20 Best Restaurants in Oshkosh, WI
This article was written by local contributor Jayce Buck & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Welcome to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, a charming city nestled along the beautiful shores of Lake Winnebago!
I've had the pleasure of calling this place home for years, and one of the things I enjoy most about living here is the fantastic dining scene.
From cozy cafes to mouthwatering steakhouses, Oshkosh has something for everyone.
So, whether you're a fellow resident or just passing through, allow me to give you a personal tour of the best restaurants in Oshkosh, WI.
Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat!
Pete's Garage Bar
My friends and I decided to head over to Pete's Garage Bar last weekend, and I've got to say, it's one of the best decisions we've made in a while.
The moment we walked in, we were greeted with a super laid-back, garage-themed atmosphere that totally set the tone for the night.
We started off with some drinks and appetizers, and their cheese curds are seriously life-changing.
The portion sizes were huge, but that didn't stop us from devouring them all.
Their burgers, hands down, were some of the best I've ever had.
Juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection, I can't recommend them enough.
My friend went with the prime rib sandwich, which was equally amazing.
Another cool thing about Pete's is that they sell hats and shirts so that you can take home a little piece of the garage bar vibe with you.
Pilora's Cafe
Pilora's Cafe is a laid-back cafe that never disappoints with its coffee and light, a mostly Mediterranean menu filled with vegetarian options.
Just last week, I treated myself to their breakfast burrito, and it was huge and packed with flavor.
I also tried the mac and cheese and the beer cheese soup, which came with scrumptious homemade croutons and cornbread.
The coffee was great, as always.
I also had their cornbread pancakes for breakfast on a previous occasion, and they were absolutely delightful.
Their smoked pulled pork sandwich is another favorite of mine, served with their flavorful mac and cheese.
Next time I visit, I'm eager to try the carrot cake–I've heard amazing things about it.
The Taqueria
One of my absolute favorite places to eat is The Taqueria.
As someone who loves Mexican food, I can't stress enough how much I adore this cozy little spot.
Whenever my friends and I are looking for a place to grab some delicious tacos, we always head straight to The Taqueria.
The service at The Taqueria is simply fantastic.
They patiently guide you through the menu and recommend their favorites.
And let's not forget the buzzer system they use, which is quite convenient for notifying you when your food is ready for pick-up.
Another aspect that I truly appreciate about The Taqueria is the atmosphere.
The music is a perfect combination of fun and relaxing, and sometimes it just makes you want to get up and dance.
The restaurant also has a large window that offers a beautiful view of the surroundings, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
Of course, I can't talk about The Taqueria without mentioning the star of the show: the food.
The tacos are absolutely mouthwatering, and even though they might be a tad pricey, they are definitely worth it.
The portions are generous, and the prices for other items on the menu are quite reasonable.
And don't even get me started on the red salsa – it's simply incredible!
Winkler's Westward Ho
Ever since I moved to the area, I've been searching for that perfect, cozy spot where I could unwind and enjoy some great food with friends.
That's when I stumbled upon Winkler's Westward Ho, a true hidden gem of a bar and grill.
I instantly fell in love with this down-to-earth establishment, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Their menu is diverse and satisfying, with something for everyone.
I have to admit, I wasn't a huge fan of perch either, but after trying their pike and haddock, I was sold!
Their fish fry is absolutely delicious, and it's no wonder they get so busy during those nights.
As someone who's attended a wedding reception here, I can also vouch for how fantastic this venue is for special occasions.
The atmosphere is perfect for a blue-collar Wisconsin celebration, and the prices are unbelievably reasonable.
Whether I'm stopping by for a quick lunch or sharing drinks with friends after a long week, Winkler's Westward Ho always hits the mark.
Takiza Mexican Cuisine
One of my recent discoveries is Takiza Mexican Cuisine, just off campus.
This hidden gem has won me over with its consistent, high-quality food and cozy atmosphere.
The simple and elegant decor combined with upbeat music added to the overall enjoyable experience.
I decided to try the quesa birria, and I was blown away by the burst of flavors in each bite.
The salsa for the tacos was equally as delicious.
