Door County Restaurants for Large Groups

The White Gull Inn

Coordinating dinner for a large family group in Door County during peak summer season can feel like herding cats—except the cats are hungry, opinionated, and someone definitely has a dietary restriction.

The good news? Door County's restaurant scene has evolved far beyond the traditional fish boil (though you'll absolutely want to experience one of those too). From Sturgeon Bay to Washington Island, dozens of restaurants are ready and willing to seat your crew of 14, 20, or even 50+ people with advance planning.

This guide covers more than 50 restaurants across every major Door County community, organized geographically from south to north. You'll find everything from casual waterfront spots where the kids can run around to elegant fine dining venues perfect for milestone celebrations. We've included the practical details that matter most: phone numbers, websites, whether they take reservations, private dining options, outdoor seating capacity, and those all-important summer booking recommendations.

One universal truth about Door County dining in summer: call ahead. Even restaurants that don't officially require reservations will appreciate a heads-up for groups of 14+, and you'll dramatically improve your chances of being seated together without a lengthy wait.

Sturgeon Bay: The gateway

As Door County's largest city and the first stop for most visitors, Sturgeon Bay offers the widest variety of restaurants capable of handling large groups. The downtown waterfront area along the Sturgeon Bay channel provides several excellent options, while classic supper clubs dot the highways leading into the peninsula.

Sonny's Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria at 129 N Madison Avenue is your best bet for very large groups seeking waterfront dining. Their indoor event space holds 50+ guests with a private server, while the upper outdoor party deck and tiki bar can accommodate even larger gatherings. The views of the marina and Steel Bridge at sunset are spectacular. Call (920) 743-2300 to book, and plan 2-4 weeks ahead for summer weekends. Price range is moderate ($$), and they offer full catering services for on-site or off-site events at sonnyspizzeria.com.

The Log Den at 6626 WI-42 (located between Sturgeon Bay and Egg Harbor) deserves special attention for very large gatherings. With seating for over 300 people and dedicated banquet facilities, this log cabin-style restaurant is ideal for family reunions, wedding rehearsal dinners, and business gatherings. The hand-carved wooden décor creates a uniquely Door County atmosphere. Contact event coordinator Kim Bell at manager@thelogden.com or call (920) 868-3888. Sunday brunch runs 9am-1pm and works beautifully for groups. Price range is moderate ($$), and you'll find details at thelogden.com.

Stone Harbor Resort's Brygga Plates & Pours at 107 North First Avenue offers waterfront dining with full conference center facilities for groups. The restaurant overlooks downtown Sturgeon Bay and the iconic Steel Bridge, with views from every seat. Call (920) 746-0700 for group arrangements. This is an excellent choice when your group needs both dining and meeting space. Price range is moderate to upscale ($$-$$$). Visit stoneharbor-resort.com for details.

Nightingale Supper Club at 1541 Egg Harbor Road has been family-owned since 1913, making it one of Wisconsin's longest-operating supper clubs. Reservations are strongly recommended—book online or call (920) 743-5593. Be aware that during busy times, tables are held only 15 minutes past reservation time, and dining may be limited to 90 minutes. Friday fish fry and Saturday prime rib nights fill up fast, so book 1-2 weeks ahead minimum. Price range is moderate to upscale ($$-$$$). Visit nightingalesupperclub.com.

Bluefront Café at 86 W Maple Street can host private events for up to 100 guests with customized menus and dedicated staff. This health-conscious café offers an eclectic menu and works with groups to create exactly what you need. The seasonal patio adds outdoor capacity in summer. Call (920) 743-9218 to discuss arrangements. Price range is moderate ($$). Learn more at thebluefrontcafe.com.

Kitty O'Reilly's Irish Pub at 59 E Oak Street is perfect for casual groups who want a lively atmosphere. The large Guinness Patio seats plenty, while Kitty's Hideaway behind the main pub features a spacious beer garden with a sandbox for kids and pet-friendly policies. Live music runs June through August. Call (920) 743-7441 for group arrangements. Price range is moderate ($$). Details at kittyoreillys.com.

