Best Of Green Bay List 2019

There truly is so much to see and do here in Green Bay that the interesting things are often overlooked.  I have noticed that there isn't one comprehensive website, one magazine, or one place where all the information is found, but rather many marketing companies start an advertising magazine and only those business who pay to get in each of them are seen. Therefore, a tourist has to view many sources to find what they are looking for.

I was born and raised here, moved away for a decade, but returned 15 years ago. I would like to think I have a fresh perspective on the cool stuff going on here because I seek them out, ask around, and pay attention to the development happening here.

In this post I share some of my favorite things here. Some obvious, and some very hidden.

Best view of the city from inside: The 9th floor of the Bellin Building is a hidden treasure. Take the elevator to the 8th floor then turn right and go up the steps to the private rooms. The first room dubbed The Lombardi has great views of the water and the southern part of Green Bay's downtown. (Views to the west are obstructed by a/c units, unfortunately.) The rooms are owned by Black & Tan, which is the upscale restaurant located on first and second floors. The sky-deck rooms (and there are 3) are available for private parties for only $25.

Best hidden place in summer for a glass of wine: The tiny wine bar at S.I.L. along the water in Allouez.  This charming river-side restaurant features a wine bar that only seats about 6 and his hidden from view as patrons enter the restaurant. With sweeping glass windows overlooking the river, it is sunny, serene, and lovely.

Best outdoor bar with ambiance:  Regatta 220's patio tiki bar, on the west side of the Fox Rive is my favorite. With ample room with many tables for dining alfresco, and a large full-service bar... all with a marina view along the river. This location is booming with new businesses. A new Marriot extended stay opens in Fall 2016. 

Best outdoor bar on the water:  Jimmy Seas. With a lively casual crowd, a prime location on the river, live music outside during weekends, and transient boat docks, this is where it happens in summer.  The place to see and be seen.

Best sushi deals: Nakashima's located on Holmgren Way has 30% off on sushi in the lounge Monday through Friday with a large selection to choose from. Plenty of seating and friendly, prompt service from Jeremy. The sushi has always been fresh. They also offer live music in the lounge on Thursdays.

Best romantic date restaurant: Plae Bistro gets my vote for best romantic restaurant. While the outside is very deceiving, sitting at the end of a strip mall, the interior is simply elegant. With excellent service, extensive menu with quality food, this place will set your date night mood well.

Best sunet and crab legs dinner: The Chalet, located on the far east side of Green Bay just shy of Dykesville. Situated high on Nicolet Road, this old-world supper club has great specials in a cozy, hometown atmosphere. With stone chimney taking center stage in winter, the large windows face the Bay and offers a magnificent view of the sunset on a warm, clear, summer evening.

Best Steak:  The Union Hotel in DePere.  For ever 100 years this family run business has been serving perfectly cooked steaks in the old-time restaurant. 


Best Place to Watch a Game:  Buffalo Wild Wings on Oneida Street has several big screen tv's so that patrons don't have to miss anything in the sports world as several games are televised simultaneously.

Best Show:  Frank's Theater, shown at the Meyer Theatre in downtown.  It is song and comedy at it's finest.  The only downside to this entertainment is that many of the jokes are are made from local references so out-of-towners might miss some of the jokes and puns. They are a talented crew.


Best Trails:  The Mountain Bay Trail is great for distance bikers. It is gravel and covers some 90 miles.  The Fox River Trails is among the best for walkers and rollerbladers. It extends along the Fox River, begins in downtown Green Bay and goes all the way to Wrightstown with most of it being paved.


Best Winery and Vineyard:  LedgeStone.  Set in the countryside in the midst of their vineyard, this young winery couldn't have nicer hosts.  In a charming and beautiful building, guests can sample wine, relax with a view of the vineyard, and in winter can sit next to the woodstove while noshing on artisan cheeses while sipping their glass of wine.  Superb!





Best mint mojitos:  Kokos sushi bar in downtown Green Bay.  I've been to a number of islands in the Caribbean including Puerto Rico where rum and the mojito were invented, and Kokos still has the most consistent and wonderful mint mojitos of all!  Great tasting and inventive sushi, too!