Eau Claire, Wisconsin is a small town with a big personality. Located hours away from Wisconsin's largest cities, Eau Claire sits in a valley and along a particularly picturesque stretch of the winding Chippewa River. When visitors come to Eau Claire, they'll be surprised and amazed at how this relatively quiet town can have such a modern vibe and so much more than just a university. The city is home to some of the best restaurants in the state.
From farm-to-table eateries to classic pizza joints, there's something for everyone in Eau Claire. Here are some of the most popular restaurants that you should check out when you visit.
The Lakely
is one of the most well-known restaurants in town. Located on the ground floor of The Oxbow, this elegant farm-to-table restaurant and bar serves up Midwestern favorites during the weekdays and features live music on the weekends. The seasonal Italian restaurant Mona Lisa's has been around since 1994 and is still one of the city's most beloved eateries.Here you can enjoy all the seasonal ingredients and pay attention to the details without any fuss or tourists. The comforting Osso Bucco made with free-range veal, creative vegetable dishes, and imaginative seasonal pasta are all must-try dishes.
The Brewing Projekt
is a popular spot for beer lovers. Stop by their relaxed tavern to enjoy their hazy New England-style IPA (Dare Mighty Things) or their sour milkshake (Smoofee). Plus, you never know what these guys are up to!Forage is not a restaurant at all, but rather an incubator for food companies and a space for events where very good and delicious things happen inside the extinct Uniroyal plant.Fries on Fridays, dinners with wine on the first Wednesday, pop-up restaurants, a photography class taught by a Hmong home cook - everything is always happening at Forage.
44 Below
is one of the nearby restaurants that you can't miss. Try their exclusive creations like the 44 North Reuben or live like a local by visiting local restaurants and bars such as 7th Street Pub. Take a 20-minute drive for the simple but surprising experience that awaits you at Albertville Tavern. Since 1994, Mona Lisa restaurant has been impressing locals with its Italian fare.Ted's Pizza Palace
, which has been around for 50 years, rose to fame for its fresh and homemade pizza offerings.Who wouldn't be tempted by the special recipes that this pizzeria has become known for since 1970? Its incredible atmosphere would also make you realize why it is one of the best birthday restaurants in Eau Claire.