In addition to the amazing food, the service at Takiza was top-notch.
I've also tried their burritos, quesadillas, and steak fajita quesadillas, all of which exceeded my expectations.
One thing to note is that parking is available in the back, and it's best to use the rear entrance when you arrive.
The Ruby Owl Tap Room
The Ruby Owl Tap Room is the perfect place to unwind after a long day, catch up with friends or even enjoy a meal with family.
The atmosphere is always warm and inviting, making it easy to feel at home as soon as you walk through the door.
I can never resist starting my evening with one of their delicious appetizers.
The avocado fries have quickly become a personal favorite – the perfect combination of a crispy exterior and soft, creamy avocado on the inside.
They're an absolute must-try for anyone visiting the tap room.
Their extensive menu ensures that there's always something new and exciting to try, but one dish that has consistently impressed me is the Flat Iron Flank Steak Sandwich.
The tender, well-seasoned steak is paired with garlic French bread and comes with a side of mouthwatering Au Jus for dipping.
It's a sandwich that has never let me down.
Of course, the true star of The Ruby Owl Tap Room is their impressive selection of craft beers.
With so many options, it's easy to find the perfect brew to accompany your meal.
Every time I visit The Ruby Owl Tap Room, I leave with a full belly and a happy heart.
The Chalice Restaurant
The other day, I decided to try out The Chalice Restaurant for dinner with my partner, and we were blown away by the entire experience.
From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere, complete with comfy seating and a gorgeous long blond-wood bar.
As we sat down to enjoy our meal, the outdoor seating caught our eye, and we couldn't resist the allure of dining al fresco.
With the weather being just perfect, it made our night even more memorable.
For our meal, I ordered the avocado grilled cheese, and my partner opted for the avocado burger.
Both of our dishes were absolutely delicious, and the Chalice sauce was truly addicting!
I also heard great things about their Reuben sandwich, which comes with three meat choices – corned beef, pastrami, and turkey.
A friend of mine mentioned that the pastrami is sliced very thin and is incredibly tasty.
The Roxy Supper Club
The Roxy Supper Club is one of my go-to spots for a great meal and a delicious cocktail.
I've been here on numerous occasions, and each time, I am blown away by the quality of the food and the outstanding service.
One of my favorite memories at The Roxy was when I visited on a Tuesday night, which happened to be their German food night.
My partner and I were pleasantly surprised by the variety on the menu, and he absolutely loved his meal.
On another visit, I had the pleasure of trying their veal Oscar, which was absolutely incredible.
The meat was tender and flavorful, and the "Oscar" topping really took it to the next level.
And I can't forget to mention the amazing drinks and the warm, inviting atmosphere.
When friends come to visit from out of town, I always make sure to bring them to The Roxy Supper Club.
Gardina's Kitchen & Bar
I recently decided to treat myself to a meal at Gardina's Kitchen & Bar, and I can't stress enough how fantastic my experience was.
As I walked in, I immediately noticed the comfortable atmosphere and historic storefront.
I'm not usually a pasta person, but I decided to give it a try based on the rave reviews I'd heard.
I ordered the Shrimp Prosciutto Fettuccine, and let me tell you, I have not been able to stop thinking about it since!
The flavors were absolutely exceptional, and I can't wait to go back and try more dishes from their menu, like the Braised Beef Ravioli.
And to top it all off, I indulged in their Chocolate Raspberry Mousse Cake and the showstopper Ricotta Cheesecake, both of which were absolutely mouthwatering.
Not only was the food amazing, but I also appreciated the inventive small plates and New American fare that Gardina's had to offer.
I highly recommend visiting this gem of a restaurant, whether it's for business or pleasure.
Just be sure to save room for dessert – especially that unforgettable Ricotta Cheesecake!
TJ's Harbor Restaurant
I've been visiting TJ's Harbor Restaurant regularly, and it never disappoints.
Located on a beautiful lakefront, the restaurant offers stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere.
It's the perfect spot to unwind with friends and family after a long day.
The menu has evolved over the years, shifting from pub fare to more refined dishes, but the food quality has remained consistently great.
