One of the very best things to do in Wisconsin is to get in your car and start driving. All across the state there are amazing and fantastic small towns that you might never have heard of, but are full of wonderful things to do, see and eat! The best part of small-town eating is you know you’re supporting the community and it’s often these places where you’ll find locals gathering – giving you the most authentic experience.
There are so truly delicious and magnificent restaurants in Wisconsin’s small towns if you’re willing to go out and find them. Here are 11 towns that have enough great food to keep you full and happy for days at a time:
This Driftless Region town is home to the largest organic co-op in the country and Driftless Cafe has been nominated for a James Beard. There's also Cowboy David's Bake Shoppe, Kickapoo Valley Coffee Roasters and the Rooted Spoon. You will not go hungry - or uncaffeinated - in Viroqua.
A great stop when you're headed down the Mississippi River, Trempealeau's Hungry Point Bar and Grill has great water views, the Historic Trempealeau Hotel is a town staple, River Cafe is a great quick option and Sullivan's Supper Club is quintessential Wisconsin.
This charming northwoods spot often gets overlooked in favor of nearby Minocqua, but you won't be sad you had a meal at Jacobi's, Hazelhurst Pub or the Watering Hole.
When you're heading out to finally see Amnicon Falls, plan to stay a bit a get your chow on at Kounty Quarthouse, Dreamland Supper Club and Breakwater Restaurant.
If you've never ventured to Mineral Point, make it a priority. This little town is chock full of history and has been rejuvenated as an artist's colony of sorts. There are tons of galleries and shops here, plus great restaurants. Try a pasty at Red Rooster or hit upGrey Dog Deli, Brewery Creek, Popolo Pizzeria or dress up for dinner at The Walker House.
This little spot outside Green Bay is home to some of the best restaurants in the area. Chives is a favorite of the football players, Rustique utilizes all the fresh local produce and then there's Tapped, Mustard Seed Cafe and so much more.
The pie at Stockholm Pie Company is reason enough to visit, but Lena's Lucky Star and Nosh will fill you up before you head for dessert. If you're there in warm weather, A to Z has amazing pizza on the farm.
If you've never checked out the awesome architectural gems in Rhinelander, plan a trip to do some sightseeing and bring your appetite for places like Brown Street 151, CT's Deli, Shady Sue's and Fireside Supper Club.
Unusual options and tons of great homemade jams, sauces and salsas make a stop Hixton Blue Collar Cafe something you'll never regret. Then head over to Northfield Cafe to finish your dining adventure.
One of those charming towns that looks too cute and quaint to be real, Pepin is a totally under-appreciated weekend getaway spot. You'll never go hungry or unhappy at Harbor View Cafe, Homemade Cafe and The Pickle Factory.
Head to the southwest corner of the state for some interesting state history, some breweries and wineries and meals at Wheel Inn, The Burg, and Water Street Place.
