Downtown Eau Claire is buzzing with more than just Chippewa River energy – its culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors waiting to be explored. Once a quiet river town, downtown Eau Claire has undergone a stunning transformation in recent years, becoming a hub for arts, culture, and, most importantly for our purposes, exceptional food. The blend of historical charm and modern innovation creates a unique atmosphere, and that energy is reflected in the diverse and delicious dining options available. Whether you’re craving a quick bite, a romantic dinner, or a family-friendly feast, downtown Eau Claire offers a culinary adventure for every taste and budget. This guide will lead you on a journey through the heart of the city, highlighting the best restaurants, cafes, and hidden gems that make downtown Eau Claire a true foodie destination.
Breakfast and Brunch Bliss
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast or brunch at one of downtown Eau Claire’s many inviting spots. The most important meal of the day is served up with style, flavor, and often a side of local charm.
The Coffee Grounds
For a cozy and comforting start, head to The Coffee Grounds. This beloved local institution is known for its warm atmosphere, friendly service, and, of course, its expertly crafted coffee. The aroma of freshly brewed beans fills the air, creating the perfect environment for a relaxing morning. The Coffee Grounds offers a wide range of coffee drinks, from classic drip coffee to specialty lattes. But it’s not just about the caffeine; their breakfast menu is filled with tasty treats like bagels with various toppings, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries that are sure to satisfy your morning cravings. The Coffee Grounds is a great choice if you are looking for a relaxed atmosphere to wake up in while still being able to fuel up.
Acoustic Cafe
If you’re looking for something a little more substantial, or perhaps a mimosa to kickstart your weekend, check out Acoustic Cafe. While primarily known for its live music and vibrant atmosphere in the evenings, Acoustic Cafe also serves a surprisingly delicious brunch on weekends. Think hearty breakfast plates with eggs, bacon, sausage, and potatoes, alongside more creative options like breakfast burritos and sweet cream pancakes. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it the perfect spot to gather with friends and family for a leisurely weekend brunch. It is the best of both worlds with good food and great service, you can’t go wrong stopping in for breakfast.
Classic Diner
Finally, if you are looking for something that is truly a local favorite, go stop by a classic diner. A true Eau Claire staple, the diner provides you with greasy goodness to give you the energy you need to take on the day. A mix of locals and tourists alike, anyone is able to enjoy a classic diner.
Lunchtime Adventures Abound
When lunchtime rolls around, downtown Eau Claire offers a plethora of options to satisfy your midday hunger. From quick and casual bites to more leisurely sit-down meals, there’s something for everyone.
Mogie’s Pub and Restaurant
For a classic pub experience with a delicious menu, Mogie’s Pub and Restaurant is a great choice. This lively spot offers a wide range of pub fare, from juicy burgers and crispy fries to flavorful sandwiches and hearty soups. Their lunch specials are particularly popular, offering great value for your money. Mogie’s is a great spot to gather with coworkers for a quick and satisfying lunch, or to relax and enjoy a beer while watching a game. With many options to choose from it may be hard to narrow down what you want to try, but just know that no matter what you choose, it will be delicious.
Court’n House Bar and Grill
If you’re in the mood for something a little more upscale, consider Court’n House Bar and Grill. Located in a beautifully restored historic building, this restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their lunch menu features a variety of salads, sandwiches, and entrees, all prepared with care and attention to detail. It’s the perfect spot for a business lunch or a special occasion. The bar atmosphere is great after a long day at work, with a lot of seating and many choices to choose from for drinks.
Shanghai Bistro
For those craving something exotic, Shanghai Bistro offers a delicious escape to the East. This popular spot serves up authentic Chinese cuisine, with a wide range of dishes to suit every taste. From classic favorites like General Tso’s chicken and Kung Pao shrimp to more adventurous options like Mapo Tofu and Dan Dan Noodles, there’s something for everyone to discover. Shanghai Bistro is a great spot for a quick and affordable lunch, or for a more relaxed dinner with friends and family. Enjoy all of the culture and atmosphere that they provide for a memorable meal.
Dinner Delights Await
As the sun sets, downtown Eau Claire transforms into a culinary wonderland, with a range of restaurants offering unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night spot or a place to celebrate a special occasion, you’ll find it here.
The Informalist
For a truly memorable dining experience, look no further than The Informalist. Located inside The Lismore Hotel, this elegant restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere, impeccable service, and a menu of exquisitely prepared dishes. The Informalist focuses on modern American cuisine, with a strong emphasis on seasonal ingredients. Their wine list is extensive, and their knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect pairing for your meal. This is the ideal spot for a special occasion or a romantic night out. The food looks as delicious as it tastes, making it a great place for a picture before you dig in.
