The Essential Guide to Wisconsin Supper Clubs Near Milwaukee

Wisconsin's supper club tradition represents one of America's most distinctive and enduring regional dining cultures—and nowhere is it more vibrant than in the greater Milwaukee area and surrounding regions. From 177-year-old establishments with Captain Pabst's original bar to lakeside destinations where you can dock your boat, southeastern Wisconsin offers an unparalleled concentration of supper clubs spanning every style, price point, and atmosphere. This guide covers more than 40 establishments across Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee, Washington, Racine, Kenosha, Walworth, Sheboygan, Fond du Lac, Dodge, and Jefferson counties—everything you need to plan your supper club adventures.

Understanding Wisconsin supper club tradition

Before diving into individual establishments, newcomers should understand what makes Wisconsin supper clubs unique. The concept originated in Beverly Hills in the 1930s, created by Milwaukee native Lawrence Frank, but the tradition flourished in Wisconsin thanks to German, Scandinavian, and Polish immigrant cultures that valued communal dining and sweeter spirits. Wisconsin currently has approximately 250 supper clubs, making it America's undisputed supper club capital.

The experience unfolds deliberately: You arrive and head directly to the bar—never straight to your table—where you order cocktails and give your dinner order to the server. You socialize, perhaps meeting strangers who become friends, and only move to the dining room when ready. A relish tray awaits at your table, typically featuring celery, carrots, pickles, olives, cheese spread, and crackers. Soup or salad comes included with every entrée, followed by your main course with choice of potato. The evening concludes back at the bar with ice cream drinks like the legendary Grasshopper (crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and vanilla ice cream) or Pink Squirrel, a cocktail invented in Milwaukee.

The Brandy Old Fashioned is the signature drink—distinctly different from bourbon versions elsewhere. Wisconsin consumes more brandy per capita than any other state, a tradition dating to when German immigrants discovered Korbel brandy at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. Order it "sweet" (with Sprite), "sour" (with Squirt or sour mix), or "press" (half club soda, half lemon-lime). In 2023, the Brandy Old Fashioned became Wisconsin's official state cocktail.

Friday Fish Fry is nearly universal, reflecting both Catholic traditions and Wisconsin's abundant freshwater resources. Perch, walleye, cod, and haddock appear beer-battered or baked, served with potato pancakes, coleslaw, and rye bread. Saturday Prime Rib is the crown jewel—slow-roasted for hours and served with au jus and horseradish. Dress codes remain famously relaxed: jeans and flip-flops share the dining room with suits. Plan to spend two to four hours; there's no rush, no pressure. It's an entire evening's entertainment.

Milwaukee County: classics and institutions

Five O'Clock Steakhouse — Milwaukee's oldest supper club

2416 W. State Street, Milwaukee, WI 53233 | (414) 342-3553

Open since 1946, Five O'Clock Steakhouse is Milwaukee's oldest continuously operating supper club and consistently ranks among America's finest steakhouses. Money Magazine named it one of the Top Ten Steakhouses in the U.S., and Travel Channel featured its Bone-in Ribeye on "Steak Paradise 3." The retro-swank 1940s atmosphere features dim lighting, wood paneling, and twinkle lights. Upstairs, the Alley Cat Lounge hosts live jazz, blues, and R&B every Friday.

Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 4:30–8:30pm, Friday 4:30–9pm, Saturday 4–9pm; closed Sunday–Monday | Price: $$$ | Reservations: Recommended via OpenTable | Best for: Date nights and special occasions; adult-oriented atmosphere | Signatures: Bone-in Ribeye, Five O'Clock Cut Porterhouse, Hickory Smoked Baby Back Ribs, classic relish tray

Jack Pandl's Whitefish Bay Inn — Since 1915

Jack Pandl’s

1319 E. Henry Clay Street, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217 | (414) 964-3800

Milwaukee's oldest restaurant predates even Five O'Clock, opening in 1915 when Whitefish Bay was farmland. Now operated by the third generation of the Pandl family, this historic landmark serves their famous broiled whitefish with Spanish paprika—a house specialty for over a century. The motto says it all: "You are a stranger here but once."

Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 11:30am–9pm, Friday–Saturday 11:30am–10pm, Sunday 10:30am–8pm; closed Monday | Price: $$ | Reservations: Recommended via OpenTable | Best for: Families and Sunday brunch; German-American heritage | Signatures: Broiled Whitefish, French-fried Lake Perch, Whitefish Cakes, Wiener Schnitzel, homemade chicken dumpling soup

Kegel's Inn — Celebrating 100 years in 2024

5901 W. National Avenue, West Allis, WI 53214 | (414) 257-9999

This historic landmark began as a Prohibition speakeasy in 1924, disguised as a "Soda Pop Parlor." A century later, the hand-painted murals, original leaded glass windows, and heavy wooden beams remain remarkably preserved. "Bootlegger's Alley" offers a year-round beer garden with heated dining yurts. The German heritage shines through in authentic dishes like Wienerschnitzel, sauerbraten, and house-made spaetzle.

Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 4–8pm, Friday 11am–9pm, Saturday 4–9pm; closed Sunday–Monday | Price: $$ | Reservations: Highly recommended for Fridays and Saturdays | Best for: Families seeking old-world gemütlichkeit | Signatures: Award-winning Fish Fry (cod, perch, walleye, bluegill options), Wienerschnitzel, boneless roasted duck, cherry strudel (order early—often sells out)

The Packing House — 50 years on Milwaukee's south side

900 E. Layton Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53207 | (414) 483-5054

Celebrating 50 years in 2024, this family-owned institution near General Mitchell Airport pioneered the drive-through fish fry in the late 1980s. Chef Bob St. Louis has been at the helm for over 42 years, maintaining classics like the Garlic Stuffed Filet and famous BBQ Ribs. Live music fills the lounge Wednesday through Saturday.

Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 11am–9pm, Friday 11am–10pm, Saturday 3:30–10pm, Sunday 4–8pm; closed Monday | Price: $$–$$$ | Reservations: Recommended | Best for: Family celebrations and business dinners | Signatures: Prime Rib (Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday), Garlic Stuffed Filet, BBQ Ribs, Beef Wellington, drive-thru Fish Fry (Friday 3–9pm)

Joey Gerard's — A Bartolotta Supper Club

5601 Broad Street, Greendale, WI 53129 | (414) 858-1900

Part of the James Beard Award-winning Bartolotta restaurant group, Joey Gerard's opened in 2012 as an homage to co-founder Joe Bartolotta's childhood supper club memories. The Hollywood-style glamour features dark leather booths, 1950s celebrity photos, and "Montague"—a large moose head from a northern Wisconsin restaurant. The Josper charcoal ovens (Midwest's first) produce exceptional steaks.

Hours: Monday–Saturday 5–9pm; closed Sunday | Price: $$$ | Reservations: Recommended; 15-minute grace period | Best for: Date nights and upscale occasions | Signatures: Charcoal-fired steaks, Steak Diane, beer-battered cod Fish Fry, Lazy Susans with summer sausage and deviled eggs, Schaum torte, signature ice cream drinks

Clifford's Supper Club — Hales Corners since 1959

10418 W. Forest Home Avenue, Hales Corners, WI 53130 | (414) 425-6226

Established by Clifford Schill in 1959, this family-friendly institution became famous for its all-you-can-eat Friday Fish Fry using cod sourced from Icelandic waters. The romantic backstory: the current owners met while working there as dishwasher and waitress. Multiple banquet halls accommodate everything from wedding receptions to family reunions.

Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 11am–9pm, Friday 11am–10pm, Saturday 3–9pm; closed Sunday–Monday | Price: $$ | Reservations: Recommended for groups of 6+ | Best for: Family gatherings and celebrations | Signatures: All-you-can-eat Fish Fry (Friday), Porterhouse steaks, Broasted Chicken, Cherries Jubilee

Additional Milwaukee County gems

Buckatabon Tavern & Supper Club (7700 Harwood Ave, Wauwatosa) offers a modern Northwoods experience with mid-century design and house-made Buckatabon Brandy. Open since 2020, it serves fish fry daily and excellent weekend brunch. Diamond Jim's Steakhouse (11811 W. Janesville Rd, Hales Corners) delivers Saturday prime rib and legendary banana cream pie described as "best in the universe." The Jackson Grill (3736 W. Mitchell St, Milwaukee), revived in 2023 after the original owner's passing, maintains old-school charm with candlelit white linens and massive portions.

