Dining in Rhinelander, Wisconsin
### **A Culinary Compass: A Foodie's Deep Dive into Rhinelander's Essential Eats**
Welcome, hungry traveler, to the heart of the Northwoods. Rhinelander, Wisconsin, is more than just the home of the mythical Hodag; it’s a landscape where hearty appetites meet genuine hospitality. Beyond the shimmering lakes and pine-scented trails lies a surprisingly vibrant and diverse dining scene, a tapestry woven from classic supper clubs, family-run ethnic gems, and lakeside hangouts where the fish fry is a weekly religion.
For the discerning foodie, a trip here isn't just about sustenance—it’s about experience. It’s the crackle of a Friday night perch fry, the warm glow of a rustic lodge, the fiery kick of house-made salsa, and the comforting embrace of a slice of homemade pie. Consider this your indispensable guide, a curated journey through ten establishments that define the flavor of Rhinelander. We’ll explore the ambiance, decode the menus, and pinpoint the must-order dishes that will make your visit unforgettable.
---
#### **1. The White Stag: The Quintessential Northwoods Supper Club**
**Location:** 7141 State Hwy 17 N
**The Vibe:** Step into a Northwoods institution. The White Stag is the epitome of the classic Wisconsin supper club experience: dark wood, cozy booths, mounted wildlife, and a palpable sense of tradition. It’s where celebrations are held, anniversaries are toasted, and the ritual of the Old Fashioned (brandy, sweet, with olives and onions, of course) is faithfully observed. The atmosphere is warm, convivial, and timeless.
**For the Foodie:** This is hallowed ground for classic American and German-inspired fare, executed with care and served in generous, satisfying portions.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Fried Cheese Curds**. They’re a non-negotiable Wisconsin litmus test, and The White Stag’s are legendary—golden, squeaky, and perfectly salty.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Friday Night Fish Fry**. An all-you-can-eat extravaganza featuring beautifully beer-battered cod, lake perch, or walleye. It comes with all the fixings: coleslaw, rye bread, and your choice of potato. It’s a cultural immersion on a plate.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Prime Rib** on weekends. Slow-roasted, beautifully seasoned, and carved to order, it’s a masterpiece of simplicity and flavor.
* **Pro-Tip:** End your meal with a Grasshopper or Brandy Alexander. It’s the proper supper club send-off.
#### **2. Casa Mexicana Rhinelander: A Fiesta of Flavor**
**Location:** 1180 Lincoln St
**The Vibe:** Bright, colorful, and bustling with energy. Casa Mexicana offers a cheerful escape from the Northwoods chill, filling the air with the aromas of grilled meats, fresh cilantro, and simmering sauces. It’s family-friendly and consistently packed, a testament to its popularity and the genuine warmth of the service.
**For the Foodie:** This is authentic, full-flavored Mexican cuisine that goes far beyond basic tacos. The menu is extensive, but focus on the house specialties.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Queso Fundido**. A sizzling skillet of melted cheese with chorizo, served with soft flour tortillas for dipping. It’s rich, decadent, and utterly irresistible.
* **Signature Main Event:** **Molcajete Mixto**. A show-stopping stone mortar bowl filled to the brim with grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, chorizo, nopales (cactus), and cheese, all bathing in a rich, spicy red sauce. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Carnitas**. Slow-braised until tender and crispy at the edges, they are some of the best in the region. Order them as a platter or in tacos.
* **Pro-Tip:** Wash it down with a perfectly tangy and refreshing **Rita Mexicana** (margarita on the rocks).
#### **3. Peking Chinese Restaurant: A Culinary Journey East**
**Location:** 825 Lincoln St
**The Vibe:** Unassuming and tidy, Peking is a beloved staple. It’s the kind of place locals call in their weekly orders to, a reliable source for flavorful, generously portioned Chinese-American classics. The service is quick and friendly, perfect for a casual dine-in experience or a takeout feast.
**For the Foodie:** While you’ll find all the familiar favorites, the joy here is in the execution and the hidden gems.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Crab Rangoon**. Crispy, creamy, and packed with flavor, they are a benchmark for the appetizer.
* **Signature Main Event:** **General Tso’s Chicken**. A classic for a reason. Peking’s version features crispy chunks of white meat chicken coated in a glossy, balanced sauce that is sweet, spicy, and tangy all at once—never cloying.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **House Special Chow Mein**. A mountain of crispy noodles topped with a savory mix of chicken, beef, shrimp, and fresh vegetables in a delicate brown sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food.