My personal favorite is the fried cheese curds - they're among the best I've ever tasted!
The drink options are also impressive, and my group of friends always enjoys trying new cocktails and beers when we visit.
What sets TJ's Harbor apart from other restaurants in the area is not only the food and location but also the exceptional service.
Moreover, making reservations is a breeze, with platforms like Google Assistant making it even easier.
With ample parking for both cars and boats, it's convenient for everyone to enjoy a meal at this lovely American restaurant.
I wholeheartedly recommend TJ's Harbor Restaurant to anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.
The combination of delicious food, stunning views, and outstanding service make it a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike.
TJ Highland Steakhouse
I recently decided to try out TJ Highland Steakhouse, and it exceeded my expectations!
My partner and I arrived around 8 pm without a reservation, and we were seated right away.
We started our meal with the Bourbon Bacon Slab, which was absolutely delicious.
For my main course, I opted for the Beef Wellington, and it was melt-in-your-mouth scrumptious.
My partner ordered the 14 oz aged New York Strip steak, which was cooked to perfection and extremely flavorful.
We also ordered a variety of sides and were not disappointed in the quality or quantity of the food served.
Despite being located at the Oshkosh Country Club, the atmosphere was welcoming and casual.
We even showed up in our Harley gear and felt completely at ease.
They also have an extensive wine and alcohol list for those who enjoy a drink with their meal.
To finish off our night, we indulged in the warm butter cake served with vanilla bean ice cream - it was the perfect way to end our meal.
Jeff's On Rugby
Last week, my friends and I decided to grab dinner at Jeff's On Rugby, a down-home restaurant known for its traditional atmosphere and comfort foods.
We were really impressed with the friendly service and welcoming environment.
For my meal, I opted for the blackened haddock, which was absolutely delicious.
I appreciated the option to choose between a potato or veggie and soup or salad as my side.
One of my friends ordered the Bistro burger, but unfortunately, it was a bit overcooked.
However, my other friend had the French dip sandwich, and he couldn't stop raving about how thick and tasty it was.
He even shared some of his ajus with our friend who needed some extra flavor for her burger.
While some dishes could use a little improvement, the overall experience was enjoyable.
The great service and cozy atmosphere definitely make Jeff's On Rugby a place I'll visit again in the future.
Sushi Lover Oshkosh
I've been a frequent customer at Sushi Lover Oshkosh, and I have to say, it's one of my favorite spots for sushi in the area.
ngs I absolutely love about this restaurant is the extensive menu they offer, with a few exclusive items that you won't find at their Green Bay and Appleton locations.
The food is always amazing and freshly made to order.
It's a great place for everyone, including those who are new to sushi or might not even like it, as they offer other Chinese and Japanese dishes as well as kid-friendly options.
I've also visited Sushi Lover for lunch with my sister, and while we had to place our sushi orders right away because they close shortly after lunch, the overall experience was great, with good food.
Don't forget to save room for their deep-fried Oreos as a delicious after-dinner dessert treat!
Cozumel Mexican Grill
I've been to Cozumel Mexican Grill quite a few times, and it has quickly become one of my favorite spots for delicious and authentic Mexican food.
The atmosphere is great, with a very clean and family-friendly environment.
What I appreciate most is the variety of gluten-free and dairy-free options on their menu.
Whenever I'm in the mood for a fantastic meal, I order their fajitas for 2 with corn tortillas and a side of guacamole.
It's enough to feed my partner, our two older kids, and we even have leftovers for the next day.
Another thing that draws me back to Cozumel Mexican Grill is their margarita specials.
On my first visit, I took advantage of their margarita night and tried two medium-sized margaritas, which were really good!
The prices were quite reasonable as well, ranging from $1 to $8 depending on size.
Bangkok Thai Cuisine
As someone who lives nearby, I always pass by Bangkok Thai Cuisine but never really had the chance to dine in.
One day, I decided to give it a try, and it did not disappoint!
I started my meal with their delicious Crab Rangoons and Chicken Eggrolls.
I was impressed with their variety of dishes and decided to try their Thai Fried Rice and Pad Ginger for my main courses.
The spice levels were just right, and the flavors were incredible.
