Congratulations. You’ve found yourself in one of the most remote places in the Lower-48 that is still accessible by automobile. Involving a traverse up winding country roads and a passage across one of the most treacherous water crossings, it’s not easy to make it to Washington Island. You deserve a treat. Head to one of these best restaurants on Washington Island in Door County, Wisconsin.
5 Best Restaurants on Washington Island
The Koyen Collection: K.K. Fiske Restaurant, Granary Saloon & Coop Hangout
“Fresh lawyers served daily.” You’ll see this motto in a window of K.K. Fiske Restaurant, a funky and eclectic establishment on Washington Island.
No, K.K. Fiske is not butchering people in the legal profession. “Lawyer” is a name given to a freshwater fish found in northern climes. It also goes by the name “burbot.”
They are some of the ugliest fish you will ever see in your life. We’re not sure if this is how they got their name, but despite their ugly appearance and unappetizing name, lawyer fish are renowned for making delicious eating.
K.K. Fiske specializes in fish caught straight from the waters of Lake Michigan. In addition to serving fish daily, they also offer occasional fish boils. Keep tabs on their Facebook page for updates about fish boils and other special events, or just give them a call.
Address: 1177 Main Rd, Washington, WI 54246
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Phone: 920-847-2121
Nelsen’s Hall Bitters Pub
This Washington Island restaurant is famous for its “Bitters Club,” which has its origin in the Prohibition Era. Legend has it that a loophole in Prohibition laws allowed the production of alcoholic bitters to be consumed medicinally. This, and Washington Island’s remote locale, allowed this bar to give prescriptions for bitters which could then be fulfilled on-site and on-demand.
You can join this club for a year simply by taking a shot of bitters, and by this become an honorary resident of Washington Island.
At Nelsen’s Hall, you can expect a classic building with a cool, old bar back, lots of people, pub food, and fun.
Address: 1201 Main Rd, Washington, WI 54246
Hotel Washington Restaurant and Studio
The Hotel Washington Restaurant is located at a refined inn on beautiful grounds. Diners can choose from eating on the porch, lawn, or dining room.
Hotel Washington has followed the trend of many upscale establishments by limiting its menu items, choosing to focus intensely on preparing a small number of dishes extremely well rather than offering a wider array of mediocre meals.
Patrons appreciate the attentive service, lovely setting, and well-prepared, fresh food.
Address: 354 Range Line Rd, Washington, WI 54246
Phone: 920-847-3010
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Jackson Harbor Soup
A soup and sandwich establishment on the north side of Washington Island, Jackson Harbor Soup is the perfect place to grab a quick bite to eat in between island adventures.
Jackson Harbor Soup offers waterfront dining. Many people will opt to dine on their outdoor deck, but the indoor dining room also has waterviews.
Jackson Harbor Soup is right next to the port for the Rock Island Ferry, which will take you across to Rock Island State Park. This is a good place to power up before or recharge after a passage over to Rock Island.
Address: 1904 Indian Point Rd, Washington, WI 54246
Phone: +19208472589
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Phone: 920-847-2496
Facebook Page
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WIS-CO Washington Island Coffee
Washington Island and coffee go together, so much so that immediately after you disembark from the ferry, you will see a giant coffee pot sculpture!
WIS-CO Washington Island Coffee has your coffee fix, and also offers baked goods, sweet treats, and breakfast sandwiches.
Address: 1219 Main Road, Washington, WI 54246
Phone: +19205350212
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More About Washington Island
Washington Island is a great place to visit, a retreat from the crowds and the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you’d like to learn more about visiting Washington Island, make sure to check out our hub page for this destination. Two things I really recommend people do if they are on Washington Island are to visit the Stavkirk and Schoolhouse Beach and to make a trip out to Rock Island.
No matter what you do, you’ll be glad that you made a trip out to Washington Island.