* **Pro-Tip:** Explore the “Chef’s Suggestions” section for more authentic dishes like the **Kung Pao Chicken** with its authentic numbing Szechuan peppercorn heat.
#### **4. Friendship House Family Restaurant: The Heart of Home Cooking**
**Location:** 2260 Lincoln St
**The Vibe:** The name says it all. This is a true family restaurant, where the coffee is always hot, the booths are comfortable, and the servers greet half the customers by name. The atmosphere is pure, unpretentious comfort—the ideal spot for a hearty breakfast after a morning on the lake or a meatloaf dinner that tastes like home.
**For the Foodie:** This is a temple to classic, from-scratch American diner and family restaurant fare. Come for the consistency, the value, and the pies.
* **Must-Order (Breakfast):** The **Skillet Breakfasts**. Choose your base (hash browns or fried potatoes) and load it up with your choice of meats, veggies, and cheese, topped with eggs. It’s a massive, satisfying start to any day.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Homemade Meatloaf** with mashed potatoes and gravy. It’s tender, well-seasoned, and topped with a sweet tomato glaze—the platonic ideal of the dish.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Daily Pie Selection**. Baked in-house, the rotating choices (like Dutch Apple, French Silk, or seasonal berry) are legendary. A slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is mandatory.
* **Pro-Tip:** They serve breakfast all day. The **Corned Beef Hash** is a standout.
#### **5. Beachcomber Lounge: Lakeside Libations & Pub Grub**
**Location:** 4475 County P
**The Vibe:** Casual, laid-back, and perfectly positioned for lake life. The Beachcomber feels like your favorite neighborhood bar that happens to have a fantastic kitchen. With a spacious bar area, pool tables, and often live music, it’s a social hub where you can unwind in your flip-flops.
**For the Foodie:** Don’t let the lounge name fool you. The menu is packed with elevated pub classics and some seriously good sandwiches.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Beachcomber Chips**. Freshly sliced potatoes, fried to order and served with a side of creamy ranch. Simple, addictive perfection.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Beach Burger**. A half-pound of juicy beef, cooked to order and piled high with your choice of toppings on a sturdy bun. It consistently ranks among the best burgers in the area.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Friday Fish Fry** (seeing a theme?). Their version is excellent, often featuring a crispy panko breading option alongside the classic beer batter.
* **Pro-Tip:** Grab a seat on the patio in the summer. Enjoy your burger with a cold local brew and watch the boats come in.
#### **6. The Woodpecker Bar and Grill: A Rustic Roadhouse Gem**
**Location:** 6776 Co Rd K
**The Vibe:** A true Northwoods roadhouse. The Woodpecker is cozy, rustic, and filled with character. It’s the kind of place where you might find snowmobilers in winter and bikers in summer, all united by good food and a friendly atmosphere. The wood-burning fireplace adds to the charm in cooler months.
**For the Foodie:** The menu is a delightful surprise, offering hearty, well-made dishes that surpass typical bar food expectations.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Fried Pickle Spears**. A tangy, crunchy, delicious way to begin.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Woodpecker Ribeye**. A tender, flavorful steak that’s expertly grilled and surprisingly affordable for its quality. It’s a hidden gem for steak lovers.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Pizza**. The Woodpecker serves up a fantastic, crispy-thin crust pizza with fresh toppings. The Peckerhead (a take on a meat lover’s) is a crowd-pleaser.
* **Pro-Tip:** Check the specials board. They often feature creative daily offerings that showcase the kitchen’s skills.
#### **7. Rhinelander Family Restaurant: Classic Comfort, All Day Long**
**Location:** 721 W Kemp St
**The Vibe:** Bright, clean, and efficient. This is another pillar of the local dining scene, offering reliable, friendly service and a massive menu that caters to every craving from dawn until late evening. It’s a popular spot for families, seniors, and anyone seeking a no-fuss, satisfying meal.
**For the Foodie:** The scope here is impressive. It’s a one-stop shop for everything from fluffy pancakes to hearty open-faced sandwiches to full dinner platters.
