Each year, Milwaukee Magazine posts their ‘Best of the Burbs’ list. It has become an annual tradition, highlighting some of the most outstanding aspects of the greater Milwaukee area’s unique and diverse culture. Ranging from favorite restaurants to beloved public parks, the list is a way to celebrate some of southeastern Wisconsin’s finest offerings. Achieving a ‘Best of the Burbs’ status is an honor to say the least, and this year, Lake Country was well represented.
In terms of dining, the Lake Country area had several noteworthy winners. The Golden Mast took second in the ‘Patio Dining’ category, which makes sense considering its beautiful position on the shores of Okauchee Lake. The timeless spot has become a local favorite all throughout the year, serving everything from a homey Sunday brunch to a stellar prime rib dinner. In the ‘Date Night Restaurant’ category, two Lake Country classics tied for third. I.d., located in the Delafield Hotel, showed off with its chic atmosphere and exquisite farm fresh menu. Alongside it was the Red Circle Inn, which proudly boasts its historical merit as being the oldest supper club in Wisconsin, opening its doors for the first time in 1848. Just a stone’s throw from there, The Picnic Basket Restaurant ranked third in the ‘Sandwich’ category, staking its claim as a lunchtime favorite.
Lake Country has a variety of fabulously unforgettable restaurants, but there is so much more to the community. Two of its parks received awards for their stellar atmosphere. Naga-Waukee Park ranked third in the ‘Best Park- West’ category, cementing its status as a beautiful and important community gathering place that offers year-round fun. For those with an adventurous spirit, Kettle Moraine State Forest’s Lapham Peak Unit ranked first in hiking. Its scenery speaks for itself, offering visitors a memorable hike that is fun for beginners as well as the most experienced trail lovers.
Several other local spots were featured in the magazine’s ranking. The annual Oconomowoc Festival of the Arts was ranked third in the ‘Community Festival’ category. Held in Fowler Park, this late August event showcases the craftsmanship and artistic spirit that can be found in the heart of Lake Country. Vintage Barn Chicks ranked third in the ‘Gift Store’ category, with its unique, unrivaled collection of old and new treasures that anyone can fall in love with. Bank of Flowers ranked second in the ‘Florist’ category, with their Pewaukee location becoming a community favorite spot to find the best blooms all year long.
Although the list offers some tough competition, Lake Country knows how to hold its own. From fine dining to superb businesses, there is something everyone can love.