Waukesha, Washington, and Ozaukee

Red Circle Inn — Wisconsin's oldest supper club (Est. 1848)

N44 W33013 Watertown Plank Road, Nashotah, WI 53058 | (262) 367-4883

At 177 years old, Red Circle Inn is Wisconsin's oldest continuously operating restaurant. Bavarian immigrants opened it as The Nashotah Inn in 1848; Captain Frederick Pabst purchased it in 1889, and his original mahogany bar still stands today (firefighters saved it from an 1917 fire). Legend holds that the Milwaukee Braves' move from Boston was negotiated here. Under new ownership by Geronimo Hospitality Group since 2022.

Hours: Contact for current schedule | Price: $$$ | Reservations: Recommended | Best for: Special occasions and history enthusiasts | Signatures: Prime Rib, Red Circle Inn Stroganoff, classic ice cream cocktails, extensive wine list (Wine Spectator recognized)

The 5 O'Clock Club — Award-winning Lake Country institution

N28 W26658 Peterson Drive, Pewaukee, WI 53072 | (262) 691-9960

Operating since 1929 in a converted 1860s farmhouse, this Lake Country favorite won Best Fish Fry in 2011, 2014, 2015, and 2016. Yugoslav immigrants Grandpa Frank and Grandma Mary Kizivat transformed the property, and their family collectibles fill three rustic dining rooms with two fireplaces. Summer brings al fresco dining with Pewaukee Lake views.

Hours: Tuesday–Friday 11:30am–10pm, Saturday 11:30am–9pm; closed Sunday–Monday | Price: $$–$$$ | Reservations: Recommended, especially Fridays during Lent | Best for: Both families and date nights | Signatures: Award-winning Fish Fry (perch, cod, walleye, bluegill), Grandma Mary's Classic Cluck (Saturday chicken special), baked French onion soup

Range Line Inn — Pre-1840 stagecoach stop

2635 W. Mequon Road, Mequon, WI 53092 | (262) 242-0530

Originally called the Half Way Inn because it sat midway between Milwaukee and Port Washington for travelers on horseback, this building dates to before 1840. The low ceilings, wood paneling, and carpet create an authentic cabin atmosphere. Owner Patrick Strong has operated it since 1985. Locals call it "a beloved Mequon institution."

Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 4:30–9:30pm; closed Sunday–Monday | Price: $$–$$$ | Reservations: Highly recommended (always packed) | Best for: Both families and couples | Daily specials: Tuesday Prime Rib, Wednesday Lobster ($23.95), Thursday Lake Superior Whitefish, Friday Fish Fry, Saturday Whole Roast Duck

Timmer's Resort — 160 years on Big Cedar Lake

5151 Timmer Bay Road, West Bend, WI 53095 | (262) 338-7710

German immigrants Mathias and Margaret Timmer purchased this property in 1864, and the current lodge was built in 1880. Named among Forbes Top 100 Brunch Spots in 2017, Timmer's offers stunning Big Cedar Lake views, fireplaces in each dining room, and complimentary pontoon rides while you wait for your table. Recently sold to new ownership.

Note: Temporarily closed December 12, 2024–March 15, 2025 for renovations; will reopen.

Price: $$$ | Reservations: Recommended | Best for: Romantic lakeside dining and special occasions | Signatures: Cornflake-crusted cod Fish Fry, slow-roasted Prime Rib, Chicken Limone, Apricot Salmon

Fox & Hounds Restaurant — Near Holy Hill since 1933

1298 Friess Lake Road, Hubertus, WI 53033 | (262) 628-1111

In 1845, the first clerk of Washington County built a cabin in the Kettle Moraine. Ray Wolf, an avid horseman, restored it in 1933 and opened it to fellow equestrians—hence "Fox & Hounds." The rustic hunting lodge décor seats 450 guests across multiple dining rooms. The location, 2 miles east of Holy Hill Basilica, makes it perfect for day trip pairings.

Hours: Monday–Thursday 4–9pm, Friday 4–10pm, Saturday 11am–10pm, Sunday 10am–9pm (brunch) | Price: $$–$$$ | Reservations: Recommended | Best for: Families (kids menu available); excellent value with BOGO dinner deals seven nights weekly | Signatures: Fish Fry ($17.99), Prime Rib (Wednesday and Saturday BOGO), extensive bourbon selection

The Copper Dock — Lakeside dining on Friess Lake

1474 E. Friess Lake Drive, Hubertus, WI 53033 | (262) 628-3718

Named for the copper-toned reflection on Friess Lake at sunset, this establishment featured in Ron Faiola's Wisconsin Supper Clubs books offers all-you-can-eat Prime Rib on Saturdays and stunning lake views from every dining room seat. Arrive by boat via their private dock.