* **Must-Order (Breakfast):** The **Pancakes or French Toast**. Light, fluffy, and golden brown, they are the benchmark for a classic American breakfast.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Hot Beef Commercial**. A pile of tender, slow-cooked roast beef piled on white bread and smothered in rich beef gravy, served with mashed potatoes. It’s the ultimate Wisconsin comfort food.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Homemade Soups**. Always made fresh daily, the chicken noodle or beef vegetable are like a warm hug in a bowl.
* **Pro-Tip:** The salad bar is fresh and well-stocked, a great option for a lighter meal or as a side.
#### **8. Moondance Bar & Grill: Where Flavor Meets Fun**
**Location:** 6869 Hwy 17
**The Vibe:** Energetic, modern, and social. Moondance has a great vibe for a night out, with a spacious layout, multiple TVs for sports, and often hosting live music or events. It’s a step more contemporary than the classic supper clubs but retains that Northwoods welcome.
**For the Foodie:** The menu is creative and broad, offering everything from juicy burgers and wraps to full entrees like steaks and pasta.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Moose Tracks** (or similar loaded fries/nachos). Shareable, decadent, and perfect with a cold beer.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **BBQ Ribs**. Fall-off-the-bone tender and slathered in a tangy, house-made barbecue sauce. They are a messy, finger-licking delight.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Walleye Sandwich**. A Northwoods staple done right—a fresh, beer-battered fillet on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
* **Pro-Tip:** Check their social media for live music schedules and daily food/drink specials.
#### **9. Nacho's Mexican Grill: Fast, Fresh, and Flavorful**
**Location:** 232 S Courtney St
**The Vibe:** Quick-service and vibrant. Nacho’s is your go-to for a fast, delicious, and affordable Mexican fix. The counter-service model is efficient, and the food is prepared fresh to order. The bright colors and smells will instantly boost your mood.
**For the Foodie:** This is about big, bold flavors in a casual format. The focus is on quality ingredients and authentic tastes.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Chips and Salsa/Guacamole**. The chips are warm and salty, the salsa is freshly made with a nice kick, and the guacamole is creamy and rich.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Super Nachos**. A massive platter of crispy chips loaded with your choice of meat, beans, cheese, lettuce, pico, guacamole, and sour cream. It’s a meal for two (or one very ambitious eater).
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Carne Asada Burrito**. Grilled, marinated steak wrapped in a giant flour tortilla with rice, beans, and all the fixings. It’s incredibly satisfying.
* **Pro-Tip:** Don’t skip the hot sauce bar. They usually have several house-made options to customize your heat level.
#### **10. Shady Sues: A Cozy Nook for Breakfast & Lunch**
**Location:** 3220 Boyce Dr
**The Vibe:** Quaint, charming, and utterly cozy. Shady Sues feels like a well-kept secret. It’s a small, diner-style spot that’s spotlessly clean and run with obvious pride. The atmosphere is peaceful and perfect for a quiet, leisurely meal.
**For the Foodie:** This is a breakfast and lunch paradise, with everything made to order using high-quality ingredients. The attention to detail is remarkable.
* **Must-Order (Breakfast):** The **Omelets**. Light, fluffy, and stuffed with fresh ingredients. The Veggie Delight or a custom creation are always excellent.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Reuben Sandwich**. Piled high with perfectly corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on grilled rye. It’s considered one of the best in town.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Homemade Muffins or Sweet Rolls**. Baked fresh daily, they are the perfect sweet accompaniment to a cup of their excellent coffee.
* **Pro-Tip:** They close in the mid-afternoon. Plan accordingly for a fantastic, unhurried breakfast or an early lunch.
---
### **The Foodie's Rhinelander Itinerary: A Final Word**
Your culinary tour of Rhinelander is a journey through the soul of the Northwoods. It’s a reminder that great food isn’t always about white tablecloths and tiny portions; it’s about connection, tradition, and the joy of a meal shared or savored in a place with genuine character.
**Start your day** at Shady Sues or Friendship House. **Grab a quick, flavorful lunch** at Nacho’s or Peking. **Spend a lazy afternoon** with a burger and a view at the Beachcomber. **Indulge in the sacred Friday night ritual** at The White Stag or Woodpecker. **Spice up an evening** with a molcajete at Casa Mexicana. **End a night of fun** with ribs and music at Moondance.
