Cedarburg Restaurants: 40+ Lunch and Dinner Spots

Cedar Creek Settlement

Tucked into the rolling countryside of Ozaukee County just twenty miles north of downtown Milwaukee, Cedarburg is one of Wisconsin's most charming small towns — and its dining scene punches far above its weight. With more than forty restaurants, cafés, breweries, and eateries packed into a walkable historic downtown, this little gem along Cedar Creek delivers everything from award-winning thin-crust pizza and French-style crepes to creative Mexican street tacos and steaks sizzling over an open grill inside a 180-year-old stone farmhouse. Whether you are planning a Saturday afternoon family outing or a weeknight dinner that feels like a mini getaway, Cedarburg's restaurant scene has something wonderful waiting for you.

What makes dining here so special is the setting. Nearly every restaurant occupies a beautifully restored nineteenth-century building — think exposed brick, tin ceilings, antique wooden bars, and fieldstone walls that have stood since the Civil War era. Washington Avenue, the tree-lined main street, is the heart of it all, and you can park for free on the street or in nearby municipal lots and simply stroll from one delicious stop to the next.

A few standout spots sit within the Cedar Creek Settlement, a cluster of historic stone mill buildings perched above Cedar Creek and its picturesque waterfall, while other favorites are scattered along Highway 60, Covered Bridge Road, and the surrounding neighborhoods.

This guide covers every lunch and dinner restaurant we could find in Cedarburg — organized by type so you can jump straight to whatever your family is craving. We have included addresses, price ranges, atmosphere details, family-friendly notes, standout dishes, and practical tips about reservations and parking so you can plan your visit with confidence.

Gastropubs and upscale dining

Stilt House Gastro Bar at W62 N630 Washington Avenue is the restaurant most visitors hear about first, and for good reason. Housed in a historic building from the early 1900s that was literally raised onto stilts by its original owner to sneak in a ground floor when the city denied a second-story addition, the Stilt House has become Cedarburg's flagship gastropub since opening in 2013. The menu rotates frequently with creative small plates built around locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. You will find standouts like the Stilt Burger, Blackened Shrimp Tacos, Wild Mushroom Flatbread, Lobster BLT, baby back ribs, and a bread pudding that inspires near-fanatical loyalty. The bar pours more than thirty craft beers on tap alongside an impressive wine list and handcrafted cocktails, with half-price bottles of wine every Monday. The outdoor patio overlooking Cedar Creek is one of the most enchanting spots in town when the weather cooperates. Families are welcome — there is a dedicated kids' menu — and the atmosphere is classy but casual enough for a Tuesday night with the little ones. No reservations are taken for small parties, so plan to walk in and grab a seat. Price range is moderate at around $$ per person.

Union House Cedarburg at W62 N559 Washington Avenue brings city-level sophistication to the small-town setting with a modern tapas concept that feels fresh and exciting. This newer addition to the downtown lineup occupies a beautifully preserved historic building and delivers shareable small plates with bold, globally inspired flavors alongside award-winning craft cocktails. The seasonal menu keeps things interesting, and the warm cookies with a modern twist have earned a devoted following. A cozy outdoor patio adds to the appeal in warmer months. Union House is better suited for date nights or adults-only outings than toddler-wrangling family dinners, but older kids who enjoy adventurous food will have a great time. Reservations are available online, which is a rarity in downtown Cedarburg. Expect to spend in the $$ to $$$ range.

North 48 at W62 N599 Washington Avenue offers a modern spin on the classic Northwoods lodge theme, with warm wood tones, craft cocktails, Wisconsin craft beers, and a solid wine list creating a cozy atmosphere right on the main downtown strip. The American-style menu and relaxed vibe make this a comfortable choice for families and groups looking for a casual but polished meal in the $$ range.

The Farmstead at N62 W238 Washington Avenue is one of Cedarburg's most unforgettable dining experiences and a true destination restaurant. Set inside a 180-year-old fieldstone farmhouse decorated with antique farm implements and warmed by the aroma of Angus steaks sizzling on an open grill just behind the bar, the Farmstead feels like stepping into another era. The menu centers on hearty American steakhouse fare — their signature garlic-glazed Angus steaks, the beloved "Farmbites" appetizer of grilled tenderloin slices on garlic toast topped with dill pickles, whitefish, and seasonal specials. This is a small, intimate space with a devoted local following, which means waits can be long on Friday and Saturday nights. The restaurant does not accept reservations, so arrive by 3:30 or 4:00 PM on weekends to snag a table, or put your name on the list and enjoy an old fashioned at the bar while you wait. Dinner only, open Wednesday through Saturday. The Farmstead sits at the north end of Washington Avenue and is easy to miss if you are not looking, but it is absolutely worth seeking out. Pricing lands in the $$$ range, and the atmosphere skews more toward special occasions and date nights, though families with older children will appreciate the experience.