Hours: Contact for current schedule | Price: $$–$$$ | Reservations: Recommended | Best for: Romantic date nights; family-friendly Sunday brunch | Signatures: All-you-can-eat Prime Rib (Saturday), pan-seared walleye, Sunday brunch, seafood casserole

Moonlight Tavern & Supper Club — Port Washington's lakefront gem

101 E. Main Street, Port Washington, WI 53074 | (262) 235-1981

Located in the Historic Port Hotel (built 1902), this establishment blends modern sophistication with supper club tradition. The 200+ bourbon and whiskey selection is among the region's finest. Under new ownership since March 2024, it was selected for the 2025 "Taste of the Draft" charitable event hosted by Andrew Zimmern during the NFL Draft in Green Bay.

Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 11am–8pm, Friday–Saturday 11am–9pm; closed Sunday–Monday | Price: $$$ | Reservations: Recommended | Best for: Sophisticated date nights; bourbon enthusiasts | Signatures: Over 200 whiskeys, combination bucket fish fry, Prime Rib, cheese curds ("best I've ever had")

Additional Lake Country options

Butler Inn of Pewaukee (742 Glacier Road) offers tableside Saganaki flambéed with showmanship, live piano entertainment, and lakeside elegance. Silver Lake Country Inn (5602 Peters Drive, West Bend) serves what regulars call "consistently the best salad bar around"—note they accept cash and check only. Wallace Lake Supper Club/Waller's on the Lake (2472 Wallace Lake Road, West Bend) features pan-fried walleye praised as "the best I've ever had" and complimentary pontoon rides around the lake.

Racine, Kenosha, and Lake Geneva: southern Wisconsin destinations

The HobNob — The region's flagship since 1954

277 Sheridan Road, Racine, WI 53403 | (262) 552-8008

Overlooking Lake Michigan from dramatic bluffs, the HobNob is perhaps Wisconsin's most iconic supper club—featured in Ron Faiola's definitive book and celebrating over 70 years of operation. The kitschy, retro décor remains beautifully preserved from its origins as a Prohibition-era roadhouse. Every dinner includes soup, salad, choice of potatoes, warm rolls, and a full relish tray.

Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 5–9pm, Friday–Saturday 4:30–10pm, Sunday 4:30–9pm; closed Monday | Price: $$$ | Reservations: Recommended; book online or by phone | Best for: Both romantic evenings and family celebrations | Signatures: Prime Rib, Friday Fish Fry, steaks and seafood, full relish tray service, live weekend entertainment

House of Gerhard — Kenosha's German landmark

3927 75th Street (Hwy 50), Kenosha, WI 53142 | (262) 694-5212

Family-owned since 1964, House of Gerhard is known for "Old World Wisconsin at its best." The full meal begins with chicken liver pâté, German three-bean salad, and garlic toasts before your entrée arrives. The Prime Rib—available in Ladies, Diamond, and Extra Heavy cuts—is their "world famous" specialty, though German dishes like sauerbraten, beef rouladen, and Holsteiner schnitzel draw equally devoted followings.

Hours: Monday–Saturday for lunch and dinner (one of few supper clubs open for lunch) | Price: $$$ | Reservations: Strongly recommended | Best for: Both celebrations and family gatherings | Signatures: Prime Rib (~$49.95 market price), sauerbraten, beef rouladen, Haxe (pork shank), Oysters Rockefeller

The Duck Inn — Prohibition speakeasy turned Lake Geneva treasure

N6214 State Road 89, Delavan, WI 53115 | (608) 883-6988

The name derives from Prohibition days when patrons would secretly "duck in" for illegal drinks. The speakeasy transformation into supper club features a 24-foot natural gas-fired stone fireplace in the Drake Room and duck-themed décor throughout (including stuffed ducks). TripAdvisor ranks it #3 of 72 restaurants in Delavan.