Waterfront Mary's Bar and Grill at 3817 N Duluth Avenue (next to Potawatomi State Park) specifically promotes hosting family reunions, class reunions, weddings, and birthday parties. The large outdoor deck offers panoramic waterfront views, and the restaurant is accessible by boat in season. Live music three days per week adds energy. Price range is budget to moderate ($-$$). Visit waterfrontmarysbarandgrill.com.

Cedar Crossing Restaurant & Bar at 336 Louisiana Street occupies a historic 1884 building and offers elegant fine dining featuring local Door County ingredients. Reservations are phone-only at (920) 743-4200. This is ideal for smaller large groups seeking an upscale experience. Currently open Thursday through Sunday. Price range is upscale ($$$). Visit innatcedarcrossing.com/restaurant.

Donny's Glidden Lodge Restaurant at 4670 Glidden Drive provides classic fine dining with Lake Michigan views through French-pane windows and a stone fireplace. They offer prime rib on Thursday and Saturday, fresh whitefish daily, and a soup and salad bar with all dinners. Early bird specials run 4:30-5:30pm weekdays. Book 2+ weeks ahead for summer weekends by calling (920) 746-9460. Window table requests are honored when possible. Price range is upscale ($$$). Learn more at donnysgliddenlodge.com.

The Mill Supper Club at 4128 State Highway 42/57 has served classic Wisconsin supper club fare with German specialties since 1930. Their family-style chicken dinner works wonderfully for groups. Open Thursday through Sunday for dinner. Call (920) 743-5044 for reservations. Price range is moderate to upscale ($$-$$$). Visit themillsupperclub.com.

Greystone Castle at 8 N Madison Avenue is a family-owned bar and grill operating for 38+ years, with unique hunting and fishing trophy décor throughout. Very family-friendly with a casual atmosphere. Call (920) 743-1112 for groups. Price range is budget to moderate ($-$$). Check out greystonecastlebar.com.

Drömhus Door County at 611 Jefferson Street offers something unique—a beautifully converted chapel now serving Scandinavian-inspired small plates and wine. The entire venue can be reserved for private events, with customized party menus including grazing tables with local cheeses and meats. Live jazz on Sundays. Open Wednesday through Sunday, so book early for private events by calling (608) 333-4553. Price range is moderate ($$). Visit dromhusdoorcounty.com.

Fish Creek: Fish boils + charming downtown

Fish Creek's walkable downtown sits directly across from Peninsula State Park, making it a hub for hungry families. Several restaurants here specialize in the iconic Door County fish boil experience, which is actually ideal for large groups since everyone is served simultaneously.

White Gull Inn at 4225 Main Street has been serving their famous fish boil since the 1950s and can efficiently seat 120+ people across multiple boil seatings. Fish boils run Friday at 6:30pm and Sunday at 6:00pm, with candlelight dinners available other evenings. For groups of 14+, call (920) 868-3517 directly and book 2-4 weeks ahead during peak summer. The historic setting with fireplace creates a memorable atmosphere. Price range is moderate ($$). Visit whitegullinn.com.

Pelletier's Restaurant & Fish Boil at 4199 Main Street in Founder's Square is the original Door County fish boil experience. They offer a motor coach drop-off and group deposit policy, specifically designed for tour groups. The boil-over happens every 30 minutes starting at 5pm, with guests invited to arrive early to watch the cooking process and history presentation. Open May through October only. Call (920) 868-3313 to arrange group visits. Price range is moderate ($$). Details at doorcountyfishboil.com.

Barringer's Restaurant at 1 Spruce Street (at Highway 42) offers upscale steakhouse dining with OpenTable reservations for up to 20 people—larger groups should call (920) 868-5445 directly. The upstairs loft provides semi-private dining for 12-15 people. The spacious patio features an outdoor firepit and is dog-friendly. Book 1-2 weeks ahead for weekend dinners. Price range is very upscale ($$$$, $50+ per person). Visit barringersdoorcounty.com.

