The best places to eat, drink, and explore in Green Bay

Green Bay is included on the list of top cities to raise a family. Image via Shutterstock.

By UpNorthNews Staff

December 19, 2024

Are you looking for the best places to eat, drink, explore, and score some delicious cheese to fully experience the magic of Green Bay? Look no further than our guide to the top spots in town. Our readers have spoken, and they have chosen the following establishments as the cream of the crop when it comes to beer, burgers, and more.

We conducted a reader’s poll earlier this year to determine the best places around Green Bay according to locals. After sifting through the votes and passionate comments, we are excited to present your top choices for 2024.

Let’s start with the most important food: cheese. Then we’ll move on to the rest of the best foodie destinations, the best places to grab a drink, and finally the best places to shop and relax.

A variety of cheeses on a wooden board with fruit and nuts.

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The best cheese spot in Green Bay

If the world of cheese had royalty, BelGioioso Cheese would certainly be donning a crown. This family-owned marvel has carved a niche for itself in Green Bay’s cheese scene with its exceptional range of award-winning cheeses. From the rich, creamy texture of their classic mozzarella to the bold, mature flavor of their aged parmesan, every cheese they produce is a reflection of their commitment to quality and tradition.

Walking into BelGioioso Cheese’s local factory store is like stepping into a cheese lover’s paradise. The shelves are lined with an impressive array of cheeses that promise to elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. What sets BelGioioso apart is the variety, passion, and expertise that go into crafting each piece of cheese. It’s a place where the art of cheesemaking has been preserved from its humble beginnings in Italy and expanded into the hearts of America’s dairyland.

The best restaurant in Green Bay

White Dog isn’t any old restaurant in Wisconsin. It’s an expression of art, both on the walls and on the plate. The vibe at White Dog is both laid-back and sophisticated — think vintage chandeliers mingling with quirky wall art and a soundtrack that makes you want to stay just a little longer. It’s a food photographer’s paradise and the perfect, cool place to meet friends or go on a first date.

White Dog’s menu is a celebration of local ingredients, creatively assembled into dishes that are both comforting and adventurous. Their Lobster Benedict is a prime example—a decadent dish where tender lobster meets creamy spinach and luxurious hollandaise sauce. It will make you forget the last Benedict you had.

The best supper club in Green Bay

River’s Bend has certainly made a name for itself in Green Bay, striking a perfect balance between the cherished traditions of supper club culture and the thrill of culinary innovation. This dining spot has been wowing patrons with its menu that both honors and reimagines classic supper club fare. Think steaks so tender they could melt in your mouth, alongside seafood dishes that bring the freshness of the ocean right to your plate.

The best fine dining in Green Bay

Green Bay might be synonymous with football and cheeseheads, but there’s much more to this city than tailgate parties and cheddar-infused everything. When it comes to fine dining, the city is punching well above its weight.

Our readers’ number one pick, Plae Bistro has perfected the art of being both upscale and utterly unpretentious. The atmosphere at Plae Bistro is a delightful mix of casual and elegant, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner, a business meeting, or just a night out with friends who appreciate good food. The décor is modern with a touch of rustic charm, featuring cozy booths, a sleek bar, and just the right amount of ambient lighting to make everyone look their best.

The best breakfast in Green Bay

If there’s a place in Green Bay that’s synonymous with breakfast, it’s undoubtedly The Pancake Place. This beloved 40-year-old spot has risen to the top of our readers’ poll, earning its stripes with a menu that boasts an incredible variety of pancakes that can turn any morning into a celebration. Though it’s not surprising that The Pancake Place has taken the top spot on our readers’ poll since it’s also won the Green Bay Press Gazette’s Best of the Bay Awards a whopping 25 times. Try it for yourself and you’ll see why.

The best ice cream in Green Bay

Nothing beats dairyland ice cream! If stepping into a time machine made of ice cream cones and retro vibes sounds like your kind of adventure, then BrainFreeze Ice Cream Shoppe is your destination. This Green Bay favorite dishes out a hefty scoop of nostalgia with every lick. It’s like being transported to a simpler time when your biggest worry was choosing between mint chocolate chip and rocky road.

The best burger in Green Bay

When it comes to the ultimate comfort food, few things can compete with a juicy, well-crafted burger. In Green Bay, where cheese curds and bratwurst reign supreme, the battle for the best burger is fierce. Recently, a readers’ poll revealed the best burger in Green Bay, and the crown goes to none other than Al’s Hamburgers. Buckle up, burger enthusiasts, because we’re diving into the mouthwatering world of Al’s Hamburgers, where the patties are legendary, and the flavor is unparalleled.

The best bakery in Green Bay

When it comes to baking breads and confections in Green Bay, the verdict is unanimous. Uncle Mike’s Bake Shoppe captures the gold in 2024. Voted the best bakery in Green Bay in a recent reader’s poll, this family-owned pastry destination is perfect for those who crave a blend of tradition and innovation. Let’s dive into what makes Uncle Mike’s the talk of the town.

Uncle Mike’s Bake Shoppe is an institution with a story as rich and layered as its famous kringles. Founded by Mike Vande Walle, affectionately known as Uncle Mike, the bake shoppe opened its doors with a vision to bring high-quality, handcrafted baked goods to Green Bay. From its humble beginnings, it quickly rose to prominence, winning the hearts of the community.

The best fish fry in Green Bay

Claiming the throne in our quest for the best fish fries in Green Bay is none other than the Redwood Inn. This family-owned institution has been serving up amazing food since 1964. Known far and wide for its stellar seafood selections, it was recently featured on America’s Best Restaurants! Redwood Inn also has a knack for making every patron feel like part of the family, ensuring a dining experience that goes beyond just satisfying hunger.

