Wausau might be known for its outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, but one of its best-kept secrets is the food scene. When it comes to dining, this Central Wisconsin city offers an impressive lineup of Wausau restaurants, with everything from elevated farm-to-table fare to globally inspired cuisine and fast-casual spots that keep your adventures fueled. Whether you’re craving house-made pasta, sizzling Korean barbecue, inventive small plates, or a perfectly grilled steak, the variety and quality of restaurants in Wausau will surprise even the most seasoned food lover.
In between bites and brews, there’s no shortage of things to do in Wausau, WI. Explore local art galleries, catch a live show downtown, or hike the trails at Rib Mountain State Park before heading back for happy hour and dinner. The city also plays host to food trucks, summer concerts, and lively events on the 400 Block, making it easy to pair a day of discovery with a memorable meal. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, a solo retreat, or a laid-back weekend with friends, you’ll find plenty of places to eat in Wausau that add flavor to every part of your trip.
When you’re ready to unwind after a day of great food and local experiences, the Stewart Inn is one of the top-rated places to stay in Wausau. This boutique hotel combines historic charm with modern luxury, offering spacious guest rooms, spa-like bathrooms, and a daily gourmet breakfast to start your day right. Its location near downtown puts you within easy walking distance of the best Wausau restaurants, shops, and attractions, while the personalized hospitality ensures every stay feels special. Get ready to enjoy everything Central Wisconsin has to offer and book your stay at our top-rated boutique hotel today!
These Are the Best Wausau Restaurants
Wausau’s food scene is one of the city’s most delightful surprises. Despite its modest size, Wausau boasts a diverse array of restaurants that rival those in much larger cities. From inventive farm-to-table eateries to authentic international cuisine, the city offers a culinary adventure for every palate.
Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely lunch or an elegant dinner, Wausau’s dining establishments deliver quality and flavor that exceed expectations. Below is a list of our favorite Wausau restaurants for you to enjoy this summer.
Top 10 Wausau Restaurants to Try this Year
1. Van Acre — Upscale Contemporary American
Located in the Hilton Garden Inn Wausau, Van Acre is an upscale-casual restaurant offering a menu inspired by regional cuisine, featuring seasonal, rustic fare served alongside classic and creative cocktails, craft brews, and a curated wine list. The kitchen emphasizes wood-fired, smoked, char-grilled, and brick-oven preparations.
Van Acre features an open-concept kitchen and a menu built around regional ingredients. Farm-fresh ingredients including organic greens, locally sourced cheeses, and regional meats form the backbone of the menu, which changes with the seasons.
2. Ciao — Italian and Seafood
Ciao is an Italian restaurant in downtown Wausau featuring fresh oysters, house-made pasta, fresh seafood, and carefully prepared meats. The dining room strikes a balance between casual elegance and refined simplicity, with attentive service that makes guests feel welcome.
The menu showcases Italian cuisine with contemporary touches, featuring standout items like Cacio E Pepe, Veal Cotoletta, house-made ravioli, Linguine and Clams, and seasonal specialties. The restaurant offers a strong wine list and cocktail program. —
3. Lemongrass Asian Fusion — Thai and Vietnamese
Lemongrass is an authentic Asian Fusion Restaurant and Bar located in downtown Wausau, offering Thai, Japanese, and Vietnamese dishes praised for generous portions and flavorful preparations. The beautifully decorated dining room creates an inviting atmosphere that’s equally suited for a casual meal or special occasion.
The menu features Pad Thai, Orange Peel Chicken, Spicy Lemongrass Noodles, and Ribeye Garlic Noodles, with options to customize spice levels. The restaurant offers vegetarian, tofu, and gluten-free options alongside traditional dishes. October is a perfect time to enjoy warming soups and aromatic curries as the weather cools.
4. The Velveteen Plum — Latin-Inspired Rooftop Dining
Wausau’s first rooftop restaurant, The Velveteen Plum, is located at 1520 Elm St and features both indoor and outdoor rooftop seating with views of Rib Mountain. The restaurant is known for bold Latin flavors, eclectic wines, and stylish craft cocktails served in a casual yet upscale atmosphere.
The Velveteen Plum features an extensive wine list, great cocktails, and rooftop seating. During colder weather, the restaurant operates an enclosed rooftop patio with heaters and fire features, allowing guests to enjoy the rooftop beyond the warmer months. October evenings on the rooftop offer views of Rib Mountain as fall colors spread across the area.
