If you’re looking for a true Wisconsin tradition, look no further than the state’s signature cocktail—the Old Fashioned. Whether you choose sweet, sour, or press, this cocktail is a can’t-miss. Come along as we venture across the counties on the great Wisconsin Old Fashioned trail to sip and savor a few all-time favorites.
Vilas County
Start your sip-worthy adventure in Vilas County—the heart of the Northwoods—where The Twilight Supper Club serves up some incredibly famous Old Fashioneds in small-town Land O’ Lakes. Each cocktail is hand-muddled and the perfect combination of brandy, bitters, and fruit.
“Hands down the best around” and “the very best in the Northwoods,” a must-try is the Famous Flaming Old Fashioned. Aside from its impeccable flavor, it’s topped off with a mini marshmallow for toasting. And this is just one of the many specialty Old Fashioneds you can choose from.
Not to mention, this hidden gem offers classic supper club fare to pair perfectly with your cocktail of choice. On the menu is a wide assortment of top-notch entrees, including fall-off-the-bone barbecue ribs, superior choice steaks, Jumbo Tiger Shrimp, and Great Lakes Perch, plus a massive salad bar. And be sure to save room for an indulgent ice cream drink!
Door County
Continue east on the great Wisconsin Old Fashioned trail to Door County, home to another iconic supper club—The Mill Supper Club. This go-to spot in Sturgeon Bay serves up a truly legendary Wisconsin Old Fashioned.
If you’re looking for traditional, The Mill Supper Club is just the place for you. Order yours mixed with brandy (the Wisconsin way) or with bourbon, and choose sweet, sour, or press. Topped off with fresh—and famous—Door County cherries and oranges, this Old Fashioned is a can’t-miss classic.
Speaking of classic, The Mill certainly falls into that category! Established in 1930, this supper club continues its tradition of serving great cocktails and food. Here, you can enjoy that traditional supper club fare but with a delicious German flair. From Locally Sourced Whitefish to Chicken Jaeger Schnitzel, there’s a wide variety on the menu.
La Crosse County
To the west, La Crosse County brings its own international flair with La Cave—a French-inspired favorite. Located in the vibrant city of La Crosse, La Cave is renowned for its take on the Wisconsin Old Fashioned.
Acclaimed as a house favorite: The Fumé Old Fashioned! This signature Old Fashioned is handcrafted with Elijah Craig Small Batch bourbon, demerara syrup, and house orange bitters. And the presentation will absolutely blow you away! It’s served in a smoked glass, adding to the already amazing aroma.
Settle in for an equally unforgettable meal. For an appetizer, a must is the La Cave Charcuterie Board With Cheese, which includes a wide assortment of high-end meats, cheeses, and more. For the main course, we highly recommend the Sesame-Crusted Yellowfin Tuna, followed by the Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée.
Sauk County
Next, head south to Sauk County—a Driftless gem! This county proudly presents Ishnala Supper Club, recognized in Madison Magazine for “Best Old Fashioned” among many other notable titles.
What makes it the best? It starts with a cherry and an orange, followed by a signature Old Fashioned mix, and Ishnala’s very own brandy or bourbon—locally made at Central Standard in Milwaukee and Wollersheim Winery in nearby Prairie du Sac. Click here for a behind-the-scenes look at making the “Best Old Fashioned.”
And the Old Fashioned is only the beginning of the Ishnala experience. Because it’s such a popular spot, the wait can be a few hours. Trust us, it’s worth it! While you wait, enjoy music on the beach, stroll the scenic path through Mirror Lake State Park, browse the gift shop, and stop by one of the four bars, and eye up the menu—it’s going to be a tough decision!
Milwaukee County
Last but certainly not least, welcome to Milwaukee County! Our final stop is in the heart of Downtown Milwaukee. It’s the one-and-only Central Standard Crafthouse & Kitchen! Here, you sip and savor award-winning cocktails created with Central Standard spirits.
On the list of winners are three out-of-this-world Old Fashioneds—the Classic Old Fashioned, the Wisconsin Old Fashioned, and the Smoked Rosemary Old Fashioned. Each cocktail has its own twist and definitely makes the list of must-trys. And did we mention the cans? Now you can crack open a brandy and bourbon Old Fashioned and toast to a good time!
Central Standard has you covered with good food, too! Offering brunch, lunch, and dinner, there’s something for everyone at all times. Coming for brunch? The Drunken Monkey Bread is an absolute must! And for a bigger lunch or dinner, we highly recommend the Báhn Mì Chicken Wrap. Top it all off with Old Fashioned Bread Pudding!
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The great Wisconsin Old Fashioned trail awaits! From Vilas and Door to La Crosse, Sauk, and Milwaukee counties, there are so many incredible Old Fashioneds you simply have to try. So, gather your crew and start planning your sip-worthy adventure across the counties today.
*This article is brought to you with support from the Wisconsin Counties Association.
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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.