Timber Club at W61 N520 Washington Avenue is one of Cedarburg's newest gathering spots, located behind the historic Stagecoach Inn Bed and Breakfast. The structure itself is a hand-crafted timber frame built from locally sourced white pine, spruce, and ash logs, giving the space a warm, lodge-like character unlike anything else in town. Chef Alex Martinez and Joel Rivett curate a seasonal menu of shareable small plates, fresh salads, sandwiches, and supper-club-inspired favorites, all made with locally sourced ingredients. Live music adds energy on select evenings. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 4:00 to 10:00 PM, the Timber Club works well for families looking for something a little different at a $$ to $$$ price point.

Classic American pubs, grills, and Friday fish fry

Anvil Pub and Grille at N70 W6340 Bridge Road in the Cedar Creek Settlement might have the most spectacular restaurant setting in all of Cedarburg. Built inside a beautifully restored nineteenth-century blacksmith's shop, the Anvil features original architectural details from the building's forge days, a stone hearth oven where their signature "Forge" sandwiches are freshly baked, and a creekside patio that overlooks Cedar Creek and its waterfall. The menu covers American pub favorites done well — the Cedar Burger, short rib mushroom melt, cedar plank Atlantic salmon, baby back ribs with housemade BBQ sauce, and BBQ duck tacos are all excellent choices. The patio even offers personal heated igloos for winter dining. Families will feel right at home, and the Anvil is one of the few downtown restaurants that accepts reservations through Tock, with each seating lasting ninety minutes. Arrive ten to fifteen minutes early. The price range is a comfortable $$.

C. Wiesler's Saloon and Eatery at W61 N493 Washington Avenue is pure Cedarburg charm. The building dates to 1885, and the antique bar inside was discovered in Mineral Point and dates to 1892. Large wooden booths, exposed brick, tin ceilings, and Cedarburg's original outdoor deck with colorful umbrellas make this a wonderfully atmospheric spot for a casual meal. Owner Mike Jackson has run the place for more than twenty-five years, and the menu focuses on what matters — specialty burgers like the Margarita Burger and the Bourbon Street Burger with bourbon glaze and blue cheese, a Reuben sandwich that locals call the best in Ozaukee County, and a Friday Night Fish Fry with options ranging from beer-battered haddock to grilled salmon. Kids' menus and high chairs are available. No reservations, no hostess — just seat yourself or check with the bartender. Open Wednesday through Saturday for dinner. A true bargain in the $ to $$ range.

Jim's Grille at W63 N144 Washington Avenue is a beloved local diner serving hearty comfort food at prices that make it one of the best values in town. The menu is built around Jim's renowned broasted chicken, handmade pizzas, big sandwiches like the Super King James burger and Southwest steak wrap, and a Friday fish fry featuring perch and cod. Breakfast is served all day, which is great news for families with picky eaters who want pancakes at dinnertime. The atmosphere is warm and friendly — this is the kind of place where the staff remembers your order. Note that Jim's Grille is cash only, so hit the ATM before you go. Open for breakfast and lunch most days, with dinner hours Wednesday and Thursday. Price range is firmly in the $ category.

Maxwell's at W63 N699 Washington Avenue has been serving Cedarburg since 1983 and remains a go-to neighborhood tavern for locals who want good bar food, daily drink specials, and a reliably fun atmosphere. Wednesday nights bring dollar-twenty-five soft tacos and karaoke, while Friday delivers the classic Wisconsin fish fry. Multiple TVs make it a good spot for catching the Packers game with the family. Casual, affordable, and unpretentious in the $ to $$ range.

The Hamilton at 228 Hamilton Road sits in the Hamilton District, a neighborhood listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and offers a classic bar-and-grill experience with an original stable overlooking Cedar Creek. The food and beverages earn consistent praise from regulars, and the historic setting gives even a simple burger a sense of occasion. A solid pick for families exploring beyond the Washington Avenue corridor, priced at $ to $$.