Each of these ten spots offers a unique chapter in Rhinelander’s story. So come with an appetite, a sense of adventure, and leave the pretension behind. The Hodag might be mythical, but the delicious memories you’ll make here are very, very real. Happy eating
Welcome, hungry traveler, to the heart of the Northwoods. Rhinelander, Wisconsin, is more than just the home of the mythical Hodag; it’s a landscape where hearty appetites meet genuine hospitality. Beyond the shimmering lakes and pine-scented trails lies a surprisingly vibrant and diverse dining scene, a tapestry woven from classic supper clubs, family-run ethnic gems, and lakeside hangouts where the fish fry is a weekly religion.
For the discerning foodie, a trip here isn't just about sustenance—it’s about experience. It’s the crackle of a Friday night perch fry, the warm glow of a rustic lodge, the fiery kick of house-made salsa, and the comforting embrace of a slice of homemade pie. Consider this your indispensable guide, a curated journey through ten establishments that define the flavor of Rhinelander. We’ll explore the ambiance, decode the menus, and pinpoint the must-order dishes that will make your visit unforgettable.
---
#### **1. The White Stag: The Quintessential Northwoods Supper Club**
**Location:** 7141 State Hwy 17 N
**The Vibe:** Step into a Northwoods institution. The White Stag is the epitome of the classic Wisconsin supper club experience: dark wood, cozy booths, mounted wildlife, and a palpable sense of tradition. It’s where celebrations are held, anniversaries are toasted, and the ritual of the Old Fashioned (brandy, sweet, with olives and onions, of course) is faithfully observed. The atmosphere is warm, convivial, and timeless.
**For the Foodie:** This is hallowed ground for classic American and German-inspired fare, executed with care and served in generous, satisfying portions.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Fried Cheese Curds**. They’re a non-negotiable Wisconsin litmus test, and The White Stag’s are legendary—golden, squeaky, and perfectly salty.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Friday Night Fish Fry**. An all-you-can-eat extravaganza featuring beautifully beer-battered cod, lake perch, or walleye. It comes with all the fixings: coleslaw, rye bread, and your choice of potato. It’s a cultural immersion on a plate.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Prime Rib** on weekends. Slow-roasted, beautifully seasoned, and carved to order, it’s a masterpiece of simplicity and flavor.
* **Pro-Tip:** End your meal with a Grasshopper or Brandy Alexander. It’s the proper supper club send-off.
#### **2. Casa Mexicana Rhinelander: A Fiesta of Flavor**
**Location:** 1180 Lincoln St
**The Vibe:** Bright, colorful, and bustling with energy. Casa Mexicana offers a cheerful escape from the Northwoods chill, filling the air with the aromas of grilled meats, fresh cilantro, and simmering sauces. It’s family-friendly and consistently packed, a testament to its popularity and the genuine warmth of the service.
**For the Foodie:** This is authentic, full-flavored Mexican cuisine that goes far beyond basic tacos. The menu is extensive, but focus on the house specialties.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Queso Fundido**. A sizzling skillet of melted cheese with chorizo, served with soft flour tortillas for dipping. It’s rich, decadent, and utterly irresistible.
* **Signature Main Event:** **Molcajete Mixto**. A show-stopping stone mortar bowl filled to the brim with grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, chorizo, nopales (cactus), and cheese, all bathing in a rich, spicy red sauce. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Carnitas**. Slow-braised until tender and crispy at the edges, they are some of the best in the region. Order them as a platter or in tacos.
* **Pro-Tip:** Wash it down with a perfectly tangy and refreshing **Rita Mexicana** (margarita on the rocks).
#### **3. Peking Chinese Restaurant: A Culinary Journey East**
**Location:** 825 Lincoln St
**The Vibe:** Unassuming and tidy, Peking is a beloved staple. It’s the kind of place locals call in their weekly orders to, a reliable source for flavorful, generously portioned Chinese-American classics. The service is quick and friendly, perfect for a casual dine-in experience or a takeout feast.
**For the Foodie:** While you’ll find all the familiar favorites, the joy here is in the execution and the hidden gems.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Crab Rangoon**. Crispy, creamy, and packed with flavor, they are a benchmark for the appetizer.
* **Signature Main Event:** **General Tso’s Chicken**. A classic for a reason. Peking’s version features crispy chunks of white meat chicken coated in a glossy, balanced sauce that is sweet, spicy, and tangy all at once—never cloying.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **House Special Chow Mein**. A mountain of crispy noodles topped with a savory mix of chicken, beef, shrimp, and fresh vegetables in a delicate brown sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food.
