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Savor Wisconsin's Finest: Top Dining Restaurants

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Wisconsin is home to many great restaurants. Besides being famous for beer and cheese, the state encompasses a wide variety of food specialties. Let your taste buds do the talking when you try these best restaurants in Wisconsin.


AJ Bombers, Milwaukee, WI

If you are looking for one of Wisconsin’s best burgers, stop on in to this spot. But a forewarning, AJ Bombers isn’t just your average burger joint. Try their famous Milwaukee Burger, with a quarter-pound burger, Colby cheese, Berkshire bacon topped with Schlitz onions. It’s no wonder the Milwaukee Burger was named Travel Channel’s Food War Winner. Pile on an egg, slap some peanut butter on it, or ask for mushrooms on AJ Bombers’ unconventional burgers.

Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant, Sister Bay, WI

This family-owned restaurant has an authentic Swedish atmosphere. Goats graze the grass rooftops, while staff is dressed in traditional clothing. Located in Sister Bay, this restaurant is perfect if you are traveling to, from, or through the Door County area. Grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner—their signature foods guarantee satisfaction. 

The Mariner's Inn, Madison, WI

Mariner’s Inn is home to Madison’s best steak and seafood. Waterfront dine on Lake Mendota at Mariner’s beautiful family-owned restaurant. Check out their famous lobster boils the last Thursday of every month.

The Old Fashioned, Madison, WI

The Old Fashioned is the ideal dinner destination for anyone who is looking to experience the downtown Madison atmosphere. The Old Fashioned is a great place to consume everything that Wisconsin has traditionally been known for. Order cheese curds, local beers, bratwurst, and of course—you can’t miss their Friday fish fry. Enjoy a quick walk to State Street and have a Wisconsin State Capital view while eating dinner.

Safe House, Milwaukee, WI

You are in for a real treat at this tricky place! The Safe House is no walk in the park. You have to work to get inside. If you don't know the password, then you must perform a comic gesture upon your admittance. This of course is broadcast throughout the restaurant for all the patrons to see-it's quiet entertaining. The Safe House caries the spy theme throughout the restaurant and is a must-stop place in Milwaukee…if you can find it!

MACS Macaroni and Cheese Shop, Appleton, WI

Do you love Macaroni and Cheese? MACS is the perfect place for you and your company. Share a platter with friends or try your own entree. Not only is there a diverse menu of mac and cheese platters but there are sandwiches, salads, a kid's menu, and desserts. Try a snippet of real Wisconsin cheese at any of the Wisconsin MACS locations in Sun Prairie, Appleton, Wisconsin Dells, or Lake Delton!

Crawfish Junction, Johnson Creek, WI

There's nothing more Wisconsin than a Friday night fish fry. More specifically, one at Crawfish Junction. Besides the upbeat and lively atmosphere, they have a lengthy menu to choose from. Try alligator and crawfish, or go a more conservative route by ordering a burger, wings, or their cod. There is something for every picky eater at this townie joint.

McGregor's Blink Bonnie, St. Germain, WI

If you're looking for a great supper club in the Northwoods, you need to check out McGregor's Blink Bonnie. This tiny joint has the best sizzling steaks and seafood mix. Keep in mind no reservations are taken and this place fills up fast-but it's worth the wait.

Key Insights at a Glance

  • AJ Bombers: Famous for creative burgers like the Milwaukee Burger, which includes a quarter-pound burger, Colby cheese, Berkshire bacon, and Schlitz onions. Known for winning on the Travel Channel's Food War.
  • Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant: An authentic Swedish dining experience with staff in traditional clothing and goats grazing on the grass roof. Offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with signature Swedish dishes.
  • The Mariner's Inn: Known for the best steak and seafood in Madison, with waterfront dining on Lake Mendota. Features monthly lobster boils.
  • The Old Fashioned: Located in downtown Madison, famous for traditional Wisconsin fare, including cheese curds, local beers, bratwurst, and a Friday fish fry.
  • Safe House: A spy-themed restaurant where guests need a password to enter or perform a comic gesture. Offers an engaging atmosphere with a secretive vibe.
  • MACS Macaroni and Cheese Shop: Specializes in diverse macaroni and cheese dishes, with additional offerings like sandwiches and salads. It features Wisconsin cheese and has multiple locations.
  • Crawfish Junction: Offers a lively setting and a broad menu that includes unique items like alligator and crawfish alongside more traditional dishes like burgers and wings.
  • McGregor's Blink Bonnie: A popular supper club in the Northwoods known for sizzling steaks and seafood. No reservations, often busy, but highly recommended for quality dining.
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