The Supper Clubs of Door County
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While the food scene in Door County continues to diversify and grow, the time-honored and family-focused supper clubs remain favorite places to dine. The cozy familiarity of the Wisconsin supper club tradition keeps families and friends returning week after week, month after month, and year after year.
So, whether you're looking for a delicious steak, Friday night fish fry, or just a perfectly blended Wisconsin-style brandy old-fashioned, Door County's supper clubs will come through with that and much more. Explore these 9 Door County supper clubs and start planning your next meal. Before you go, make sure to inquire about each establishment's operating hours and reservation recommendations.
For a Classic Experience: Nightingale Supper Club
Sturgeon Bay
Step into a rich tapestry of history and flavor at the Nightingale Supper Club, an enduring haven of culinary delights that has graced Sturgeon Bay since 1913. Guided by Dave Ripp and his family for the past three decades, this establishment has perfected the art of serving the finest entrees in the timeless supper club tradition. From mouthwatering, high-quality steaks and prime rib to the Wisconsin Friday night fish fry, the Nightingale offers an inviting atmosphere steeped in tradition, making it a beloved Door County attraction. Chicken, fish, homemade soups, desserts, and the "best deep-fried cheese curds in the county round out the menu. Don't miss the chance to savor a "best in class" old-fashioned or martini, or an array of craft beers, wines and spirits.
For a German Twist: Mill Supper Club
Sturgeon Bay
A tradition since its inception in 1930, The Mill Supper Club embodies the essence of exceptional dining within a laid-back and family-friendly ambiance. The menu blends classic flavors with modern twists, offering a tantalizing range of German and traditional American dishes from Schnitzel, Sauerbraten and Beef Rouladen to mouthwatering steaks, savory seafood and pasta bowls. Every evening is a new opportunity to savor Nightly Feature Specials or partake in the much-anticipated Mill Famous family-style chicken served every Wednesday and Sunday. And as the evening winds down, the mammoth ice cream drinks beckon, putting a sweet exclamation mark on the experience.
For German and Wisconsin Fusion: Hügel Haus
Ellison Bay
Step into the heart of Door County's Wurst Bar and discover the long-awaited taste of German fare brought to the Door County community at Hügel Haus. Translated as "House on the Hill" in German, Hügel Haus is a harmonious blend of German tradition and Wisconsin influence that offers a delectable fusion of Deutschland classics and inspired local favorites in the historic HillSide Motel in Ellison Bay. Savor the rich flavors of treasured family recipes crafted with local ingredients accompanied by an array of German drafts, wine, and specialty cocktails crafted to perfection.
For a Bowling and Dinner Combo: Earl's Sister Bay Bowl and Supper Club
Sister Bay
Neighborhood bar? Bowling Alley? Supper Club? While much of the world is served by chain restaurants, downtown Sister Bay is fortunate to be home to a traditional, family-owned supper club that checks all three. Earl's Sister Bay Bowl and Supper Club is the family-friendly mainstay of Sister Bay, which has been serving the community since 1958. Famous for its Tuesday and Friday night fish fries, "The Bowl," as it's known to locals, is a throwback with servers who've worked here for decades and a cozy bar complete with the padded rails and wood paneling that are the hallmark of a great supper club. Bonus! You can brush up on your scoring skills in the bowling alley, where the six vintage lanes offer only manual scoring while enjoying a cold beer and a great pizza. Voted "Best Fish Fry" and "Best Old Fashioned" by the readers of Door County magazine.
For a Lakeside View: Florian II Supper Club
Baileys Harbor
For 66 remarkable years, the Florian II Lakeshore Supper Club has stood as a cherished Door County supper club, crafting memories for generations old and new. Overlooking the picturesque Baileys Harbor and Lake Michigan, the Florian II offers incredible views and an experience steeped in history with roots back to 1885 when the property began as a stagecoach inn catering to weary travelers exploring the Door Peninsula. In 1956, the Kwaterski family took over and today continues to preserve their Polish heritage and old-fashioned recipes, including Jerry's award-winning BBQ ribs with secret BBQ rib sauce. Moreover, the Florian II was designed with live music in mind. You'll find the best bar acoustics in Door County for dining, dancing and drinks, with performances every Friday and Saturday by Jamie Lynn Fletcher and The HarBar on Sundays, weather permitting.
For an Upscale Option: Donny’s Glidden Lodge Restaurant
Sturgeon Bay
You know you're in for a treat when a 4 p.m. seating is necessary to pick your table for impressive views of Lake Michigan from the stone-walled dining room. As a family-owned haven of delectable Midwestern cuisine, Donny's Glidden Lodge uses the finest and freshest ingredients that embody the heart of the region. Popular entrees include The Signature Dinner – The Glidden, featuring a 10 oz. tenderloin adorned with a Merlot sauce, candied onions atop toast points, and Gorgonzola cheese. Thursday and Saturday, diners can choose queen and king-cut prime rib, each hand-cut and aged to perfection. The beautiful views and impeccable service at Donny's Glidden Lodge put this supper club at the top of many visitors' and locals' lists. So much so, reservations are highly encouraged, as is limiting your dining time to 90 minutes to accommodate other guests.
For a Cozy, Year-Round Option: English Inn
Fish Creek
You can't miss the English Inn with its two life-sized horse statues at the entrance being ridden by armored knights hoisting torches with real flames. This Door County gem has a beautiful outdoor patio and garden that beckons in warmer seasons, while the cozy interior provides the perfect sanctuary with the feel of an old elegant supper club on chilly fall and winter evenings. The menu boasts an all-you-can-eat fish fry every Friday and delectable classics such as beef wellington, chicken wellington, pistachio-encrusted halibut, white fish oscar, and a sumptuous seafood platter. Rooted in history, the English Inn's origin as a lumber mill a century ago lends it a unique character, with its entrance, bar, and dining room preserving the original charm.
For a North Woods Vibe: The Log Den
Egg Harbor
Nestled just south of Egg Harbor, at the heart of Door County and the 45th parallel, a picturesque driveway leads you to an enchanting hand-carved masterpiece known as The Log Den, crafted with love by the Lautenbach family, who have lived in Door County for more than five generations. Standing as a testament to their artistry and devotion, The Log Den is a remarkable 10,000-square-foot cabin restaurant and lounge where every aspect was thoughtfully designed with meticulously hand-scribed logs. Amidst the intricate carvings of bears, eagles, buffalo, and fish throughout the establishment, you'll discover a menu that merges beloved Door County favorites with specialty steaks, seafood, a dedicated Cubbies kid’s menu and a hearty brunch every Sunday. With an attentive and welcoming staff, The Log Den invites you to immerse yourself in a dining experience that transcends the ordinary in a place that feels like home.
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