By Kristine Hansen | Photo courtesy Pier 290
The best pairing with pizza, surf and turf, or a cocktail is a view of Geneva Lake. Watch sailboats glide by or the sun set over the water. Here are six options.
GORDY’S BOAT HOUSE, FONTANA-ON-GENEVA-LAKE
The waterfront doesn’t get any closer than the marina setting at this 1955 eatery on the lake’s southwest shore. Time your visit to be on a Friday for clam chowder or, on any day, order the Somethin’ Fishy tacos: cod spiced with black-bean and mango salsa and chipotle sauce.
THE GRANDVIEW RESTAURANT AT THE GENEVA INN, LAKE GENEVA
Known for its surf-and-turf dinners, only a wall of windows at the South Lake Shore Drive inn’s sleek and modern dining room separates you from the water. Begin your feast with the Geneva chopped salad or Wisconsin cheese curds, followed by the crab and lobster roll, Alaskan halibut or petite filet mignon.
PIER 290, WILLIAMS BAY
The only restaurant to boast actually being located on the lake, Pier 290 is a popular choice. Framing views of docked boats, and next to Gage Marine, the lunch and dinner menus (think burgers, steaks and seafood) also pepper in comfort food, like house- made bacon and blue cheese chips and locally famous deviled eggs. Dock seating hugs a sandy beach. At night, fire pits cast a cozy glow.
THE BAKER HOUSE, LAKE GENEVA
Across from the lake on Wrigley Drive, this 1885 Victorian inn is firmly set in the Gilded Age with vintage hats hung on the walls. Enjoy dinner on the screened porch for the best view, choosing from items like lamb lollipops or prosciutto-wrapped quail. Champagne and Mimosas add a celebratory twist to Sunday brunch.
OAKFIRE, LAKE GENEVA
On the northeast tip of Geneva Lake, Oakfire’s 16 signature Neapolitan-style pizzas rooted in Naples, Italy, are marked by their thin, pillow-y crust. The two- level patio frames Italian-esque views — including the Mediterranean-style 1932 Riviera building, located across the street.
THE BOAT HOUSE BAR & GRILL, LAKE GENEVA
This sprawling patio and its red umbrellas across from Geneva Lake’s far eastern shoreline, along Buttons Bay, is quieter than downtown but the view as beautiful. In addition to burgers and pizza, the menu caters to health-minded diners with two hearty Big Bowl salads (caprese or house).