Morton's WisconsInn at N56 W6339 Center Street is a full-service tavern that locals swear by for steaks, seafood, and surprisingly good Mexican specials. The real showstopper, though, is their Surf n' Turf Bloody Mary, which arrives crowned with shrimp and kippered beef — a weekend brunch experience unto itself. It is a relaxed, family-friendly spot with honest food and generous pours, priced at $ to $$.

The Elbow Room Twelve21 at 1221 North Wauwatosa Road is the newest major addition to Cedarburg's dining landscape, having opened in December 2025 in the space formerly occupied by the beloved Galioto's Twelve21, which closed after thirty-seven years. The new concept comes from the owners of Sierzant Wine Bar in Cedarburg and the original Elbow Room in Brookfield, with the space expanded to roughly five times the original restaurant's footprint. The menu centers on premium smashburgers created in partnership with Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Thomas, alongside pizza, wings, steaks, and an extensive beer and cocktail program. Five outdoor sand volleyball courts, an expanded patio with pergola and heating, and a large event space make this a destination for families and groups alike. Expect a casual, sports-centric atmosphere with plenty of TVs, priced in the $$ range.

Pizza that puts this small town on the map

Tomaso's at W63 N688 Washington Avenue is a Cedarburg institution, and for many locals it is simply the only pizza that matters. Operating since 1976, this small, cozy neighborhood pizzeria has been named the number-one pizza in Ozaukee County by Milwaukee Magazine, and the secret is in the technique — their signature thin crust places the cheese underneath the sauce, creating a distinctively crispy, flavorful base unlike anything you will find elsewhere.

Deep dish is also available, and both come in regular, whole wheat, gluten-free, and cauliflower crust options. Beyond pizza, the menu includes solid Italian dinners like lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, and ravioli, plus crowd-pleasers like garlic bread, pickle fries, and homemade potato chips. German and Wisconsin craft beers flow from the taps. The ordering system is old-school — seat yourself and order at the bar — and the space is small enough that it can get packed and noisy on weekend evenings. For families with strollers or large groups, takeout or a par-bake pizza to finish at home might be the move. No reservations. Prices are wonderfully low in the $ range, with a ten-inch pizza starting around fifteen dollars.

Sal's Pizza at W63 N635 Washington Avenue offers another solid pizza option right on Washington Avenue with indoor and outdoor seating. The crust is fresh and crispy, the toppings are generous, and the location could not be more convenient for a quick slice while strolling through downtown. This is a dependable, no-fuss pizza stop priced at $ to $$.

Even Odds Pizza serves up thin crust, hand-tossed, and Detroit-style deep-dish pizza in a casual, quick-service setting near the Cedarburg and Grafton border. The Detroit-style deep dish and Margherita pizza are standouts, and a loyalty magnet program rewards regulars with a free pizza after twelve purchases. Great for families who want a quick, affordable meal in the $ range.

Tacos, margaritas, and Mexican

Lime Cantina at W62 N550 Washington Avenue has quickly become one of the most popular restaurants in downtown Cedarburg, and it is easy to see why. The atmosphere is vibrant and festive, with a mosaic-tiled bar, Day of the Dead-inspired décor, and live music every Friday and Saturday evening from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. Everything is made fresh in-house, including the syrups and margaritas, and the menu delivers creative Mexican fare that goes well beyond the basics. Brisket tacos, duck tacos, mole ribs, Picante Hanger Steak, tequila-braised brisket flautas, and Mexican street corn are all excellent, and the margarita flights are a must-try for the adults. A large heated outdoor patio tent operates year-round, making this a reliable option even in the dead of a Wisconsin winter. Families are welcome — the festive energy appeals to all ages — and reservations are accepted and recommended, since the restaurant fills up fast. Expect to spend around $$ to $$$ for a full dinner with drinks.

La Cantina Mexican Restaurant at W63 N170 Washington Avenue offers a more traditional Mexican dining experience with a full-service menu of enchiladas, fajitas, carne asada, burritos, tacos, and freshly made guacamole. The atmosphere is casual and comfortable, with TVs throughout and a welcoming vibe for families with children. Open seven days a week for both lunch and dinner, from 11:00 AM through 9:00 or 10:00 PM depending on the day, La Cantina fills the need for reliable, affordable Mexican food in the $ to $$ range. Online ordering is available for takeout and delivery.

