curds was at The Mint. That made me a lifelong fan of both.

Let's dish more details about why The Mint has lured generations of Wisconsinites (and their lucky guests) for so many years.

The Mint Café is in downtown Wausau on Third Street, on the same block where it has operated since its earliest days. By 1940, the café moved a few doors up to its present location.

The furnishings are authentic to that era. Memorabilia related to the business covers the walls, giving you plenty to ponder while you wait for your order.

Breakfast lovers can't say enough good things about The Mint for that important first meal of the day. Before we get to the massive menu, note first that its hours are ideal for people who start their days early.

The café greets people with hearty homestyle cooking at 6:30 every day but Saturday, when it opens at 7, and Sunday, when it's closed.

One sumptuous breakfast specialty is the Wagyu Beef Cackle Burger, which is a third-pound Wagyu beef patty dressed with cheddar, bacon, and a fried egg with a brioche bun. Other options range from traditional breakfast plates and omelets to pancakes and pastries.

You can unlock the lunch and dinner menu starting at 11 a.m. These options include just about every traditional American dish you can think of, plus a few international influences. Choose from a dozen different burgers, two dozen sandwiches, more than half a dozen salads, and several soups.

The Mint also serves heartier fare, including specials like Fish Fry Fridays, which are always a big draw. Dive into delicious fried fish, tasty cole slaw, potato salad, fries, and rye bread.

While available desserts vary by the day, if you need a clue, just consider the restaurant lists almost 20 pie options on its catering menu.

In warm weather months, people love to take advantage of the outdoor seating area. The sidewalk seats offer a nice view for people watching and taking in Wausau's pretty downtown district.

Local pets also love the extra attention they get at the Mint. Dogs are not only allowed but welcomed on the patio, where they have vanilla ice cream and dishes of fresh water waiting.

And you've likely noted, alcohol options returned to the restaurant post-Prohibition. Today, The Mint serves spiked milkshakes, classic cocktails, and seasonal specialties like wild berry lemonades and mojitos. Also available are beer by the bottle and wine by the single-serve bottle.

We’re sure you won’t be disappointed with a meal from The Mint Cafe. Visit the restaurant’s web page for more information or check out The Mint Cafe on Facebook for updates and photos. There’s plenty to see in Wausau, so while you’re there, why not book a room, and make a night or weekend of it?

Have you visited The Mint Cafe in Wausau? Let us know in the comments!