- Attraction: Great River Roadhouse
- Location: 9660 Great River Road, De Soto, WI 54624
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://greatriverroadhouse.com/
Perched along the legendary Great River Road with breathtaking views of the mighty Mississippi, Great River Roadhouse transforms a simple dining experience into something truly extraordinary.
This family-owned gem has been serving up Wisconsin comfort food since 1996, when founders Dan and Colleen Knapek converted a simple bar into what many consider southern Wisconsin’s premier pizza destination.
You’ll quickly understand why people drive 45 minutes just for dinner here.
The restaurant’s signature pizzas have achieved legendary status among locals and tourists alike, with portions so generous that a small pizza easily feeds multiple people with leftovers for the next day.
But Great River Roadhouse offers much more than exceptional pizza – it’s a complete sensory experience where the aroma of fresh-baked crusts mingles with panoramic river views and the charm of authentic Wisconsin hospitality.
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Keep Exploring →Menu Masterpieces
The Roadhouse Super: This flagship pizza defines what great Wisconsin pizza should be. Topped with cheese, sausage, mushrooms, onions, pepperoni, green peppers and black olives, it’s loaded with premium ingredients and arrives with a crispy crust that delivers the perfect balance of crunch and chew. The house-made Italian sausage and from-scratch sauce make every bite spectacular.
Legendary Mozzarella Sticks: These aren’t your average appetizers – they’re practically logs of melted perfection. You’ll find them beer-battered to golden perfection with stretchy, real Wisconsin cheese that creates those Instagram-worthy cheese pulls. These appetizers have earned a devoted following for their exceptional quality and generous size.
Italian Bomber Sandwich: This masterpiece showcases the restaurant’s commitment to homemade excellence. Made with homemade Italian sausage, homemade tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, mushrooms and onions, it’s a hearty sandwich that demonstrates why Great River Roadhouse has earned its reputation for quality.
Broasted Chicken: The restaurant’s broasted chicken has developed its own devoted following. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to crispy perfection, it offers a delicious alternative to pizza and pairs beautifully with the riverside atmosphere.
Friday Fish Fry: True to Wisconsin tradition, their Friday fish fry is a complete experience. You’ll start with a bowl of mostaccioli, followed by garlic bread, a salad, and then the fish and fries. The catfish particularly shines, offering flaky perfection that makes this a weekly tradition for many diners.
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Discover MorePizza Innovations: The restaurant features creative monthly pizza specials that showcase culinary creativity. Recent offerings have included unique combinations like the “Lilo & Stitch” with sweet chili sauce, Canadian bacon, pineapple, and sriracha maple drizzle, proving they’re not afraid to push boundaries while respecting tradition.
Atmosphere & Scenic Setting
Mississippi River Views: The restaurant’s location directly along the Great River Road provides unparalleled views of the Mississippi River. You’ll watch eagles soar overhead, barges slowly navigate the waterway, and if you’re lucky, catch glimpses of paddle boats creating picture-perfect moments.
Indoor Charm: The interior features unique antique décor and river-themed elements that create a cozy, authentic roadhouse atmosphere. The space feels welcoming rather than crowded, with comfortable seating that encourages lingering over meals and conversation.
Outdoor Deck: When weather permits, the outdoor deck offers an even more immersive river experience. You’ll dine literally steps from one of America’s most famous waterways, making every meal feel like a special occasion.
Rustic Roadhouse Appeal: The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between casual comfort and special destination dining. The décor celebrates both the restaurant’s location and Wisconsin’s heritage, creating an environment that feels authentically local rather than manufactured.
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Keep Exploring →Practical Considerations
Generous Portions: You’ll be amazed by the size of everything here. The pizzas are genuinely enormous – what they call a “small” would be considered large at most establishments. Plan to share or take leftovers home, as the portions consistently exceed expectations.
Reasonable Pricing: Despite the premium quality and massive portions, pricing remains fair and competitive with other regional establishments. You’ll find excellent value, especially considering the quality ingredients and generous servings.
Weekend Crowds: The restaurant’s popularity means weekend evenings can get busy, especially during summer months. Arriving early or visiting during weekday evenings typically ensures shorter wait times and a more relaxed experience.
Great River Road Journey: The drive to Great River Roadhouse becomes part of the experience itself. The scenic route offers beautiful views and charming small towns, making the journey worthwhile regardless of distance traveled.
Community Connection: The restaurant demonstrates genuine commitment to the local community through monthly partnerships with different organizations, showing this isn’t just a business but a true community gathering place.
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Discover MoreParking: The restaurant provides adequate parking, and its location along Highway 35 makes it easily accessible for both locals and travelers exploring the Great River Road.
Great River Roadhouse
📍 9660 Great River Road, De Soto, WI 54624