Hours: Monday, Wednesday–Thursday 4–9pm, Friday–Saturday 4–10pm, Sunday 12–9pm; closed Tuesday | Price: $$–$$$ | Reservations: Recommended; parking fills by 6pm on weekends | Best for: Both comfortable casual dining and special occasions | Signatures: Multiple duck preparations (Apple Brandy Glazed, à l'Orange, Cherry Jubilee, Cashew-crusted), King Cut Prime Rib (16 oz), Grasshopper and ice cream cocktails

Village Supper Club Delavan — Stunning new A-frame design

1725 S. Shore Road, Delavan, WI 53115 | (262) 456-3400

The property has hosted diners since the 1880s as a lodge for Hall's Park Resort. The Marsicano family operated it as Village Supper Club from 1968 for 50 years. New owners completely rebuilt it in 2023 with a spectacular 8,400 sq ft Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired A-frame featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and amphitheater-style seating ensuring unobstructed Delavan Lake views from every table. Arrive by car or boat via their private pier.

Hours: Wednesday–Thursday 4–9pm, Friday–Saturday 4–10pm, Sunday 4–9pm; closed Monday–Tuesday | Price: $$$ (3% credit card surcharge) | Reservations: Strongly recommended weekends | Best for: Both families and date nights | Signatures: Fish Fry (fried or citrus butter baked cod, or fried bluegill, $22–26), almond-crusted walleye, Saturday Prime Rib, Brandy Alexander, Andes Candies with the bill (manufactured in Delavan)

Mars Resort — Lake Como's piano bar destination

W4098 S. Shore Drive, Lake Geneva, WI 53147 | (262) 245-5689

Described as "the Cheers of southern Wisconsin," Mars Resort features the region's only old-school piano bar with live music five nights weekly. Summer amenities include a lakefront tiki hut, outdoor live music, and cocktail cruises on "The Como Queen" pontoon. New for winter 2025: outdoor igloo dining experiences.

Hours: Open daily for lunch and dinner; piano bar Friday–Saturday 7–10pm, Sunday 5–8pm | Price: $$–$$$ | Reservations: Recommended; igloo dining requires advance booking | Best for: Both regulars and visitors; convivial atmosphere | Signatures: Wednesday and Friday Fish Fry (rotating perch, bluegill, walleye), Saturday Prime Rib (after 5pm), German specials (Pork Jäger Schnitzel), Sunday fried chicken

Colony House — 80 years of Colonial charm

25811 119th Street, Trevor (Salem), WI 53179 | (262) 298-5042

This 75+ year institution features striking Colonial décor with early American antiques unchanged for 80 years. Waitresses wear Colonial dresses. The crackling fireplace and views of rolling Wisconsin farmland create an atmosphere "like eating inside someone's house." Wide entrée selection under $20 makes it notable value for the genre.

Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 4–9pm, Friday–Saturday 4–10pm, Sunday 4–8pm; closed Monday | Price: $$ | Reservations: Highly recommended | Best for: Families (children's menu) and special occasions | Signatures: Slow-roasted Prime Rib (10, 16, or 20 oz cuts), fresh-cut steaks Oscar, homemade bread pudding, New England clam chowder

Fitzgerald's Genoa Junction — Door County fish boil in the south

727 Main Street, Genoa City, WI 53128 | (262) 279-5200

Housed in a rare mid-1800s Victorian octagon house (fewer than 2,000 were built nationally), Fitzgerald's brings the Door County fish boil tradition to southeastern Wisconsin. The all-you-can-eat North Atlantic cod is prepared outdoors in wood-fired kettles year-round—rain, snow, or shine—accounting for 70%+ of all orders.

Hours: Wednesday–Saturday 4–8pm, Sunday 3–7pm; closed Monday–Tuesday | Price: $$ (CASH ONLY) | Reservations: Required for Friday nights | Best for: Very family-friendly; unhurried service | Signatures: Door County-style fish boil, BBQ chicken, baby back ribs

Additional southern Wisconsin options

Michael's on the Lake (3101 Eagle Rd, Kansasville) offers lakeside dining on Eagle Lake with homemade carrot cake "enough for two" and baby back ribs ranked "among the best." Corner House Supper Club (207 Gas Light Circle, Racine) earned "Racine's Best Steak House 2020/2025." Village Supper Club in Pleasant Prairie (10909 Sheridan Rd) operates only Thursday–Saturday but maintains devoted followers.

Outer regions: destination-worthy drives

Schwarz's Supper Club — 67+ years in St. Anna

W1688 Sheboygan Road, New Holstein, WI 53061 | (920) 894-3598

Featured in Ron Faiola's books, this third-generation family operation maintains a unique ordering system: when you arrive, your name and dinner order are taken simultaneously at the bar. When your table is ready, salad, relish tray, and fresh buns await. No reservations accepted—just the authentic Wisconsin way. They also offer a Guest House for overnight stays.

