One of the best parts of any Midwest vacation is the chance to experience the region’s rich culinary traditions, especially when that involves spots as legendary as Midwest supper clubs. While Wisconsin has the most supper clubs in the Midwest, you’ll find these fantastic places to eat near many of the Upper Midwest’s top cities and towns, including states like Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois. Beyond just enjoying a great meal, one of the many reasons to search for a unique Midwest supper club near your vacation destination is the chance to experience a nostalgic, one-of-a-kind dining experience that pairs hearty, perfectly cooked steaks and fresh lake fish with handcrafted Old Fashioneds.
Many Midwest supper clubs have been family-owned for generations. Not only have they honed their menu offerings over the decades, but they bring a charming sense of community and history to every delicious bite. Talk about experiencing genuine Midwest hospitality! While you can undoubtedly find fabulous Midwest supper clubs near you all across the region, there’s much more to the Midwest dining experience than meets the eye.
Beyond its beloved supper clubs, the Midwest is quickly gaining recognition as a top-tier food destination. Cities like Chicago and Minneapolis have long been known for their vibrant dining scenes, but smaller cities and towns are also making waves, with exceptional Midwest restaurants just about everywhere you turn. Visit the vast and local food stalls at the Dane County Farmers Market or dine at some of the best restaurants in Madison, and you’ll quickly see what we’re talking about. It’s not all about food, though.
Get in on the craft beer culture in Milwaukee, or head to the North Shore beauty of Duluth for a sip of Minnesota’s finest beer. Embrace a taste of authentic history in small, deeply rooted communities, chase down a Michelin-starred experience, search out a quirky food truck, or enjoy deeply rooted regional specialties. The Midwest delivers a dynamic mix of flavors and cultures wherever you go. After a day of savoring supper club classics, craft cocktails, and inventive regional fare, returning to a warm, welcoming Midwest Bed and Breakfast, Inn, or Boutique Hotel is the perfect way to round out a delicious Midwest getaway.
The Midwest Association of Independent Inns includes charming, thoughtfully run properties that offer personalized hospitality and a comfortable home base for exploring all the best places to eat across the Midwest. From a historic inn in Illinois to a lakeside retreat in Minnesota, these independently owned accommodations provide not only a restful night but also gourmet breakfasts that rival any top restaurant. Book your food-focused Midwest getaway today!
The Best Midwest Supper Clubs Near Our Inns
Supper clubs are a Midwestern dining tradition with roots that stretch back to the Prohibition era when they first operated as speakeasies and social gathering spots. By the mid-20th century, they had evolved into full-service restaurants, often in rural or lakeside settings. These establishments became known for their welcoming atmosphere, hearty portions, and a dining experience that felt like a treat. While their popularity has fluctuated over the decades, Midwest supper clubs remain a beloved part of the region’s culinary identity, with many still family-owned and preserving the same traditions that made them famous in the first place.
What sets supper clubs apart is their unhurried, experience-driven approach to dining. Guests are encouraged to start their evening at the bar, often with a classic Brandy Old Fashioned in hand, before moving to their table for a multi-course meal. The menu usually features steak, prime rib, broiled or fried fish, and a well-stocked relish tray with pickles, olives, and spreads. Many also offer signature supper club cocktails and decadent ice cream drinks to round out the meal. The ambiance is as much a part of the experience as the food, with dim lighting, wood-paneled interiors, and a lively mix of regulars and newcomers.
Whether it’s a decades-old institution or a newly revived take on the concept, a night at a Midwest supper club is about more than just eating—it’s about celebrating a timeless Midwest tradition. In fact, it’s such a popular tradition that books like the Wisconsin Supper Club Dining Destinations Guide were born, offering you deals and inspiration as you travel around to each of the state’s 130+ supper clubs!
8 Best Wisconsin Supper Clubs
Visiting the best Wisconsin supper clubs is like stepping into a time-honored tradition. Great food, classic cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere combine for an unforgettable night out.
- Ishnala Supper Club in the Wisconsin Dells sits in a stunning lakeside location in the heart of Mirror Lake State Park. Paired with the views, the signature Old Fashioneds served here make this one of the most iconic supper clubs in the Midwest.
- Gib’s on the Lake in Kewaunee overlooks Lake Michigan. This supper club near Door County is known for its incredible fish fries, homemade soups, and warm, welcoming service.
- The 5 O’Clock Steakhouse supper club near Milwaukee is a classic city supper club with a reputation for serving some of the best dry-aged steaks in Wisconsin, all in a vintage, dimly lit setting.
- Toby’s Supper Club in Madison is a local favorite known for its cozy, no-frills charm, signature steak and seafood dishes, and relish tray, which sets the standard.
- Pinewood Supper Club in Mosinee near Wausau is set on the shores of Half Moon Lake. This spot delivers on both atmosphere and flavor, with standout dishes like walleye, tenderloin, and shrimp de Jonghe.
- Schwarz’s Supper Club near Lake Winnebago is a family-run gem where the wait is part of the tradition. Grab a cocktail at the bar while anticipating their legendary prime rib and filet mignon.
- Head to HobNob in Racine, another of the finest Midwest supper clubs. This spot is known for its lakeside ambiance, lush fabrics, and Art Deco-inspired interior that is just as delicious as the menu.
- Arrive by boat or dine lakeside at the Buckhorn Supper Club near Janesville and enjoy one of their signature live lobster boils or other beloved menu favorites.