Alexander's of Door County at 3667 Highway 42 is so popular they reportedly turn away 100+ people on busy nights. Reservations are phone-only at (920) 868-3532—be persistent. They offer full-service catering for special events (contact Kevin Free at 920-559-0988). Open Tuesday through Sunday for dinner, with Sunday champagne brunch. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for summer weekends. Voted best desserts and date night in Door County. Price range is upscale ($$$). Learn more at alexandersofdoorcounty.com.

CUT Wood-Fired Cuisine at 4135 Main Street is Fish Creek's newest upscale addition (opened July 2025). This two-story venue offers multiple dining options including high-energy bar seating, outdoor patios on both levels with Main Street and water views, and grandiose leather booths upstairs for more private dining. OpenTable reservations available; call (920) 333-8813 for larger groups. Happy Hour runs Wednesday through Monday, 3pm-5pm. Price range is fine dining ($$$$). Visit cutdoorcounty.com.

The English Inn at 3713 Wisconsin 42 delivers a classic Wisconsin supper club experience with all ladies receiving a complimentary rose. Their all-you-can-eat Friday Night Fish Fry starts at 4pm. Beautiful outdoor patio with fire tables. Online reservations or call (920) 868-3076 for larger parties. Hours vary seasonally—currently weekends only. Price range is upscale casual ($$$). Visit theenglishinn.com.

Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza and Grille at 4023 Highway 42 features Door County's only wood-fired oven and approximately 10-11 picnic tables for outdoor dining. They take reservations for groups—call (920) 868-3095. Located directly across from Peninsula State Park's main entrance. Dogs welcome on patio. Open year-round, making it one of few Fish Creek restaurants operating in winter. Summer hours are daily 11:30am-9pm. Price range is moderate ($$). Visit wildtomatopizza.com.

Kettle Black Restaurant at 4158 Main Street offers fish boils with waterfront views from the back patio. Reservations are required, with two seatings at 5:30pm and 7:30pm. Call for groups over 9 people at (920) 868-5215 for additional reservation options. They're listed as having a private room feature. Offers fish boil Monday and Wednesday, Cajun Shrimp Boil Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Seasonal—closed winter, reopening spring 2026. Price range is moderate ($$). Book at kettleblackfishboil.com.

Bayside Tavern at 4160 Main Street has been family-owned for 50 years and offers a casual, no-fuss atmosphere perfect for groups who want flexibility. Outdoor waterview patio with full bar in summer. Home of "Smilen' Bob's" World Famous Chili and the famous Bayside Coffee (flaming coffee show). Food served 11am-11pm. Generally walk-in, but call (920) 868-3441 for larger parties to check availability. Price range is budget ($). Visit baysidedoorcounty.com.

Sister Bay and Ellison Bay

Sister Bay anchors the northern end of the peninsula's main tourist corridor, offering everything from the iconic Al Johnson's (goats on the roof!) to sophisticated fine dining with private event spaces.

Northern Grill & Pub

Northern Grill & Pub at 10573 Country Walk Drive in Sister Bay brings Italian-American dining to Door County with family-owned warmth since 1997—now celebrating their 29th season. Famous for hand-tossed, homemade NY Style pizzas and traditional Italian recipes, plus the signature Cherry Bomb cocktails that have become a Door County favorite. Nightly specials keep the menu fresh. Very family-friendly atmosphere with classic flavors and warm hospitality. Call (920) 854-9590 for reservations and group arrangements. Price range is moderate ($$). Seasonal operation.

CHOP Steakhouse at 2345 Mill Road in Sister Bay offers private gathering space for up to 80 people, making it one of the best options for very large group events on the peninsula. Two-level seasonal outdoor seating provides lake views. Adjacent to the Dorr Hotel, with a display kitchen adding entertainment value. Call (920) 854-2700 to book; reserve 2-4 weeks ahead for summer. Open year-round. Price range is upscale ($$$). Visit chopdoorcounty.com.

