8 Fun & Quirky Restaurants in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is full of surprises, including unexpected restaurants that add a little extra fun to your outing. Keep reading to discover cool, offbeat spots perfect for vibing with your crew or hanging with the fam.

Safe House - Milwaukee

You’ll have to do some sleuthing to find the red alleyway door that leads to this one-of-a-kind restaurant and bar in Milwaukee. Once you find the door, the “agent” will ask for the password. If you can’t guess correctly, don’t fret–the agent will simply give you a quick, secret mission to gain entry.

Once inside, there are plenty of secret passages, hidden doors and espionage-themed decorations to explore while waiting for your meal. Bring the whole family during the day to share German pretzel bites, the “Pulled Pork Provaceteur” and “License to Kill Mac,” along with other delicious spy-themed specialties. Or, visit after 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays for late-night fun (ages 21 and over) with craft cocktails such as “The Great Spytini” made with Vodka, triple sec, pomegranate syrup and lime.

Buffalo Phil’s Pizza Grille - Wisconsin Dells

After you choose from the expansive menu at Buffalo Phil’s in Wisconsin Dells that includes pizza, pasta, burgers, wraps and more, the real fun begins. Explore the themed displays throughout the large restaurant such as LEGO Brick City, arcade games and a Taylor Swift Eras Tour section. 

Soon, you’ll see your food and drinks on their way to your table via toy trains! After filling up on tasty food and the unique atmosphere, head next door to Knuckleheads Trampoline Park for even more fun activities the whole family will love.

Seven Acre Dairy - Paoli

What’s more Wisconsin than a cheese factory? How about a restored cheese factory that’s now a boutique hotel, restaurant, cafe and micro dairy? Seven Acre Dairy in Paoli, just southwest of Madison, is nestled on the bank of the Sugar River and surrounded by idyllic nature and small dairy farms. Stop in for dinner or brunch at Little Cloud Restaurant or for a scoop of handmade ice cream at Landmark Creamery & Cafe. 

Extend your stay by booking a room at the inn that features historic architecture with modern amenities. For extra fun, stroll across the street to The Mill Paoli for live music, outdoor markets, charming shops and other unique events for the whole family.

Don's TV & Repair - Milwaukee

Visit Milwaukee’s Walker’s Point neighborhood for a diner experience unlike anywhere else. Hiding behind a storefront labeled “Don’s TV and Repair,” this speakeasy restaurant serves up dinner throughout the week as well as weekend brunch that includes smashburgers, boozy milkshakes and fruity pebble waffles. Visit on Thursday nights for 10-cent martinis (really!) or on Fridays for a classic Wisconsin fish fry. No matter which day you visit, you and your crew are in for a memorable meal.

Hot Rocks - Wisconsin Dells 

There are plenty of places in Wisconsin Dells to enjoy steaks, seafood and burgers, but Tiki-themed Hot Rocks is unique in offering the chance to cook your own food over hot volcanic rocks. From sirloin steak and filet mignon to lobster tails and plant-based burgers, everything sizzles deliciously at your table over rocks that are pre-heated to 750 degrees Fahrenheit. Your group will love the interactive experience and over-the-top island-themed drinks at this festive and fun restaurant.

Camp Trippalindee - Madison

Celebrate the spirit of summer at this lively rooftop restaurant within Madison’s Graduate Hotel. Inspired by 1980s camp movies and classic Wisconsin taverns, Camp Trippalindee offers a laid-back menu that includes beer brats, double-stacked burgers and refreshing frozen slushies. Enjoy views of downtown Madison and Lake Mendota from the rooftop patio or cozy up to the inside bar with a warm drink in the winter.

1919 Kitchen & Tap - Green Bay

Did you know you can experience all the excitement of Lambeau Field from a restaurant within the iconic stadium? Visit 1919 Kitchen & Tap both on and off game days for a selection of over 40 craft brews on tap, impressive entrees and salads made with greens from their own indoor garden. 

After your meal, explore the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame to journey through more than a century of football history and the surrounding Titletown District for a full day of fun with game courts, a kids play area, Ariens Hill and Leinenkugel’s Beer Garden.

Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant - Sister Bay

One of the most beloved restaurants in Door County, Al Johnson’s has become known for the iconic goats that graze on its grass-covered roof. The story goes that a friend of the famous Al gifted him a goat for his birthday one year, and the rest is history.

The authentic Swedish family-owned restaurant also includes a lively outdoor space with games and a bar for hours of fun just across from the water. Visit the restaurant for popular dishes such as Swedish pancakes with lingonberries, Swedish meatballs and plenty of fresh fish. The goats can be seen from May to October in person or via the live goat cam on the restaurant’s website.

Looking for more surprising fun? Discover 20 facts you may not have known about Wisconsin!