5. Back When Cafe — New America
Established in 1991, Back When Cafe is a charming downtown restaurant serving New American cuisine, with steaks, seafood, pasta, and gluten-free options. The intimate dining room features an indoor fireplace and patio seating, with a warm, eclectic atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
The menu changes periodically and features dishes such as crab cakes, veal piccata, steaks, seafood, pasta, and house-made desserts. The wine list is thoughtfully curated for pairing with the chef’s creations.
6. Red Eye Brewing Company — Craft Brewery and Gastropub
Red Eye Brewing Company is a casual dining restaurant featuring artisan food and craft beer, with seasonal dishes complementing its full menu. The brewpub opened in 2008 and has become a destination for locals and visitors alike.
The wood-fired pizzas are a popular part of the menu, and the restaurant’s preparations often showcase seasonal ingredients. Red Eye also offers a rotating selection of craft beer. The atmosphere is lively yet comfortable, with outdoor seating available during warmer months and an engaging bar scene year-round.
7. Osso Buco — Italian and Mediterranean
Located in nearby Weston, Osso Buco is an Italian and Mediterranean restaurant where Chef/owner Marco Higuera brings top-quality ingredients and creative preparations to classic and contemporary dishes. Higuera is a Culinary Institute of America alumnus with decades of professional culinary experience. The setting is refined yet approachable, with intimate booth seating and a warm atmosphere.
Popular dishes include a variety of Italian and Mediterranean preparations, seafood, pasta, and desserts, each prepared with care and precision. Reservations are recommended.
8. Tine and Cellar — Modern European
Tine and Cellar in Weston offers rustic European flavors with contemporary twists, along with craft cocktails, beer, and a full wine selection. The sophisticated dining room features a working fireplace and outdoor seating, making it ideal for both casual and special-occasion dining.
Signature dishes include House-Breaded Cheese Curds and Wild Mushroom Linguine. The restaurant is sister to The Velveteen Plum and shares the same commitment to quality and creativity.
9. Mint Cafe — Historic Retro Diner
A Wausau institution since 1888, The Mint Cafe is a historic diner offering American comfort food in a cozy setting with retro details, booths, and paneling. Step inside and you’re transported to a different era, with vintage fixtures, local memorabilia, and a counter with stools creating the quintessential diner experience.
The menu features classic diner fare, breakfast favorites, sandwiches, Wisconsin cheese curds, and a traditional Friday fish fry. Portions are generous, and gluten-free options are available.
10. Hiawatha Sports Bar — Sports Bar and Grill
Reopened under new ownership in 2022 as a family-owned sports bar and grill, Hiawatha Sports Bar is known for American dishes, classic cocktails, and a comfortable atmosphere centered around watching sports. The casual vibe is perfect for game-day gatherings, with multiple TVs and a full bar.
The menu features burgers, wings, appetizers, sandwiches, and a traditional Friday fish fry. October brings football season in full swing, making Hiawatha a popular gathering spot. Outdoor seating is available seasonally. Because operating hours and weekly specials can change, guests should check the restaurant’s current information before visiting.
October Dining in Wausau: Harvest Season
October is an ideal time to explore Wausau’s restaurant scene. As harvest season peaks in Central Wisconsin, menus shift toward seasonal preparations: game preparations, mushroom-forward dishes, warm soups, and rich sauces throughout. Many restaurants highlight locally-sourced ingredients from regional purveyors, making this an especially authentic time to dine.
If you’re planning an evening out, consider pairing your dinner with one of Wausau’s other distinctive experiences. A visit to Wisconsin Supper Clubs Near Wausau offers a glimpse into dining tradition, or extend your evening with a craft cocktail at Timekeeper Distillery, housed in a historic train depot downtown.
One of the Best Places to Stay in Wausau
After exploring Wausau’s diverse dining scene, retreat to Stewart Inn, one of the most unique places to stay in Wausau. Our historic boutique property incorporates architectural elegance with contemporary comforts, making it the perfect base for a culinary weekend. Wake to a gourmet multi-course breakfast prepared in-house using locally sourced ingredients, and spend your evenings enjoying complimentary wine receptions while planning your next restaurant visit.
Each of our guest rooms is designed for comfort and elegance, with luxury linens, steam showers, and thoughtful touches throughout. Our location in downtown Wausau puts you within walking distance of Ciao, Lemongrass, Back When Cafe, Mint Cafe, and The Velveteen Plum, meaning you can enjoy a leisurely dinner without worrying about driving afterward. For those seeking additional privacy, our Wisconsin Cabin offers a refined woodland retreat just minutes away.
Book your stay and experience Wausau’s culinary offerings paired with the hospitality you deserve.