LURE Restaurant at 10627 N Bayshore Drive in Sister Bay provides private dining for groups of 20 or more, with intimate booths and beautiful garden patio and covered porch seating. Known for excellent seafood and sushi, plus famous Friday Fish Fry with free cherry pie. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for peak season by calling (920) 854-8111. Seasonal—closed winters. Price range is upscale casual ($$$). Visit luredoorcounty.com.

Waterfront Restaurant at 10947 N. Hwy 42 in Sister Bay (one mile north of downtown) features the "Sunset Room" accommodating seated parties up to 35 or cocktail parties up to 50. This fine dining establishment offers custom multi-course menus and wine pairings with private stairwell access and full bar. Every seat has a water view. Important: They are currently not taking new bookings for July-October 2025 season—contact dine@waterfront-dc.com well in advance (6+ months for private events). Seasonal operation. Price range is fine dining ($$$$, $31-$50 entrées). Visit waterfront-dc.com.

Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik at 10698 N Bay Shore Drive in Sister Bay is Door County's most iconic restaurant, famous for goats grazing on the grass roof. Here's the catch: they do not take reservations. For groups of 14+, arrive very early—the restaurant opens at 7am and fills by 8:15am in summer. The Stabbur beer garden offers additional seating with lawn games. Breakfast served all day until 3pm. Swedish pancakes, meatballs, and lingonberries are the draw. Year-round operation. Price range is moderate ($$). Call (920) 854-2626 for questions. Visit aljohnsons.com.

Sister Bay Bowl at 10640 N Bay Shore Drive combines a traditional Wisconsin supper club with a 6-lane bowling alley. No reservations accepted (first come, first served), but they offer private party venue rental and catering. Arrive before 5pm to avoid 45+ minute waits during peak season. Award-winning fish fry and perch. Celebrating 75 years of operation. Year-round. Price range is moderate ($$). Call (920) 854-2841. Visit sisterbaybowl.com.

Husby's Food & Spirits at 10641 N Bay Shore Drive in Sister Bay is Door County's original sports bar with 13 TVs, and they take reservations and are available for private parties. Patio seating available, plus The Garage @ Husby's offers open-air outdoor bar and grill space. Voted Best Burger by Door County Magazine. Happy Hour 4-6pm daily. Open year-round, 11am to close. Call (920) 854-2624. Price range is budget ($). Visit husbysdoorcounty.com.

Wild Tomato Sister Bay at 10677 N Bay Shore Drive offers the same wood-fired pizza as the Fish Creek location with a downtown waterfront location. No reservations accepted, so arrive early or expect waits. Terrace seating and "Bearch Bar" with water views. Year-round operation. Price range is moderate ($$). Call (920) 854-4685. Visit wildtomatopizza.com.

Boathouse on the Bay at 10716 N Bay Shore Drive in Sister Bay offers extensive patio seating with marina views and the Fly Bridge Bar with floor-to-ceiling windows. Live music throughout summer. Famous cheese curds. Popular sunset destination. Seasonal (May-October)—reopening May 1, 2026. Contact (920) 854-3223 for group arrangements. Price range is moderate ($$). Visit boathousedcw.com.

Fred & Fuzzy's Waterfront Bar & Grill at 10620 Little Sister Road in Sister Bay (at Little Sister Resort) takes reservations and offers all outdoor seating directly on the water's edge with awning area enclosed for spring and fall. Famous Cherry Margaritas and Jimmy Buffett beach bar atmosphere. Boat tie-ups available. Parking at top of hill with shuttle. Note: Business was listed for sale—verify current operating status before booking. Seasonal operation. Call (920) 854-6699. Price range is moderate ($$). Visit fredandfuzzys.com.