Asian flavors

Le's Pho at W63 N148 Washington Avenue may sit in an unassuming strip mall on the south side of Cedarburg rather than in the heart of the historic downtown, but do not let the location fool you — this family-run Vietnamese restaurant is one of the most acclaimed dining spots in town. The pho is exceptional, with rich, fragrant broth and fresh rice noodles, and the menu extends to charbroiled pork vermicelli, shaken beef tenderloin, clay pot dishes, crispy egg rolls, and banh mi sandwiches. TripAdvisor reviewers regularly call Le's Pho a "hidden gem," and the extremely friendly service makes the whole experience feel personal and special. The prices are remarkably fair for the quality, landing solidly in the $ to $$ range. Open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM, closed Sunday. This is a terrific family-friendly option for adventurous young eaters.

New Fortune Asian Cuisine at W62 N547 Washington Avenue is the only Chinese restaurant in downtown Cedarburg proper and has a heartwarming backstory — the original was opened in 1997 by Cambodian refugees, and the restaurant is now run by sons Jimmy and Wilson Phoa, carrying on their parents' legacy. The menu features classic Chinese-American favorites like sesame chicken and crab rangoon alongside Cambodian-influenced dishes and rotating specials with Thai, Korean, and Japanese influences. Gluten-free options and a dedicated kids' menu make this an easy, affordable choice for families at $ to $$.

Brunch spots, bakeries, and cafés

PJ Piper Pancake House at W61 N514 Washington Avenue is a Cedarburg breakfast and brunch institution where the portions are enormous, the pancakes are impossibly fluffy, and the homemade chicken and dumpling soup earns raves from everyone who tries it. The menu also features creative touches like Eggs Benedict over cornbread, a gyro skillet, chicken fried steak, and seasonal pumpkin pancakes. The atmosphere is pure old-school diner charm — cozy, welcoming, and the kind of place where families linger over coffee and seconds. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM and Sunday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM, closed Monday. No reservations, first come first served. An absolute bargain in the $ range and a must-visit for any family trip to Cedarburg.

Brunch at W62 N535 Washington Avenue — yes, the restaurant is literally called Brunch — is a modern, cheery café that has quickly earned a devoted following since opening on the main downtown strip. Owner Katrina Wendtland, a local mom, has created a space with vibrant décor, expansive rooftop seating with stunning views, and a creative menu featuring Chicken and Waffles, French Toast Sticks with lemon ricotta dipping sauce, Chorizo Tacos, the indulgent Dad Bod breakfast plate, and a Quinoa Power Bowl for the health-conscious. The cocktail menu is equally creative, with Bloody Mary flights, mimosa flights, and a Chai Old Fashioned among the offerings. Open seven days a week from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Family-friendly with a diverse menu that has something for everyone. A live waitlist is available through the website. Price range is $$.

Toast Cedarburg at 1302 Washington Avenue brings cute, hippie-chic vibes to the brunch scene with tie-dye décor, records on the walls, and a menu that delivers delightful surprises like giant buttermilk pancakes, warm mini donuts with cinnamon sugar and caramel apple cider sauce, avocado toast loaded with crispy bacon and feta on sourdough, and house-baked coffee cakes with cinnamon streusel. It is a fun, Instagram-worthy spot that families will enjoy. Open Monday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM and Saturday through Sunday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Prices are very friendly in the $ to $$ range.

Boulangerie Du Monde at W62 N588 Washington Avenue is an artisan French bakery that transports you straight to a Parisian boulangerie the moment you walk through the door. The croissants, pain au chocolat, morning buns, and baguettes are made fresh daily without preservatives and are genuinely on par with what you would find in France. Items sell out quickly — especially the spinach and feta croissants available only on Fridays — so arrive early for the best selection. While Boulangerie Du Monde is primarily a bakery rather than a sit-down lunch spot, the quality of the pastries and breads makes it an essential stop for any Cedarburg food tour. Open Tuesday through Saturday starting at 7:00 AM. Prices are in the $$ range for artisan baked goods and are worth every penny.