Hours: Wednesday–Thursday 4–8pm, Friday 4–9pm, Saturday 3:15–9pm, Sunday 3–8pm; closed Monday–Tuesday | Price: $$ | Reservations: Not accepted | Best for: Authentic experience seekers | Signatures: Fresh seafood, Friday perch fry, steaks with heritage recipes

Wendt's on the Lake — Lake Winnebago institution since 1962

N9699 Lakeshore Drive, Van Dyne, WI 54979 | (920) 688-5231

Fritz and Cynthia Wendt opened this as a humble bar in 1962, serving 99-cent Friday perch dinners on folding tables. Now operated by the third and fourth generations, the award-winning lake perch and famous batter-fried lobster draw devoted crowds. Glass-side tables overlook Lake Winnebago. Featured on Wisconsin Foodie TV; owner Linda Wendt received the 2019 WRA Restaurateur Award and served as WRA Chairwoman.

Hours: Tuesday–Friday 11am–9pm, Saturday 11am–8pm; closed Sunday–Monday | Price: $–$$ | Reservations: Walk-ins welcomed; arrive early Fridays | Best for: Families and casual lakefront dining | Signatures: Award-winning lake perch (daily), batter-fried lobster, Poor Man's Lobster, homemade tartar sauce, Saturday Prime Rib (from 4pm)

Jim and Linda's Lakeview — Sunset views on Lake Winnebago's east shore

W3496 County Road W, Malone, WI 53049 | (920) 795-4116

Established in 1978 when Jim and Linda Koenigs were just 20 and 19 years old, this elegant establishment sits about 30 feet from Lake Winnebago, offering spectacular panoramic sunset views. Linda developed all recipes; her sister Donna has worked alongside her for 40+ years. Travel Wisconsin named it one of the state's best supper clubs. Summer brings a tiki bar with live music; arrive by boat at Calumet Harbor Marina nearby.

Note: Property was listed for sale; verify current status before visiting.

Hours: Tuesday–Sunday from 4pm weekdays, 3:30pm weekends; closed Monday | Price: $$–$$$ | Reservations: Recommended | Best for: Special occasions and sunset dining | Signatures: Slow-roasted Prime Rib, Alaskan King Crab, South African Lobster Tail, pesto-crusted salmon

Roepke's Village Inn — German heritage in Chilton

W2686 St. Charles Road, Chilton, WI 53014 | (920) 849-4000

Over 60 years of operation, this authentic supper club features Old-World German entrées reflecting the region's heritage. The famous salad bar (operating since 1968) includes homemade sweet sauerkraut, liver pâté, and cheese spread. Featured in Ron Faiola's "Wisconsin Supper Clubs: An Old-Fashioned Experience."

Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 4–9pm, Sunday 4–8:30pm; closed Monday | Price: $$–$$$ | Reservations: Recommended | Best for: Both families and couples | Signatures: Wiener Schnitzel a la Holstein, Braised Pork Shank, house-aged steaks, salad bar, 14 craft beers on tap

The Wisco — Historic LeRoy stagecoach stop

W3295 County Road Y, Lomira (LeRoy), WI 53048 | (920) 583-4351

The building dates to the late 1800s, originally "Lehner's Corner" serving as tavern, general store, dance hall, and stagecoach stop. Current owners Mike and Teresa Amerling purchased it in 2017 after being longtime customers. Just 3 miles north of Horicon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge—perfect for combining nature viewing with supper club dining.

Hours: Thursday–Saturday 4–9pm; closed Sunday–Wednesday | Price: $$ | Reservations: Recommended | Best for: History buffs and nature lovers | Signatures: Friday Fish Fry, Saturday Prime Rib and steaks, Grasshoppers, Pink Squirrels, Brandy Alexanders

The Edgewater Supper Club — Rock River charm since the 1920s

N3522 County Road K, Jefferson, WI 53549 | (920) 674-9942

Over 100 years old, this cozy establishment perches on the Rock River bank with a unique low-ceilinged architecture full of nooks and crannies. A crackling fireplace, jukebox, and picturesque "porch" with river views create intimate atmosphere. The nearby Fort Atkinson airport makes it popular for fly-in dining.

