The Humble Supper Club in Wisconsin That’s Been Owned by the Same Family for Over 70 Years

In a rural corner of Fond du Lac County, there’s a family-owned supper club that’s been delighting generations of diners. Blanck's Supper Club is a classic Wisconsin supper club that dates back to the 1950s. It’s a place that’s thrived despite challenges over the years, and it’s worth seeking out. Here’s why.

On October 1, 1952, Bob and Hazel Blanck became the owners of a small tavern in Johnsburg, Wisconsin. Located in the same building were their living quarters, the tavern itself, and the town's barber shop. Eventually, the barber retired, and not long after, the Blancks decided to expand the bar by knocking down a wall. The coat racks in the front bar are now where the former barber shop used to be.

They invested in equipment that allowed them to grill steaks and broast chicken. Their business grew, with much of it stemming from wedding and funeral dinners, since the local church lacked a basement for such events. They later expanded their menu with a fish fry and changed the name from Bob and Hazel's Tavern to Blanck's Supper Club. Before long, the eatery became a popular local fixture in this part of the Badger State.

Unfortunately, on May 10, 1962, a fire struck. Investigators believed the fire started in the basement or attic and rapidly spread through the establishment's walls. Undeterred, the Blancks regrouped, rebuilt, and less than two months later, on July 6, 1962, the supper club reopened. They expanded the restaurant by adding a back dining room in 1972 and sold the business to their son, Kevin, in 1981. All along, the family has kept serving great food and drinks to their loyal, hungry, and thirsty patrons—true to the Wisconsin supper club tradition.

In 2005, the business passed to the third generation as Kevin's children, Mike and Vicki, took over. Blanck's Supper Club continues to adhere to its core principles: offering honest, affordable, and delicious meals in a congenial, cordial atmosphere.

If you visit Blanck's Supper Club, be sure to arrive hungry! You can learn more about Blanck's Supper Club on the restaurant’s website. Visit the supper club's Facebook page for additional information and updates.

I’ve spent a lot of time in this part of the state visiting family, and if you’ve never explored the “Holylands” of Wisconsin, you should plan a trip! The region is located in eastern Wisconsin, mainly within Fond du Lac County, near Lake Winnebago. The communities of Mount Calvary, St. Cloud, and Johnsburg are part of this region, and it showcases a rich cultural heritage with some traditional German influences, including cuisine, festivals, and music.

Are you ready to book your next Badger State adventure? If so, check out Only In Your State’s itinerary planner for some extra inspiration before you go.