Osteria Tre Tassi at 11976 Mink River Road in Ellison Bay serves authentic Italian cuisine from a Naples-born chef using fresh ingredients from their 1.5-acre garden. Online reservations via Tock for parties of 1-6 only—groups larger than 6 must call (920) 309-8390. The bar room, main dining room, and heated enclosed porch offer various seating options with limited capacities. Book well in advance. Open Thursday through Tuesday, 5-9pm. Price range is fine dining ($$$). Visit tretassi.com.

Mink River Basin at 12010 Hwy 42 in Ellison Bay is a casual, family-owned sports bar known for having the "Best Burgers in Door County." With 35 tap beers, 150 bourbons and whiskeys, a spacious game room, and accommodating staff, this is an easy choice for casual large groups. Walk-ins generally accommodated due to large size. Open noon-8pm for food, bar open late. Year-round. Price range is budget ($). Call (920) 854-2250. Visit theminkriverbasin.com.

The Shoreline Restaurant at 12747 State Hwy 42 in Gills Rock offers panoramic sunset views from a beautiful deck overlooking Green Bay. Contemporary waterfront dining with steaks and fresh seafood. New ownership in 2024 continuing decades-long tradition. Online reservations available. Book 1-2 weeks ahead for sunset dining. Seasonal (late April-October). Open Tuesday-Saturday 3pm-9pm. Price range is moderate to upscale ($$-$$$). Call (920) 854-2950. Visit theshorelinerestaurant.com.

Ephraim: Village charm and group favorites

Ephraim is a tiny, picturesque village with a population under 300, so true large-group options are limited—but the restaurants here are beloved Door County institutions, and several can accommodate groups of 14+ with advance planning.

www.northshorefamilyadventures.com/road-trips/lunch-door-countyat 10040 Water Street is Ephraim's best option for large groups, serving 120+ people at fish boil seatings with remarkable efficiency. Reservations are requested for fish boils, and groups are explicitly welcome. The buffet-style service means everyone eats simultaneously—perfect for families. Outdoor patio offers waterfront views of Eagle Harbor. Non-fish options (chicken and ribs) available. Seasonal: mid-May through late October. Fish boils run Monday through Saturday evenings. Book 1-2 weeks ahead for popular sunset times. Price range is moderate ($$). Call (920) 854-4034. Visit oldpostoffice-doorcounty.com.

Wilson's Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor at 9990 Water Street has been a Door County institution since 1906. Listed as "good for groups" on review sites, though they request that no more than 2 people go in to order for everyone in large groups. Outdoor porch with table service across from Eagle Harbor. Opens mid-May for season. Very busy during peak summer hours—consider late afternoon or early dinner. Price range is budget ($). Call (920) 854-2041 for reservations. Visit wilsonsicecream.com.

Summer Kitchen at 10425 Water Street is known as "Door County's garden restaurant" with beautiful gardens and outdoor seating. They take reservations and are listed as good for groups. Famous for their self-serve soup bar featuring 5 homemade soups daily—all lunch entrées include soup. Seasonal: April through October. Hours: Monday-Saturday 7am-8pm, Sunday 7am-3pm. Price range is moderate ($$). Call (920) 854-2131. Visit thesummerkitchendoorcounty.com.

Sunset Harbor Grill at 10018 North Water Street (second floor of Ephraim Shores Resort) offers panoramic Eagle Harbor views through bay windows—arguably the best sunset views on the peninsula. Contact directly for group arrangements; they can coordinate with the resort for larger gatherings. Family-owned with welcoming atmosphere. Seasonal: May through October. Price range is moderate ($$). Call (920) 854-6565.

Chef's Hat Café at 3063 Church Street (Highway Q) takes dinner reservations and offers a dog-friendly patio with views of Eagle Harbor and Peninsula State Park. This smaller restaurant can accommodate groups with advance notice but may struggle with 14+. Described as "Door County's best kept secret." Seasonal—currently closed until May 2026. Very popular for breakfast. Price range is moderate ($$). Call (920) 854-2034. Visit chefshatdoorcounty.com.

Egg Harbor: Central peninsula convenience

Egg Harbor sits roughly in the middle of the peninsula's bayside, making it convenient for groups staying anywhere in Door County.