Cream and Crepe Cafe at N70 W6340 Bridge Road in the Cedar Creek Settlement has been a Cedarburg treasure for more than forty years, serving homemade savory and dessert crepes in rustic surroundings overlooking Cedar Creek. The savory crepes — including Reuben, Chicken Cordon Bleu, and spinach-bacon-mushroom with Swiss almond cheese sauce — make a satisfying lunch, while the dessert crepes loaded with ice cream, hot fudge, and fresh fruit are the perfect treat afterward. The homemade soups, especially the cream of mushroom, earn standout reviews from visitors. This family-owned café also serves salads, sandwiches, and ice cream sundaes. The atmosphere is enchanting, with views of the historic mill complex and creek. Reservations are accepted, and the price range is a very reasonable $ to $$. Open Monday, Wednesday through Friday for lunch, and Saturday through Sunday with extended hours. Closed Tuesday.

Fiddleheads Coffee at W62 N605 Washington Avenue is a charming downtown coffeehouse with locally roasted coffee, artisan pastries, a full breakfast and lunch menu featuring sandwiches and soups, and a gorgeous patio with a gas fire pit. The upstairs features a full mural and cozy seating that invites you to stay a while. It is an ideal family stop for a light midday meal or an afternoon pick-me-up, priced at $ to $$.

Cedarburg Coffee Roastery at W62 N603 Washington Avenue is a locally owned gem where you can watch coffee being roasted on-site while enjoying hand-crafted espresso drinks, smoothies, gelato, and freshly baked treats including giant cookies, cranberry bars, snickerdoodle cheesecake, and biscotti. The historic building overlooks the river, and the warm wood-floored interior decorated with local artwork creates a cozy atmosphere. Signature blends and single-origin coffees from Guatemala, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, and even Hawaiian Kona are available by the bag to take home. Open daily, with prices in the $ to $$ range.

Dorsey's Café and Market at W63 N657 Washington Avenue is a wonderful discovery for families — part café, part bakery, part deli, and part market, all housed in a 130-year-old historic building that previously operated as the Settlers Inn. Chef Bryan crafts a menu of locally sourced soups, salads, wraps, toasted sandwiches, and burgers, with the mushroom Swiss burger earning special acclaim. The award-winning pies and desserts are a highlight, and the Friday fish fry features breaded pan-fried Lake Perch with potato pancakes and homemade dinner rolls. A coffee and espresso bar, gluten-free options, and a kids' menu round out the family-friendly appeal. You can also grab frozen entrée meals and their famous pot pies from the market section to enjoy at home later. This women-owned and diverse-owned business is open Tuesday through Saturday, with prices in the $$ range.

Sandwich shops, subs, and family-friendly quick bites everyone will love

The Chocolate Factory Sensational Subs and Sundaes at W62 N577 Washington Avenue is a Cedarburg institution that has been delighting families since 1972 — and it remains one of the most beloved stops in town for both lunch and dessert. The sub sandwiches are built on fresh rolls baked in small batches all day long, with standouts including the Blackberry Turkey with smoked turkey breast, blackberry jam, provolone, and giardiniera pepper mix, plus classics like The Sicilian and the Club Classic. But the real magic happens at the ice cream counter, where twenty-six flavors of homemade Blommer's Wisconsin ice cream await, along with legendary hot fudge sundaes made with real whipped cream and crushed almonds, banana splits, milkshakes, and the Cornucopia — a towering four-pound ice cream challenge. A kids' menu with chips, a cookie, and a small soda makes this a slam dunk for families. Counter service, no reservations needed, firmly in the $ range. Open daily.

Out and Out Eatery and Catering at W61 N305 Washington Avenue is a quirky, locally loved spot known as the unofficial "Mac and Cheese House" of Cedarburg. The homemade custard is fantastic, the creamy mac and cheese is the stuff of local legend, and the grilled paninis and salads are reliably good. Gluten-free options are available, and the whole operation has a delightfully frugal, practical, unpretentious energy that families will appreciate. Catering is also available for larger gatherings. Priced at $ to $$.

Wayne's Drive-In at 1331 Covered Bridge Road near the Five Corners intersection is a retro 1950s-style drive-in that ranks among the most fun family dining experiences in Ozaukee County. The distinctive twelve-sided building, outdoor picnic tables, and classic car cruise nights on Wednesday and Thursday evenings during summer create an atmosphere straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting. The menu features award-winning Black Angus charbroiled burgers, including the signature Big Wayne, along with hot dogs, chicken tenders, BBQ pulled pork, a Friday fish fry, crispy fries, and Cedar Crest ice cream shakes and malts. Note that Wayne's is a seasonal operation, open from early April through mid-November, Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Closed Mondays. When it is open, it is one of the best values in town in the $ range and an absolute must for families.

