- Attraction: Red Pines Bar & Grill
- Location: W7305 County Rd Z, Onalaska, WI 54650
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: http://www.redpinesbarandgrill.com
Welcome to Red Pines Bar & Grill, where Wisconsin’s northwoods charm meets culinary excellence in a setting so picturesque it was featured on Discover Wisconsin.
This family-owned gem has been serving up scratch-made comfort food since 2003, earning the title of Onalaska’s #1 restaurant and multiple “Best of La Crosse County” awards.
What started as a former campground transformed into something truly special when owners decided they wouldn’t settle for typical bar food.
Instead, they built their reputation on quality ingredients, made-from-scratch preparations, and that unmistakable feeling of being welcomed home the moment you walk through their doors.
Signature Menu Highlights
Walleye Cheeks: These are the crown jewel that puts Red Pines on the map. Hand-battered and deep-fried to golden perfection, these tender morsels are a Red Pines exclusive that keeps people coming back time and again. The delicate, flaky texture paired with their house-made tartar sauce creates an experience you simply can’t get anywhere else.
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Keep Exploring →Friday Fish Fry: People travel from far and wide for their legendary Friday shrimp and fish fry, so expect a wait during peak hours. The combination of perfectly seasoned fish, crispy batter, and generous portions makes it worth every minute. Their hand-prepared walleye, lake perch, and in-house smoked catfish showcase why Wisconsin does fish fry better than anywhere else.
Half-Pound Burgers: These aren’t your average pub burgers. Made with quality beef and cooked to order, each burger delivers that satisfying heft you crave. You’ll find eight different varieties on the menu, each crafted with unique toppings and flavor combinations that elevate the classic American burger experience.
Signature Pizzas: Don’t overlook their made-from-scratch pizzas, particularly the Thai-Italian fusion that surprises and delights with its unexpected flavor profile. The crusts are prepared fresh daily, and each pizza showcases their commitment to quality ingredients over shortcuts.
Smoked Specialties: Their in-house smoked catfish and ribs demonstrate the kitchen’s dedication to time-honored cooking techniques. The smoking process infuses deep, rich flavors that you can taste in every bite, whether you’re enjoying tender catfish tacos or fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Red Pines Potato Chips: These house-made chips with French onion dip have achieved legendary status among regulars. Perfectly crunchy with just the right amount of salt, they’re the ideal starter while you soak in those lake views.
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Discover MoreAtmosphere & Setting
Lakefront Paradise: The restaurant sits directly on Lake Onalaska’s shores, offering unobstructed water views that change with the seasons. Whether you’re watching boats glide by in summer or enjoying the peaceful winter landscape, the scenery provides a constantly changing backdrop to your meal.
Rustic Northwoods Charm: Inside, white pine wood construction creates that authentic Wisconsin cabin feel. The spacious dining area centers around a three-sided bar, fostering the kind of community atmosphere that makes solo diners feel as welcome as large family gatherings.
Heated Outdoor Patio: The real magic happens on their expansive deck and patio areas. Year-round heated seating with complimentary lap blankets means you can enjoy lakeside dining even during cooler months. Summer brings live music Saturday afternoons from 4-7 PM, transforming the space into an outdoor concert venue.
Multiple Dining Spaces: With indoor seating, bar areas, and various outdoor options, you’ll always find the perfect spot for your mood. The heated three-season porch bridges indoor comfort with outdoor ambiance.
Other Considerations
Reasonable Pricing: You’ll find the prices refreshingly fair for the quality and portion sizes you receive. This isn’t fine dining pricing, but rather honest value that reflects their commitment to accessible, high-quality food. Most entrees fall into the moderate range, making it perfect for everything from casual dates to family celebrations.
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Keep Exploring →Plan for Waits: Red Pines doesn’t take reservations, and their popularity means you’ll likely wait during peak times, especially Friday evenings and weekend afternoons. The good news? The bar area, adjacent café, and beautiful grounds make waiting part of the experience rather than a chore.
Family-Friendly Focus: This is genuinely a place where three generations can dine together comfortably. Kids are welcome, high chairs are available, and the menu offers familiar options alongside more adventurous choices.
Parking & Access: Ample parking surrounds the building, though the location can be tricky to find first time. GPS will get you there, but expect to wind through some rural roads before arriving at this lakeside destination.
Special Dietary Options: They’ve earned praise for accommodating gluten-free needs with dedicated menu options and careful preparation. Vegetarian choices are available, though the menu definitely celebrates Wisconsin’s fishing and farming traditions.
Red Pines Café: The adjacent café offers breakfast service from 7:30 AM to 2 PM on weekends, plus flatbreads, sandwiches, and full bar service throughout the day. It’s perfect for morning coffee with lake views or lighter fare.
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Discover MoreRed Pines Bar & Grill
📍 W7305 County Rd Z, Onalaska, WI 54650
