It’s official: Eau Claire has gone a little… briny. Pickles are popping up everywhere, and no longer just as a side. Who knew pickles taste even better on pizza, as a chicken wing or cheesecurd rub, or make a mean cocktail flavor?! If you're the one always asking, "Are you gonna eat your pickle?", this one is just for you. Grab a fork, straw, and your curious taste buds—you're gonna want to try these Eau Claire restaurants with must-try pickle menu items.
Photo: Foster's Fireside
Pickle Pizza
Pickle pizzas are the ultimate “why didn’t I think of this sooner?” snack, and Eau Claire has nailed it. At Court'n House, the tangy crunch of pickles meets melty cheese and a perfectly crisp crust for a flavor combo that’s oddly addictive. Over at Foster's Fireside in Osseo, they don't go light on the pickles; they add a bright, zesty pop that takes each slice to the next level. Whether you’re a pickle fanatic or just in it for the fun twist, these pizzas prove pickles belong front and center, not just on the side. Discover more pizza places in Eau Claire here!
Pickle Cheese Curds
If you thought cheese curds couldn’t get any better, Northern Taphouse is here to prove you wrong with pickle cheese curds that pack a tangy punch. Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, and loaded with pickle flavor, these curds are perfect for sharing… or not. Pair them with a cold brew, and you’ve got yourself a snack that’s equal parts comfort food and unique, savory flavor. If you need some basic, palette-cleansing curds, check out our blog for more places to get cheese curds in Eau Claire.
Deep-Fried Pickles
Mouth watering yet?! If not, the pickle fries at Cowboy Jack's will do the trick. Crispy, golden, and packed with that tangy pickle punch, they're too good to resist. Dip them in ranch and snack on the patio for a lovely and delicious happy hour appetizer deal. Or, split a basket during this season's Packer watch parties! If you're in downtown Eau Claire looking for a quick bite, order a basket or Pickle Planks from The District before exploring the shops, parks, and other attractions in the area. Loopy's also serves up some incredible deep-fried pickles at their Northwoods-style saloon in Wheaton. Pull up a chair, and enjoy your pickles with a local Leinie's beer!
Photo: Wisco's
Pickle-Loaded Burgers
If you’re serious about pickles, the Dilly Dave at Wisco’s is basically your dream burger. A juicy house beef patty comes stacked with lettuce, tomato, and not one, but two types of pickles: classic slices and deep-fried crispy pickles. Topped off with tangy dill ranch, every bite is a crunchy, creamy, pickle-packed explosion of flavor. Find more burgers topped with pickles here!
Pickle Rub Wings
The District brings pickle flavor to their wings, too! From boneless, bone-in, to cauliflower wings, the dill dry rub is surprisingly the perfect flavor on your wing dinner. If you can handle it, make it an entire pickle feast, and order the Pickle Planks as an appetizer, the Big Dill Burger as an entree, and share the pickle wings with the rest of your crew!
Photo: Helix
Pickles on Charcuterie Boards
For a classic pickle fix, ordering a charcuterie board at Helix will get you a classic hit of tangy, crunchy goodness. Paired with savory meats, rich cheeses, and all the little extras, this snack board to share gives you a little bit of everything. There are more places to order charcuterie boards in town, including 3rd & Vine, The Lakely, and more. Visit the blog to see the complete guide!
Bloody Marys
Pickle lovers, your brunch just found its soulmate. Salty, tangy, and loaded with pickle juice, Bloody Marys are a staple of Eau Claire's culture. These can be ordered at nearly every dive bar or cocktail lounge you come across, and they're always made to your preference. Spicy, mild, or tons of pickle flavor—name your ideal mix, and consider it done. The Chippewa River Distillery even creates its own dill-flavored vodka, and it just so happens to be an award-winning spirit.
Bonus! The Pickle
It wouldn't be right to do a pickle deep-dive without mentioning the iconic, long-standing Pickle bar on Water Street. This spot is all about nightlife, offering a variety of beer and cocktails, games, and festive gatherings throughout the year. Learn more about The Pickle here!
Note: Select Eau Claire restaurants rotate their menus and occasionally offer pickle-flavored menu items. Follow along with your favorite restaurants to see menu updates!