Your Complete Guide to New Year's Dining in Waukesha County

Ringing in 2026 in Waukesha County? Whether you're seeking a prix fixe dinner, a family-friendly countdown celebration, or simply a reliable spot open on New Year's Day, this comprehensive guide covers every corner of the county—from downtown Waukesha to the shores of Pewaukee Lake. We've gathered hours, special menus, pricing, and reservation details so you can spend less time researching and more time celebrating.

The most important thing to know: reservations are essential for New Year's Eve, especially at fine dining establishments. Many upscale restaurants are already booking up, and several popular spots close entirely on New Year's Day. Call ahead to confirm hours, as holiday schedules can change.

Fine dining with special New Year's Eve menus

Waukesha County boasts an impressive collection of upscale restaurants pulling out all the stops for NYE, with prix fixe menus, champagne service, and spectacular settings.

The Commodore in Hartland represents the crown jewel of Lake Country dining. This Bartolotta restaurant on historic Nagawicka Lake earned a spot on Wine Enthusiast's Top 50 New Restaurants list in 2025. Executive Chef Scott Garthwaite has crafted a three-course prix fixe menu starting at $150 per person, featuring Georges Bank sea scallops, Wagyu ribeye, and sticky toffee pudding. Add-ons include a seafood tower, caviar service, and burrata with prosciutto. The restaurant serves from 4-10pm on NYE but closes New Year's Day. Reservations required through OpenTable or by calling (262) 563-8070.

Red Circle Inn in Nashotah—Wisconsin's oldest supper club, operating since 1848—offers a special NYE menu highlighting fresh tuna tartare, pan-seared halibut with white wine butter sauce, and bone-in tenderloin finished Diane-style. Butter-poached lobster is available as an add-on to any entrée. Entrées range from $25-54, and the recently refreshed historic dining rooms provide an elegant atmosphere. Regular hours run Monday-Thursday 4:30-9pm, Friday-Saturday 4:30-10pm. Make reservations through OpenTable or call (262) 367-4883.

I.d. Delafield, located inside The Delafield Hotel, earned recognition from People Magazine and OpenTable as one of America's most beautiful restaurants, plus six consecutive Wine Spectator awards. The new American small-plates concept offers shareable dishes in a stunning setting. Call (262) 249-6473 to inquire about NYE hours and make reservations through OpenTable.

Mr. B's – A Bartolotta Steakhouse in Brookfield serves an à la carte special menu from 4-10pm on NYE featuring lobster tail thermidor, sea scallops, and rigatoni pasta. This upscale steakhouse ($$$$) requires reservations through OpenTable. Call (262) 790-7005 for details.

Palmer's Steakhouse in Hartland has announced "New Year's Eve Early Access" reservations on their website. Known for charbroiled steaks, an award-winning wine list with 200+ selections, and Wisconsin supper club ambiance, Palmer's typically books 2-3 weeks in advance through Tock. Note they're confirmed closed on New Year's Day. The lounge opens at 3:30pm with dinner service from 5pm. Visit palmerssteakhouse.com or call (262) 369-3939.

Interactive and family-friendly celebrations

Several Waukesha County venues have designed NYE experiences specifically with families in mind, complete with early countdowns so little ones can celebrate before bedtime.

The Melting Pot in Brookfield offers an exclusive four-course fondue set menu from 4-11pm on NYE. Priced at $79.95 per adult and $30 per child 12 and under, the interactive experience includes cheese fondues (White Truffle Cheddar, Bacon & Gorgonzola, or Sparkling Gruyère), fresh salads, entrées cooked in champagne-infused broth, and chocolate fondue desserts like Dark Raspberry Espresso and Peanut Butter Pie. Private tables make this both romantic for couples and engaging for families. Reservations are required—seating is limited. Call (262) 782-6358 or book through OpenTable.

WhirlyBall Brookfield hosts a dedicated family NYE event with two sessions: 12-2pm or 3-5pm on December 31. For $40 per adult and $30 per child, families enjoy WhirlyBall (54" height requirement), bowling, laser tag (42" height requirement), pop-up games, and a buffet of pizza, mac and cheese bites, and fresh-baked cookies. The highlight? A kids' "bubbly" countdown at 6:30pm. Book through Eventbrite at whirlyball.com/brookfield or call (262) 786-7777.

