A weekly column written by the staff of Discover Wisconsin highlights things to do and see throughout the State of Wisconsin, and is made available for publication to members of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
In honor of National Brunch Month, we’re serving up Wisconsin’s ultimate brunch bucket list, featuring five all-time favorites you need to try this April. Each stop on our list brings something truly special to the table: Toad in the Hole, Breakfast Bear, The Wooden Chair, The Sweet & Salty Pig, and The Maple Table. Let’s dig in and see why!
Toad in the Hole — Eagle River, Wisconsin
Our first stop is the go‑to Northwoods brunch spot: Toad in the Hole in Downtown Eagle River. This eclectic, little diner has that easygoing, “everyone‑knows‑your‑order” feel, with a menu that’s made from scratch and ever-changing to keep things fresh and interesting! Order your favorite breakfast classics with a “toad-ally” delicious twist, house “sammiches,” and sweet shareables, including the noteworthy French Toast Stix. As they say: hop in for a bite!
Breakfast Bear — Wausau, Wisconsin
Making our way south, our next stop is Breakfast Bear in Wausau. This friendly, neighborhood spot is all about brunch that takes advantage of Wisconsin’s farms, roasters, and bakers, so you know you’re getting the best eggs, coffee, and baked goods straight from America’s Dairyland. The menu is stacked with deliciousness—skillets, pancakes, fluffy omelets, and a few creative twists that keep things fun and give you a reason to come back.
The Wooden Chair — Stevens Point, Wisconsin
Just a short drive away is The Wooden Chair, a Stevens Point staple and brunch favorite. This fan‑favorite spot is known for its made‑from‑scratch dishes. And you can even customize your order to make it just how you like it! You’ll find the classics—Eggs Benedict, waffles, and pancakes—but with a little extra flair on the side. If you want a recommendation, go for the Sweet Blues Omelette; it’s a crowd‑pleaser!
The Sweet & Salty Pig — Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Up next is The Sweet & Salty Pig, a beloved establishment in Fond du Lac and the home of bacon, brunch, and all‑around awesomeness, as they say. Here, bacon shows up in all the best ways, including in the Bacon Pretzel Eggs Benedict. Needless to say, they fully embrace the sweet‑and‑salty combination. Beyond the brunch food, The Sweet & Salty Pig is also a bakery, so the case is always full of scratch‑made cookies, brownies, and more that you can grab to take home (or just eat in).
The Maple Table — Racine, Wisconsin
In the southern corner of the state is The Maple Table, our final stop and Downtown Racine’s premier new breakfast, brunch, and lunch spot. This exceptional eatery leans on hearty, traditional breakfast fare but gives the classics a creative twist. You have to start with the Homemade Mini Donuts! Then, check out the Signature Selections, such as Chicken & Cornbread Waffles.
This April, turn brunch into a mini‑tradition and let this bucket list be your starting point! From eclectic Eagle River diners to remarkable Racine establishments, these five spots give you a true taste of how Wisconsin does brunch—only in the best way possible. And don’t forget! There’s always more Wisconsin to discover.
Hailey Marien, third-generation and granddaughter of Dick Rose, writes for the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, Discover Wisconsin. Watch the show online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Discover Wisconsin on Facebook (facebook.com/discoverwisconsin), Instagram (instagram.com/discoverwisconsin), and TikTok (tiktok.com/discoverwisconsin).
