Looking for a place to wine and dine this weekend? Look no further than Lake Geneva, Wisconsin! Home to local wineries, must-visit wine bars, and remarkable restaurants, there’s no better place to sip and savor local flavors. So come along as we discover this delicious destination!
Local Wineries
Up first, we’re discovering Lake Geneva’s local wineries—where all the magic happens!
Staller Estate Vineyard & Winery
If you’re looking for the full vineyard experience, add family-owned-and-operated Staller Estate Vineyard & Winery to your list. Tucked in beautiful rural Wisconsin, Staller Estate Winery produces and bottles all wines on-site, using cold-hardy grape varieties. Sample sip-worthy selections, from dry red reserves to dessert wines, take a tour with a wine connoisseur, and enjoy tasty charcuterie boards and chocolate pairings!
Apple Barn Orchard & Winery
Another family-owned-and-operated favorite is Apple Barn Orchard & Winery! Since 1848, this farm has specialized in fruit wines made from fresh, non-grape fruits and berries that grow right from this very soil. We highly recommend Country Rhubarb, Hardy Pear, and Honey Crisp Apple Harvest. But keep an eye out for what’s currently growing—apple season is right around the corner!
Geneva Lakes Distilling & Winery
Located in the heart of Lake Geneva, Geneva Lakes Distilling & Winery is a must-visit! Wines here are available exclusively on site in The Tasting Room—and trust us, they’re well worthwhile! No matter your preference, from dry to sweet, you’ll fall in love with Geneva Lakes’ signature selections. Not to mention, the atmosphere is unbeatable. Enjoy light bites, live music, patio vibes, and even art workshops!
AeppelTreow Winery & Distillery
The final local winery we’re featuring is the one-and-only AeppelTreow Winery & Distillery! This Lake Geneva area gem is truly unique, offering hard ciders crafted from fresh apples and pears. Now in the third generation, AeppelTreow keeps America’s ancient cider heritage alive, adding its own creative touch to transform cider into champagnes, still table wines, and more. You’ll just have to come and taste these incredible ciders for yourself!
Must-Visit Wine Bars
When you spend the weekend wining and dining in Lake Geneva, wine bars are simply a must. Here are a few you have to check out:
Barrique Bistro & Wine Bar
For views of the gorgeous Geneva Lake, Barrique Bistro & Wine Bar is a go-to! Barrique offers a wide assortment of wines—reds, whites, sparklings, desserts, and more. Want a taste of them all? Order a Wine Flight! And save a spot for one of the Barrique Favorites. Aside from the exceptional wine list, Barrique also offers a fresh, made-to-order menu, including Small Plates from land and sea, plus soups, salads, entrées, and desserts.
Niche Cafe & Wine Bar
And we couldn’t forget about Niche Cafe & Wine Bar—another one of our all-time favorites! This cute cafe and wine bar truly has everything you need for a weekend full of wining and dining—and so much more! By morning, enjoy a perfect cup of locally roasted coffee paired with a locally inspired sandwich. And by night, sip the finest of wines (including Napa wines) and savor tasty small bites.
Remarkable Restaurants
Top the weekend off with an unforgettable meal at one of Lake Geneva’s noteworthy restaurants.
Cafe Calamari
First up is Cafe Calamari, which is remarkable for many reasons! Aside from the unmatched ambiance, overlooking Geneva Lake, Cafe Calamari serves up truly top-notch cuisine. Indulge in the ultimate combination of Italian and Continental with flair. It’s most known for its amazing pasta creations, signature steaks, and fresh seafood, including calamari. And did we mention the incredible wine list?
Oak & Oar
Also located on the gorgeous Geneva Lake, Oak & Oar fully embraces the state’s rich culinary flavors and traditions! It is Wisconsin, so you simply have to start with one of the signature boards. We recommend the Charcuterie Board or Wisco Board, both of which feature fan-favorite flavors like local cheese and bratwurst. For your main course, choose from burgers, sandwiches, and other exceptional entrées alongside a curated selection of wines!
The Baker House Restaurant
Downtown, The Baker House awaits! This one-stop shop offers the ultimate wine-and-dine experience. It’s a historic hotel, restaurant, and speakeasy! Stay in one of the charming rooms to make it a true weekend getaway. For fine dining, make your way to the restaurant and lounge, offering a luxurious atmosphere (with views of Geneva Lake), delicious dishes, and an exceptional wine list. And you can’t miss the speakeasy!
Oakfire
Last but certainly not least is Oakfire, a remarkable restaurant known for its Neapolitan pizza! Aside from the pies (coming next), Oakfire offers amazing seats overlooking Geneva Lake. Now, onto the infamous pies! Each pizza is made with locally sourced and imported Italian ingredients to achieve pure perfection. In addition, Oakfire also offers an array of from-scratch menu options, so there’s truly something for everyone.
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What are you waiting for? Make this the weekend to wine and dine in Lake Geneva! After all, it’s always been the place!
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Hailey Marien: Writer for Discover Mediaworks. A born & bred Wisconsinite with a love for fishing, hunting, and enjoying the great outdoors.