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria at Brookfield Square offers a family-friendly early celebration. Their buffet begins at 3pm with a "bubbly" countdown at 5pm—perfect timing for families with young children who want to celebrate before heading home. The casual pizzeria atmosphere and famous Chicago deep-dish make this an easy, stress-free option ($$).

The Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee combines a NYE party with their indoor water park, though the evening celebration (6-11pm) is exclusive to overnight hotel guests. Activities include Minute to Win It games starting at 7pm, and an all-you-can-eat buffet from 6-8pm featuring pizza, mac and cheese, chicken tenders, and mini corn dogs ($17 adults, $13 children 2-12, free under 2). Day passes are valid 10am-6pm only. Book a room at theinglesidehotel.com or call (262) 547-0201 for a full family getaway experience.

Lakeside dining with stunning views

Waukesha County's chain of lakes provides spectacular backdrops for New Year's celebrations, and several restaurants capitalize on these settings.

Artisan 179 in Pewaukee overlooks Pewaukee Lake and promotes "Celebrate the New Year with us" on their website. The modern global cuisine includes filet mignon, sea bass, and signature craft cocktails, with a cozy fireplace adding winter ambiance. Regular hours run Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm and Friday-Saturday 11am-10pm (closed Sundays). The private "Rhino Room" accommodates groups up to 55 seated. Call (262) 691-0200 for NYE specifics and reservations. Expect to spend $16-30 per entrée.

Golden Mast Inn on Okauchee Lake has been family-owned for over 50 years, serving German specialties alongside steaks and seafood in a European atmosphere. The stunning lake views make this a destination spot, though their website notes "Holiday Hours May Vary," so calling ahead at (262) 567-7047 is essential. Most meals run under $30, and the Sunday brunch is particularly popular with families.

Butler Inn of Pewaukee hosts a NYE dinner with live entertainment starting at 4pm. This classic supper club has served the community for 36+ years, specializing in hand-cut steaks, seafood, and ribs. Their signature "Louie's 5 Star Signature Steak" runs $40, with surf and turf specials and complimentary champagne for special occasions. Reservations are highly recommended—call (262) 691-0840 or book online at butlerinnofpewaukee.com.

The Beach House Bistro in Pewaukee sits directly on Pewaukee Beach with Mediterranean-influenced small plates. The intimate setting (wine and beer only) suits adult couples better than families. Regular hours are Monday-Saturday 4-9pm; call (262) 696-4323 for NYE availability.

Downtown Waukesha's dining scene

Downtown Waukesha offers a walkable collection of restaurants, wine bars, and pubs clustered along Main Street.

Tofte's Table at 280 W. Main Street has earned a reputation as one of the area's best restaurants, known for seasonal shareable plates, scallops, and short ribs. The upscale American menu ($$$) serves Tuesday-Thursday 5-9pm and Friday-Saturday 5-10pm. They're normally closed Sundays and Mondays, so NYE (Tuesday) should see regular service—but call (262) 408-5633 to confirm. Reservations are strongly recommended via Resy.

Travieso inside the historic Clarke Hotel at 314 W. Main Street serves Latin fusion cuisine and has hosted NYE dinners in past years (reviewers describe their "New Year's Eve dinner at Travieso" as "nothing short of perfection"). The colorful, modern decor and brunch offerings make this a versatile choice. Call (262) 899-2520 for holiday hours and reservations.

Spring City Wine House at 336 W. Main Street features self-serve wine stations with 75+ wines by the glass, plus cheese and charcuterie boards. Since they're normally closed Sundays and Mondays, both NYE (Tuesday) and NYD (Wednesday) fall within regular operating hours (Tuesday-Thursday 3-11pm). This adult-oriented wine bar suits couples and groups; call (262) 232-8296 for confirmation.

Mainstream Bar & Grill at 404 W. Main Street is locally famous for "the best burger in Waukesha" and offers a more casual pub atmosphere ($$). With karaoke, live music, and trivia nights on their regular schedule, they're likely open for NYE celebrations. Kitchen typically closes around 10-11pm. Call (262) 544-6222.

Sobelman's Pub & Grill at 332 Williams Street brings their legendary Bloody Marys and specialty burgers to Waukesha. The famous "Beast" Bloody Mary makes for a memorable NYD brunch if you need something hearty. Regular hours are Tuesday-Friday 11am-9pm, Saturday-Sunday 10am-9pm (closed Mondays). Call (262) 408-2320 to verify holiday hours.

