Eat it! Marshfield, Wisconsin
### A Culinary Road Trip Down Central Avenue: A Foodie's Guide to Marshfield, Wisconsin
Forget the idea that heartland dining is just about casseroles and cheese curds (though we do those splendidly). Marshfield, Wisconsin, a vibrant city where world-class healthcare meets small-town charm, is quietly conducting a symphony of flavors along its main artery, Central Avenue. This isn't just a street; it’s a gastronomic timeline, a tapestry of family recipes, immigrant dreams, and classic American comfort, all waiting to be savored. For the discerning foodie, a journey here is a lesson in how community and cuisine are inextricably linked. So, buckle up and bring your appetite. We’re going on a ten-stop tasting tour that celebrates the soul of Marshfield, one plate at a time.
#### **1. El Mezcal: The Fiery Heart of Tradition**
**Location:** 2312 N Central Ave
Our journey begins in the north, where the air is perfumed with roasting chilies and simmering *carnitas*. El Mezcal isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an institution. Step inside, and the vibrant murals, warm terracotta hues, and the immediate offer of crispy, salty tortilla chips with a duo of salsas—one smoky, one brightly acidic—signal you’ve arrived somewhere authentic.
**The Vibe:** Lively, family-friendly, and unapologetically festive. It’s the place for birthday parties with sombrero-clad waiters singing *Las Mañanitas*, for first dates over shared *molcajetes*, and for solo diners finding solace in a perfectly composed plate.
**Must-Order:** Start with the **Queso Fundido**, a bubbling skillet of melted Chihuahua cheese studded with chorizo, a glorious mess to scoop with fresh tortillas. For the main event, bypass the predictable and dive into the **Molcajete El Mezcal**. Served in a volcanic stone mortar, it’s a spectacular, sizzling feast of grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, nopales (cactus), and chorizo, all bathing in a rich, complex red salsa. It’s interactive, dramatic, and deeply flavorful. Pair it with a classic **Margarita on the rocks**—their mix is the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and punch.
#### **2. Casa Amigos Mexican Restaurant 2: The Cozy Neighborhood *Taquería***
**Location:** 12 N Central Ave
From the north end’s fiesta, we head downtown to Casa Amigos 2. This is El Mezcal’s charming, slightly more reserved cousin. The space is intimate, often buzzing with regulars who are greeted by name. The focus here feels homier, a place where the recipes might just come from someone’s abuela’s kitchen.
**The Vibe:** Unpretentious, cozy, and genuine. It’s where you go for a reliable, heartwarming meal without the fanfare, where the horchata is always creamy and the service makes you feel like a local.
**Must-Order:** This is taco territory. The **Al Pastor Tacos** are a revelation—succulent marinated pork, sliced from a trompo (vertical spit), with a whisper of pineapple sweetness, served on double corn tortillas with onions and cilantro. For something truly special, try the **Chiles Rellenos**. Their version features a Poblano pepper lovingly stuffed with cheese or picadillo, lightly battered and fried, then smothered in a tangy tomato-based sauce. It’s a lesson in balanced textures and comforting flavors.
#### **3. The Kitchen Table: Farm-to-Table Elegance Meets Midwest Warmth**
**Location:** 118 E 3rd St
A short step off Central Avenue leads to Marshfield’s beacon of contemporary, sourced-conscious dining. The Kitchen Table is the city’s culinary darling for a reason. Exposed brick, reclaimed wood, and soft lighting create an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and welcoming—a true gathering place.
**The Vibe:** Upscale-casual, perfect for a business lunch, an anniversary dinner, or when you simply want to eat something beautiful and thoughtfully prepared. The menu is a love letter to Wisconsin’s producers.
**Must-Order:** Begin with the **Wisconsin Cheese & Charcuterie Board**, a curated selection that showcases the state’s dairy prowess. For an entrée, it’s a tough choice, but the **Pan-Seared Walleye** is often the star. Sourced locally when possible, the fillet is cooked to flaky perfection, often accompanied by seasonal vegetables and a clever grain or potato preparation. Don’t skip dessert—their **house-made pie or crème brûlée**, featuring seasonal fruit, is always worth the calories.
#### **4. Central Cafe: The Dawn Patrol’s Diner Delight**
**Location:** 1209 S Central Ave
As we move south on Central, we dial back the clock to a classic American diner experience. Central Cafe is where the day starts for construction workers, nurses ending a night shift, and families fueling up for Saturday adventures. The coffee is bottomless, the booths are well-worn and comfortable, and the grill sizzles with a familiar, comforting rhythm.
