Photo: Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen
Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen
This last year, the downtown drinking scene has expanded– so much so that it's now home to the largest self-serve taproom in the Midwest! Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen offers over 70 tap beverage options including domestic and craft beer, wine, ciders, seltzers, and kombucha, and they're all available directly to you! Choose your glass size, or create a unique tasting flight, and you're charged based on the fluid ounces you take. The taproom is the only riverside restaurant in Eau Claire with great patio views of the Chippewa River, and the taproom often hosts celebrations and events like trivia, Oktoberfest, and other holiday parties. The kitchen serves up some awesome appetizers, flatbreads, sandwiches, and other shareable platters for you and your crew. Check out this one-of-a-kind experience this season!
Decadent Gifts & Gallery
"Art Claire" has gained a new gallery and giftshop this year, filled with beautiful goods for all! At Decadent Gifts & Gallery, shop for art prints, paintings, jewelry, self-care products, books, cards, ornaments, mugs, charcuterie boards, and more. Over 40 local artists offer their works at Decadent Gifts & Gallery, and some of them even host art classes and workshops for aspiring artists to attend. Visit the link to learn more about this new gallery on Water Street.
Photo: Phoenix Coffee
Phoenix Coffee
Yep, you're seeing double Phoenixes on the list! Phoenix Coffee is Eau Claire's newest coffee shop in downtown Eau Claire, and it has quickly become one of the city's favorite caffeine fixes. With a menu full of iced and hot coffee drinks, and an entire list of flavored syrups to create your own taste, there's something for everyone's taste buds. Phoenix is located within walking distance to some of downtown Eau Claire's favorite attractions including the Eau Claire Children's Museum, Phoenix Park, the Pablo Center, The Lismore and Oxbow Hotels, and a variety of local shops. The best part– Phoenix creates the BEST latte art for every occasion!
Bloomer Brewing Company - Andante Taproom
You don't have to go far from Phoenix Coffee to get your hands on a glass of craft beer. As a matter of fact, you don't even have to leave the room! The Bloomer Brewing Company - Andante Taproom shares space with Phoenix Coffee and brings the flavors from the Bloomer Brewery Co to downtown Eau Claire. Grab a seat at the bar, and get a taste of unique beer creations with some incredible appetizers, pizza, and pretzel bits. The Bloomer Brewing Company is also a part of the Eau Claire Brew Pass– don't forget to check in and earn prizes for drinking beer!
Photo: The Sonnentag Center
The Sonnentag Center
The state-of-the-art Sonnentag Center opened its doors this year, and it's waiting for your attendance at upcoming events! This facility is home to select UW-Eau Claire athletics games, as well as other performances, concerts, and unique events from big-name talents. Check out our page highlighting more of Sonnentag's facilities and see events coming to Eau Claire this year!
Encanto Cantina
Make room for more tacos, because Eau Claire has welcomed another restaurant featuring the flavors of Mexico! Encanto Cantina dishes up mouth-watering plates of tacos, seafood, fajitas, and soup, as well as incredible margaritas and mojitos. The menu also features enchiladas, chimichangas, salads, desserts, and more. Plan a date night to try out the new taco shop in town!
Photo: Fella's Loaded Goat
Fella's Loaded Goat
Fella's Loaded Goat is a new bar and restaurant in town and is the perfect place to grab a quick drink and bite to eat while in Eau Claire. Fill up on sandwiches, salads, fish, or brunch menus, and journey off on nearby attractions like The Sonnentag Center, Carson Park, and the Chippewa River State Trail.
Wheaton Family Restaurant
The Wheaton Family Restaurant officially opened in the spring of 2024 and is located at the Sleep Inn & Suites and Conference Center in the Town of Wheaton. This family-friendly dining spot has a little bit of everything on the menu, including pasta, burgers, salads, steak, seafood, and stir fry, as well as a full brunch menu. Whether you're staying at the hotel or just stopping in for a hearty meal, Wheaton Family Restaurant is a great place to fuel up for a day of exploring Eau Claire and the Town of Wheaton!
Photo: Mr. Kitty's Cafe Cafe
Mr. Kitty's Cat Cafe
Get your kitty cuddles at this adorable cat cafe in downtown Eau Claire! Mr. Kitty's Cat Cafe partners with the Eau Claire County Humane Association to offer cats an enriching environment and welcomes cat lovers to play, pet, and potentially adopt! More than 100 cats have already been adopted and found their forever home since Mr. Kitty's Cat Cafe opened in the spring of 2024. Click here to learn more about the cat cafe and to book your visit!
Photo: Rancho Grande Bar & Grill
Rancho Grande Bar & Grill
Rancho Grande Bar & Grill is a vibrant Mexican restaurant known for its authentic cuisine and lively atmosphere in Eau Claire. Guests can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes, from sizzling fajitas to zesty tacos, all while listening to vibrant mariachi tunes. The restaurant also offers signature margaritas, enhancing the festive dining experience. It's the perfect place to celebrate Taco Tuesday!
Hot Pot Barbecue & Sushi
Dive into a culinary adventure at Hot Pot Barbecue & Sushi, Eau Claire's newest dining sensation! This all-you-can-eat restaurant offers endless hot pot possibilities with a huge selection of veggies, meats, seafood, and more. Customize your meal by selecting fresh ingredients to cook right at your table, or indulge in a wide assortment of sushi rolls and barbecued meats.
Photo: Pondview Lavender Farm
Pondview Lavender Farm
Nestled in the Town of Wheaton, Pondview Lavender Farm spans four acres of naturally grown lavender, offering visitors a serene escape into nature's beauty. Guests can participate in seasonal u-pick events, stroll through vibrant purple fields, and explore a charming gift shop stocked with locally handcrafted lavender products. The farm also hosts various events, including yoga sessions amid the lavender and DIY classes, providing a tranquil and aromatic experience for all who visit. Get ready for another beautiful summer of lavender fields near Eau Claire!
The Beyond
The Beyond is one of Eau Claire's newest, most unique eclectic gift shops with pieces representing the past, present, and future. While this shop doesn't fall into just one category, it is an attraction for all collectors at heart searching for books, DVDs, VHS tapes, artwork, and more. The Beyond is continuously bringing new products into the shop so that each trip is a new experience. Check them out here!
Photo: Kayak Rentals
Kayak Rentals at Braun's Bay
It's gotten as easy as renting kayaks in Eau Claire, as rentals are available near the water in Braun's Bay. This summer, take the kayaks out on Half Moon Lake for a relaxing, serene experience in Eau Claire. The equipment can be picked up right in the bay for easy access and so you don't have to worry about transportation. Click here to learn more!
Slab Factory - Sports & Trading Cards
The Slab Factory is a local card shop that specializes in all things Wisconsin sports, along with all the best products in the industry! While you're shopping for your newest sports card additions, add to your Pokemon collection and accessories for your cards at the new Slab Factory.
Photo: Modicum Brewing Company
Modicum Brewing Company
Modicum Brewing Company made its entrance back to the brewery scene this year, and this time, at a new location! This brewery and patio can be found on the south end of Eau Claire and often hosts food trucks and other events at the brewery. Get a taste of craft beer selections, and grab a game to play at Modicum this year!
The Fremont
Known for its good food at good prices, The Fremont is a dining experience that cannot be missed. For just $5, you can taste some of the best burgers in town, as well as low-priced, incredible fish fries, soup specials, and other delicious deals in downtown Eau Claire!