The Fireside Restaurant at 7755 State Highway 42 welcomes reservations for groups of 5 or more through their Google Forms reservation system. Chef-owned and operated with a Cajun attitude, serving innovative comfort foods like Big Easy Jambalaya and Door County's Original Chicken & Waffles. Cocktails and dinner from 4pm Friday through Monday. Book well in advance for peak summer. Price range is upscale ($$$). Call (920) 868-4800. Visit thefiresiderestaurant.com.

Shipwrecked Brew Pub at 7791 State Highway 42 is group-friendly with a large second floor offering water views that can seat many people. They offer a motor coach menu specifically for tour groups. Rebuilt in 2018 with expanded capacity after a 2017 fire. Famous for their Door County Cherry Wheat beer. Takes reservations. Outdoor patio dining available. Price range is moderate ($$). Call (920) 868-2767. Visit shipwreckedmicrobrew.com.

Stone Hedge Golf and Pub at 4320 County Road E explicitly states that large groups can be accommodated. Popular sports bar atmosphere with the largest TVs in Door County—great for Packers games. Patio overlooking the 9th green. Signature Cherry BBQ burger, Friday Fish Fry all day, Saturday Steak Night after 4pm. No golfer requirement to dine. Open Thursday through Sunday. One mile off Hwy 42. Price range is moderate ($$). Call (920) 868-1861. Visit stonehedgegolfandpub.com.

Baileys Harbor: Lake Michigan side dining

Baileys Harbor offers a quieter alternative to the bayside villages, with several restaurants perfectly suited for large group gatherings.

Harbor Fish Market & Grille at 8080 Highway 57 can seat 120 people in their dining room, making it one of Door County's best fine dining options for very large groups. For parties of 9+ people, call directly at (920) 839-9999 (online reservations are for groups of 4-8). Historic 125-year-old building with Lake Michigan waterfront views. Dog-friendly garden dining May through October. Specializes in fresh seafood, live Maine lobster, and Traditional New England Lobster Boil (Wednesday-Sunday evenings). Open year-round (Wednesday-Sunday in winter). Evening reservations strongly encouraged. Price range is upscale casual ($$$). Book via exploretock.com/harborfishmarketgrille.

Chives Door County at 8041 WI-57 delivers farm-to-table fine dining with many ingredients grown on the property. Takes reservations via OpenTable, but credit card required for parties of 5+, with $25/person charge for no-shows or cancellations less than 1 day in advance. Call for groups of 14+ to discuss arrangements. Food trucks operate Memorial Day to Labor Day for more casual options. Thursday through Monday, dinner 4-9pm; Sunday brunch 9am-2pm. Price range is very upscale ($$$$). Call (920) 839-2000. Visit chivesdoorcounty.com.

Door County Brewing Co. & Music Hall at 8099 State Highway 57 offers spacious indoor taproom and expansive outdoor beer garden perfect for casual large groups. They explicitly welcome weddings and private/public gatherings with special pricing on cases and kegs. Dog-friendly throughout with water dishes for pups. DCBC Eats serves casual food. Live music year-round. Price range is budget ($). Call (920) 239-8181. Visit doorcountybrewingco.com.

Baileys Harbor Cornerstone Pub at 8123 Highway 57 asks groups to "call ahead and reserve" and reviews confirm they accommodate groups of 9+ at one table. Features Door County's longest continual pan-fried Fish Fry. Summer outdoor dining with harbor and marina views. Homemade pizza served until bar closes. Monday-Thursday and Sunday 11am-8pm; Friday-Saturday 11am-9pm. Price range is moderate ($$). Call (920) 839-9001. Visit baileysharborcornerstonepub.com.

PC Junction at 7898 County Road A offers something truly unique: food delivered by model train. "Voted #1 kids spot in Door County," this makes it ideal for multi-generational groups where keeping kids entertained is essential. Listed as good for groups with multiple seating areas including upstairs traditional dining room, covered outdoor pavilion, and extensive outdoor play area with pedal carts and playground. Seasonal (typically Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm). Pizza Czar on property serves evenings Wednesday-Sunday. Very popular—book ahead or arrive at off-peak times. Price range is budget ($). Call (920) 839-2048. Visit pcjunctiondoorcounty.com.

