1. Sanford – Milwaukee

📍 Milwaukee

A staple in Milwaukee’s fine dining scene, Sanford delivers refined American cuisine with global influences. Chef Justin Aprahamian, a James Beard Award winner, transforms seasonal ingredients into unforgettable tasting menus. It’s the perfect spot for a special occasion or a true foodie experience.

💡 Must Try: Tasting menu with wine pairing

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2. The Immigrant Restaurant – Kohler

📍 The American Club, Kohler

Tucked inside the historic American Club, The Immigrant Restaurant combines old-world charm with upscale European-American fare. The intimate setting and impeccable service make it a luxury dining destination.

💡 Must Try: Duck confit and seasonal chef’s tasting menu

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3. Graze – Madison

📍 Downtown Madison

Overlooking the Capitol, Graze offers modern comfort food sourced from local farms. Run by renowned chef Tory Miller, it strikes a perfect balance between casual and sophisticated.

💡 Must Try: Bibimbap and the Graze burger

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4. Wild Tomato – Fish Creek & Sister Bay

📍 Door County

After a day exploring Door County’s beaches and parks, Wild Tomato is the go-to for wood-fired pizza made with local ingredients. Family-friendly, flavorful, and casual—this spot is a crowd-pleaser.

💡 Must Try: The “Fun Guy” mushroom pizza

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5. L’Etoile – Madison

📍 Madison

Another gem from Chef Tory Miller, L’Etoile is a true farm-to-table pioneer. Its elegant dishes change with the seasons, emphasizing sustainable sourcing from Wisconsin farmers and producers.

💡 Must Try: Chef's Tasting Menu with local wine pairing

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6. Mader’s – Milwaukee

📍 Historic Third Ward

If you're craving authentic German cuisine, Mader’s has been a Milwaukee institution since 1902. With its rich wooden interiors and old-world charm, it's more than a restaurant—it’s a cultural experience.

💡 Must Try: Pork shank and Bavarian pretzels

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7. Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant – Sister Bay

📍 Door County

Famous for its goats-on-the-roof and Swedish pancakes, this quirky spot blends novelty and nostalgia. Come for the Instagram-worthy views; stay for the hearty Scandinavian fare.

💡 Must Try: Swedish pancakes with lingonberries

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8. Twisted Willow – Port Washington

📍 Downtown Port Washington

Farm-fresh cuisine meets creative flair at this lakeside favorite. With seasonal menus and craft cocktails, Twisted Willow is ideal for date nights or weekend getaways.

💡 Must Try: Beet salad and short ribs

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9. Ishnala Supper Club – Wisconsin Dells

📍 Wisconsin Dells

A quintessential Wisconsin supper club, Ishnala offers rustic elegance with stunning views over Mirror Lake. With prime rib, classic cocktails, and a warm log-cabin atmosphere, it’s dinner with a view—Wisconsin style.

💡 Must Try: Old Fashioned cocktail and prime rib

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10. The Old Fashioned – Madison

📍 Capitol Square, Madison

A love letter to Wisconsin’s culinary heritage, The Old Fashioned serves up cheese curds, bratwursts, and the best Old Fashioned cocktails in the state. It's cozy, casual, and packed with flavor.

💡 Must Try: Fried cheese curds and beer-battered walleye

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Final Bites

Whether you're a foodie on a mission or a local looking for a new favorite spot, Wisconsin has something for every palate. From elegant dining to laid-back local gems, these must-try restaurants reflect the best of what the state has to offer.