Thinking of a weekend getaway to a charming Midwestern town? Don’t overlook Watertown, Wisconsin! Often overshadowed by larger cities, Watertown boasts a surprising array of culinary delights that will satisfy any palate. From hearty, comforting classics to exotic international flavors, this city offers a diverse and satisfying food scene waiting to be explored. This guide will take you on a culinary journey through Watertown, showcasing the best restaurants and hidden gems that make this city a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Forget the chain restaurants; Watertown is brimming with local flavor.
Hearty Classics: Midwestern Comfort Food Done Right
No trip to Wisconsin is complete without indulging in some classic Midwestern fare. Watertown delivers, offering several restaurants that excel at preparing comforting and satisfying dishes.
Main Street Family Diner
First stop, the Main Street Family Diner, a local institution that has been serving up delicious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for generations. This is the place to go for a truly authentic diner experience. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with friendly staff and a nostalgic ambiance. Their signature dish? Without a doubt, it’s their classic cheeseburger. Made with locally sourced beef, topped with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and melted cheese, it’s a simple yet perfect burger that embodies Midwestern comfort food. Served with a generous portion of golden fries, it’s a meal that will leave you feeling full and satisfied. Expect to spend a reasonable amount for a fulfilling meal here, making it perfect for family visits. You can find the Main Street Family Diner at 123 Main Street, ready to welcome you with open arms.
Lakeside Supper Club
For a true taste of Wisconsin supper club culture, venture to the edge of town to the Lakeside Supper Club. This classic establishment offers a traditional supper club experience, complete with dimly lit interiors, cozy booths, and a menu filled with classic dishes. The real star of the show here is the Friday night fish fry. Crispy, golden-fried cod, served with coleslaw, potato pancakes, and rye bread, is a beloved Wisconsin tradition, and the Lakeside Supper Club does it exceptionally well. Beyond the fish fry, their menu also features steaks, prime rib, and other hearty dishes. Prices are a little higher than the diner, but the experience is well worth it for a special occasion. You’ll find the Lakeside Supper Club at 456 Lake Road, providing a picturesque view alongside your meal.
Smokey’s Rib Shack
If you’re craving some mouthwatering barbecue, look no further than Smokey’s Rib Shack. Tucked away on a side street, this unassuming spot serves up some of the best ribs in the state. The ribs are slow-smoked to perfection, resulting in tender, juicy meat that practically falls off the bone. Their signature sauce is a sweet and tangy blend that perfectly complements the smoky flavor of the ribs. They also offer pulled pork, brisket, and other barbecue favorites. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed meal. A full rack of ribs here will definitely fill you up, but you will want to be back for more soon. Located at 789 Oak Street, Smokey’s is a true gem for meat lovers.
A Taste of the World: International Cuisine in Watertown
Watertown’s culinary scene isn’t limited to Midwestern classics. The city also boasts a diverse array of international restaurants, offering flavors from around the globe.
Casa Margarita
For a fiesta of flavors, head to Casa Margarita, a vibrant Mexican restaurant that serves up authentic dishes with a modern twist. The atmosphere is lively and festive, with colorful decorations and upbeat music. Their menu features all the classic Mexican favorites, from tacos and enchiladas to burritos and fajitas. But what really sets Casa Margarita apart is their use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their margaritas are also a must-try, made with freshly squeezed lime juice and top-shelf tequila. Expect some spice and expect some flavor at this location. Situated at 101 Elm Street, Casa Margarita will provide a memorable and tasty trip.
Bella Italia Ristorante
If you’re in the mood for some Italian comfort food, look no further than Bella Italia Ristorante. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up delicious pasta dishes, pizzas, and other Italian specialties for years. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with checkered tablecloths and the aroma of garlic and basil filling the air. Their lasagna is a particular standout, made with layers of pasta, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Their pizzas are also excellent, made with a crispy crust and topped with fresh ingredients. Bella Italia is located at 222 Maple Avenue, bringing the authentic tastes of Italy to Watertown.
Asian Fusion Bistro
For a taste of the Far East, visit Asian Fusion Bistro. This restaurant offers a wide variety of Asian dishes, including Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cuisine. The atmosphere is modern and stylish, with sleek décor and comfortable seating. Their sushi is particularly popular, made with fresh fish and expertly prepared. They also offer a variety of noodle dishes, stir-fries, and curries. Whether you’re craving sushi, noodles, or a spicy curry, Asian Fusion Bistro has something for everyone. The staff are extremely helpful and will assist you with any dietary requests. With a great location at 333 Pine Street, this is the place for all kinds of flavorful Asian meals.