Mona Lisa’s
If you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine, Mona Lisa’s is a must-visit. This cozy and charming restaurant offers a taste of Italy in the heart of downtown Eau Claire. Their menu features classic Italian dishes, such as pasta carbonara, lasagna, and osso buco, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Mona Lisa’s also has a fantastic selection of Italian wines to complement your meal. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a family celebration. You can bring home the delicious taste and memories with take-home meals that they offer.
Local Steakhouse
For a delicious and satisfying steak, be sure to visit a local steakhouse. Downtown Eau Claire has a long history of providing exceptional steakhouses. With each of the steakhouses downtown you will get a delicious and satisfying cut of meat. With so many different options to choose from you cannot go wrong with any of them.
Sweet Treats and Coffee Breaks
No culinary adventure is complete without indulging in a sweet treat or enjoying a perfectly brewed cup of coffee. Downtown Eau Claire offers a variety of options to satisfy your cravings.
44 North
For a decadent dessert, head to 44 North. This boutique offers a selection of artisan chocolates, pastries, and other sweet treats, all made with the finest ingredients. From truffles and bonbons to cakes and cookies, there’s something to tempt every sweet tooth. They are the perfect place to grab a gift for someone who has a sweet tooth and is looking for a good treat.
The Nostalgic Bean
If you’re in need of a caffeine fix, The Nostalgic Bean is the perfect spot. This cozy coffee shop serves up a wide range of coffee drinks, from classic espresso to creative specialty lattes. They also offer a selection of pastries and light bites to complement your coffee. The Nostalgic Bean is a great spot to relax, catch up with friends, or get some work done. Get cozy and enjoy a classic cup of coffee in a setting that is welcoming to all that enter its doors.
Ramone’s Ice Cream Parlor
For those warm summer days, Ramone’s Ice Cream Parlor is a must-visit. This charming ice cream shop serves up a variety of delicious ice cream flavors, as well as sundaes, milkshakes, and other frozen treats. The retro atmosphere is sure to bring back fond memories. Everyone loves the taste of summer, and Ramone’s Ice Cream Parlor helps fulfill that need.
Drinks and Nightlife Delights
As the evening progresses, downtown Eau Claire comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Whether you’re looking for a craft beer, a handcrafted cocktail, or a place to dance the night away, you’ll find it here.
The Lakely
The Lakely, located in the Oxbow Hotel, offers a unique and sophisticated drinking experience. This stylish bar serves up handcrafted cocktails, a curated selection of wines, and a rotating list of local craft beers. The atmosphere is chic and relaxed, making it the perfect spot for a pre-dinner drink or a late-night nightcap. Enjoy the atmosphere that it offers with both indoor and outdoor seating, you cannot go wrong with The Lakely.
The Brewing Projekt
For craft beer enthusiasts, The Brewing Projekt is a must-visit. This innovative brewery is known for its experimental and flavorful beers. They have a wide range of beers on tap, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, and they often release new and exciting brews. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, making it a great spot to gather with friends and enjoy a pint. With a constantly evolving menu there will always be something new to try and enjoy.
Local Favorites and Hidden Gems
Beyond the well-known establishments, downtown Eau Claire also boasts a few hidden gems that are particularly loved by locals. Look for small cafes tucked away on side streets, family-owned restaurants serving authentic cuisine, and quirky bars with live music. Ask a local for their recommendation – you might just discover your new favorite spot.
Tips for Dining Downtown Eau Claire
Navigating the downtown Eau Claire food scene is easy with a few helpful tips. Parking is available on the street and in several parking garages. Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially at popular restaurants, so it is important to plan ahead of time. Be sure to check out the downtown Eau Claire events calendar for any special events or festivals that might be happening during your visit. And most importantly, support local businesses by choosing to dine at locally owned and operated establishments.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
The food downtown Eau Claire is flourishing, with a growing number of exceptional restaurants, cafes, and bars, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From cozy breakfast spots and bustling lunch destinations to elegant dinner restaurants and vibrant nightlife venues, downtown Eau Claire offers a culinary adventure for every taste and budget. The blending of tradition and innovation that makes the food downtown Eau Claire so great. So, grab your appetite and head downtown Eau Claire – a delicious adventure awaits! The food downtown Eau Claire is only going to continue to grow and get better. You will not regret visiting the food downtown Eau Claire, it is truly a hidden gem in the Midwest.