**The Vibe:** Pure, unadulterated nostalgia. It’s bustling, friendly, no-frills, and smells like bacon and maple syrup. This is the heart of Marshfield’s everyday life on a plate.
**Must-Order:** You come for breakfast. The **Hungry Lumberjack** or equivalent massive platter is a rite of passage: three eggs any style, a heap of golden hash browns (crispy-edged, please), thick-cut bacon or savory sausage links, and pancakes so fluffy they practically float off the plate. For a lunch classic, their **Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich**—pounded thin, fried crispy, and dwarfing its bun—is a Midwest icon done right.
#### **5. Southway Pub & Grub: The Culinary Corner Pub**
**Location:** 1212 S Central Ave
Directly across the street, Southway Pub & Grub proves that pub food doesn’t have to mean frozen fries and generic burgers. This is a neighborhood tavern with a serious kitchen. It’s where you’ll find a great local brew on tap, a game on the TV, and a menu that surprises and delights.
**The Vibe:** Lively, social, and modern. It’s where friends meet after work, where game-day energy is high, and where you can have a genuinely great meal in your most comfortable jeans.
**Must-Order:** Their burger game is strong. The **Southway Burger**, often featuring a custom blend, premium toppings, and a brioche bun, is a must. But the real sleeper hit is their **Friday Fish Fry**. In Wisconsin, this is a sacred tradition, and Southway’s version—beer-battered cod, golden and crisp, with homemade tartar sauce, a choice of potato, and creamy coleslaw—is one of the best in town. It’s the perfect intersection of tradition and quality.
#### **6. Sunrise Restaurant & Bar: The All-Day, Every-Day Anchor**
**Location:** 511 N Central Ave
Backtracking north to the middle of the avenue, Sunrise Restaurant & Bar is the dependable, versatile workhorse of Marshfield dining. Open from sun-up to well after sundown, it’s the answer to I don’t know, where should we go? Its extensive menu is a novel of American, Greek, and Italian favorites.
**The Vibe:** Spacious, bright, and universally appealing. It’s for large family gatherings, casual dinners with grandparents, and anyone craving a massive selection.
**Must-Order:** For breakfast, dive into their **Greek Omelet**, packed with spinach, feta, and tomato—a Mediterranean twist on a diner staple. For dinner, the **Broasted Chicken** is legendary. Broasting (pressure-frying) yields chicken with an impossibly crunchy, seasoned crust and unbelievably juicy meat. It’s a technique few have mastered, and Sunrise does it to perfection.
#### **7. Nutz Deep II: The Quintessential Wisconsin Supper Club Experience**
**Location:** 809 S Central Ave
No Wisconsin food tour is complete without a supper club, and Nutz Deep II embodies the spirit. While technically a bar and grill, it follows the sacred supper club tenets: hearty food, strong drinks, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The interior is dark wood, neon beer signs, and the hum of conversation.
**The Vibe:** Rustic, friendly, and utterly Wisconsin. It’s where you settle in, take your time, and enjoy the ritual of a good meal.
**Must-Order:** You must start with the **Friday Night Fish Fry** (seeing a theme?). Their perch or cod is a local favorite. But any night, the **Filet Mignon** or **Prime Rib** (especially on weekends) is a stellar choice, often served with the classic supper club accompaniments: a relish tray, soup or salad, and a baked potato. Order an **Old Fashioned**—brandy sour, sweet, or press—to complete the ritual.
#### **8. Crabby Dave’s: The Seafood Shack in the Heartland**
**Location:** 501 S Central Ave
In a landlocked state, a great seafood restaurant is a treasure. Crabby Dave’s is that treasure. Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you; inside is a maritime-themed haven where the smell of Old Bay and drawn butter hangs deliciously in the air.
**The Vibe:** Casual, fun, and focused. It’s where you go with a pile of napkins and a willingness to get a little messy. Families and groups love the shared, hands-on experience.
**Must-Order:** Go for the namesake: **Snow Crab Clusters** or a **Steampot**. The steampot is a glorious, shareable cauldron of crab legs, shrimp, mussels, clams, corn, and potatoes, all steamed in a savory broth. It’s an interactive, festive feast that transports you straight to a New England pier. For land lovers, the **Cajun Pasta** offers a spicy, creamy alternative.
