Wisconsin is known for its incredible food and its incredible outdoor atmosphere. In the middle of summer, there’s no better time to hit up some of Lake Country’s most beloved, scenic restaurants. These are the spots where you can enjoy an old fashioned, have a great bite to eat, and soak up the natural beauty of a midwest summer.
Weissberger’s Golden Mast Inn
It’s called a “Lake Country experience” for a reason, because what list would be complete without it? The Golden Mast is a local tradition, with a reputation that draws in clientele from Milwaukee, Madison, and beyond. They have two beautiful dining rooms, a banquet hall that stuns, and an atmosphere that is classical yet chic.
The restaurant first opened in 1967, and over the past few decades, it has become a beloved part of the area’s heritage. Founded by German immigrants a short time after they moved to the surrounding Milwaukee area, you can still find traces of their European tastes on the menu. Wiener schnitzel, roasted duck, and beef rouladen are all unforgettable options that are worth trying. However, for those feeling slightly less adventurous, their steaks and seafood are classics.
The toughest decision you’ll make at the Golden Mast is which dessert to try- Thankfully, they offer a German sample, where you can try their Bienenstich, black forest, apple strudel, and schaum torte.
5 O’Clock Club Pewaukee
Located directly on lovely Pewaukee Lake, the 5 O’Clock Club is one of the oldest restaurants in the area. It was founded in 1929 when a pair of Yugoslavian immigrants moved from Milwaukee to Pewaukee. The restaurant has been in the family of four generations, but their values and commitment to creating a timeless spot where people can enjoy good food and good company hasn’t changed.
The 5 O’Clock Club has a massive menu with a little something for everyone. At lunch, their burgers are divine, and in the evening, they have everything from beef tenderloin to deep fried vegetables. They’ve also won the ‘Best Fish Fry’ award multiple years in a row.
Curly’s Waterfront Sports Bar and Grill
Another Pewaukee Lake favorite, Curly’s is laid back and loaded with love. After a long day on the boat or at the beach, it’s a great place to settle down and have a beer, a cocktail, and a great dinner. They offer weekly specials that pair nicely with their fun selection of menu staples (Trust us- try the crab rangoon pizza!). On the weekends in summer, they usually have live music available. Their wrap around porch is the perfect place to watch a sunset and relax with friends after a long day in the sun. Cheers!