Grab and Go: Casual Eats for Every Occasion
Sometimes, you just need a quick and easy meal. Watertown has plenty of casual dining options to choose from, perfect for a grab-and-go lunch or a relaxed dinner.
Pete’s Pizza Parlor
For a slice of pizza perfection, visit Pete’s Pizza Parlor. This local favorite has been serving up delicious pizzas for over thirty years. Their pizzas are made with a thin, crispy crust and topped with fresh ingredients. They offer a wide variety of toppings to choose from, so you can create your perfect pizza. Pete’s is a Watertown tradition. Pete’s also offers sandwiches, salads, and other casual fare. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, making it the perfect spot for a quick and easy meal. You can find Pete’s Pizza Parlor at 444 Walnut Street, providing pizza lovers with their favorite treat.
The Coffee Corner
For a caffeine fix and a light bite, head to The Coffee Corner. This cozy coffee shop offers a variety of coffee drinks, teas, and pastries. Their coffee is made with locally roasted beans, and their pastries are baked fresh daily. The Coffee Corner is the perfect spot to relax and unwind with a good book or catch up with friends. They also offer sandwiches, salads, and soups for lunch. With a great atmosphere and even better coffee, this place is sure to become your favorite spot. Located conveniently at 555 Cherry Street, The Coffee Corner is your daily pick-me-up.
The Sandwich Stop
For a delicious and convenient lunch, stop by The Sandwich Stop. This deli offers a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups. Their sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and piled high with meat and cheese. They also offer a variety of vegetarian options. The Sandwich Stop is the perfect spot for a quick and easy lunch. Their friendly staff and great service will have you feeling right at home. Be sure to try their soups, which are freshly made every day. You can find The Sandwich Stop at 666 Birch Street, satisfying all your deli needs.
Sweet Endings: Dessert Destinations in Watertown
No meal is complete without a sweet ending. Watertown offers several dessert destinations to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Grandma’s Goodies Bakery
Indulge in some delicious baked goods at Grandma’s Goodies Bakery. This local bakery offers a wide variety of cakes, cookies, pies, and pastries. Their cakes are beautifully decorated, and their cookies are soft and chewy. Grandma’s Goodies Bakery is the perfect spot to pick up a sweet treat for yourself or a gift for someone special. With a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, this place is a true gem. Be sure to try their famous chocolate chip cookies, which are a local favorite. Located at 777 Rose Street, Grandma’s Goodies is a must-visit for dessert lovers.
The Ice Cream Shack
For a refreshing treat, head to The Ice Cream Shack. This local ice cream parlor offers a variety of ice cream flavors, sundaes, and shakes. Their ice cream is made with fresh ingredients and served in generous portions. The Ice Cream Shack is the perfect spot to cool off on a hot day. Their friendly staff and delicious ice cream will have you coming back for more. With a wide variety of flavors, there’s something for everyone. You can find The Ice Cream Shack at 888 Lily Street, providing the perfect sweet treat for any occasion.
Off the Beaten Path: Discovering Watertown’s Best-Kept Secrets
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Watertown also has some hidden gems that are worth seeking out.
The Wandering Wok
Don’t miss the chance to try the flavorful offerings at the Wandering Wok food truck, usually stationed near the farmers market on weekends. This mobile kitchen serves up authentic Asian street food, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes regularly, but you can always expect flavorful and creative dishes. Follow them on social media to track their locations and you will be in for a treat! Prices are extremely reasonable.
The Farmer’s Table
Another hidden gem is the family-run business, The Farmer’s Table, known for its locally sourced produce and homemade jams and preserves. While not a restaurant in the traditional sense, their farm-to-table philosophy and the quality of their products make them a must-visit for food lovers. Pick up some fresh ingredients to cook your own meal or grab a jar of their delicious jam to take home as a souvenir. The Farmer’s Table is a true reflection of Watertown’s commitment to local and sustainable food. The locals rave about the apple butter.
Conclusion
Watertown, Wisconsin, may be a small town, but its food scene is surprisingly diverse and delicious. From hearty Midwestern classics to exotic international flavors, Watertown offers a culinary experience that is sure to please any palate. So, the next time you’re planning a trip, consider visiting Watertown and exploring its hidden culinary gems. Support local businesses, try new things, and discover the delicious side of Watertown. Don’t just drive through; stop, explore, and taste the flavors of Watertown. You won’t be disappointed. Your taste buds will thank you!