#### **9. World Buffet: The Global Gastronomic Adventure**
**Location:** 503 E Ives St #400
A brief detour off Central leads to a culinary United Nations. World Buffet is exactly what it promises: an enormous, sprawling selection of dishes from across the globe. It’s a paradise for the adventurous eater, the indecisive diner, and anyone with a truly massive appetite.
**The Vibe:** Bustling, utilitarian, and exciting. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure meal where you can sample sushi, Mongolian grill, Italian pasta, American fried chicken, and Chinese stir-fry in one round.
**Must-Order:** Strategy is key. First, survey the entire landscape. Then, head straight for the **Mongolian Grill**. Pile a bowl with your choice of fresh meats, vegetables, and noodles, select your sauces (go heavy on the garlic and ginger), and watch the chefs fire it up on the giant circular grill. It’s personalized, hot, and delicious. Then, explore the **sushi station** for surprisingly fresh rolls and nigiri.
#### **10. MoJo’s Pasta House & Cajun Cook Shack: A Tale of Two Cuisines**
**Location:** 201 S Central Ave
We end our tour back downtown at the delightfully eclectic MoJo’s. The name says it all: part Italian trattoria, part Louisiana bayou shack. It’s a bold concept that works on the strength of passion and execution.
**The Vibe:** Eclectic, energetic, and full of personality. The décor might feature Mardi Gras beads next to a map of Italy. It’s fun, a little funky, and deeply satisfying.
**Must-Order:** This is the ultimate test of your cravings. From the Pasta House, the **Shrimp & Crab Alfredo** is rich, creamy, and packed with seafood. From the Cajun Cook Shack, you cannot miss the **Jambalaya** or the **Crawfish Étouffée**. The étouffée, a smoky, roux-based stew smothering plump crawfish tails and served over rice, is a bowl of deep, complex flavor that would hold its own in the French Quarter. It’s a stunning find in central Wisconsin.
### **The Last Bite**
Marshfield’s Central Avenue is more than a collection of addresses; it’s a culinary ecosystem. From the fiery traditions of Mexico to the slow-roasted rituals of the Wisconsin supper club, from the sourced elegance of farm-to-table to the global bounty of a buffet, it tells the story of a community that embraces both its roots and the wider world. For the foodie, it offers a rare, genuine journey—not just through flavors, but through the very character of the American heartland. Each restaurant is a chapter. All you have to do is pull up a chair and start reading.
Forget the idea that heartland dining is just about casseroles and cheese curds (though we do those splendidly). Marshfield, Wisconsin, a vibrant city where world-class healthcare meets small-town charm, is quietly conducting a symphony of flavors along its main artery, Central Avenue. This isn't just a street; it’s a gastronomic timeline, a tapestry of family recipes, immigrant dreams, and classic American comfort, all waiting to be savored. For the discerning foodie, a journey here is a lesson in how community and cuisine are inextricably linked. So, buckle up and bring your appetite. We’re going on a ten-stop tasting tour that celebrates the soul of Marshfield, one plate at a time.
#### **1. El Mezcal: The Fiery Heart of Tradition**
**Location:** 2312 N Central Ave
Our journey begins in the north, where the air is perfumed with roasting chilies and simmering *carnitas*. El Mezcal isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an institution. Step inside, and the vibrant murals, warm terracotta hues, and the immediate offer of crispy, salty tortilla chips with a duo of salsas—one smoky, one brightly acidic—signal you’ve arrived somewhere authentic.
**The Vibe:** Lively, family-friendly, and unapologetically festive. It’s the place for birthday parties with sombrero-clad waiters singing *Las Mañanitas*, for first dates over shared *molcajetes*, and for solo diners finding solace in a perfectly composed plate.
**Must-Order:** Start with the **Queso Fundido**, a bubbling skillet of melted Chihuahua cheese studded with chorizo, a glorious mess to scoop with fresh tortillas. For the main event, bypass the predictable and dive into the **Molcajete El Mezcal**. Served in a volcanic stone mortar, it’s a spectacular, sizzling feast of grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, nopales (cactus), and chorizo, all bathing in a rich, complex red salsa. It’s interactive, dramatic, and deeply flavorful. Pair it with a classic **Margarita on the rocks**—their mix is the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and punch.
#### **2. Casa Amigos Mexican Restaurant 2: The Cozy Neighborhood *Taquería***
**Location:** 12 N Central Ave
From the north end’s fiesta, we head downtown to Casa Amigos 2. This is El Mezcal’s charming, slightly more reserved cousin. The space is intimate, often buzzing with regulars who are greeted by name. The focus here feels homier, a place where the recipes might just come from someone’s abuela’s kitchen.
