I’m not ashamed to admit it…I am an unabashed foodie. I’ve dined at numerous award-winning restaurants, written about food for women’s magazines, and even started my own cooking school to share my unbridled enthusiasm for gastronomic adventure. So, let’s just say great food has been a big part of my adult life. As a result, I was a bit skeptical upon receiving the challenge from Lake & Country to report on Southeastern Wisconsin’s “hidden gem” eateries. Would our local offerings measure up? Well, readers, this gourmand has been well-schooled by the experience. I am so proud to report on the “homegrown” treasures I found right in our own backyard!
THE VARSITY DELI
Elkhorn’s city motto is “Living in Harmony” and nothing could be more in tune than the sandwich concoctions found at the Varsity Deli at 464 E. Geneva Street, right next to the Walworth County Fairgrounds. For the last six years, this former hot dog stand has varsity-lettered in every bite. Homemade soups and tasty sweets are offered, but it’s the over 70 crazy sandwich combos and wraps that hit it out of the park. The owner, Kelly, is a community-minded charismatic sports aficionado. He also has a thing for that 70’s sitcom Welcome Back Kotter. The whole cast has a sandwich named after them! Getting in the spirit, I ordered the Vinnie Barbarino and a Carvelli, though I was also tempted by the Horshack. Original, fresh ingredients, sandwiches piled high, and a friendly staff: Varsity Deli offers everything you would hope from a top-notch deli.
THE VARSITY DELI
464 E. Geneva Street
Elkhorn, WI 53121
262.949.6399
TWO SISTERS THAI
Now, off to Walworth, home to Two Sisters Thai Restaurant at 207 N. Main Street, across from the post office. I know what you are thinking… a Thai joint in Walworth? I LOVE Thai food and I even admit to being skeptical….but wrong again! Two Sisters is actually owned and operated by two sets of sisters: Gib Thongkilb and her sister Sasi Thongkilb, along with their mother and aunt. Originally from Bangkok, they are proud to bring the food from their home to Southeastern Wisconsin. After over a year in business, word has spread. Customers come from Illinois to savor this authentic Thai cuisine. The menu items are inexpensive and range from appetizers, Thai soups, noodles, fried rice, curries, and much more. I ended up trying the Chicken Pad Thai, a customer favorite. Since I’m a fan of curry, I also ordered vegetable red curry and an order of fresh spring rolls. Holy mouthful of flavor!
TWO SISTER THAI
207 N. Main Street
Walworth, WI 53184
262.394.5700
THE OWL TAVERN
You whoo! The OWL is calling! Tucked in The Highlands, a short detour off South Shore Drive in Linn Township, you’ll discover this classic, inviting roadhouse built circa 1910. Pat and Heather Burns, longtime residents of the area, bought The Owl in 2012. Pat said he was a bored, retired brick layer and needed a new project. After some cleaning and fixing, he set about serving drinks and frozen pizza to the locals – but the couple soon started thinking about upping their food game and wanted something unique. The answer was SMOKED! So they set out and bought a Southern Pride Commercial Smoker at an auction in Kansas City. Heather did her research on recipes, rubs and sauces, also selecting the right woods (hickory and cherry). I have several recommendations: try the smoked meatloaf sandwich, or the brisket, and don’t forget the smoked mac and cheese piled high with saucy pulled pork.
THE OWL TAVERN
W4120 Southland Rd.
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
262.248.1034
VILLAGE TAP
The sign in the window at the Village Tap, 1489 Mill Street in Lyons says, “Great People, Great Drinks, Great Food”. If you happen to be enjoying the nearby countryside scenery, or biking along the White River Trail, check out the Village Tap. Built by her Grandparents, this local tavern has been in Chris Campbell’s family for over 45 years. Back then it was a favorite hangout for the local farmers, and still has that small town feel today, serving exceptional bar food with a heaping side of comfortable. For example, huge, half-pound juicy burgers are always on the menu (on Thursdays, it’s two for the price of one). Customize and pile on the bacon and cheese, or maybe a south of the border Jalapeno Jack Burger. No matter what you try, I bet you’ll be back. Oh, and don’t forget the drinks. Cocktails, like hand-muddled Old Fashioneds, made-to-order Bloodies, and Martinis, are a big draw.
VILLAGE TAP
1489 Mill Street
Lyons, WI 53148
262.757.0898
LOCAL FOLKS
This journey wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t include a killer spot for breakfast. If you crave a hearty morning meal try Local Folks, 39601 60th St off Highway 50 in “don’t blink” Slades Corners. In 1894, this building was the home of Ganswindts Saloon and Ice House. Six owners later, in 1999, Jennifer Collison bought the place. “You’re just gonna have a bunch of local folks to feed”, she was told. Hence the name. And the place indeed is full of locals, among others, for good reason. Omelets hanging off the plate, biscuits and gravy, stacks of French toast and pancakes, fresh eggs any way you like them, and the lusted after Local Folks hashbrowns. There’s plenty of room even if you come with a crowd, and the service is fast and friendly, and also open for lunch and dinner.
LOCAL FOLKS
39601 60th Street
Burlington, WI 53105
262.539.3200
TIENDA EL RANCHO
There are few things in life that satisfy your appetite more than the taste of delicious authentic Mexican cuisine. Located at 1151 Elkhorn Rd in Lake Geneva, Tienda El Rancho may appear small but hosts a menu full of HUGE flavors. When you walk in you begin to experience sensory overload. This Mexican restaurant/grocery store is the work of owners Mercedes and Gerardo Jaramillo who run the show from start to finish. The pair have owned this business for the past 11 years and work there seven days a week. The food is prepared in the traditional style of their hometown of Guanajuato which is located right in the middle of Mexico. Although the steak tacos are the most popular item, the Tacos Al Pastor (marinated pork) are truly the hidden gems. Mercedes says they’re popularity is growing day by day due to loyal clients who enjoy their meals and are happy to spread the word.
TIENDA EL RANCHO
1151 Elkhorn Rd.
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
262.249.0698
I am actually sad to say my deadline is rapidly approaching, and I have to put down my fork – for now! There will be more discoveries to partake of soon, and I look forward to meeting more great local cooks working really hard, doing what they love to make us happy. No white linen necessary for this new believer!
