Wisconsin is full of surprises, including unexpected restaurants that add a little extra fun to your outing. Keep reading to discover cool, offbeat spots perfect for vibing with your crew or hanging with the fam.
Safe House – Milwaukee
You’ll have to do some sleuthing to find the red alleyway door that leads to this one-of-a-kind restaurant and bar in Milwaukee. Once you find the door, the “agent” will ask for the password. If you can’t guess correctly, don’t fret–the agent will simply give you a quick, secret mission to gain entry.
Once inside, there are plenty of secret passages, hidden doors and espionage-themed decorations to explore while waiting for your meal. Bring the whole family during the day to share German pretzel bites, the “Pulled Pork Provaceteur” and “License to Kill Mac,” along with other delicious spy-themed specialties. Or, visit after 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays for late-night fun (ages 21 and over) with craft cocktails such as “The Great Spytini” made with Vodka, triple sec, pomegranate syrup and lime.
Buffalo Phil’s Pizza Grille – Wisconsin Dells
After you choose from the expansive menu at Buffalo Phil’s in Wisconsin Dells that includes pizza, pasta, burgers, wraps and more, the real fun begins. Explore the themed displays throughout the large restaurant such as LEGO Brick City, arcade games and a Taylor Swift Eras Tour section.
Soon, you’ll see your food and drinks on their way to your table via toy trains! After filling up on tasty food and the unique atmosphere, head next door to Knuckleheads Trampoline Park for even more fun activities the whole family will love.
Seven Acre Dairy – Paoli
What’s more Wisconsin than a cheese factory? How about a restored cheese factory that’s now a boutique hotel, restaurant, cafe and micro dairy? Seven Acre Dairy in Paoli, just southwest of Madison, is nestled on the bank of the Sugar River and surrounded by idyllic nature and small dairy farms. Stop in for dinner or brunch at Little Cloud Restaurant or for a scoop of handmade ice cream at Landmark Creamery & Cafe.
Extend your stay by booking a room at the inn that features historic architecture with modern amenities. For extra fun, stroll across the street to The Mill Paoli for live music, outdoor markets, charming shops and other unique events for the whole family.
Don’s TV & Repair – Milwaukee
Visit Milwaukee’s Walker’s Point neighborhood for a diner experience unlike anywhere else. Hiding behind a storefront labeled “Don’s TV and Repair,” this speakeasy restaurant serves up dinner throughout the week as well as weekend brunch that includes smashburgers, boozy milkshakes and fruity pebble waffles. Visit on Thursday nights for 10-cent martinis (really!) or on Fridays for a classic Wisconsin fish fry. No matter which day you visit, you and your crew are in for a memorable meal.
Hot Rocks – Wisconsin Dells
There are plenty of places in Wisconsin Dells to enjoy steaks, seafood and burgers, but Tiki-themed Hot Rocks is unique in offering the chance to cook your own food over hot volcanic rocks. From sirloin steak and filet mignon to lobster tails and plant-based burgers, everything sizzles deliciously at your table over rocks that are pre-heated to 750 degrees Fahrenheit. Your group will love the interactive experience and over-the-top island-themed drinks at this festive and fun restaurant.
Camp Trippalindee – Madison
Dining and Cooking