I Feasted On Fried Cheese And Accordion Music In An Underground Wisconsin Ratskeller
By Ben Jones|Published May 02, 2024
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Ben Jones
Author
Ben Jones is at heart an adventurer who delights in inspiring others. A former reporter and photojournalist, he explored towns large and small as a Wisconsin correspondent for USA Today. He later became a lead photographer and senior copywriter for an award-winning destination marketing agency, before founding Boldland Creative, a company that produces photography, video, and other content for travel destinations. Jones has completed photography and content projects in more than 15 states and when he’s not looking through a camera or at his Macbook you’ll find him exploring the world’s lakes and forests.
If you’ve spend any time in Wisconsin, you’re no stranger to delicious Wisconsin fried cheese. But when I visited a restaurant in Monroe, I tasted a dish that was simply delicious. As accordion music played, I savored a Swiss delight at Turner Hall’s Ratskeller Restaurant. It was one of the best things I’ve tasted in a while; here’s why it was so good and why this place is one of the best local restaurants in Monroe.
Monroe is located in Green County in the southern part of the state. It’s sometimes referred to as "the Swiss Cheese Capital of the USA,” and it has a rich Swiss heritage, which it celebrates through various events, festivals, and cultural attractions.
Dating to 1868, it's the sole Turner Hall of Swiss descent remaining in the United States, and it’s one of the longest-operating Swiss institutions in the nation. I parked right across the street.
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The building is home to a bowling alley and an impressive Grand Hall.
The underground Ratskeller Restaurant treats diners to a menu filled with old-world Swiss dishes, including Kalberwurst, Shublig, and Schnitzel ala Huhner.
You won’t be disappointed – just order the beer-battered baby Swiss. This deep fried delicacy is served with honey mustard. It’s awesome – it takes fried cheese to another level!
If you’re lucky, you’ll be treated to some authentic background music.
When I was there, the accordion player set the perfect tone!
I hope to return to the Ratskeller soon – it’s a must-visit when you’re in Monroe, especially if you’re a lover of Wisconsin fried cheese. Learn more on the Turner Hall of Monroe website. Planning a Wisconsin trip? Here’s some travel gear that is also great for the planet. Gear up!
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