Welcome to The Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern
The Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern, located on the scenic Mississippi River in La Crosse, WI, is a culinary gem where quality and ambiance blend seamlessly. With a commitment to fresh, authentic flavors, the restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring standout dishes like the succulent fish of the day, indulgent rigatoni, and unique bacon-wrapped dates. Guests appreciate the attentive service and inviting atmosphere, whether dining indoors or on the beautiful outdoor patio. The delightful drink selection, including gluten-free beer and creative cocktails like the fresh raspberry mojito, complements every meal. With a focus on quality dining experiences, it’s a must-visit for food lovers.
The Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern: Reviews & Ratings
Xana was our server and she did a wonderful job answering questions, explaining dishes, and recommending things. Truly a delight!The fish of the day and rigatoni were our entrees, and they were wonderful. Also, the salads they came with were so good! For appetizers, the bacon wrapped dates (devils on horseback I think) and the cheese curds were so delicious. The bar made a killer fresh raspberry mojito, and oddly enough, they had gluten free beer. I have never seen this before, and it wasn’t quite bad. I really appreciate having this option! Dessert menu (they have an in-house pastry chef) looked amazing but we were quite full. Would love to go back!
The waitress Kelly was sweet and personable. She provided excellent customer service and did not rush me. She allowed me to enjoy my meal and ensured all my needs were met as a customer. The Dates are a forced to be reconned with! Delicious is an understatement! I went for lunch but I shall return at a later date for dinner!
I woukd highly recommend this restaurant if you are looking to have a special evening. Inside is very beautiful, and their outdoor patio is spectacular! It is located right on the Mississippi River. The sun sets over the river in view too. Water fountains and great natural noise. Parking is going to be a challenge, so allow yourself time to find parking. There is a free parking lot for the Waterfront. But it is small and is usually filled up. The food is fresh and it is really authentic and is a flavor that dances on your tongue. Pops of flavor like a the lily's in a Monet. Prepare for a bigger tab, but so worth it.
First visit to La Crosse and was recommended to eat here. We did not have a reservation, but they offered us the more casual bar service but access to full menu. Prices are more expensive than most places, but service and food quality matters. We had the 8oz Filet and Scallops pasta. Steak was done Chef’s choice and plenty of pink if you so choose. My scallops were moist and in a pasta with a moderate lemon punch. Will bring my wife next time for a more dressed up romantic dinner. Definitely will stop here again in the summer on our return visit.
January 2025: Enjoyed a business dinner here. Started out with appetizers for the table. Had cheese curds and bacon wrapped dates. Then had a Caesar salad which had tasty anchovies sprinkled on top. For my main, I had the salmon which was cooked perfectly. Beer selection was very nice. Tried a Set List hazy IPA from Eagle Park and a Foggy Geezer from Warpigs. Both were very complimentary to the food. Overall, had a wonderful meal. I should point out that service was friendly and attentive. Will be back again!
Excellent food, drinks and service. We chose to eat in the bar. There is a tavern menu or you can order off the dinner menu at the bar.
I was here for a solo dinner and it was fantastic. They sat me at a table in a quieter area. The host and server (Dylan I believe) were exceptional. They took their time explaining the menu and spaced out each dish. So wonderful, so beautiful, so kind. Loved this place.
Today I visited this establishment with my family and was genuinely impressed. The prices are reasonable, and the food is absolutely delicious. I had the best cream soup from the chef that I’ve ever tasted in my life. I also ordered a pear and gorgonzola salad — it was outstanding. My husband had the steak. The price was fair, and the quality exceeded expectations — tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. The grilled vegetables served with it were also full of flavor. Compliments to the chef! I’d also like to highlight the elegant interior. The place has two halls — we were seated in the tavern section, which I definitely recommend. The location is great, and the view from the window is a lovely surprise. Overall, I’m very satisfied and will definitely return tomorrow to try the chef’s soup again.
Location
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328 Front St S #4023, La Crosse, WI 54601, United States Hotline: +1 608-782-5400
If you’re seeking a dining experience that marries stunning views with exceptional cuisine, look no further than The Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern. Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River in La Crosse, Wisconsin, this establishment offers not just a meal but a vibrant ambience that beckons both locals and visitors alike.
The restaurant is acclaimed for its artistic dishes that burst with flavor. Reviewers rave about their signature appetizers, such as the bacon-wrapped dates—a mouthwatering delight that seems to be a must-try, echoing the sentiments of diners like Kate Nelson and Jennifer Ward. The cheese curds, another favorite, provide a crispy, gooey contrast that perfectly complements the freshness of the entrees.
For main dishes, the attention to quality and presentation stands out. Tim Schmidt beautifully described how the flavors “dance on your tongue,” while enjoying a perfectly cooked salmon alongside a varied selection of pasta. The creativity in the kitchen shines through in offerings like the rigatoni and the “fish of the day,” which have garnered enthusiastic applause from guests.
The drink menu is equally impressive, featuring craft cocktails and a selection of local beers. The fresh raspberry mojito has received notable mentions, adding a refreshing twist to your dining experience. Moreover, The Waterfront's commitment to inclusivity is showcased through their gluten-free beer options, an unexpected but welcome surprise for many.
But the allure of The Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern isn’t just confined to the plate. The atmosphere is equally enticing. Many guests, like Chadwick, have found the outdoor patio to be picturesque, especially during sunset. With water fountains nearby and the soft sounds of nature, it’s the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening or a special occasion. However, expect a challenge with parking, as the small lot fills up quickly; planning ahead is advisable.
In conclusion, a visit to The Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern is not just about satisfying your hunger; it's about indulging in a culinary journey amid breathtaking surroundings. With attentive service, delectable dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere, you will surely want to return to explore the diverse menu further. This is where flavors and views fuse, creating an unforgettable experience.