* **Pro-Tip:** Explore the “Chef’s Suggestions” section for more authentic dishes like the **Kung Pao Chicken** with its authentic numbing Szechuan peppercorn heat.
#### **4. Friendship House Family Restaurant: The Heart of Home Cooking**
**Location:** 2260 Lincoln St
**The Vibe:** The name says it all. This is a true family restaurant, where the coffee is always hot, the booths are comfortable, and the servers greet half the customers by name. The atmosphere is pure, unpretentious comfort—the ideal spot for a hearty breakfast after a morning on the lake or a meatloaf dinner that tastes like home.
**For the Foodie:** This is a temple to classic, from-scratch American diner and family restaurant fare. Come for the consistency, the value, and the pies.
* **Must-Order (Breakfast):** The **Skillet Breakfasts**. Choose your base (hash browns or fried potatoes) and load it up with your choice of meats, veggies, and cheese, topped with eggs. It’s a massive, satisfying start to any day.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Homemade Meatloaf** with mashed potatoes and gravy. It’s tender, well-seasoned, and topped with a sweet tomato glaze—the platonic ideal of the dish.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Daily Pie Selection**. Baked in-house, the rotating choices (like Dutch Apple, French Silk, or seasonal berry) are legendary. A slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is mandatory.
* **Pro-Tip:** They serve breakfast all day. The **Corned Beef Hash** is a standout.
#### **5. Beachcomber Lounge: Lakeside Libations & Pub Grub**
**Location:** 4475 County P
**The Vibe:** Casual, laid-back, and perfectly positioned for lake life. The Beachcomber feels like your favorite neighborhood bar that happens to have a fantastic kitchen. With a spacious bar area, pool tables, and often live music, it’s a social hub where you can unwind in your flip-flops.
**For the Foodie:** Don’t let the lounge name fool you. The menu is packed with elevated pub classics and some seriously good sandwiches.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Beachcomber Chips**. Freshly sliced potatoes, fried to order and served with a side of creamy ranch. Simple, addictive perfection.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Beach Burger**. A half-pound of juicy beef, cooked to order and piled high with your choice of toppings on a sturdy bun. It consistently ranks among the best burgers in the area.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Friday Fish Fry** (seeing a theme?). Their version is excellent, often featuring a crispy panko breading option alongside the classic beer batter.
* **Pro-Tip:** Grab a seat on the patio in the summer. Enjoy your burger with a cold local brew and watch the boats come in.
#### **6. The Woodpecker Bar and Grill: A Rustic Roadhouse Gem**
**Location:** 6776 Co Rd K
**The Vibe:** A true Northwoods roadhouse. The Woodpecker is cozy, rustic, and filled with character. It’s the kind of place where you might find snowmobilers in winter and bikers in summer, all united by good food and a friendly atmosphere. The wood-burning fireplace adds to the charm in cooler months.
**For the Foodie:** The menu is a delightful surprise, offering hearty, well-made dishes that surpass typical bar food expectations.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Fried Pickle Spears**. A tangy, crunchy, delicious way to begin.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Woodpecker Ribeye**. A tender, flavorful steak that’s expertly grilled and surprisingly affordable for its quality. It’s a hidden gem for steak lovers.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Pizza**. The Woodpecker serves up a fantastic, crispy-thin crust pizza with fresh toppings. The Peckerhead (a take on a meat lover’s) is a crowd-pleaser.
* **Pro-Tip:** Check the specials board. They often feature creative daily offerings that showcase the kitchen’s skills.
#### **7. Rhinelander Family Restaurant: Classic Comfort, All Day Long**
**Location:** 721 W Kemp St
**The Vibe:** Bright, clean, and efficient. This is another pillar of the local dining scene, offering reliable, friendly service and a massive menu that caters to every craving from dawn until late evening. It’s a popular spot for families, seniors, and anyone seeking a no-fuss, satisfying meal.
**For the Foodie:** The scope here is impressive. It’s a one-stop shop for everything from fluffy pancakes to hearty open-faced sandwiches to full dinner platters.
* **Must-Order (Breakfast):** The **Pancakes or French Toast**. Light, fluffy, and golden brown, they are the benchmark for a classic American breakfast.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Hot Beef Commercial**. A pile of tender, slow-cooked roast beef piled on white bread and smothered in rich beef gravy, served with mashed potatoes. It’s the ultimate Wisconsin comfort food.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Homemade Soups**. Always made fresh daily, the chicken noodle or beef vegetable are like a warm hug in a bowl.