Hefner's Frozen Custard and Jumbo Burgers at N71 W5184 Columbia Road has been a Cedarburg institution since 1995, serving up thick, juicy jumbo burgers alongside fourteen rotating flavors of creamy frozen custard. The menu also includes fish sandwiches, chicken tenders, gyros, Philly cheesesteaks, onion rings, and a Friday fish fry. Located outside the downtown core, Hefner's has its own parking lot and a loyal neighborhood following. Open daily for lunch and dinner, with prices in the $ to $$ range.

Breweries, wine bars, and tasting rooms

The Fermentorium Brewery and Tasting Room at 7481 Highway 60 is a spacious, inviting craft brewery about a five-minute drive from downtown Cedarburg, and it is well worth the short detour. Founded in 2016, the Fermentorium pours twenty-four craft beers on tap, including their flagship Juice Packets IPA, which is distributed across Wisconsin. The tasting room features an ambrosia maple bar, an art wall gallery, board games, and a large outdoor patio with green space — perfect for families on a nice day. The food menu includes locally sourced pizzas, gourmet hot dogs, and appetizers like pretzels with spicy cheese sauce, with food trucks appearing on select days. Beer flights run around twelve dollars for six pours, and four-packs are available to take home. Open daily with varying hours, this is one of Ozaukee County's first and finest craft breweries. Priced at $ to $$.

Rebellion Brewing at N57 W6172 Portland Road sits behind the Landmark building near the Cedar Creek Settlement and operates in the historic Cedarburg Mill space that previously housed Silver Creek Brewing. With a speakeasy-style entrance, old-world charm, cozy wood-and-brick décor, and one of the best outdoor beer gardens in Ozaukee County overlooking Cedar Creek, Rebellion delivers a memorable atmosphere alongside their house-brewed craft beers. Free popcorn is always available, pizza is on the menu, and the patio is dog-friendly. A casual, community-focused spot where "Beer For The People" is the motto. Open Tuesday through Sunday in the $ to $$ range.

Sierzant Wine Bar at N49 W5471 Portland Road is a charming wine bar with a carefully curated selection of fine wines, craft cocktails, and beer. The cozy interior and beautiful patio create an intimate atmosphere that makes it a favorite for date nights and girls' nights out. Same ownership group as the new Elbow Room Twelve21, Sierzant represents the more refined side of Cedarburg's beverage scene. Open Monday through Saturday with hours beginning in the late afternoon. Priced at $$ to $$$ and more adult-oriented.

Five20 Social Stop at W61 N520 Washington Avenue is the first-floor pub inside the historic Stagecoach Inn Bed and Breakfast, offering wine, beer, and handcrafted cocktails in a casual setting with live music on weekends. A new outdoor patio adds seasonal seating. It is a relaxed spot for a drink and a bite while exploring Washington Avenue, priced at $$.

Art of Joy Social House and Mercantile at W63 N664 Washington Avenue is one of Cedarburg's most unique concepts — part upscale cocktail bar, part retail mercantile, part bookstore (the only one in Ozaukee County), and part live music venue. Executive Chef Dan Lueth, who originally founded The Farmstead, crafts small plates and bites including their famous Maple Bourbon Bacon Deviled Eggs made with Nueske's bacon. The zero-proof cocktail menu is extensive for designated drivers and non-drinkers. Kids are welcome, with a dedicated movie area complete with silent disco headphones to keep little ones entertained. Outdoor gathering spaces along Cedar Creek round out the experience. Open Wednesday through Sunday, with prices in the $ to $$ range.

Cedar Creek Winery at N70 W6340 Bridge Road in the Cedar Creek Settlement is one of America's most noted small regional wineries and a cornerstone of Cedarburg's identity. While it is primarily a wine-tasting experience rather than a restaurant, tastings span everything from delicate whites to robust reds, and the setting inside the historic mill complex is lovely. The gift shop is open year-round. Pair a visit here with lunch at the Anvil Pub or Cream and Crepe Cafe right next door. Wine tastings are priced at $$.

Sweet treats and dessert stops

Amy's Candy Kitchen at W62 N579 Washington Avenue is not a restaurant, but it deserves a place in any Cedarburg food guide because it is genuinely one of the most remarkable confectioners in the country. The open-concept nineteenth-century stone kitchen lets visitors watch chocolatiers craft award-winning gourmet caramel apples — named Best Overall by the Wall Street Journal and featured on the Food Network — along with Belgian chocolate truffles, blue-ribbon fudge, English toffee, and almond bark. Everything is made from scratch daily using copper kettles and all-natural ingredients. The heavenly aroma of caramel that fills the shop is worth the visit alone. Kids are mesmerized watching the candy-making process. Open daily, with prices in the $$ to $$$ range for premium confections. Plan to leave with a bag or two.

