When a Northwoods adventure calls, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts flock to Wisconsin for the expansive landscapes, excellent hiking and fishing, pine forests, and dark, starry skies. But a St. Germain getaway feeds more than an appetite for the great outdoors. Tucked between placid lakes, lively rivers, and winding roads, lies a premier destination for traditional and tantalizing cuisine. Look beyond the picnic table and campfire cookout to discover fish fries, supper clubs, and a wealth of family-owned cafes and restaurants. St. Germain offers an extraordinary culinary experience, served with a heaping side of culture and community.
Wisconsinites put the “fish” in TGIF, with early settlers to thank for this time-honored tradition. The town's close proximity to a seemingly endless array of lakes, ponds, and rivers guarantees that a St. Germain fish fry does not disappoint. Every fish fry has a signature style, but visitors angling for the traditional experience can expect fish such as walleye, perch, cod, and bluegill. Each fillet is beer-battered and deep-fried to crispy perfection according to family recipes with closely guarded secret ingredients. Assorted breads, potato-based side dishes, coleslaw, and desserts vary from place to place, but no true fish fry is complete without juicy lemon wedges, malt vinegar, and house-made tartar sauce to top it all off.
There's nothing like diving into a plate of fish with a waterfront view. Reel in the taste of tradition and enjoy lakeside dining at Murmuring Waters Lodge, serving up a Friday fish fry and daily lunch and dinner specials on Lost Lake since the 1920s. The game room, dance floor, and jukebox are fun for the whole family.
You've heard about the one that got away? St. Germain Lodge & Resort is home to the aptly named Fibber's Bar & Restaurant. From savory salads, steaks and homemade soups to the Freddie Fibbers Famous Friday Fish Fry, there's something for everyone on the menu.
Or, take a step back in time and relax beside one of the largest stone fireplaces in the Northwoods. The Whitetail Inn offers fireside relaxation and fine dining in a log-style restaurant. Select from mouth watering steaks and prime rib as well as the ever-popular Friday fish fry.
Along with traditional fish fries and storied supper clubs, St. Germain is home to a delightful array of locally-owned and family-operated eateries. Weekenders can wander, sightsee, and taste test their way through town, to discover delicious dining experiences around every corner.
Start your culinary adventure with a strong cup of joe. Red Canoe Cafe & Books is a locally owned bookshop and full-service coffee house. Stop by for specialty coffees, fresh bakery items, fruit strudel, quiche, paninis, and hearty soups. Find the perfect gift in their carefully stocked shop or take home a bottle of fine wine.
If you flip for flapjacks, catch breakfast or brunch at the Wolf Pack Cafe. With just one bite, you'll taste why locals and visitors howl for their wide array of pancake flavors, house-made meals and hospitality. Round out any meal and satiate that sweet tooth with one of Kathy's homemade pies.
For an afternoon excursion, putt around and hit a hole-in-one at Elmer's Ice Cream Shop & Mini Golf with sweet treats, lunch or both. Try a brat or pulled pork sandwich, ice cream or Italian ice and ask about gluten and dairy free options. Don't miss the shopportunity to check out their fun souvenirs, t-shirts, and hats.
And for true Northwoods nostalgia, look no further than The Timbers Bar & Grill. This local favorite offers up a full menu of daily specials, craft brews, cocktails, and plenty of Wisconsin charm and character. Accessible by bicycle, boat, car, or snowmobile, The Timbers offers a lively, fun atmosphere with something for the whole family.
Everyday is sundae at Cathy's Ice Cream and Candy Shoppe. Walk, drive, or boat right up to cool off or chill out with 32 flavors of premium ice cream and frozen yogurt. Up the ante with custom sundaes, fresh fudge, chocolate and hard candies, topped off with a Milwaukee-made Twigs soda.
Travelers across Wisconsin and beyond choose St. Germain to satisfy their cravings for a Northwoods adventure with outstanding community, culture, and cuisine. Weekend getaways are easy with plenty of places to stay, play, and dine the days away.