**The Vibe:** Unpretentious, cozy, and genuine. It’s where you go for a reliable, heartwarming meal without the fanfare, where the horchata is always creamy and the service makes you feel like a local.
**Must-Order:** This is taco territory. The **Al Pastor Tacos** are a revelation—succulent marinated pork, sliced from a trompo (vertical spit), with a whisper of pineapple sweetness, served on double corn tortillas with onions and cilantro. For something truly special, try the **Chiles Rellenos**. Their version features a Poblano pepper lovingly stuffed with cheese or picadillo, lightly battered and fried, then smothered in a tangy tomato-based sauce. It’s a lesson in balanced textures and comforting flavors.
#### **3. The Kitchen Table: Farm-to-Table Elegance Meets Midwest Warmth**
**Location:** 118 E 3rd St
A short step off Central Avenue leads to Marshfield’s beacon of contemporary, sourced-conscious dining. The Kitchen Table is the city’s culinary darling for a reason. Exposed brick, reclaimed wood, and soft lighting create an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and welcoming—a true gathering place.
**The Vibe:** Upscale-casual, perfect for a business lunch, an anniversary dinner, or when you simply want to eat something beautiful and thoughtfully prepared. The menu is a love letter to Wisconsin’s producers.
**Must-Order:** Begin with the **Wisconsin Cheese & Charcuterie Board**, a curated selection that showcases the state’s dairy prowess. For an entrée, it’s a tough choice, but the **Pan-Seared Walleye** is often the star. Sourced locally when possible, the fillet is cooked to flaky perfection, often accompanied by seasonal vegetables and a clever grain or potato preparation. Don’t skip dessert—their **house-made pie or crème brûlée**, featuring seasonal fruit, is always worth the calories.
#### **4. Central Cafe: The Dawn Patrol’s Diner Delight**
**Location:** 1209 S Central Ave
As we move south on Central, we dial back the clock to a classic American diner experience. Central Cafe is where the day starts for construction workers, nurses ending a night shift, and families fueling up for Saturday adventures. The coffee is bottomless, the booths are well-worn and comfortable, and the grill sizzles with a familiar, comforting rhythm.
**The Vibe:** Pure, unadulterated nostalgia. It’s bustling, friendly, no-frills, and smells like bacon and maple syrup. This is the heart of Marshfield’s everyday life on a plate.
**Must-Order:** You come for breakfast. The **Hungry Lumberjack** or equivalent massive platter is a rite of passage: three eggs any style, a heap of golden hash browns (crispy-edged, please), thick-cut bacon or savory sausage links, and pancakes so fluffy they practically float off the plate. For a lunch classic, their **Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich**—pounded thin, fried crispy, and dwarfing its bun—is a Midwest icon done right.
#### **5. Southway Pub & Grub: The Culinary Corner Pub**
**Location:** 1212 S Central Ave
Directly across the street, Southway Pub & Grub proves that pub food doesn’t have to mean frozen fries and generic burgers. This is a neighborhood tavern with a serious kitchen. It’s where you’ll find a great local brew on tap, a game on the TV, and a menu that surprises and delights.
**The Vibe:** Lively, social, and modern. It’s where friends meet after work, where game-day energy is high, and where you can have a genuinely great meal in your most comfortable jeans.
**Must-Order:** Their burger game is strong. The **Southway Burger**, often featuring a custom blend, premium toppings, and a brioche bun, is a must. But the real sleeper hit is their **Friday Fish Fry**. In Wisconsin, this is a sacred tradition, and Southway’s version—beer-battered cod, golden and crisp, with homemade tartar sauce, a choice of potato, and creamy coleslaw—is one of the best in town. It’s the perfect intersection of tradition and quality.
#### **6. Sunrise Restaurant & Bar: The All-Day, Every-Day Anchor**
**Location:** 511 N Central Ave
Backtracking north to the middle of the avenue, Sunrise Restaurant & Bar is the dependable, versatile workhorse of Marshfield dining. Open from sun-up to well after sundown, it’s the answer to I don’t know, where should we go? Its extensive menu is a novel of American, Greek, and Italian favorites.
**The Vibe:** Spacious, bright, and universally appealing. It’s for large family gatherings, casual dinners with grandparents, and anyone craving a massive selection.
