Posted in Wisconsin
September 23, 2015
10 Wisconsin Supper Clubs That Are Old-Fashioned But Incredible
If you haven’t lived in Wisconsin, you probably have no idea what a supper club is. It’s one of those things that is very difficult to explain to out-of-towners, even if you successfully describe the ambiance and food. You have to experience it to really understand it. Supper clubs are a dying breed, which is sad, because we’ve turned to quick food from chain restaurants rather than supporting these great places. Take a night off from cooking, get gussied up, and head to one of these 10 great Wisconsin supper clubs. (And then take a look at part 2 of our supper club round-up.)
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
The Buckhorn Supper Club is located in Milton, Wisconsin, on Charley's Bluff to be specific. It is right off of Lake Koshkonong. The supper club has been in operation for eighty years. If you're a fan of lobster boil, check them out--they have a few dates coming up in the next week (advance purchase required). But stop by anytime you like. People love to stop by on Friday for the cod, and the prime rib never disappoints.
Located in New Holstein, Schwarz's has been in business for over fifty years. It started out as a simple, one-room tavern and has been expanded to accommodate a growing amount of guests. You'll love their steaks, all of which are cut in-house and adorned with a secret blend of seasoning. People love the Friday Night Perch Fry, but seafood enthusiasts can have their fill of fresh seafood any day of the week.
Over in Hanover, you will love Ding-A-Ling Supper Club, a restaurant with a family-friendly atmosphere. So why should you travel off the beaten path to eat here? Meat. Specifically, steaks, prime rib, and BBQ ribs that rival anyone's. And if you haven't thoroughly stuffed your face, you need to have an after-dinner ice cream drink. And then you might need to get a hotel there and a bigger pair of pants.
Out in Sherwood, the Granary is a hopping place but manages to still give that personalized experience to its guests. You will get a very nice steak. And surprisingly, people rave about the salad bar. That's high praise, because when people are faced with the choice of meat and vegetables, we know which way most of them go.
In Clintonville, Lake Aire Supper Club is a great place to get a meal, if just for the view. The supper club is perched on a hill overlooking a small lake. Watch a glorious Wisconsin sunset. You will get a classic Wisconsin supper club experience here. Great steaks, potatoes. And head to the salad bar for hot bacon dressing (what?!) and those classic cheese spreads 'Scansin is known for.
Over in Trempealeau, a beautiful town offering amazing views, is a classic Wisconsin supper club. Can we talk a little more about the location? Your backdrop is the Mississippi River!! People love to take those drinks out on the deck and enjoy the view. Sullivan's has been serving up food that stands up to the backdrop, however, since 1968. King Crab? Yes, please. Irish Handshake? Phenomenal. (I guess in Ireland, tenderloin tips and scallops shake hands. How polite.)
This Supper Club is located in Kiel, and unlike many supper clubs, you don't have to eat the same thing every time you come here. That's because the menu is chef-driven and there are new choices each week. And those choices are awesome, including classics like choice steaks and fresh seafood, but also some good pasta dishes. Don't miss the great salad bar, which features some good soups (made from scratch, of course).
It's time to head over to Oshkosh for a phenomenal fine dining experience. Roxy has been serving the area for over 50 years, and the reason they've been so popular is two-fold: great service and excellent quality. Yes, you will get that classic Wisconsin supper club experience with the best steak around. But consider stopping by for Sunday brunch. Ever had a shrimp and crab omelette? Well, you can, but only at the Roxy.
Right off a scenic lake in Lakewood, Maiden Lake has been a mainstay in Wisconsin's Northwoods for over 30 years. What's good? Definitely what you would expect from a great supper club, including some wonderful surf and turf dishes. Friday is FISH DAY and you'll be happy you are at Maiden Lake to partake. And they serve up a good relish tray, which is always a great touch.
Arthur's is another reason to come to scenic Spring Green. They've been serving up delicious and classic Wisconsin fare since 1966, using locally sourced ingredients like Angus Beef and real Wisconsin cheese. Friday is fish fry day, Saturday is prime rib, and Sunday is turkey dinner. Need we say more? Oh, and if you just want to drink in a great atmosphere, head here for the bar. And drink an Old Fashioned. For tradition.
Have a favorite Wisconsin supper club that you support? Show them some love in the comments…and don’t forget to take a look here for even more fantastic supper clubs in Wisconsin.