* **Pro-Tip:** The salad bar is fresh and well-stocked, a great option for a lighter meal or as a side.
#### **8. Moondance Bar & Grill: Where Flavor Meets Fun**
**Location:** 6869 Hwy 17
**The Vibe:** Energetic, modern, and social. Moondance has a great vibe for a night out, with a spacious layout, multiple TVs for sports, and often hosting live music or events. It’s a step more contemporary than the classic supper clubs but retains that Northwoods welcome.
**For the Foodie:** The menu is creative and broad, offering everything from juicy burgers and wraps to full entrees like steaks and pasta.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Moose Tracks** (or similar loaded fries/nachos). Shareable, decadent, and perfect with a cold beer.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **BBQ Ribs**. Fall-off-the-bone tender and slathered in a tangy, house-made barbecue sauce. They are a messy, finger-licking delight.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Walleye Sandwich**. A Northwoods staple done right—a fresh, beer-battered fillet on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
* **Pro-Tip:** Check their social media for live music schedules and daily food/drink specials.
#### **9. Nacho's Mexican Grill: Fast, Fresh, and Flavorful**
**Location:** 232 S Courtney St
**The Vibe:** Quick-service and vibrant. Nacho’s is your go-to for a fast, delicious, and affordable Mexican fix. The counter-service model is efficient, and the food is prepared fresh to order. The bright colors and smells will instantly boost your mood.
**For the Foodie:** This is about big, bold flavors in a casual format. The focus is on quality ingredients and authentic tastes.
* **Must-Order Starter:** The **Chips and Salsa/Guacamole**. The chips are warm and salty, the salsa is freshly made with a nice kick, and the guacamole is creamy and rich.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Super Nachos**. A massive platter of crispy chips loaded with your choice of meat, beans, cheese, lettuce, pico, guacamole, and sour cream. It’s a meal for two (or one very ambitious eater).
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Carne Asada Burrito**. Grilled, marinated steak wrapped in a giant flour tortilla with rice, beans, and all the fixings. It’s incredibly satisfying.
* **Pro-Tip:** Don’t skip the hot sauce bar. They usually have several house-made options to customize your heat level.
#### **10. Shady Sues: A Cozy Nook for Breakfast & Lunch**
**Location:** 3220 Boyce Dr
**The Vibe:** Quaint, charming, and utterly cozy. Shady Sues feels like a well-kept secret. It’s a small, diner-style spot that’s spotlessly clean and run with obvious pride. The atmosphere is peaceful and perfect for a quiet, leisurely meal.
**For the Foodie:** This is a breakfast and lunch paradise, with everything made to order using high-quality ingredients. The attention to detail is remarkable.
* **Must-Order (Breakfast):** The **Omelets**. Light, fluffy, and stuffed with fresh ingredients. The Veggie Delight or a custom creation are always excellent.
* **Signature Main Event:** The **Reuben Sandwich**. Piled high with perfectly corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on grilled rye. It’s considered one of the best in town.
* **Don’t Miss:** The **Homemade Muffins or Sweet Rolls**. Baked fresh daily, they are the perfect sweet accompaniment to a cup of their excellent coffee.
* **Pro-Tip:** They close in the mid-afternoon. Plan accordingly for a fantastic, unhurried breakfast or an early lunch.
---
### **The Foodie's Rhinelander Itinerary: A Final Word**
Your culinary tour of Rhinelander is a journey through the soul of the Northwoods. It’s a reminder that great food isn’t always about white tablecloths and tiny portions; it’s about connection, tradition, and the joy of a meal shared or savored in a place with genuine character.
**Start your day** at Shady Sues or Friendship House. **Grab a quick, flavorful lunch** at Nacho’s or Peking. **Spend a lazy afternoon** with a burger and a view at the Beachcomber. **Indulge in the sacred Friday night ritual** at The White Stag or Woodpecker. **Spice up an evening** with a molcajete at Casa Mexicana. **End a night of fun** with ribs and music at Moondance.
Each of these ten spots offers a unique chapter in Rhinelander’s story. So come with an appetite, a sense of adventure, and leave the pretension behind. The Hodag might be mythical, but the delicious memories you’ll make here are very, very real. Happy eating
Comments
Post a Comment