5 Best Minnesota Supper Clubs
Visiting the best Minnesota supper clubs is all about enjoying a slow-paced, nostalgic dining experience with classic cocktails, hearty meals, and friendly conversation.
- Don’t miss Weiderholts Supper Club in Hastings, just south of the Twin Cities. The food is phenomenal, the ambiance is divine, and you’ll quickly realize why this is one of the best supper clubs in the Midwest.
- If you’re looking for a Midwest supper club near Minneapolis, don’t miss The Creekside. You’ll find it all at this fantastic spot: a relish tray, popovers, steaks, chops, prime rib, and perfectly crafted old-fashioned cocktails.
- Jax Café has been a Minneapolis institution since the 1930s. Jax Café is known for its classic supper club ambiance, expertly aged steaks, and legendary brunch.
- The Pickwick in Duluth is a beautiful choice among Midwest supper clubs. It sits overlooking Lake Superior and offers house-smoked meats, classic walleye dishes, and a warm, lodge-like atmosphere.
- The Hubbell House supper club near Rochester, in the charming town of Mantorville, was established in 1854. This historic Midwest supper club blends old-school charm with top-notch steaks, seafood, and homemade popovers.
5 Best Midwest Supper Clubs in Iowa
Visiting the best Iowa supper clubs means stepping into a world where hospitality, hearty meals, and strong cocktails take center stage.
- One of the best Iowa supper clubs is Timmerman’s in Dubuque, near the charming and historic town of Galena.
- The Moracco Supper Club near Dubuque is another hidden gem serving up massive pork chops, flavorful steaks, and a signature salad dressing that keeps guests coming back.
- Another fabulous classic in Iowa is the Twin Springs Supper Club in Decorah.
- Ced-Rel Supper Club in Cedar Rapids is a historic supper club known for its rich history, prime rib, and cocktail list, which includes some of the best Old Fashioneds in the state.
- Archie’s Waeside in Le Mars is an Award-winning steakhouse with a classic supper club feel. It is known for its perfectly aged steaks and house-made sauces.
4 Fantastic Illinois Supper Clubs
Visiting the best Illinois supper clubs is a chance to experience classic Midwest dining at its finest, where slow-paced meals, expertly mixed cocktails, and warm hospitality create an unforgettable night out.
- It’s probably not a surprise that Chicago has some of the best supper clubs in the Midwest. One of those spots is Gene & Georgetti. One of the oldest steakhouses in Chicago, this legendary supper club has been serving top-tier steaks and Italian specialties since 1941.
- Johnny’s Supper Club in Elgin is a cozy Midwest dining experience with the ambiance and menu you expect.
- If you’re looking for atmosphere, don’t miss The Study Supper Club in La Salle, near Starved Rock State Park.
- Nitti’s Supper Club near Chicago pairs a fantastically classic experience with fun live entertainment for a dining experience you won’t soon forget.
4 Iconic Nebraska Supper Clubs
You might be surprised to learn that the Midwest supper club experience extends south to Nebraska, but this is a great way to experience classic hospitality with expertly grilled steaks!
- Nick’s Quorum is one of the best Nebraska supper clubs. It’s in Omaha and offers some of the best steak you’ll ever have. In addition, it features a fantastic menu of classically inspired cocktails.
- The North 40 Chophouse in North Platte is another excellent spot to add to your list. Fantastic food and live piano music set the perfect stage for a memorable meal.
- Johnny’s Café in Omaha is one of Nebraska’s oldest steakhouses. Since 1922, it has served hand-cut steaks and homemade sides in a vintage supper club setting.
- Farmer Brown’s Steak House in Waterloo) is a family-owned favorite since 1964, serving up perfectly cooked steaks, fried chicken, and a well-loved salad bar.
The Best Choice for Midwest Lodging
Whether you’re searching for the most memorable supper clubs near you or just looking for a classic and welcoming Midwest getaway, finding the perfect place to stay can make all the difference. The Midwest Association of Independent Inns brings together a collection of exceptional, independently owned properties that offer more than just a place to sleep. Unlike chain hotels, these inns, bed and breakfasts, boutique lodges, and historic estates are run by passionate innkeepers who take pride in delivering a warm, memorable experience.
Each property has its own distinct character, whether it’s a lakeside retreat in Wisconsin, a stately Victorian home in Iowa, or a charming countryside escape in Illinois. Travelers looking for something beyond the ordinary will find accommodations that reflect their destination’s unique personality and charm. The variety of lodging options within our Midwest lodging association means there’s something for every kind of traveler.
Whether you prefer a cozy, romantic bed and breakfast, a stylish urban Inn in a walkable downtown district, or a countryside retreat with stunning views and outdoor adventures nearby, the association’s properties cater to different tastes and travel styles. Many Inns are housed in beautifully restored buildings that tell their own story, blending historic character with modern comforts. Others offer spacious suites, spa-like amenities, and exclusive experiences.
Their dedication to hospitality and personal service sets our Midwest lodging properties apart. From the moment you arrive, you’re treated like more than just a guest—you’re welcomed into a space where attention to detail and genuine care shape your entire stay. Innkeepers are often the best local guides, offering insider tips on the area’s best dining, attractions, and hidden gems. Whether it’s a homemade breakfast made from locally sourced ingredients, an evening wine and cheese gathering, or simply a warm conversation by the fire, these small details create an experience that feels personal and unforgettable. Book one of the best Midwest lodging properties today!