The Creamy Pig at W62 N601 Washington Avenue is a seasonal downtown spot specializing in housemade frozen custard with fourteen rotating flavors, including vegan coconut milk options, alongside housemade sausages sold by the pound or cooked and served with chips. It is a fun, quirky little stop that is open roughly from April through late fall on a limited weekly schedule, typically Wednesday through Sunday. Check their social media for current hours and flavors. Priced at $.

Bowling alleys and entertainment venues where food meets fun

Circle B Recreation at 6261 Highway 60 is a third-generation family-owned entertainment destination featuring twenty-four bowling lanes, volleyball, horseshoe leagues, arcade games, and live music alongside a full bar and grill. The food menu includes wings, sliders, sixteen-inch pizzas, and a Friday fish fry with a buy-one-get-the-second-half-price deal. The retro 1970s vibe is a blast, and this is the kind of place where a family can spend an entire evening bowling, eating, and laughing. Located on Highway 60 outside the downtown core, Circle B has ample parking and a casual atmosphere priced at $ to $$. Open daily with varying hours.

Cedars III on Washington Avenue offers bowling, pool, and sports viewing alongside bar food and drinks in a laid-back recreational setting. It is another good option for families looking to combine entertainment with a casual meal, priced at $ to $$.

Everything you need to know

Parking in downtown Cedarburg is free and plentiful. Free street parking lines Washington Avenue and the surrounding blocks, and free municipal parking lots are located just steps from the main shopping and dining areas, including one behind Partnership Bank on Western Road and Hanover Avenue. The city publishes a downloadable downtown parking map showing all public lots and restrooms. Street parking can get tight during major festival weekends, so arriving early is wise. Note that overnight street parking is prohibited from December 1 through May 1 under the city's winter parking ordinance. Restaurants outside downtown — like Wayne's Drive-In, The Fermentorium, Circle B, and Elbow Room Twelve21 — all have their own dedicated lots with plenty of space.

The Friday Night Fish Fry is a sacred Wisconsin tradition, and Cedarburg takes it seriously. Nearly every pub and restaurant in town offers their own version on Friday nights, from beer-battered haddock at C. Wiesler's to breaded pan-fried Lake Perch at Dorsey's to cod at Wayne's Drive-In. If you are visiting on a Friday, picking a spot for fish fry is practically a requirement. Arrive on the early side, as popular spots fill up fast.

Cedarburg also hosts several annual food-friendly festivals that are worth planning a visit around. The Strawberry Festival in June fills Washington Avenue with strawberry shortcake, strawberry wine, live music, and art vendors. The Wine and Harvest Festival on the third weekend of September is a massive celebration featuring grape stomping, a grape-spitting contest, the Giant Pumpkin Charity Regatta with carved-pumpkin boats, and hundreds of artisan vendors. Oktoberfest arrives on the first weekend of October with German food, beer, and music, and the Winter Festival on the third weekend of February brings themed festivities and a "BRRR Garden" to warm the spirits. All of these festivals offer free admission and make for wonderful family outings.

Most Cedarburg restaurants operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations. The notable exceptions are Anvil Pub and Grille, which takes reservations through Tock, Lime Cantina, which accepts reservations and is especially accommodating for large groups, and Union House, which offers online reservations. For popular spots like The Farmstead and Tomaso's, arriving early — especially on weekends — is the best strategy.

A small-town dining scene with big-city depth

Cedarburg's restaurant scene is a rare thing — a small Wisconsin town where you can eat crepes overlooking a waterfall, share creative Mexican tapas under twinkling patio lights, bite into a legendary cheese-under-sauce thin crust pizza at a nearly fifty-year-old neighborhood joint, and finish the night with handmade frozen custard and a stroll past candy shops and art galleries. The historic buildings lend every meal a sense of place and story that chain restaurants simply cannot replicate, and the prevalence of family-owned establishments means the food is made with genuine care. For North Shore families, Cedarburg is close enough for a weeknight dinner and special enough for a full Saturday adventure. The hardest part is choosing where to eat first.