9 Places To Eat In Wisconsin That Are Often Overlooked But Absolutely Delicious
Discover nine overlooked restaurants in Wisconsin that offer exceptional local cuisine.
Living in Wisconsin means having some of the finest selection of produce and cuisine right at our fingertips. Nowhere is that more apparent than neighborhood restaurants, which create masterpieces from local ingredients and flavors. Even so, you might be surprised by how many places get overlooked due to their location or unassuming appearance. So next time you pass by any of these hole-in-the-wall spots, you will be doing yourself a huge favor to step inside and see what's cooking.
Believe us, you won't want to miss out on these 9 overlooked restaurants in Wisconsin. Check them out:
1. India Bhavan (Green Bay)
For authentic Indian cuisine, you'll definitely want to give India Bhavan a try. Full of flavor, all entrees are made from scratch and will not disappoint. For starters, be sure to get an order of naan filled with lamb. Location: 2611 Holmgren Way, Green Bay, WI 54304. To learn more, visit their website here.
2. Banzo (Madison)
Don't be fooled by the fact that Banzo is a food truck; this spot has some of the best falafels in town. All Mediterranean cuisine is freshly prepared and is sure to hit the spot for an on-the-go lunch or dinner. Especially good are the condiments, fresh-made tahini and excellent hummus. Location: 2105 Sherman Ave
Madison, WI 53704. To learn more, visit their website here.
3. Mickey-Lu-Bar-B-Q (Marinette)
If you've got an appetite, there's nothing that hits the spot quite like a homemade burger and malt. Despite its advertisement for bar-b-q, the charcoal cheeseburger is what you'll want to order when you stop by Mickey-Lu's. Photographed above is the double cheeseburger and butterscotch malt. You can expect speedy service here, too. Location: 1710 Marinette Ave
Marinette, WI 54143. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
4. Wendt's On The Lake (Van Dyne)
Wendt's On The Lake is the place to go if you're looking for unbeatable seafood and a little comfort food, too. Set right on the lake, the outdoor seating is beautiful. Some popular orders here include the perch and shrimp. This spot is no secret among locals, so be prepared for a little bit of a crowd and possibly a wait. Address: N9699 Lakeshore Dr. Van Dyne, WI 54979. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
5. Hup's Pizza (Milwaukee)
No food list is complete without a fantastic pizza joint, and Hup's Pizza is one of the best. This hole-in-the-wall joint delivers on well made pies that don't waste time with superfluous ingredients. If you're especially hungry, be sure to get an order of the garlic bread, too. This eatery is one of the most delicious underrated restaurants in Wisconsin. Don't pass it by. Address: 5400 W Hampton Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53218. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
6. The Coffee Pot (Kenosha)
The Coffee Pot is a charming and authentic diner with a breakfast that'll make you feel great all day long. Whether you decide to order the homemade corned beef hash or the herbivore omelette (photographed above), you won't be disappointed. When it comes to neighborhood restaurants in Wisconsin, no place beats The Coffee Pot. Be sure to bring cash, as this spot doesn't accept credit cards. Location: 4914 7th Ave., Kenosha, WI 53140. To learn more, visit their website here.
7. Waupaca Woods Restaurant (Waupaca)
Waupaca Woods Restaurant serves Wisconsin food at its finest. This includes phenomenal cheese curds, seafood dishes, and more. Portions are hearty and healthy, and you won't walk away from this place with an empty stomach. Tucked away in a strip-mall, this place is a true gem. Location: 815 W Fulton St., Ste 1 Waupaca, WI 54981. To learn more, visit their website here.
8. Basil Cafe (Appleton)
Basil Cafe is an upscale Thai restaurant with a beautiful ambiance and seriously delicious cuisine. All entree items are freshly prepared and the pho is one of the most popular items ordered. Other tasty options include the pad thai and crab rangoon. Address: 1513 N Richmond St. Appleton, WI 54911. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
9. Hiawatha Restaurant & Lounge (Wausau)
Hiawatha Restaurant is one of the area's best kept secrets. It's a cozy spot that serves a little bit of everything, from fabulous Sunday brunch, to ribs, and incredible fish tacos. You can expect this spot to be crowded, especially on the weekends. Address: 713 Grant St. Wausau, WI 54403.
What are your favorite little-known restaurants in Wisconsin? Did any of your favorites miss the list? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
If you know about another hidden gem eatery we should feature, let us know in our nomination form.
For more underrated restaurants in Wisconsin, be sure to check out these incredible hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
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