Coyote Roadhouse at 3026 County Road E sits on Kangaroo Lake with deck dining overlooking the water. Reviews confirm large groups can be accommodated with larger tables available at one end with lake and deck views. Famous BBQ Baby Back Ribs, homemade turkey pot pie on Tuesdays, all-you-can-eat fish fry Fridays ($14.99). "Everybody-knows-your-name" local atmosphere. Kayak and canoe launch steps from deck—"launch, then lunch" is popular. Daily 11am-9pm, year-round. No reservations typically taken—arrive early for best patio seating. Price range is moderate ($$). Call (920) 839-9192. Visit coyote-roadhouse.com.

Washington Island, Gills Rock, and Jacksonport

These smaller communities offer distinctive dining experiences, including restaurants on Washington Island accessible only by ferry—a memorable experience for adventurous groups.

Important ferry information for Washington Island restaurants: The Washington Island Ferry Line departs from Northport Pier near Gills Rock, with approximately 30-minute crossings. Summer schedule offers frequent departures roughly every 30-45 minutes, with last ferry typically 7-8pm or later. Check ferry times before making dinner reservations to ensure your group can return. Visit wisferry.com for current schedules and rates.

Sailor's Pub at 1475 South Shore Drive on Washington Island offers fine dining overlooking the dock and bay. Outside deck seating (weather permitting) with stunning sunset views. Accepts reservations for special occasions—call (920) 847-2105 for large group bookings. Seasonal (June-October typically). One of the island's premier dining destinations. Price range is fine dining ($$$). Visit shipyardisland.com/sailors-pub.

K.K. Fiske Restaurant & The Granary at 1177 Main Road on Washington Island is explicitly noted as "good for groups" and accommodates large parties. Historic 1860s granary building with rustic atmosphere. "The Coop" outdoor tiki bar provides expanded seating. Famous for fresh-caught local fish including "Lawyers" (burbot). Fish boils Wednesday and Saturday in season—require advance booking. Note: no separate checks for large groups on busy nights. Wednesday-Saturday 11am-8pm. Price range is budget ($). Call (920) 847-2121.

Hotel Washington Restaurant at 354 Range Line Road on Washington Island offers farm-to-table fine dining in an elegant historic setting. The entire estate is available for weddings, business retreats, and family reunions. Seasonal menu using fresh local ingredients. Limited seating—book 2+ weeks ahead for groups. Seasonal (May-October), Wednesday-Saturday 5pm-8pm only. Restaurant closes before last ferry; plan accordingly or stay overnight. Price range is fine dining ($$$-$$$$). Call (920) 847-3010. Visit hotelwashingtonandstudio.com.

Island Fever Rum Bar & Grill at 6301 WI-57 in Jacksonport brings Caribbean vibes to the Lake Michigan shore. Saturday Fish Boils (boilover at 6:45pm) are excellent for large groups with outdoor event-style dining—reservations required, book online or call. Large outdoor yard for fish boils and summer dining, steps from Lake Michigan. Tiki bar, live music, ice cream shop on property. Open year-round. Price range is moderate ($$). Call (920) 823-2700. Visit islandfeverrumbarandgrill.com.

Essential summer planning tips

Door County restaurants operate differently during peak summer season (Memorial Day through Labor Day), and groups of 14+ need specific strategies for successful dining.

Booking timeline matters. For fine dining restaurants and fish boil experiences, book 2-4 weeks ahead for summer weekends. Venues with private dining rooms like Waterfront Restaurant's Sunset Room, CHOP's private space, or Harbor Fish Market & Grille's 120-seat capacity require even more advance notice—think 4-6 weeks or more. Popular no-reservation spots like Al Johnson's require early arrival (before 8am) or acceptance of significant waits.