Hours: Thursday 4:30–9pm, Friday–Saturday 4:30–10pm; closed Sunday–Wednesday | Price: $$–$$$ | Reservations: Recommended weekends | Best for: Romantic date nights | Signatures: Farm-to-table focused menu, roasted lamb chops with lingonberries, roast duck, baked walleye with homemade mustard cream, relish tray

Majerle's Black River Grill — Northwoods feel near Sheboygan

5033 Evergreen Drive, Sheboygan, WI 53081 | (920) 803-5115

Nestled among pine trees near Kohler-Andrae State Park, this family-operated gem offers a cabin-in-the-Northwoods atmosphere with picture windows where deer feed outside during dinner. Very popular with limited seating—reservations essential.

Hours: Wednesday–Saturday 4–9pm, Sunday 10am–1:30pm (brunch)/3–9pm; closed Monday–Tuesday | Price: $–$$ | Reservations: Strongly recommended | Best for: Families and nature enthusiasts | Signatures: Friday Fish Fry (perch, cod, walleye), Saturday Prime Rib, broasted chicken, wildlife viewing from dining room

Elias Inn — Watertown's supper club revival

200 N. 2nd Street, Watertown, WI 53094 | (920) 261-6262

Built circa 1933 and operating since 1935, this dark, rustic establishment exemplifies authentic old-time atmosphere with historic woodwork and charming taxidermy. The famous relish tray on lazy Susan features unique items like cranberry slaw—served free with every meal. Recently purchased by the Sobel family who are restoring it to classic glory.

Hours: Wednesday–Saturday 4–9pm; closed Sunday–Tuesday | Price: $$ | Reservations: Recommended | Best for: Authentic atmosphere seekers | Signatures: All-you-can-eat Friday Fish Fry (family style), Saturday hand-cut Prime Rib, Veal Schnitzel with Spätzle, free relish tray, ice cream drinks

Quick reference by category

Waterfront and scenic locations

The HobNob (Lake Michigan bluffs), Timmer's Resort (Big Cedar Lake), Wendt's on the Lake (Lake Winnebago west shore), Jim and Linda's Lakeview (Lake Winnebago east shore), Mars Resort (Lake Como), Village Supper Club Delavan (Delavan Lake), The Copper Dock (Friess Lake), The 5 O'Clock Club (Pewaukee Lake views), Michael's on the Lake (Eagle Lake), and The Edgewater (Rock River) all offer memorable waterfront dining.

Historic establishments (75+ years)

Range Line Inn (pre-1840), Red Circle Inn (1848), Jack Pandl's (1915), Kegel's Inn (1924), The 5 O'Clock Club (1929), Fox & Hounds (1933), Five O'Clock Steakhouse (1946), Colony House (1940s), and Clifford's (1959) represent living Wisconsin history.

Best for families

Clifford's Supper Club, Kegel's Inn, Fox & Hounds (kids menu, large venue), Fitzgerald's Genoa Junction (unhurried, casual), Wendt's on the Lake, Majerle's Black River Grill, and The 5 O'Clock Club all warmly welcome families.

Upscale and date night

Five O'Clock Steakhouse, Joey Gerard's, Moonlight Tavern, Red Circle Inn, Butler Inn of Pewaukee, Jim and Linda's Lakeview, House of Gerhard, and The Edgewater offer sophisticated atmospheres for special evenings.

Hidden gems and lesser-known spots

The Wisco (LeRoy), Blanck's Supper Club (Malone), Schwarz's Supper Club (St. Anna), Silver Lake Country Inn (West Bend—cash only), Elias Inn (Watertown), and Michael's on the Lake (Kansasville) reward those willing to explore.

Planning your supper club experience

Most establishments are busiest Friday and Saturday evenings; reservations are strongly recommended on these nights and during Lent. Many clubs close Monday through Wednesday, so always call ahead. Expect to spend two to four hours—this isn't fast food. Start at the bar, order your brandy Old Fashioned (sweet, sour, or press), and embrace the leisurely pace.

Dress comfortably but know you won't be out of place either way. Some locals still dress up; others arrive in jeans. The democratizing atmosphere is part of the charm. Don't skip the relish tray, and save room for a Grasshopper or Brandy Alexander to close out the evening. These traditions have survived for a century because they work—a slower, more social, more satisfying way to dine that Wisconsin has preserved while the rest of America moved on. Embrace it.