When we were visiting the Wisconsin Dells a few weeks ago, we were surprised at the vast array of food offered to visitors. However, upon closer inspection, much of this food seemed more chain-restaurants and old-time diners. We were lucky enough to find three great restaurants - and a coffee shop! - that espouse fresh, organic ingredients, great service, local suppliers, and more.

Here's our Foodie Finds and restaurant recommendations for the Wisconsin Dells...

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Carvelli's Pizza and Pasta House
Truly Gourmet Pasta, freshly made. Carvelli's boasts an incredible menu of fresh, gourmet pasta, authentic Italian food, and handmade meals. We were stunned to discover the freshness of the pasta and the deliciousness of the dishes we ordered! They do have a buffet in the warmer months. We WILL go back.

 

 

 

 

 

505 Broadway
Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
(608) 254-6156
http://www.carvellispizzaandpastahouse.com/

 

 

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High Rock Cafe

NOT handicap accessible (alas), this restaurant is truly a local's favorite, a hidden gem. This restaurant serves fantastic creative modern American cuisine. One look at their menu (including several rhubarb creations for a local seasonal spring menu) will make you glad you came. From the BEST monte cristo sandwich I have ever eaten to a coleslaw-laden pulled pork sandwich, the menu is both fresh and extraordinarily delicious. There's a fun kids menu, too. After traveling (and eating out at mostly ethnic restaurants) for two weeks, our 6-year old daughter was pleased to get REAL kraft macaroni and cheese, along with LOTS of fresh fruit.

 

 

 

 

232 Broadway, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
608-254-5677
http://www.highrockcafe.com/

 

 

 

 

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Cheese Factory

Housed in an historic cheese factory, this vegetarian restaurant gets rave reviews all over the internet. We stopped in for a late breakfast and were pleased with the omelettes, croissants, home fries, and more. Thumbs up! Note: They do have (and sell) a very popular cookbook. YUM! Call ahead for hours.

 

 

521 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy S, Wisconsin Dells, WI, 53965
608-253-6065
http://www.cookingvegetarian.com/

 

 

 

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AND, my new favorite coffeeshop:
pause

Fair trade, organic coffee. A welcoming environment. Art by local artists adorning the walls. Created by one of the Dells' own, Bianca Richards, the evening menu adds regional microbrews, specialty wines, light appetizers, live music and an open mic. Look for a feature article on pause here, soon. 

 

 

 

 

741 Oak St
Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
(608) 253-2720
http://www.dellspause.com/

 

This article is part of Wanderfood Wednesday - head over to Wanderlust and Lipstick to explore more global cuisine!