Eau Claire, perched on the Chippewa River, is a city where college-town vibrancy meets northwoods tradition.
Its food culture is grounded in Midwestern comfort but teems with youthful creativity and international flair, reflecting the city’s love for music, art, and homegrown flavor.
1. The Lakely
Set in the stylish Oxbow Hotel, The Lakely is Eau Claire’s culinary and cultural nexus.
Chef-driven menus focus on farm-to-table Upper Midwest ingredients—think slow-cooked pork belly, walleye with dill, and hyper-seasonal root veggie plates, all paired with craft cocktails and Wisconsin’s best microbrews.
The dining room is a blend of minimalist Scandinavian design and northwoods warmth; on weekends the air fills with live jazz from local talent.
Locals gather for brunch on the sunny patio, and artists, visiting bands, and UWEC faculty make it their haunt year-round.
2. Via Roma
A family-owned fixture, Via Roma brings a little slice of Italy to the heartland.
The space is intimate, the staff are legendary for remembering faces, and the menu leans toward comforting, homespun flavors—chewy-crusted Neapolitan pizzas, hand-rolled gnocchi, classic veal parmigiana, and rich tiramisu.
The wine list highlights Italian bottles and area favorites; on Fridays, locals pack in for live music and multi-course shared feasts.
For both romantic date nights and festive family reunions, Via Roma is Eau Claire at its friendliest.
3. The Livery Restaurant & Saloon
Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century stable, The Livery offers a cozy-meets-hip space filled with rustic brick, beautiful wood beams, and the hum of happy regulars.
The kitchen delivers modern American comfort: burgers crowned with aged cheddar and bacon jam, savory wild rice pilaf with local mushrooms, poutine and cheese curds, and creative salads.
The bar boasts regional beers, approachable cocktails, and the kind of genial, attentive service you only get in the Upper Midwest.
4. Muang Thai Restaurant
For something beyond the supper club, Muang Thai is a gem beloved for its zesty, authentic curries, fresh summer rolls, and spicy stir-fry plates.
Owners greet guests by name, and the kitchen shows its love in every plate—sweet and sour tamarind sauce, coconut-laden curries, and fiery basil chicken.
The décor is simple and cheerful, inviting takeout on cold nights or lingering dinners with friends on Friday.
5. The Classic Garage
A retro 1950s diner set in a converted service station, Classic Garage has become an Eau Claire icon.
Staff swing burgers and malts to tables festooned with vintage car memorabilia.
The menu is classic comfort: smashburgers, hand-battered cheese curds, thick-cut fries, and breakfast served all day.
The crowd is all ages—kids vying for shakes, bikers out for their morning run, and regulars catching up over classic rock.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