To finish off my meal, I indulged in their steamed banana rice cake and lotus flower dessert, which was an absolute treat.
Fuki Asian Fusion & Sushi
Fuki Asian Fusion & Sushi has been a go-to spot for me whenever I'm in the mood for some delicious Japanese cuisine.
No wonder it's a favorite destination for many people in the area.
The menu offers a wide range of options, from sushi and sashimi to hibachi dishes and more.
I've tried many items from the menu, like the Salmon Roe and the hibachi filet with fried rice, and I must say, they always manage to impress me with their flavors.
The restaurant itself is always clean and pleasant, making it a comfortable spot for a meal, whether it's with friends or family.
Their service is top-notch, and you can tell that they genuinely care about making your dining experience enjoyable.
What I love most about Fuki Asian Fusion & Sushi is how they manage to offer delicious food at reasonable prices.
Their portions are quite generous, especially compared to other places nowadays.
And, of course, don't forget to try their cocktail menu–I've worked my way through it, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a tasty drink with their meal.
HuHot Mongolian Grill
I recently decided to try out HuHot Mongolian Grill in Oshkosh, WI, and it was quite the experience!
The concept of selecting your own ingredients and having them stir-fried right in front of you is both exciting and satisfying.
They patiently guided me through the process of choosing my ingredients and sauces, ensuring that my meal turned out just the way I wanted.
I was particularly impressed with the variety of sauces and oils available, and the recipe ideas posted above the sauce station were quite helpful.
One thing I appreciated was the all-you-can-eat option, allowing me to try multiple combinations of ingredients and sauces.
Although it was a bit pricey at around $14 per person, the quality and uniqueness of the experience made it worth the cost.
The delicious food, variety of choices, and interactive cooking process made for a memorable dining experience that I would recommend to anyone looking for something different to try.
Manila Resto
I have to say, living nearby has its perks, and one of them is being able to dine at Manila Resto whenever I please.
As a foodie myself, discovering this eclectic and modern bar/eatery that serves sushi, Japanese-style grilled dishes, and Filipino fare was a game-changer.
The ambiance is absolutely fantastic.
Once, I decided to make a reservation for a gathering of friends.
The food was delicious, and to say the portions were generous would be an understatement.
Gabe's Wisconsin Kitchen and Tavern
Just the other night, I decided to treat myself to a delicious meal at Gabe's Wisconsin Kitchen and Tavern.
I started off with a drink and an appetizer, but the food was so good that I couldn't resist ordering more.
Before I knew it, I had enjoyed three entrees, a soup, and even a dessert.
Despite being full, I just couldn't stop eating because everything tasted amazing.
Not only was the food exceptional, but the service was top-notch as well.
Plus, the prices were fair, which is always a bonus when dining out.
One dish that really stood out to me was the Fried Chicken Mashed Potato Bowl lunch special my partner picked up.
I was impressed with the flavors and warmth it retained even after a 15-minute drive home.
And let's not forget about their Fly in Feature, which consisted of a slab of swordfish, scallops on a bed of risotto, and a fantastic stuffing.
Mike's Place Family Restaurant
I always make an effort to visit Mike's Place Family Restaurant whenever I crave some delicious, homestyle food.
I've been here a few times, and my experience has been mostly positive.
I remember the first time I visited, it was quite busy, but I was able to find a table without any issues.
The service was quick, and my food arrived piping hot.
Their chicken dumpling soup is simply divine, and I couldn't help but wish I could take a quart back home with me!
I've also tried their tuna melt and BLT sandwiches, and I love how they allow customers to share their meals and go halfsies.
The breakfast options at Mike's Place are also worth mentioning, as they come in very generous portions, making it perfect for those who enjoy a hearty meal to start their day.
Final Thoughts
Oshkosh offers a diverse range of dining options that cater to all tastes and preferences.
From locally-owned gems like Pete's Garage Bar and Pilora's Cafe to authentic international cuisine at Takiza Mexican and Bangkok Thai, there is something for everyone in this city.
I highly recommend taking the time to explore these fantastic eateries and experiencing the flavors of Oshkosh for yourself.
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