The best pizza in Green Bay

When it comes to the best pizza in Green Bay, the competition is fierce. With so many delicious options to choose from, it can be hard to decide which pizzeria reigns supreme. That’s why we turned to the people of Green Bay to settle the score once and for all.

Cranky Pat’s, a Wisconsin institution since 1955, stands out for its years of dedication to crafting the perfect pizza. This place is a local legend that has been whipping up some of the most tantalizing pies around — not to mention offering a fresh salad bar — and earning itself a dedicated following.

So, what makes Cranky Pat’s a crust above the rest? It’s the combination of mouth-watering pizzas, a cozy and friendly environment, and a commitment to making every visit memorable. While Green Bay might have its fair share of places to grab a slice, Cranky Pat’s has carved out its own slice of the pie, proving time and again that truly great pizza stands the test of time.

The best coffee shop in Green Bay

Green Bay might be world-renowned for its football team, but when it comes to fueling the diehard fans, it’s the local coffee shops that keep this city buzzing. With caffeine as the lifeblood of early mornings, late nights, and those all-important mid-afternoon pick-me-ups, it’s no wonder the residents have strong opinions about where to get their fix.

The number one spot goes to The Daily Buzz, the coffee shop that has stolen the hearts (and caffeine-starved brains) of Green Bay residents. The Daily Buzz is the kind of place that once you’ve tried it, there’s no going back. It’s the full package — amazing coffee, great food, and an atmosphere that makes you want to linger all day.

The best brewery in Green Bay

Ahnapee Brewery, established in 2013, is a brewery with a rich past and an eye on the future. The brewery is actually a revival of the original Ahnapee Brewery from the 1800s, which was initially located in Ahnapee, now known as Algoma. Fast forward to the present, and the brewery is still paying homage to its roots while pushing the boundaries of craft brewing.

Ahnapee Brewery’s dedicated brewmasters marry traditional brewing methods with modern tastes. They’ve mastered the balance between honoring classic beer styles and experimenting with new, exciting flavors. If you’re a fan of lagers, you’ll want to try their Little Soldier Amber Ale. This beer is a tribute to the original Little Soldier that put Ahnapee on the map in the 1800s — only now, it’s even better (we assume) with a perfect blend of caramel malt sweetness and a slight hop bitterness.

The best Old Fashioned in Green Bay

When it comes to classic cocktails in Wisconsin, there’s one drink that reigns supreme: the Old Fashioned. And in Green Bay, the quest for the best Old Fashioned is practically a rite of passage. Whether you’re a connoisseur of the bourbon variety or a true Wisconsinite who insists on a brandy Old Fashioned, you’ll find that Green Bay’s bar scene offers up some top contenders.

It’s no surprise that River’s Bend Supper Club, the winner of Best Supper Club in Green Bay, tops the list — this place is practically synonymous with a classic Wisconsin evening. Located along the Fox River, River’s Bend is the best supper club in town. Inside, the décor harks back to a time when dining out was an event, and the cocktails were as timeless as the setting.

The best sports bar in Green Bay

Simonet’s Bar, located at 925 Main St., has been a Green Bay staple for over three generations. This family-owned establishment started as a humble watering hole and has since evolved into a beloved community hub. Despite changes over the years, Simonet’s has remained true to its roots, offering a place where locals can gather, catch a game, and enjoy a cold beer in a no-frills environment.

One of the key reasons Simonet’s Bar took the top spot as Green Bay’s Best Sports Bar is its dedication to creating the perfect game-day experience. Whether you’re a die-hard Packers fan or just enjoy watching a game with friends, Simonet’s delivers in spades.

The best animal shelter in Green Bay

Safe Haven Pet Sanctuary is a standout among Green Bay’s animal shelters, thanks to its comprehensive approach to animal care and its commitment to finding forever homes for pets in need. This organization specializes in rescuing and rehabilitating animals who may have faced significant hardships. Their efforts extend beyond just providing shelter; they focus on giving each animal a chance to thrive.

Safe Haven provides medical care, behavioral training, and socialization for the animals they rescue. They ensure that every pet is ready for adoption by addressing any health or behavioral issues. Many of their animals come in with disabilities or a history of abuse, and it’s Safe Haven’s mission to find homes for all pets, regardless of their past.

The best park in Green Bay

Heritage Hill State Historical Park stands out as the most popular park in Green Bay. This destination offers more than just green spaces blended with a journey through Wisconsin’s history. Covering 48 acres, the park is an open-air museum featuring historical buildings, exhibits, and interactive activities that span different eras.

At the heart of Heritage Hill are its historical structures, which date back to the 19th century. Each building has been meticulously restored to reflect the life and times of the period it represents. Visitors can explore a variety of structures, from log cabins to a church and a town hall, each showcasing different aspects of early American life.

One of the park’s highlights is the Military Barracks, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of soldiers during the Civil War. The exhibits here include uniforms, weapons, and other military artifacts, all presented in a way that brings history to life.

The best thrift shop in Green Bay

Topping our list with the gold medal for thrifting is Unity Resale Shoppe, a small business with a mission that goes beyond offering great deals. Every purchase made here supports Unity Hospice, a local nonprofit that provides compassionate end-of-life care to individuals and families in the Green Bay area. So not only are you scoring amazing finds at unbeatable prices, but you’re also contributing to a cause that makes a real difference in the community.

The best yoga studio in Green Bay

Green Frog Yoga has hopped its way to the top spot, and it’s easy to see why. With its welcoming atmosphere, diverse class offerings, and a community that feels like family, Green Frog Yoga is the place to be for yogis of all levels. This studio strikes the perfect balance between playful and peaceful. Its design is light-hearted and fun, with bright colors and quirky decor that make you smile the moment you walk in. But don’t let the playful vibe fool you — this is a space where serious yoga happens.