The Green Bay Guide: Where to eat for a special night

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, offering culinary experiences that would satisfy even the most discerning foodies. And, as it turns out, the locals know exactly where to go when they’re in the mood for something special. According to a recent readers’ poll, three restaurants have risen to the top, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Prepare your taste buds for a gastronomic journey through the best fine dining spots in Green Bay, as chosen by the people who know best — you!

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3. Chefusion

307 North Broadway, Green Bay, WI 54303

A pretty obvious choice on our list is Chefusion, a restaurant that takes fine dining to a whole new level. If you’re looking for a culinary adventure that’s as classic as it is indulgent, Chefusion is the place to be. This is where traditional meets contemporary, resulting in a dining experience that’s truly one of a kind.

Chefusion is all about blending the old with the new, and the ambiance reflects this philosophy perfectly. The restaurant is divided into two distinct areas: the main dining room and the Fusion Lounge. The dining room exudes modern elegance, with sleek decor, sophisticated lighting, and an overall vibe that’s both upscale and inviting. It’s the perfect setting for a romantic dinner, a celebratory meal, or just a night out to indulge in some of the best food Green Bay has to offer.

The Fusion Lounge — or upstairs bar — on the other hand, offers a more casual, yet equally stylish atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a craft cocktail and some music before or after your meal. With its plush seating, vibrant artwork, and cozy fireplace, the lounge is a destination in its own right.

Chefusion’s menu shines a light on the creativity and skill of its chefs. Each dish is crafted with precision, combining flavors and textures in ways that surprise and delight the palate. This is a place where you can expect the unexpected, in the best possible way.

Start your meal with an appetizer that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. The Beef Carpaccio is a work of art, with thinly sliced beef, arugula, capers, and shaved Parmesan, all drizzled with a tangy truffle vinaigrette. It’s a dish that’s light, fresh, and bursting with flavor. For something a bit more indulgent, try the Lobster Bisque. Rich, creamy, and loaded with lobster meat, it’s the kind of soup that makes you want to savor every last spoonful.

When it comes to the main course, Chefusion truly shines. The menu offers a range of options that cater to all tastes, whether you’re a fan of seafood, meat, or vegetarian fare. One of the standout dishes is the Chilean Sea Bass. This delicately flaky fish is pan-seared to perfection and served atop a bed of saffron risotto, with a citrus beurre blanc that adds a zesty, tangy finish. It’s a dish that’s both light and luxurious, perfect for those looking to indulge without feeling weighed down.

For meat lovers, the Lamb Shank is a must-try. Braised until it’s fall-off-the-bone tender, the lamb is served with a rich red wine reduction and a side of creamy polenta that perfectly complements the bold flavors of the meat. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s ideal for a chilly Wisconsin evening.

Vegetarians will find plenty to love at Chefusion as well. The Wild Mushroom Risotto is a favorite, featuring a medley of earthy mushrooms, creamy Arborio rice, and a hint of truffle oil that takes the dish to the next level. It’s comfort food with a gourmet twist, and it’s every bit as indulgent as the meat and seafood options.

Dessert at Chefusion is an experience in itself. The Chocolate Lava Cake is a perennial favorite, with its molten chocolate center oozing out as soon as you cut into it. Paired with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, it’s a sweet, decadent ending to an already exceptional meal. If you’re in the mood for something a bit lighter, the Lemon Tart is a refreshing choice, with a tangy lemon curd filling and a buttery, flaky crust.

True to its name, Chefusion’s drink menu is a fusion of classic and contemporary flavors. The cocktail list is extensive, featuring both tried-and-true favorites and inventive new creations. The Cucumber Martini is a standout, with its crisp, refreshing flavor and a hint of mint that makes it the perfect palate cleanser. For something a bit more daring, try the Spicy Margarita, which adds a kick of heat to the traditional tequila-based cocktail.

The wine list at Chefusion is equally impressive, with a selection that spans the globe. Whether you’re in the mood for a robust red to pair with your lamb or a crisp white to complement your sea bass, you’ll find something to suit your taste. The knowledgeable staff is always on hand to help you find the perfect pairing, ensuring that your dining experience is perfectly tailored to your preferences.

Chefusion is a destination for those who appreciate the art of fine dining. From the classic yet innovative fine-dining menu to the chic ambiance, every aspect of the experience is designed to delight the senses. It’s the kind of place where you can expect the unexpected, and where every meal is an adventure in flavor. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, Chefusion never fails to impress, making it a worthy addition to Green Bay’s top fine dining spots.

