Walworth County, Wisconsin, is a gorgeous place to visit in the summer, with sparkling Lake Geneva a major draw. But did you know that Walworth County is also home to some truly one-of-a-kind dining experiences? Best of all, they are family-friendly, affordable and a short drive from Chicago.
“You can feel free to bring your kids to any of the restaurants in the area,” says Nora Karbash, Walworth County Tourism Board member and co-owner of The Duck Inn, a supper club in Delavan, Wisconsin. “We welcome families to join us!”
Below is a list of some top Walworth County eats that you won’t want to miss.
Gus’s Drive-In, East Troy
Neon lights, a huge 1960s-era statue (restored from a rare roadside “Muffler Man”) and of course, drive-in dining make Gus a true retro destination. The menu features classics like burgers, hot dogs and shakes. The vintage charm continues on Saturdays with Gus’s legendary Cruise Nights featuring spiffy classic cars.
“Everybody knows Gus’s Drive-In,” says Karbash. “It’s been around a long time and has that old-fashioned drive-in feeling.”
Outdoor dining: Yes
Kids’ menu: Yes
Oakfire Grill – Lake Geneva
Lake views and a wood-fired pizza make Oakfire Grill a hot spot for visitors and locals alike. Authentic Italian methods and flavors are their hallmarks.
“Oakfire Grill is unique in that they use locally sourced products, but they also use a lot of ingredients imported from Italy,” says Karbash.
Oakfire Grill makes Neapolitan-style pizza in imported Stefano Ferrara ovens. Pizza lovers will enjoy favorites like the Margherita with tomato and basil and the more adventurous can try the Spicy Ezzo with a honey drizzle.
Outdoor dining: Yes
Kids’ menu: Yes
Pier 290 – Williams Bay
“Pier 290 has a fun atmosphere that’s popular with all ages,” says Karbash. This area hotspot backs right up to the water and offers affordable American fare like seasonal sandwiches, burgers, salads, chicken, steak and fish. The kids’ menu will satisfy little ones with grilled cheese, hot dogs, pizza and more.
Enjoy live music almost every night of the week, a Friday Fish Fry, weekend brunch and beautiful lake views. You won’t want to miss the small stretch of sandy beach dotted with fire pits.
Outdoor dining: Yes
Kids’ menu: Yes
Gordy’s – Fontana
A short drive from Pier 290, Gordy’s is open seven days a week, is accessible from the lake and also functions as a boat house and rental. Families will enjoy a great view of the water at Gordy’s Restaurant and Bar.
Karbash says to be sure to try the seasonal Surf Shack, where you’ll find lighter dishes, snacks and drinks plus old-fashioned hand-scooped ice cream. Gordy’s signature lighthouse replica adds to the appeal.
Outdoor dining: Yes
Kids’ menu: Yes
The Duck Inn – Delavan
With unique duck decor and cathedral ceilings in the main dining room, this authentic Wisconsin supper club offers delicious fare like prime rib specials, Friday fish fry, and of course, duck. Desserts are homemade on-site. The kids’ menu includes the classics plus a quarter duck entree for adventurous eaters.
“We love to welcome kids to The Duck Inn,” says Karbash. “We want families to make a tradition of coming here.”
Kids will also enjoy the giant fish tank near the bar. “Bring the family on a weeknight when it’s less crowded,” Karbash suggests. While in the bar, parents can snag a classic cocktail like The Duck Inn’s legendary Grasshopper.
Outdoor dining: No
Kids’ menu: Yes
The Pedal and Cup – Springfield/Lake Geneva
Located in the Historic Springfield Depot near the scenic White River Trail, The Pedal and Cup offers bike rentals along with delicious treats. Try freshly roasted coffee, hand-scooped ice cream, sandwiches and pastries before or after your ride.
Karbash has a pro tip: “The Pedal and Cup is a short five-minute drive north of Lake Geneva and officially is in Springfield. However, your GPS will find it as Lake Geneva.”
Outdoor dining: Yes
Kids’ menu: No (but most of it is kid-friendly)
Second Salem Brewing Company – Whitewater
Did you know that Whitewater, Wisconsin is known as the Second Salem due to a spiritual institute created there in the 1880s? Legend has it that the institute became a draw for witches and supernatural creatures, giving birth to stories and folklore that persist to this day.
Second Salem Brewing Company has made the most of local lore with a series of beers with names like Wild Man of La Grange and Witchtower Pale Ale. You’ll also find family-friendly “pub” fare like sandwiches, burgers and salads. “Older kids will enjoy the spooky stories as well as the food,” says Karbash, a UW-Whitewater alum.
Outdoor dining: Yes
Kids’ menu: No (but the food is kid-friendly)
The Landing – Elkhorn
This casual dining restaurant is located on Lauderdale Lakes and offers the best of lake living. You can drive right up in your boat and dock at the pier. Landing favorites include a decadent weekend brunch Friday fish fry and a popular grill menu.
Karbash says not to miss one new menu item: “Everyone is talking about The Landing’s amazing pizza.” Live music and lake views make this a fun family dining experience.
Outdoor dining: Yes
Kids’ menu: No (but lots of items are kid-friendly)
For more information about top Walworth County eats, visit gowalco.com.