Oconomowoc's thriving restaurant row

Downtown Oconomowoc has developed into a legitimate dining destination with several spots promoting NYE celebrations.

Sobie's Restaurant at 123 E. Wisconsin Avenue in Oconomowoc offers an extensive NYE special menu showcasing farm-to-table cooking. Appetizers include steamed clams with pancetta, seared scallops with pea and mint purée, and butter-poached crab claws. Entrées feature clams and linguini, butter-poached salmon, horseradish-stuffed prime ribeye, prosciutto boursin-stuffed chicken, bourbon-glazed bone-in pork chop, and lake trout baked in salt. Save room for tarts à la Joe or crème brûlée. Call (262) 354-0812 for reservations ($$$).

The Hideaway Bar & Grill on Okauchee Lake actively promotes "Celebrate the New Year with us!" on their website. This casual American spot ($$) with happy hour Monday-Friday 11am-6pm provides a laid-back lakeside option. Visit hideawayokauchee.com for details.

Twisted Fire in downtown Oconomowoc serves wood-fired dishes and craft drinks in an industrial-modern space. Their website promotes NYE celebration; the casual atmosphere works well for families ($$). Visit twistedfirewi.com.

Kim's Gourmet Pub offers pizza, burgers, fish fry, and craft beer from their scratch kitchen. This family-owned spot promotes NYE and provides a comfortable, unpretentious setting ($$). Visit kimsgourmetpub.com.

The Etcetera Bar and Grill on Fowler Lake promotes NYE celebration with rooftop seating available. Visit theetcbarandgrill.com for details.

Important exception: Grill 164 in Oconomowoc has confirmed they're CLOSED on New Year's Eve, New Year's Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day—plan accordingly.

Brookfield's dining corridor along Bluemound

Brookfield's Bluemound Road and Moorland Road corridors pack in an impressive density of dining options.

Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar at 15665 W. Bluemound Road maintains regular hours on NYE (11am-10pm) with Social Hour from 3-6pm featuring $9 cocktails and bar bites. This upscale steakhouse ($$$$) welcomes reservations. Call (262) 782-9463.

Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant at 15 S. Moorland Road offers wine-paired dining with an on-site winery. On December 30, they host "La Dolce Vita" Wine Club Pairing Dinner at $100 per person featuring a five-course Italian menu with wine pairings. Regular NYE service continues with special wine-paired options. Reservations through OpenTable are highly recommended. Call (262) 785-9463.

Café Hollander at Brookfield Corners (20150 Union St) serves a special NYE-only Lobster Mac and Cheese—rotini pasta, five-cheese sauce, lobster meat, wild mushrooms, and leeks. The Belgian-American grand café typically operates 8am-midnight and works wonderfully for families. Winter Domes provide unique outdoor dining. Book through Toast or call (262) 785-4490.

Bonefish Grill at 18355 W. Bluemound Road offers upscale seafood ($$$) and typically operates 11am-9pm Sunday, 11am-10/11pm weekdays. Call (262) 797-0166 to confirm holiday hours.

Parkside 23 in Elm Grove (13275 Watertown Plank Rd) serves farm-to-table American cuisine with an outdoor farm experience. Book through OpenTable or visit parkside23.com. Call to confirm NYE/NYD hours.

New Year's Day brunch and dining options

Finding open restaurants on New Year's Day proves more challenging, as many establishments close to give staff a well-deserved break. Here's what we've confirmed:

Bass Bay Brewhouse in Muskego offers special New Year's Day brunch hours from 11am-2pm, with both brunch and main menus available all day. Their Wisconsin fare with supper club roots pairs nicely with craft beer selections. On NYE, they're open 11am-9pm with reservations highly encouraged. Book through SevenRooms or call (414) 377-9449.

Bar Louie in Brookfield (95 N. Moorland Rd) is confirmed open 11am-midnight on New Year's Day, providing casual American bar fare ($$). Call (262) 505-6319.

Zisters in Elm Grove (13425 Watertown Plank Rd) serves breakfast and brunch daily from 7am-3pm—perfect for a NYD morning meal. Call (262) 794-3924 to confirm they're open.

Maxim's Family Restaurant & Bakery locations in Brookfield and Oconomowoc offer classic American diner fare with an in-house bakery producing fresh bread, pies, tortes, and cheesecakes. These traditional family restaurants ($-$$) often maintain holiday hours; call your preferred location.