2. The Union Hotel & Restaurant

200 N Broadway, De Pere, WI 54115

Next on the list is The Union Hotel & Restaurant, a place where history and fine dining come together in perfect harmony. This isn’t just a restaurant — it’s an institution, a place where generations of Green Bay locals have come to celebrate life’s special moments. If Plae Bistro is the new kid on the block, The Union is the wise elder, steeped in tradition but never out of touch.

Walking into The Union Hotel & Restaurant feels like stepping back in time, in the best possible way. The building itself dates back to the 1860s, and much of the original charm has been preserved, from the dark wood paneling to the antique light fixtures. The dining room is elegant and cozy, with white tablecloths, cushy booths, and a level of service that harkens back to a bygone era.

But don’t let the old-world charm fool you — this place is anything but stuffy. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration with family and friends. And if you’re a fan of classic cocktails, you’ll feel right at home in the cozy bar, where the bartenders still mix drinks the old-fashioned way.

When it comes to the menu, The Union Hotel & Restaurant knows how to do classic American fare better than anyone. This is the place to go when you’re in the mood for a meal that’s comforting, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.

Start your meal with the French Onion Soup, a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history. The broth is deeply savory, the onions are caramelized to perfection, and the melted Gruyère cheese on top adds a layer of indulgence that’s hard to resist. Another great choice is the Shrimp Cocktail, a timeless appetizer that’s served with a zesty cocktail sauce that has just the right amount of kick.

For the main course, you can’t go wrong with the Union’s famous Prime Rib. This is the kind of dish that people come back for, year after year, and it’s easy to see why. The meat is slow-roasted to perfection, resulting in a cut that’s juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. Served with au jus and horseradish cream, it’s a meal that’s as comforting as it is impressive.

If you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, the Walleye Almondine is an excellent choice. The fish is perfectly cooked, flaky and moist, and the almondine sauce adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the delicate fish beautifully.

And let’s not forget dessert! The Union’s Grasshopper Pie is a must-try, especially if you have a sweet tooth. This decadent dessert features a creamy mint filling on a chocolate cookie crust, topped with whipped

The Union Hotel & Restaurant has been a cornerstone of the Green Bay dining scene since 1918. Originally opened as a hotel, it quickly became a popular spot for locals and travelers alike. While the hotel itself has since closed, the restaurant has continued to thrive, preserving the charm and elegance of its early 20th-century roots.

1. Plae Bistro

1671 Hoffman Rd, Green Bay, WI 54311

Plae Bistro has perfected the art of being both upscale and utterly unpretentious. Imagine walking into a restaurant that feels as warm and inviting as your best friend’s living room, but with a menu that reads like a gourmet magazine. That’s Plae Bistro in a nutshell. 

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.

Here’s where things get exciting. Plae Bistro’s menu is a masterpiece of culinary creativity, offering dishes that are both familiar and refreshingly innovative. Start with the appetizers, where the Seared Ahi Tuna is practically a rite of passage for first-timers. The tuna is delicately crusted and served with a wasabi aioli that has just the right kick. If spicy isn’t your thing, the pecan-crusted scallops are equally swoon-worthy.

For the main course, you’re in for a treat. The menu features a range of options that cater to every palate, from the health-conscious to the indulgent. The duck breast is a fan favorite, cooked to perfection, savory yet moist, and the pomegranate reduction adds a sweet punch that’s simply irresistible.

If you’re in the mood for steak, the ribeye is a no-brainer. Cooked to your preferred temperature, this steak is so tender it practically melts in your mouth. Pair it with the truffle mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, and you’ve got a meal that’s worth writing home about — if you can stop yourself from devouring it long enough to send that text.

Vegetarians, don’t fret! Plae Bistro has you covered with dishes like the truffle pasta, a creamy, dreamy over agel hair, all brought together with a touch of Parmesan.

Of course, no fine dining experience is complete without a drink (or two) to complement your meal. Plae Bistro’s drink menu is as thoughtfully curated as its food menu, featuring an impressive selection of wines, craft beers, and handcrafted cocktails. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or a cocktail enthusiast, you’ll find something to tickle your fancy.

Plae Bistro is the kind of place that makes you want to linger over your meal, savoring every bite and every sip. It’s where casual elegance meets culinary creativity, and where every visit feels like a special occasion — even if it’s just a Wednesday night. No wonder it’s the top pick among Green Bay’s fine dining establishments.

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