Call directly for groups over 10-12 people. Online reservation systems typically cap at smaller party sizes. Speaking with restaurant staff allows you to discuss seating arrangements, menu options for large groups, and any special needs. Many family-owned Door County restaurants are flexible and accommodating when given advance notice.

Consider weekday dining. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings offer dramatically better availability than Friday and Saturday nights. Your group is more likely to be seated together, service tends to be faster, and you'll often have a more relaxed experience.

Early or late seatings work best. Prime dinner time (6:30-7:30pm) is hardest to book. Request 5:00-5:30pm or 8:00pm+ seatings for better luck accommodating large groups. Many supper clubs offer early bird specials for the added benefit of lower prices.

Friday Fish Fry is serious business. This Wisconsin tradition packs restaurants throughout Door County. If your group wants the Friday fish fry experience, book early in the week or plan to arrive well before 5pm.

Request outdoor seating immediately. Waterfront tables and patio seating fill fast during summer. Mention your preference when making reservations and confirm a few days ahead.

Confirm seasonal hours. Many Door County restaurants operate seasonally or with limited winter hours, then expand to daily service in summer. Always verify current hours when booking, especially for May, early June, September, and October shoulder seasons.

Discuss dietary needs upfront. Large groups often include someone with allergies or dietary restrictions. Calling ahead allows restaurants to prepare and sometimes offer modified menus.

Parking requires planning. Downtown areas in Fish Creek, Sister Bay, and Ephraim have limited parking. Ask restaurants about parking options, especially for groups arriving in multiple vehicles.

Looking for a quick mid-day meal? Here’s a guide to lunch around Door County.

Quick reference by special features

Best for very large groups (30+): The Log Den (300+ capacity, Egg Harbor area), Harbor Fish Market & Grille (120 capacity, Baileys Harbor), CHOP (80 capacity, Sister Bay), Bluefront Café (100 for private events, Sturgeon Bay), Sonny's Italian Kitchen (50+ indoor plus outdoor, Sturgeon Bay)

Private dining rooms available: Waterfront Restaurant Sunset Room (Sister Bay), CHOP (Sister Bay), LURE (Sister Bay), Harbor Fish Market & Grille (Baileys Harbor), Drömhus (Sturgeon Bay), Stone Harbor Resort (Sturgeon Bay), Osteria Tre Tassi (Ellison Bay)

Best waterfront dining for groups: Sonny's Italian Kitchen (Sturgeon Bay), Waterfront Restaurant (Sister Bay), Harbor Fish Market & Grille (Baileys Harbor), Fred & Fuzzy's (Sister Bay), Old Post Office (Ephraim), Coyote Roadhouse (Baileys Harbor), The Shoreline (Gills Rock), Sailor's Pub (Washington Island)

Best for families with kids: PC Junction train restaurant (Baileys Harbor), Sister Bay Bowl (bowling plus dining), Kitty O'Reilly's beer garden with sandbox (Sturgeon Bay), Waterfront Mary's (Sturgeon Bay), Door County Brewing Co. beer garden (Baileys Harbor), Mink River Basin arcade (Ellison Bay)

Best fish boil experiences for groups: White Gull Inn (Fish Creek), Pelletier's (Fish Creek), Old Post Office (Ephraim), Kettle Black (Fish Creek), K.K. Fiske (Washington Island), Island Fever (Jacksonport)

Best upscale dining for special occasions: Waterfront Restaurant (Sister Bay), Chives (Baileys Harbor), CUT (Fish Creek), Alexander's (Fish Creek), Donny's Glidden Lodge (Sturgeon Bay), Hotel Washington (Washington Island), Osteria Tre Tassi (Ellison Bay)

Whether you're planning a multi-generation family reunion, a friend group getaway, or just corralling your extended family for one memorable Door County dinner, the peninsula offers remarkable options for every taste and budget. Start making calls early, remain flexible on timing, and embrace the Door County pace—your table will be worth the wait.