Enjoying a night out at traditional Wisconsin Supper Clubs is a quintessential Wisconsin experience that we recommend everyone has at least once in their lives. Luckily, Pinewood Supper Club, one of the top Supper Clubs in the state, isn’t too far away. There are a couple of others in the area worth trying if you have the time, too.
While it’s true that Wausau continues to be a premier destination for sports and outdoor adventures of all varieties, it’s also an exceptional cultural destination, with great shopping, arts venues, museums, and restaurants to enjoy. It’s also home to our extraordinary boutique hotel, Stewart Inn, which is an experience unto itself. Whether you’re driving through the area or coming to Wausau for one of our extraordinary community amenities, we know you’ll have a great time with us. Book your room at our boutique hotel today.
Step Back in Time at Pinewood Supper Club
If we had to narrow our love of Wausau down to one thing, it would be the fact that underneath the seemingly rugged exterior, there’s a charming city full of surprises. Wausau’s restaurants are certainly no exception and will delight even the pickiest of eaters. You can find pretty much anything you’re looking for in the Wausau area, including traditional Wisconsin Supper Clubs. The most popular in the area is Pinewood Supper Club.
Like all traditional Wisconsin Supper Clubs, dining at Pinewood Supper Club is a unique and memorable experience. These Supper Clubs had their beginnings in the Prohibition-era speakeasies of New York City. They offered supper in a nightclub as a cover for the real business of serving illegal booze. The concept quickly caught on, and by the late 1930s, it was a national sensation.
Wisconsin’s supper clubs started as taverns, resorts, and dancehalls. Commonly served dishes were fried chicken and perch, with, of course, a cold pint of beer. As the clubs grew in popularity, their menu morphed into what we know and love today: someplace that reliably serves a good Friday Fish Fry, a Saturday Prime Rib, and a Sunday broasted chicken and ribs. We can’t forget the signature cocktail of such a place, either: a hand-muddled brandy old fashioned.
Pinewood Supper Club does this traditional superbly, and it’s a short drive away on the shores of Half Moon Lake in Mosinee. Pinewood Supper Club is ranked the #2 supper club in the state and is certainly one of the most romantic dining venues near Wausau. This delicious Wisconsin staple has been in business since 1974, though it’s located in a building dating back to the early 1900s. The rustic lodge-style interior evokes an authentic Northwoods ambiance and is the perfect place for dinner while you’re in town.
A few of our favorite things to enjoy from this absolute gem include the cracker crusted walleye, the top-notch fish fry, a delicious blackened salmon oscar, the classic relish tray, their perfect old fashioned’s, and their incredible ice cream cocktails, like the Brandy Alexander, Grasshopper, and Golden Cadillac.
2 More Wisconsin Supper Clubs Worth Visiting
Though the Pinewood Supper club is our “go-to” recommendation, there are also two other nearby Wisconsin Supper Clubs that also offer a great experience. Step through the door of the Palms Supper Club and into the 1930s when this restaurant first got its start. The highlight at this supper club is definitely the signature “Roller’s round bar,” named after the club’s original owner. It’s a great place to enjoy cocktails in the historic ambiance.
Sky Club, located nearby in Stevens Point stakes its claim as the first-ever home of the “salad bar,” which they say dates back to 1950. They also have a great bar, with 125 wines (20 served by the glass) to enjoy, which will complement your meal nicely. Moreover, you’ll enjoy the delightful supper club atmosphere you expect.
The Best Hotel in Wausau
Whether visiting the Pinewood Supper Club or any of the other great restaurants in Wausau, we have no doubt you’ll enjoy your time in Wausau. That’s especially true when you stay with us at Stewart Inn, rated as one of the top hotels in Wisconsin, let alone in Wausau.
Stewart Inn offers gorgeous guest rooms, high-end amenities, exquisite breakfasts, and top-notch hospitality, all within easy walking distance of the best of downtown Wausau. There’s no place quite like it, but you’ll need to see it for yourself. Book your room at this historic Wausau hotel today!