Chain restaurants typically open on holidays

When local restaurants close for the holidays, reliable chains often save the day. These typically operate on both NYE and NYD, though hours may be reduced:

Texas Roadhouse (2513 Plaza Court, Waukesha) usually remains open both days, though they may close early on NYE. Their hand-cut steaks, ribs, and fresh-baked rolls satisfy families seeking something substantial. Use the app for online waitlist. Call (262) 798-7427.

Olive Garden (2440 Milwaukee St., Delafield) typically opens both days with potentially limited NYD hours. The endless breadsticks and family-style Italian make this a reliable choice ($$). Call (262) 646-2183.

Outback Steakhouse (295 S. Moorland Rd, Brookfield) generally maintains holiday hours. Call (262) 796-9580 to confirm.

Culver's multiple Waukesha locations (East Main Street, N. Grandview Blvd., W. Sunset Drive) typically operate with possibly reduced hours. Their ButterBurgers and frozen custard represent Wisconsin comfort food at its finest ($). Hours vary by location on NYD—some franchise locations close.

IHOP, Denny's, Perkins—24-hour and family restaurants often remain open or operate with modified hours throughout the holiday.

Practical planning tips for families

Make reservations now. Fine dining establishments like The Commodore, Red Circle Inn, Mr. B's, and The Melting Pot book up quickly. Don't assume you can walk in on NYE.

Confirm hours the day before. Holiday schedules change, and this guide reflects available information as of late December 2025. A quick phone call prevents disappointment.

Plan for pricing variations. Many restaurants offer prix fixe menus only on NYE, which typically cost more than regular à la carte dining. Budget accordingly—expect to spend $80-150+ per person at upscale establishments.

Consider early dining with kids. WhirlyBall's afternoon sessions (12-2pm or 3-5pm), Lou Malnati's 5pm countdown, and The Ingleside Hotel's 6pm buffet all allow families to celebrate before bedtime.

Book delivery as backup. DoorDash, UberEats, and Grubhub operate on both NYE and NYD. Popular restaurants offering takeout include Delafield Brewhaus and many casual dining spots.

New Year's Day is tricky. Many restaurants close entirely—The Commodore, The Melting Pot, and Palmer's are all confirmed closed. Bass Bay Brewhouse, Bar Louie, and chain restaurants are your best bets for NYD dining.

Quick reference: Contact information by city

Restaurant City Phone Reservations The Commodore Hartland (262) 563-8070 OpenTable Red Circle Inn Nashotah (262) 367-4883 OpenTable I.d. Delafield Delafield (262) 249-6473 OpenTable Palmer's Steakhouse Hartland (262) 369-3939 Tock The Melting Pot Brookfield (262) 782-6358 OpenTable Mr. B's Steakhouse Brookfield (262) 790-7005 OpenTable Cooper's Hawk Brookfield (262) 785-9463 OpenTable Fleming's Brookfield (262) 782-9463 Call Artisan 179 Pewaukee (262) 691-0200 Call Butler Inn Pewaukee (262) 691-0840 Call/Online Sobie's Oconomowoc (262) 354-0812 Call Golden Mast Inn Okauchee (262) 567-7047 Call Bass Bay Brewhouse Muskego (414) 377-9449 SevenRooms Tofte's Table Waukesha (262) 408-5633 Resy Travieso Waukesha (262) 899-2520 Call WhirlyBall Brookfield (262) 786-7777 Eventbrite The Ingleside Hotel Pewaukee (262) 547-0201 Hotel booking

Conclusion

Waukesha County offers remarkably diverse New Year's dining options—from The Commodore's $150 Wagyu ribeye overlooking Nagawicka Lake to WhirlyBall's $30 kid-friendly pizza party with a 6:30pm countdown. The key to success lies in planning ahead: make reservations immediately for fine dining, confirm hours before you leave home, and have backup options ready for New Year's Day when many restaurants close.

For families seeking the best of both worlds, consider a celebratory dinner at The Melting Pot on NYE (interactive fondue keeps kids engaged) followed by a relaxed New Year's Day brunch at Bass Bay Brewhouse or a casual meal at Bar Louie. Whatever you choose, Waukesha County has you covered—just don't wait to make those reservations.

Happy New Year from your family to ours!