**Must-Order:** For breakfast, dive into their **Greek Omelet**, packed with spinach, feta, and tomato—a Mediterranean twist on a diner staple. For dinner, the **Broasted Chicken** is legendary. Broasting (pressure-frying) yields chicken with an impossibly crunchy, seasoned crust and unbelievably juicy meat. It’s a technique few have mastered, and Sunrise does it to perfection.
#### **7. Nutz Deep II: The Quintessential Wisconsin Supper Club Experience**
**Location:** 809 S Central Ave
No Wisconsin food tour is complete without a supper club, and Nutz Deep II embodies the spirit. While technically a bar and grill, it follows the sacred supper club tenets: hearty food, strong drinks, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The interior is dark wood, neon beer signs, and the hum of conversation.
**The Vibe:** Rustic, friendly, and utterly Wisconsin. It’s where you settle in, take your time, and enjoy the ritual of a good meal.
**Must-Order:** You must start with the **Friday Night Fish Fry** (seeing a theme?). Their perch or cod is a local favorite. But any night, the **Filet Mignon** or **Prime Rib** (especially on weekends) is a stellar choice, often served with the classic supper club accompaniments: a relish tray, soup or salad, and a baked potato. Order an **Old Fashioned**—brandy sour, sweet, or press—to complete the ritual.
#### **8. Crabby Dave’s: The Seafood Shack in the Heartland**
**Location:** 501 S Central Ave
In a landlocked state, a great seafood restaurant is a treasure. Crabby Dave’s is that treasure. Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you; inside is a maritime-themed haven where the smell of Old Bay and drawn butter hangs deliciously in the air.
**The Vibe:** Casual, fun, and focused. It’s where you go with a pile of napkins and a willingness to get a little messy. Families and groups love the shared, hands-on experience.
**Must-Order:** Go for the namesake: **Snow Crab Clusters** or a **Steampot**. The steampot is a glorious, shareable cauldron of crab legs, shrimp, mussels, clams, corn, and potatoes, all steamed in a savory broth. It’s an interactive, festive feast that transports you straight to a New England pier. For land lovers, the **Cajun Pasta** offers a spicy, creamy alternative.
#### **9. World Buffet: The Global Gastronomic Adventure**
**Location:** 503 E Ives St #400
A brief detour off Central leads to a culinary United Nations. World Buffet is exactly what it promises: an enormous, sprawling selection of dishes from across the globe. It’s a paradise for the adventurous eater, the indecisive diner, and anyone with a truly massive appetite.
**The Vibe:** Bustling, utilitarian, and exciting. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure meal where you can sample sushi, Mongolian grill, Italian pasta, American fried chicken, and Chinese stir-fry in one round.
**Must-Order:** Strategy is key. First, survey the entire landscape. Then, head straight for the **Mongolian Grill**. Pile a bowl with your choice of fresh meats, vegetables, and noodles, select your sauces (go heavy on the garlic and ginger), and watch the chefs fire it up on the giant circular grill. It’s personalized, hot, and delicious. Then, explore the **sushi station** for surprisingly fresh rolls and nigiri.
#### **10. MoJo’s Pasta House & Cajun Cook Shack: A Tale of Two Cuisines**
**Location:** 201 S Central Ave
We end our tour back downtown at the delightfully eclectic MoJo’s. The name says it all: part Italian trattoria, part Louisiana bayou shack. It’s a bold concept that works on the strength of passion and execution.
**The Vibe:** Eclectic, energetic, and full of personality. The décor might feature Mardi Gras beads next to a map of Italy. It’s fun, a little funky, and deeply satisfying.
**Must-Order:** This is the ultimate test of your cravings. From the Pasta House, the **Shrimp & Crab Alfredo** is rich, creamy, and packed with seafood. From the Cajun Cook Shack, you cannot miss the **Jambalaya** or the **Crawfish Étouffée**. The étouffée, a smoky, roux-based stew smothering plump crawfish tails and served over rice, is a bowl of deep, complex flavor that would hold its own in the French Quarter. It’s a stunning find in central Wisconsin.
### **The Last Bite**
Marshfield’s Central Avenue is more than a collection of addresses; it’s a culinary ecosystem. From the fiery traditions of Mexico to the slow-roasted rituals of the Wisconsin supper club, from the sourced elegance of farm-to-table to the global bounty of a buffet, it tells the story of a community that embraces both its roots and the wider world. For the foodie, it offers a rare, genuine journey—not just through flavors, but through the very character of the American heartland. Each restaurant is a chapter. All you have to do is pull up a chair and start reading.
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